Online Counselling Service Delivery

Face-to-Face Counselling vs Online Counselling

Choosing the right counselling format is an important part of your therapeutic journey. Both face-to-face and online counselling are effective, evidence-based ways to receive support. The best option depends on your needs, preferences, and circumstances.

Face-to-Face Counselling

Face-to-face counselling involves meeting your counsellor in person at a clinic or practice.

Benefits

• In-person connection: Some people feel more emotionally connected when sharing the same physical space.
• Non-verbal communication: Body language, posture, and subtle cues can be more easily observed.
• Structured environment: Attending a dedicated therapy space can help create a sense of focus and separation from daily life.
• Suitable for complex presentations: Some clients prefer in-person sessions when working through trauma, severe distress, or relational issues.

Considerations

• Requires travel time and transport
• Less flexible scheduling
• May be difficult for people in rural or remote areas
• Not always accessible for those with mobility, health, or time constraints

Online Counselling (Telehealth)

Online counselling is delivered via secure video platforms and allows you to attend sessions from your own home or chosen private space.

Benefits

• Greater accessibility: Ideal for clients in regional or remote areas across Australia
• Convenience: No travel required, saving time and cost
• Flexible scheduling: Easier to fit into busy lives
• Comfort: Many people feel more at ease speaking from their own environment
• Evidence-based: Research shows online counselling is as effective as face-to-face therapy for many mental health concerns

Considerations

• Requires a stable internet connection
• A private, quiet space is important
• Some people prefer in-person interaction, particularly early in therapy

Effectiveness: What Does the Research Say?

Studies consistently show that online counselling is equally effective as face-to-face therapy for concerns such as:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stress and burnout
• Relationship difficulties
• Grief and loss

The quality of the therapeutic relationship is far more important than the delivery method.

Which Option Is Right for You?

You may prefer face-to-face counselling if you:

• Value in-person connection
• Feel more comfortable sharing in a clinical setting
• Prefer minimal reliance on technology

You may prefer online counselling if you:

• Have a busy schedule
• Live in a rural or remote area
• Experience mobility, health, or transport challenges
• Want greater flexibility and convenience

Many clients choose a combination of both, depending on their needs over time.

Our Approach

Thinkshift has been providing Online Counselling and dynamic psychotherapy via zoom and skype for many years now.

We offer both face-to-face and online counselling services to ensure support is accessible, flexible, and tailored to you. If you are unsure which option is best, we are happy to discuss your preferences and help you decide.

So please contact us on 0411 576 676 or by emailing and sending us a message via the links below.