Would you like counselling in an instant?

IM counselling offers the convenience of an 'instant' conversation without the inconvenience of having to find the time to make your way to my office. 

This form of counselling takes place in real-time, with a set counselling appointment agreed upon beforehand.  We will use a particular symbol for us to show the other that we have finished typing, in order to prevent us from ‘talking over’ each other.

I use Psychology Today Sessions, which can be accessed via an app on a phone or tablet or online via a link, is easily available and end-to-end encrypted ensuring our conversation is private.  You do not need to download the app if you do not wish to.  At the end of the session, our chat ceases to exist so there is no concern about it being found and read by someone else.

Your security is my priority and, unfortunately, IM counselling may not be suitable for you if you do not have a private space that gives you the freedom to have our interaction.  It is essential you can type your message to me without anyone else reading it and be able to give your full attention to the process. (i.e. not watching telly/children or working etc). 

It is important to note that ‘online’ counselling differs from face-to-face sessions.  Misunderstandings may occur when we are not able to see and interpret usual facial expressions or if we mishear a tone of voice. It is important we feel comfortable asking for clarification if we are unsure of something we hear or the way something has been presented to us.  

How does instant messaging counselling work?

• This form of counselling takes place in real-time.

• I will contact you at an agreed time on an agreed day via Sessions

• We will interact for 50 minutes

• This is a safe space for you to discuss any areas of your life that you want to.

• As a person-centred counsellor, I will work with whatever you bring to the session that day.  Your counselling goals are a plan for the sessions, not the only focus.

Advantages of IM counselling

• You do not have to have any special equipment for the session

• You do not have to travel to my office

Disadvantages of IM counselling

• You need to ensure you are in a private space and not distracted

Please Note: Happy Hatching Mind is not an emergency service if you are having a mental health crisis.  Please go to In An Emergency for crisis support