Online counseling: privacy and preparation

Is online support suitable?

Remote care can reduce travel and improve access, but does not suit every person or situation. Discuss suitability with your provider.

Prepare your space

Choose somewhere others cannot overhear you. Headphones do not stop people hearing your voice. Discuss privacy difficulties beforehand.

Agree on practical details

Ask about the platform, joining instructions and what to do if the connection fails. Check your time zone and a backup contact method.

Before starting

Test your microphone and camera, charge the device and silence unnecessary notifications. Do not record without explicit agreement. Immediate danger needs urgent local help, not waiting for an online appointment.