Online Counselling: How Telehealth Therapy works and why it’s growing
- The Counselling Cove
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Gone are the days when counselling was limited to a client lying on a couch in a therapist’s office. In today’s busy world, therapy has evolved to meet people where they are - literally and figuratively. Online counselling (also known as online therapy, e-therapy, or telehealth counselling) is now a widely accessible, effective, and flexible form of support.
As our lifestyles become more complex, having options for how and when we access care makes a real difference.
What is Online Counselling?
Online counselling involves meeting with a qualified therapist over the internet through video, phone, or secure messaging platforms. While it has existed for some time, the COVID-19 pandemic rapidly accelerated its use. Today, many clients continue to choose this format for its convenience and accessibility.
Is it effective?
A growing body of research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as face-to-face counselling for many common concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship issues. While you may not be sitting in the same room, studies consistently find that the core therapeutic elements - like empathy, trust, and emotional connection - can be just as strong in online settings. What matters most is the quality of the relationship between you and your therapist, not the physical space you're in.
Benefits of Online Counselling
Many people are surprised by how easy and comfortable online therapy can be.
Here are some of the top reasons why clients appreciate the option:
Therapy at your fingertips
Online counselling increases access, especially for those living in regional or remote parts of Australia where local options may be limited. With internet access, your choice of counsellors is no longer restricted by geography - you can find someone who truly suits your needs.
Similarly, life changes like moving or traveling no longer need to interrupt your therapeutic journey. Online counselling ensures continuity of care, allowing you to maintain sessions with your therapist regardless of your location, provided you have internet access.
Save time and reduce stress
No travel time, no parking hassles, no waiting rooms! Many clients appreciate being able to fit therapy into their days more easily, such as during a lunch break or after the kids are in bed.
More flexible appointment times
Online counselling isn’t confined to traditional office hours, which means you may find greater availability and shorter wait times. For example, at The Counselling Cove, I offer early morning, evening, and weekend sessions to support clients with busy or irregular schedules. Because of this flexibility, after-hours and last-minute appointments are often more accessible as well - allowing you to start therapy sooner and receive the support you need, when you need it most.
Select your own space
For individuals concerned about the stigma associated with seeking therapy, online counselling provides a level of anonymity that can make the process feel safer and more approachable. You are in control of selecting your own private space, which can encourage more people to seek the help they need without fear of judgment.
Easier to stick with
Because online therapy is more convenient and flexible, many clients find it easier to attend sessions regularly - which is key to making long-term progress.
Sometimes life gets unexpectedly busy, and a face-to-face session might no longer be doable. But with online counselling, a quick switch to a video or phone session can mean the difference between cancelling and continuing. This flexibility can help reduce missed appointments and make it easier to stay committed to your mental health goals.
Comfort and emotional safety
Many people find it easier to open up when they’re in a familiar, private space - like their own home. Online counselling allows you to engage in therapy from an environment where you already feel safe and at ease.
For some, phone sessions offer an extra layer of comfort by easing concerns about appearance, eye contact, or being seen. This can be especially helpful for those experiencing social anxiety, agoraphobia, or other challenges that make in-person therapy feel overwhelming or out of reach.
It’s also a gentle entry point for people new to therapy, who may not feel ready for face-to-face sessions but are open to trying support from a distance.
Assessibility for individuals with disabilities
Online therapy can be more accessible for individuals with physical disabilities or mobility issues, removing barriers related to transportation or facility accessibility. This inclusivity ensures that more people can access the mental health support they require.
Flexibility to Mix and Match
Depending on your counsellor, you may have the option to mix and match session styles to suit your needs, schedule, or mood. For example, The Counselling Cove offers a range of counselling options, including:
Face-to-face sessions for when you want to sit together in a quiet, private room
Online therapy for those weeks that get unexpectedly busy
Walk and Talk Therapy for when fresh air and movement can support reflection and insight
Having access to different formats can make therapy more sustainable and responsive to your changing needs, depending on the topic, energy level, or how your schedule is unfolding.
Things to consider
To get the most out of your online therapy sessions, it’s helpful to keep the following in mind:
Find a confidential space. Choose a private location where you feel safe and uninterrupted - ideally away from housemates, family members, or workplace noise.
Make time around your session. Give yourself a buffer before and after to reflect and process - especially after emotionally charged topics.
Stay present. Avoid multitasking; your session deserves your full attention. Online therapy still requires presence and emotional engagement.
Work with a qualified counsellor: Ethical standards, confidentiality, and professional care should be equivalent to in-person settings. Choose someone who is trained and registered with a recognised professional body.
Final thoughts
Online counselling is more than a convenience - it’s a powerful, research-supported tool for emotional wellbeing. With the flexibility to access support from anywhere, and the comfort of your own space, it’s never been easier to prioritise your mental health.
At The Counselling Cove, I offer warm, professional, and flexible support to meet you wherever you are in life - whether that's online, in person, or somewhere in between.
Curious about trying online therapy?
Explore what flexible, supportive care could look like for you. Visit our bookings page to see the full range of available appointment times, or get in touch to book a free initial consultation.
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