Online bereavement counselling
Online sessions are an effective way to provide bereavement counselling and I support many clients this way. It allows us to connect even if we’re hundreds of miles apart.
Online bereavement counselling is especially beneficial for clients whose mobility makes it difficult to attend in person. Or perhaps you simply prefer the convenience of attending sessions in your own space without the need to travel.
Online bereavement counselling that’s safe, secure and easy to use
I offer online bereavement counselling through a platform called WriteUpp. It’s designed specifically for therapists and provides the highest levels of online security.
Once our session is booked into my calendar, you’ll receive an automated email with a unique link. When it’s time for your session, simply click the link and you’ll enter the online waiting room, ready for me to open the session. There’s nothing you need to download or install.
If you do encounter any issues there’s no need to panic – just text, call or drop me an email and we’ll sort out whatever the problem seems to be.
What you’ll need
When meeting online, we’re recreating, between us, the peaceful, focused and distraction-free environment of the therapy room. This means it’s essential that you have:
a confidential space where you won’t be overheard or interrupted. (Please note that it isn’t possible to have babies or young children in the room with you.)
a computer, ipad or smartphone with a camera and microphone
a secure internet connection
somewhere comfortable to sit, with enough light for me to see you clearly, and perhaps a glass of water nearby.
Carving out time for yourself
Where possible, I recommend logging in a couple of minutes early. This avoids the stress of madly scrolling for the link at the last minute and allows you a quiet moment to take a breath and gather your thoughts. I’ll always wait until the agreed start time to open the session.
It can also be valuable to schedule in a bit of ‘buffer’ time for after the session. Only you know what would be most helpful for you in that time - some fresh air, a lie-down, connection with a trusted friend or something else entirely.
Even if it’s only ten minutes, this pause can allow thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations to settle before you go back to your day.