By Gail-Elaine Tinker, M.S., RM

According to the American Association of State Counseling Boards, internet counseling, also known as, e-counseling or cyber-counseling, is the application of counseling principles via the internet, video or e-mail communication. The AASCB warns that the research on the effectiveness of internet counseling is extremely limited and consumers should proceed with caution – if it seems too good to be true, it most like is! As a psychotherapist who employs internet counseling in her practice, it is necessary to admit that certain types of emotional problems may not be appropriate for internet counseling. In general, face-to-face counseling is the preferred method to deliver counseling services.

The AACSB urges consumers to seek the following information, in print, of any internet counseling arrangement:

• The counselor’s background, license, and certifications, specialties, and availability during emergencies
• An overall confidentiality statement and explanation on how parental permission for minors are addressed, including inscription and security methods
• A privacy statement about transmission of clinical data & HIPPA compliance
• How records are stored and who will have access to your records (including staff and supervisors)
• Whether verbatim session records or other types of notes are maintained
• Precise terms of payment and expectations within counseling
• A method in which to complain about counseling mishaps

Can internet counseling be a useful part of my therapy? The following are suggestions to help facilitate the internet counseling process:

• Counseling is a two way process that depends on active participation by the client.
• Meet with the counselor face-to-face periodically.
• Be aware of the limits of internet counseling
• Be honest about your identity (age, gender), location (state), and the nature of your problem or concern
• Be aware of your financial responsibility for services
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions at any time during the counseling process, especially before beginning counseling
• Know how to access the counselor by telephone, and provide phone numbers where you can be reached. Include information about how the counselor should identify him/herself when calling
• The client needs to feel confident that his/her internet account and email is secure on his end – not to share access or passwords

Gail-Elaine Tinker has been exploring the use of internet counseling for 10 years and is highly aware of the convenience and promise of confidentiality it brings to the practice of psychology. Despite the pitfalls, she supports the careful use of phone and internet use, especially for those clients who experience physical difficulty to movement and travel and those in ‘unconventional’ professions which hinder office visits. On occasion, Gail-Elaine has made home visit arrangements with clients.

One of the many strengths of using Gail-Elaine Tinker, M.S. is her positive, energy in focusing on the solutions, rather than harping upon the problems. Doing so involves a creative approach and personalized treatment. There are a variety of ways we can develop this; you are welcome to visit my beautiful office, conveniently located in Bethlehem, PA. We can also utilize the phone and internet for session and support. As my client, you will be encouraged to develop new life skills, such as journaling, bibliotherapy, transformative art, education, and group support. Your privacy and confidentiality will always be respected.