Online Counselling and Therapy
Online therapy for example with sex addiction therapy, provides a discreet and accessible way for individuals to find help. There are about 150 ATSAC registered and specifically trained therapists within the specialist field of sexual addictions. Online therapy can offer many various benefits, not least in having to travel great distances to find a registered professional.
Online therapy provides:
- Confidentiality and Privacy: The anonymity of online therapy can help individuals feel more comfortable discussing personal and stigmatized issues like sex addiction and psychosexual therapy
- Accessibility: Therapy can be accessed from home, reducing the stigma of attending in-person sessions.
- Flexible Scheduling: Clients can schedule sessions around their personal and work life, which is often crucial for individuals struggling with the compulsions associated with sex addiction.
- Conducting counselling sessions online makes it more convenient for you. You save the time you would usually need in order to travel to your therapist. You can simply conduct your weekly therapy session within the comfort of your own home.
- Especially through the pandemic, online counselling has become more and more common. Research has established that online counselling is just as effective as in person, face to face counselling.
Ian Baker Counselling’s approach
I have specialized in sex addiction therapy and psychosexual therapy since 2013 , using an integrative approach, though tailored to meet the client needs of the client. using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, attachment theory , polyvagal nervous system research , exploring the possibility if suited re 12-step programs (re sex addiction) and an appraisal of the aetiology of the presenting problems
This helps individuals identify and change unhealthy sexual behaviours and the underlying emotional triggers.
Psychosexual therapy typically combines talk therapy with education, helping individuals and couples improve their sexual relationship and overall emotional well-being. Online psychosexual therapy can cover a wide range of issues such as:
- Sexual dysfunction: Using techniques to improve performance or enhance sexual pleasure.
- Emotional barriers: Addressing anxiety, guilt, or shame related to sexuality.
- Couples counselling: Improving sexual intimacy and communication between partners.
- Sexual trauma: Helping individuals process past trauma affecting their current relationships.
Much like sex addiction therapy, online psychosexual therapy allows individuals to work with specialists at their own pace, in a private and comfortable setting. I will use a combination of CBT, mindfulness, sex education, and couples therapy techniques to address issues effectively.
Advantages of Online Therapy
- Discreet Access: People can access therapy without fear of being judged or seen at a clinic, which is particularly important for sensitive subjects like sex addiction or psychosexual issues.
- Convenience: Therapy can be scheduled during evenings or weekends, making it easier to integrate into daily life.
- Comfort: Being in a familiar environment (like home) can help reduce stress or anxiety related to therapy sessions.
- Global Reach: For those working outside of the UK, it also gives access to experts in the field who also fully understand your language and culture.
- Thus individuals, couples, partner of, can have access top-tier therapists, regardless of location, widening the scope of available support. I have worked for people living/working and travelling in Brazil, America, Bali, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany , Holland, Thailand, UAE etc. It is worth noting how this also addresses not just culture and difference but also faith and spirituality within the individual work
How Online Therapy Works
- Initial Assessment: An online therapist will begin with an assessment to understand the individual’s challenges, goals, and history. This helps the therapist tailor the treatment plan to the individual’s specific needs.
- Therapeutic Methods: Depending on the issue, I may use methods like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, or Psychodynamic Therapy and essentially relapse prevention strategies , recovery strategies, will also be incorporated. Get what’s out of control, under control, develop recovery plans and personal development. This is finding out what works for you, how this has developed and how to repair the damage the unwanted behaviours have caused to you and if with a partner essentially the impact on them too and the relationship
In essence,
Online therapy for sex addiction and psychosexual issues can be a powerful resource for those seeking help in a private, accessible, and supportive environment. By overcoming geographical, social, and emotional barriers, individuals have more opportunities than ever to address and resolve challenges related to sex addiction, intimacy, and sexual health. If you or someone you know is struggling with these issues, reaching out to an online therapist could be a life-changing first step towards recovery and personal growth.
Common Question
How do I prepare for my online counselling session?
Generally, there is not much you have to prepare for your counselling sessions. Your initial assessor and counsellor are there to support you at every step of the way. You just need to show up.
However, as sessions are conducted online there are a few things that need to be considered before your first session.
Below you find recommendations and guidelines that are there to help you and keep you safe.
PRIVACY IS KEY
In order for your they get the most out of your counselling session it is important that you find a room inside your home that is quiet and gives you full privacy.
It is very important that you ensure that no one else is present in your room during your session. We are unable to offer sessions in the presence of others. This includes any other adults or children.
TECHNICALITIES
A stable internet/Wi-Fi connection is advantageous as it will help in having a smoothly running session.
If you are using a portable device such as a laptop or handheld device, find a space where you can rest your device on a firm surface. This helps the camera to be stable during the session. Also it will help you not get a sore arm from having to hold your device the whole time.
Another recommendation is to test your device’s video and microphone capabilities before the session to ensure they work. This all will help you to get the most out of your session with your counsellor.
What are the benefits of online therapy?
Online therapy can be just as beneficial as in-person therapy. Some people prefer to have online therapy in the comfort of their own homes where they feel safe. It also removes the hassle of travelling to appointments in person.
Do I need a referral to see an online therapist?
You don’t need a referral to set up a consultation, whether it’s for an online or in-person appointment. However, if you have a referral letter from your GP or other professional, you are welcome to share it with us.
Can I receive treatment from a therapist online?
You can receive online counselling and therapy for any mental health condition or symptoms that concern you. After an initial consultation and assessment, I as your therapist will develop a personalised treatment plan based on your symptoms and diagnosis, depending on the type of talking therapy and your specific needs and circumstances. Once your treatment has begun, your therapist will monitor your improvement and adjust the treatment based on feedback.
What types of therapy do you offer online?
I offer many types of evidence-based psychotherapy (psychological talking therapy) approaches
How much does online therapy cost?
£85 for sex therapy, £90 Psychosexual, £100 couples and £75 individual
I am completely transparent about fees and details are provided in the therapeutic client agreement
Is seeing an online therapist confidential?
I am legally bound by a duty of confidentiality toward their patients. This means information will be shared without your consent. Subject to the requirement of s serious crime and saving harm towards a child
I will always request your consent and document it on the clinical notes before discussing any aspect of your care with any third parties. This includes your GP, other medical professionals, and even your family relatives and parents. However, if it is about saving a life this may happen without consent
There are exceptional situations in which I may have to disclose confidential information.
Can a therapist break confidentiality?
Therapists are bound by a duty of confidentiality toward their patients. This means you can feel completely safe when discussing personal or emotional issues with them. Any information you share will be kept safe and not shared with any third parties without your consent.
Please bear in mind that as your therapist I have a duty of care towards you. Only in exceptional circumstances, such as if there is a potential risk to your health, I may have to break confidentiality in order to fulfil their duty of care. For example, if you have intense suicidal thoughts.
If this is the case, I may require you to provide consent to communicate with your GP (or another third party) to ensure your safety. In these exceptional circumstances, as your therapist I will endeavour to discuss this with you in detail. My aim to reach a mutually acceptable solution that you feel comfortable with before proceeding.