Online psychotherapy using specialized secure video software (sometimes called “teletherapy”) can be a very effective therapy option.  It allows clients to engage in therapy or counselling services from home, or from any other safe and private location.

Experienced Professionalism

Brian has over 6 years of extensive experience with effective online psychotherapy.  In addition to face-to-face psychotherapy, Brian has specialized competencies that enable him to create a safe and meaningful “teletherapy” experience while safeguarding the rights and personal information of online psychotherapy clients.

Training

Brian Collinson has met the requirements for the Telemental Health Certification Program of Person Centered Tech.  This online therapy consultancy is led by B. Roy Huggins, who is one of the foremost experts on the law, practice and ethics of online psychotherapy in the United States.

This qualification is in addition to Brian’s training in fulfillment of the requirements for the Registered Psychotherapist designation of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, and the certified Jungian Analyst designation of the International Association of Analytical Psychology,

What to Think about in Choosing an Online Psychotherapist

Individuals considering online psychotherapy need to ensure thatit is conducted:

• in a safe, secure manner;
• using the right technology;
• by a qualified psychotherapist who has the appropriate background, training and experience.

There is a tendency to assume that, because it takes place on the internet, online psychotherapy can be “free and wide open”.  However, ensuring safety is an essential goal in any form of online psychotherapy services.

Key Questions to Ask a Potential Online Therapist

It is important to be cautious in choosing an online therapist.  Here are some questions that any responsible online therapist should be prepared to answer:

• Is the therapist licensed to practice in the area (province or state) where you, the client, are located?
• Does he or she carry appropriate malpractice insurance?  With whom?  Will it cover a claim from a client in your province, state or jurisdiction?
• Has he or she discussed a safety plan with you in the event of an emergency?
• Is the therapist using secure software that safeguards your privacy? (Please note: Skype, Facetime and a range of other possible softwares do not adequately protect your personal health information.)

Technology

It’s important that online psychotherapy be conducted using equipment and software that is secure, reliable and designed for effective practice of online therapy.  There are a number of specialized software programs designed to keep the client’s personal information secure.  These software programs are also robust enough to cause a minimum of problems during a therapy session, while having good enough picture quality for professional therapy work. Picture quality is important in online therapy.

Contact Brian

If online psychotherapy seems like it might fit your needs, or if you’d like more information, feel free to contact Brian to assist you with any of your online therapy questions.