Virtual and In-Person Counselling, and Rates

About Al Hidayah Counselling

Virtual Counseling: Virtual counseling, also known as online or teletherapy, delivers mental health services through digital platforms such as video conferencing, or phone calls. At Hidayah Counselling, we utilize JANE and ZOOM for these virtual sessions. This method offers several advantages, including accessibility for clients in remote or rural areas or those with mobility issues, and the convenience of flexible scheduling that accommodates busy lives. Additionally, clients may feel more comfortable discussing sensitive issues from the privacy of their own homes. To ensure effective virtual counseling, it's important to use secure, encrypted platforms to protect client confidentiality, provide a private and quiet space for sessions, and establish clear communication protocols and contingency plans for any technical issues that may arise.

In-Person Counseling: In-person counseling involves face-to-face sessions conducted in a private practice setting. This approach offers significant benefits, such as a stronger therapeutic alliance through physical presence, which enhances connection and trust between therapist and client. It also allows therapists to observe and interpret body language and other non-verbal cues more accurately, providing a controlled environment free from distractions where confidentiality is assured. Immediate support and intervention during crises can also be more effectively provided in person. Creating a welcoming, comfortable, and private office environment is crucial, as is maintaining clear boundaries, professional conduct, and being sensitive to non-verbal cues and body language. Implementing necessary health and safety protocols further ensures a safe space for therapy.

Hybrid Model: The hybrid model combines virtual and in-person counseling, giving clients the flexibility to choose the mode of therapy that best suits their needs. This model offers the flexibility for clients to switch between virtual and in-person sessions as their circumstances change, and it allows therapists to tailor their approach to individual client needs and preferences. This approach also enhances the continuity of care, enabling clients to maintain their therapy even when traveling or during health crises. To successfully implement a hybrid model, it is important to clearly communicate options and expectations with clients, use a reliable scheduling system to manage appointments, and continuously evaluate and adapt the approach to meet client needs.

Both virtual and in-person counseling have their unique advantages and challenges, and the choice between them should be based on client needs, preferences, and circumstances. A hybrid model can offer the best of both worlds, providing flexibility and continuity of care.