How to Counsel Via Webcam

Counseling via webcam might be considered strange to some therapists. However, with advances in technology come changes in practice. Webcams allow you to add family members who live miles away to a session for extra support, or they can help a client with limited resources attend regular sessions when he otherwise could not. Conduct a practice session or two with a friend to get the knack for counseling in this new way before starting with an actual client.

Things You'll Need

• Webcam
• Computer with Internet access

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Instructions

• 1

  Purchase a webcam and the necessary software that is compatible with your computer. Talk to the salesperson about which webcam will work best for your office setup and computer configuration. Technical support staff from the store might be willing to set up the camera for you for a small fee.

• 2

  Set up your webcam according to the package directions, which may include downloading software to your computer's hard drive. Ensure that the webcam is working properly by calling someone you know to test the visual and auditory range of the camera.

• 3

  Be sure your client also has a functional webcam before agreeing to provide services this way. You will want to make sure you and your client have a secure Internet connection to prevent any hacking of confidential information. Familiarize yourself with the standards and ethics for online counseling. You can find resources for these on the American Counseling Association website.

• 4

  Contact your client via webcam five minutes prior to the start of the session. This will give you time to adjust camera angles and check the picture and volume on both ends of the connection. Be sure you and your client can see and hear each other at all times.

• 5

  Begin your counseling session as your normally would. You will need to pay close attention to voice inflections, body language and eye contact to assess your client's mental health status. This will be slightly more difficult via webcam, but with careful observation you can make an informed judgment.

• 6

  Upon ending your session, be sure your webcam has completely disconnected from the client's computer server to ensure privacy for both of you. Complete any necessary notes or paperwork.