Home : Document List - Online Counselling

The Problem Page

julia@makethechange.com.au — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 06:31:48 GMT

Counselling using the Problem Page enables you to post your problem securely on the website and I will post a personalised response back. All communications will take place within the problem page.

One session consists of you sending me your concerns and receiving a personalised response from myself. Included in this response, I will provide questions for you to think about. If you have paid (or wish to pay) for further sessions, you can respond to these questions and I will send a further reply. Else sessions can end with these questions to think about. It may help you to write a journal to help clarify your thoughts.

An alternative to email counselling

I have developed this type of counselling as an alternative to email as I believe it is more secure. You only have to log on to the website, and responses will only be found here. There is no risk of the response being sent to the wrong person, as it could with email. Also the response you receive can be read in your own time, rather than suddenly appearing in your inbox, enhancing the possibility that other people may see it.

Sending a problem

Having registered and paid, you will be given a screen to enter your problem or problems into. I have provided a number of ideas for you to consider, if you need help. You can take as little or as long as you like to write out your problems. You can save as you go along and once you are happy, submit your response to me.

Receiving a reply from your counsellor

Once you have submitted your problem, you will be given a time for when your response will be available. Therefore, do not expect to receive one before then. Currently, expect it to be about 24 hours after you have submitted.

Further sessions

After I have sent you a response, if you have paid, you can submit your responses to which I will again reply to. Try to give yourself time to reflect on and really think about the questions I have provided. Once you have replied, again you will be given a time when my response will be posted.

How much will it cost?

$60 AUD per session or $210 AUD for four sessions.

How to get started

You will need to be registered and logged in. This will take you to 'My Home' where you will purchase sessions and create a page where your counselling will take place. Full details for accessing the problem page are provided in the step by step guide.

Accessing the Problem Page

julia@makethechange.com.au — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 06:35:36 GMT

Getting Started

REGISTER: You must register with Make the Change. For counselling, all details should be provided.
LOG IN: Log in to the website. This will take you to ‘my home’. The ‘my home’ screen allows you to view and update your details, see your entitlements, make your purchases and access your problem page/s.
DECLARATION: Before you can receiving counselling you must complete a declaration to ensure you are eligible. You should do this before paying for any sessions.
BUY SESSIONS: Pay for your session/s. In 'my home', under 'entitlements' choose either ‘buy one session’ or ‘buy four sessions’. Click ‘buy now’.
PAYPAL: You will be taken to PayPal, who will take you through the purchasing process. Having made your payment, you will automatically be brought back to Make the Change, where processing of your payment will be confirmed.
ENTITLEMENTS: Click to return to ‘my home’. You will see your entitlements will have been updated. You can now create and use your problem page.
CREATE PAGE: Under ‘Problem pages’ select ‘Create page’.
PAGE NAME: Choose a name for your page. It can be anything you like. This allows identification of the page. This is useful if you wish to have a number of pages and want to easily identify them. Click ‘create page’. You are now ready to use your problem page.

Using your problem page

SAVE: ‘Save page’ allows you to save what you have typed without it being submitted. I will not be able to see anything you have typed until it has been submitted to me.
SUBMIT: ‘Submit page’ sends what you have typed to me. Once you have submitted, changes cannot take place. You will be told when your counsellor’s response will be available.
DELETE: ‘Delete page’ allows you to delete the current page. You will lose all you have written if you choose this option.
COUNSELLOR: When you return to ‘my home’ you will see that status will now say ‘counsellor’.
MY HOME: You should return to ‘my home’ to access your page/s and read the response.
GO TO PAGE: Click ‘go to page’ to access the page you wish to view.
PREVIOUS: You can view previous sessions using the left menu.

New sessions

You do not have to create a new page to have another session, unless you wish to do so. You can have as many sessions as you like within the one page.

Upon receiving a response

Once you have received a reply you can choose to do nothing, or reply to the questions I have provided. Remember you must have paid for a session in order for you to send me your responses. You purchase sessions from the ‘my home’ page.

Text Counselling

julia@makethechange.com.au — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 07:37:58 GMT

What is text counselling?

Text counselling refers to online counselling which uses typed text to communicate. Users take it in turns to type. It follows the same format as windows live messenger, yahoo messenger and other similar programs. Since it is over the internet, counsellor and client do not need to be in the same town or even country. This means increased access to a counsellor. Counsellor and client work together to help the client resolve problems, as they would do with face to face counselling.

Text counselling may suit you if:

You are used to typing back and forth with another person.
You are at ease with a keyboard.
You are not concerned about speaking or seeing your counsellor.
You find it easier expressing yourself using the written word rather than speaking.
You do not want people to hear what you are saying.
You do not have access to a microphone or webcam.

About the program

Make the Change uses Userplane webchat for all its live counselling services. It is easy to use, although I have provided you with a guide if you need it. Unlike other chat programs, only you and I can access the session. Other people will not be able to see that you are using the service. This prevents interruptions from friends and increases privacy. Furthermore you do not need to install the program onto your machine. Userplane is built using Adobe Flash so it works in over 95% of browsers. It uses SSL for all of its communications.

What you need to access text counselling

Preferably you should have a broadband modem. If you do not think your connection speed will be good enough, you may prefer to use the Problem Page.

The counselling services are built using Adobe Flash (version 9). This will require the appropriate plug-in within your web browser. Access the test link from the diary page to check whether this is installed and if not, follow the links as provided.

Session details

You will use the diary to make an appointment at a time that suits you. You must register and pay for the session to confirm your booking.

Sessions will last 50 minutes and will begin on the day and time you have booked. If you are late you can still attend the session as I will be available to you for the entire session. However, it will not be possible to extend your session if you are late.

How much does text counselling cost?

$60 AUD for a 50 minute session or $210 AUD for four separate 50 minute sessions.

How to get started

You will need to be registered and logged in. This will take you to ‘My Home’ where you can purchase and book sessions. Full details of the process are provided in the step by step guide to accessing and using text, voice and video counselling.

Voice Counselling

julia@makethechange.com.au — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 07:42:38 GMT

What is voice counselling?

Voice counselling is online counselling where client and counsellor can talk over the internet. Using a microphone, a conversation takes place similar to that of a telephone call. Since it is over the internet, counsellor and client do not need to be in the same town or even country. This means increased access to a counsellor. Counsellor and client work together to help the client resolve problems, as they would do with face to face counselling.

Voice counselling may suit you if:

You would prefer to have a real conversation with your counsellor.
You do not have very good keyboard skills.
You are not concerned about being able to see your counsellor.
You find it easier to express yourself verbally, rather than through the written word.
You do not have access to a webcam.
You have access to a computer where you will not be easily overheard by others.
You have access to a microphone.

About the program

Make the Change uses Userplane webchat for all its live counselling services. It is easy to use, although I have provided you with a guide if you need it. Unlike other chat programs, only you and I can access the session. Other people will not be able to see that you are using the service. This prevents interruptions from friends and increases privacy. Furthermore you do not need to install the program onto your machine. Userplane is built using Adobe Flash, so works in 95% of browsers. It uses SSL for all of its communications.

What you need to access voice counselling

You will need a broadband modem to get the most out of voice counselling. If you do not have broadband, you may prefer to use the problem page. You will also need a microphone.

Session details

You will use the diary to make an appointment at a time that suits you. You must register and pay for the session to confirm your booking.

Sessions will last 50 minutes and will begin at the day and time you have booked. If you are late you can still attend the session as I will be available to you for the entire session. However, it will not be possible to extend your session if you are late.

How much does voice counselling cost?

$60 AUD for a 50 minute session or $210 AUD for four separate 50 minute sessions.

How to get started

Video Counselling

julia@makethechange.com.au — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 07:45:13 GMT

What is video counselling?

Video counselling is online counselling where client and counsellor use a webcam to communicate. As such, they will be able to see and hear each other. This counselling type comes closest to a face to face counselling experience. Since it is over the internet, counsellor and client do not need to be in the same town or even country. This means increased access to a counsellor. Counsellor and client work together to help the client resolve problems, as they would do with face to face counselling.

Video counselling may suit you if:

You would prefer to have a real conversation with your counsellor.
You do not have very good keyboard skills.
You are keen to see your counsellor.
You find it easier to express yourself verbally, rather than through the written word.
You have access to a computer where you will not be easily overheard by others.
You have access to a microphone and webcam.

About the webchat program

Make the Change uses Userplane webchat for all its live counselling services. It is easy to use, although I have provided you with a guide if you need it. Unlike other chat programs, only you and I can access the session. Other people will not be able to see that you are using the service. This prevents interruptions from friends and increases privacy. Furthermore you do not need to install the program onto your machine. Userplane is built using Adobe Flash, so works in 95% of browsers. It uses SSL for all of its communications.

What you need to access video counselling

You will need a broadband modem to get the most out of video counselling. If you do not have broadband, you may prefer to use the Problem Page. You will also need a webcam and microphone that work with Flash.

Session details

You will use the diary to make an appointment at a time that suits you. You must register and pay for the session before making a booking.

How much does video counselling cost?

$60 AUD for a 50 minute session or $210 AUD for four separate 50 minute sessions.

How to get started

Using Text / Voice / Video Counselling

julia@makethechange.com.au — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 06:28:35 GMT

Suitability of Online Counselling

julia@makethechange.com.au — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 06:40:47 GMT

Who is online counselling suitable for?

Online counselling provided by Make the Change is suitable for people with everyday life problems. Perhaps you want direction or to change your behaviour. You may have relationship problems, problems with stress, worried about an upcoming event or wish you had more confidence.

In short, it is a one-to-one service aimed at assisting you with the challenges and difficulties in your life. It will provide you with an opportunity to share your problems with someone who will not tell you what to do or has a hidden agenda.

Who is it not suitable for?

Given the nature of online counselling, there are a number of restrictions to whom I can provide counselling to.

As such it is not available to:

People who are suicidal or have thoughts of suicide.
People suffering from clinically diagnosed mental illness.
People who are experiencing domestic violence.
People experiencing drug and alcohol problems.

Other restrictions

This service is not available to residents of the United States and Canada.
It is not suitable for people who require couples or family counselling.
You must be over 18.

Assistance

If you require emergency assistance, the following may be useful:

Australia
Kids Help line: 1800 551 800
Domestic violence: 1800 200 526
Lifeline: 13 11 44
SANE: 1800 18 7263

United Kingdom
Samaritans: 08457 90 90 90
Childline: 0800 1111

Be sure to contact your general practitioner if you have concerns for yourself or another person.

Referral

If it is felt during the course of counselling that the service is not really suitable for you, I reserve the right to refer you to an appropriate professional.

What You Need To Know

julia@makethechange.com.au — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 06:48:37 GMT

Please read Make the Change’s Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. These documents provide greater detail than what is given here.

What to expect from Make the Change
What I expect from you the client
Preparation for your comfort
How many sessions will I need?
How much will it cost me?
How do I pay for sessions?
Will our sessions be confidential?
How secure is it?
How do I book a session?
How do I choose the format I want to use?
What happens if I cannot access the internet at the time of my session?
What happens if Make the Change has technical problems?
What happens if there are connection problems during the session?
What if I want to cancel a session?
Any other questions?

What to expect from Make the Change

To be provided with a professional service.
To be treated with courtesy and respect.
To be able to cease counselling at any time.
To feel free to ask any questions you have about the counselling process.
Each session will last 50 minutes (unless you are using the problem page) and will begin and end on time.

What I expect from you the client

Advanced notice if a session is to be cancelled.
Sessions will begin and end at times agreed beforehand.
For you to attend promptly and in a respectful manner.
For you to provide me honest information as I request it.
To not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Preparation for your comfort

Imagine you really are attending a counsellor’s office.
Avoid interruptions.
Have a drink or a snack if you want it.
Be as comfortable as possible: think about your clothes, lighting, seating and so forth.
Ensure you are available for the whole session.

How many sessions will I need?

As many as you need to help you work through your problems. However, your progress will be monitored to ensure best service.

How much will it cost me?

$60AUD per session, or $210AUD for four sessions.

How do I pay for sessions?

I have set up PayPal on my website, enabling you to carry out a secure credit card payment. You will automatically be taken to PayPal to make a payment.

Will our sessions be confidential?

Yes they will be. However, there are some specific limitations that you need to be aware of. These can be found in thePrivacy Policy.

How secure is it?

You must register and log in to receive online counselling. SSL is used to protect the security of the information passing between the server and your browser. All data is stored securely on the server and is only accessible to the counsellor. No personal information is stored with counselling records. Userplane does not have access to any of your personal details.

How do I book a session?

A step by step guide has been provided for how to book and use text, voice and video counselling. The problem page works differently, although an easy guide is also provided.

How do I choose the format I want to use?

The problem page is separate to text, voice and video counselling. If you choose this format, you will choose to ‘create page’ when you are logged in on your ‘my home' screen. See accessing the problem page for more details.

You will decide whether to use text, voice or video at the start of each session, once you are connected to webchat. Read the easy guide to text, voice and video counselling to learn more.

What happens if I cannot access the internet at the time of my session?

Please contact me as soon as possible (help@makethechange.com.au) if you are unable to connect to the internet. We will reschedule your appointment, without penalty to you. This is a goodwill policy and is subject to fair use. You will not receive a refund if I do not hear from you. It is your responsibility to contact me if you have problems. You may want to note my telephone number 0403 996 190 in case you need to contact me in this way.

If you continue to have connection difficulties you may benefit from using the problem page to receive counselling.

What happens if Make the Change has technical problems?

Make the Change will do its best to contact you if technical problems should arise. It is therefore advisable to give a preferred form of contact. Another session will be scheduled as soon as is permissible to do so.

What happens if there are connection problems during the session?

I will ensure that the session is available for the whole 50 minutes, so you can come back in at any time. I will not be able to extend the session. If you are unable to reconnect, due to the low cost of counselling you will not receive a refund. If the connection is a problem at this end, another appointment will be rescheduled as soon as possible, without cost to you.

What if I want to cancel a session?

Please email me (help@makethechange.com.au) as soon as possible if you decide to cancel a session. Please be aware of my refunds policy with regards to cancellations. To receive any refund you must let me know at least two hours before the session is scheduled. If you want to book another session you must use the online diary.

Any other questions?

Feel free to contact me at help@makethechange.com.au