Being a teenager comes with many changes, challenges and expectations. Between school, exams, friendships, family life and figuring out who you are, it can sometimes feel like there is a lot to navigate.
There may be times when talking to someone outside your usual circle can help. Counselling offers a confidential space to explore thoughts and feelings, work through difficulties and develop a better understanding of yourself.
For young people aged 16 and over, online counselling can offer a flexible and accessible way to receive support, without necessarily having to travel to an appointment.
Why consider online counselling?
One of the biggest advantages of online counselling is convenience. Sessions can take place from home or another suitable private space, meaning there is no need to travel to an appointment.
For teenagers balancing school, college, part-time work and other commitments, this can make accessing counselling considerably easier.
Other advantages include:
1. Saving time and travel costs
Travelling to appointments can involve bus fares, fuel costs, parking and time spent commuting. Online sessions remove the need for travel, making it easier to fit counselling into an already busy week.
2. A familiar and comfortable environment
Some young people find it easier to open up when they are in a familiar environment. Having a session from their own home or another private space can help them feel more settled and comfortable.
3. Greater flexibility
Online sessions can make it easier to organise appointments around school, college, work and other responsibilities, depending on available appointment times.
4. Access to support regardless of location
Living outside a city or having limited transport options shouldn't necessarily prevent someone from accessing counselling. Online appointments can make it possible to connect with a therapist without geographical distance being such a barrier.
5. A familiar way of communicating
Many teenagers already use video calls as part of everyday life. For some, speaking with a therapist online may feel like a more familiar starting point than attending an appointment in person.
What can you talk about in counselling?
There isn't one particular reason someone needs to start counselling. You don't have to be experiencing a crisis or have everything figured out before reaching out.
Some young people may want support with anxiety, stress, low mood, friendships, family relationships, self-esteem, confidence, school pressures or changes happening in their lives.
Others may simply want somewhere to talk openly, without feeling judged or having to worry about upsetting someone close to them.
Counselling is an individual experience, and sessions provide an opportunity to explore whatever feels important to you.
Is online counselling right for everyone?
Online counselling can work well for many young people, but it isn't necessarily the right format for everyone.
Having a quiet, private space, a reliable internet connection and the ability to engage with sessions online are important considerations.
It's also important that young people understand confidentiality and the circumstances in which a therapist may need to share information to protect someone's safety.
Finding the right support
Taking the first step towards counselling can sometimes feel daunting, whether you're a young person considering it yourself or a parent looking into support for your teenager.
Online counselling offers another way to access support, with the flexibility to fit around everyday life.
At D9 Therapy, we understand that finding the right support is important. If you're considering counselling for a young person aged 16 or over, you are welcome to get in touch with us to explore the available options and find out more about our therapists.
At the moment we have Chloe, who is available to work with 16+ in an online space.
