My Experience of Online Counselling

I want to share my experience of online counselling. Initially I was skeptical about Online counseling- How is “Counselling” going to work on the Internet? I was going through a difficult time (tension, misunderstanding) in my relationship with my spouse. I really felt the need to talk to someone who could help me out, that’s when I thought about online counselling. Since it was anonymous, I decided to give it a try. I started typing my problem. Once I started writing, I could not stop myself and poured my heart out, giving all personal details, which I would have not normally shared with a known person.

My immediate reaction was a sense of relief and felt light at heart that there is someone there to listen to me, someone with whom I can share my problem. Towards the evening I started feeling uncomfortable with fact “what did I do?” shared my personal problem with a complete stranger?The next day I got the reply from the Counsellor. The Counsellor had understood my problem to a large extent, I felt relieved and cared for. The Counsellor had also asked me compelling questions. Now I was already feeling guilty and embarrassed about talking about details of my relationship to a stranger. I did not know who the Counsellor was to whom I had talked about issues, which are so close to my heart? I felt a little awkward, so I did not reply.

I got very busy with my hectic life. However, the content of mail as well as Counsellors questions kept coming back to me and made me think about the issues. My situation had also not improved. Therefore, I decided to write back (after nearly a month). I was feeling guilty and hesitant. What will the Counsellor think? Will the Counsellor remember my problem? Will I have to start all over again? Will the Counsellor take me seriously as I didn’t get back in time?

I wrote to the Counsellor again and was happy to get a reply. No the Counsellor had not forgotten me. In fact, the Counsellor shared with me that my feeling awkward, embarrassed and taking time to get back happens often in a counselling situation. It was “O.K.” to get back whenever I felt ready to ‘talk’.
Since then, I have had four sessions. These sessions have helped me to understand myself and my partner better. It has also given me a broader perspective of my situation. I have realized now though I cannot change the way other people behave I can change myself. I have more focus on areas I have to bring about change and have worked towards it. It has required an effort on my part. However, it is worth it, as I am more in control of my situation and it has made a positive impact on my relationship.