Digital consultations

What is a digital consultation?

A digital consultation is just like a face to face appointment.  You have a set appointment time with your therapist but the meeting takes place via your screen rather than in the clinic.

View our information guide to help you join your digital session:

Your digital consultation

Research shows that treatment online can be as effective as in person, with the added benefits of:

  • Quick access – with some options there are much shorter waiting times for therapy.
  • Convenience – no need to travel to appointments. Get support from the comfort of your own home – or anywhere else you prefer.
  • Ease of use – Digital consultations are simple to access and interactive, with lots of support for those concerned about their computer skills.
  • Confidential – we use a private secure platform so your  confidentiality is ensured
  • Covid secure Social distancing  is ensured limiting the spread of coronavirus
  • Overcoming barriers – Easier access for  some of those who have a disability or long-term health condition

Am I eligible for a digital consultation?

Most people will benefit from receiving treatment this way. However, do discuss this with us if you have any questions.

You will need to…

  • have access to a stable Wi-Fi connection and be in a quiet private space
  • have basic computer and internet skills and/or smartphone/tablet device.

How to make the best use of digital consultations

  • Expect some awkwardness at first. It is OK to name it so that you can find solutions to any challenges. Make some time with your clinician to sort out any technical difficulties.
  • Be flexible with the format of your treatment – we may use a combination of sharing screens, videos or audio clips as well as sending you information to read through.  Do let us know what is most helpful for you.
  • Because it may be more difficult for your clinician to pick up how you are feeling online, they may need to ask you about this.
  • Don’t be afraid to give your clinician feedback. A lot of us are making a shift to providing therapy online and we all are relatively new to it and learning together is part of the process.

Overview of what to expect in NHS digital consultations

Online programmes

SilverCloud

SilverCloud is an online therapy programme proven to help with stress, anxiety, low-mood and depression.

Some examples of anxiety problems it can help with are obsessive compulsive disorder, health anxiety, phobias, panic. There are also programmes specifically to help you manage the emotional impact of living with and managing a physical health conditions such as: Coronary Heart Disease, Chronic Pain, Diabetes and Lung conditions including COPD and asthma.

It is accessible and easy to use.

You work at your own pace with ongoing reviews from a member of our team.

Flexible, use it anytime, anyplace, anywhere; on a computer, tablet or on a mobile phone.

Key features of the programme include:

  • Video clips
  • Interactive quizzes
  • A journal
  • Audio-guided mindfulness exercises
  • Other peoples’ experiences (personal stories) – you’re not on your own!
  • Reflective exercises and more
  • Access for up to 1 year from the time of registration – you can remind yourself of the skills and techniques you learned.

iCT-PTSD

iCT-PTSD is a new Internet-based cognitive therapy program for adults experiencing PTSD following a traumatic experience.

The program will help you learn about PTSD and its symptoms, why these are understandable after a traumatic experience, and what keeps them going.

With support from a therapist via regular phone calls, and secure messaging and SMS, you will work through the online program, helping you to deal with the distressing memories of what happened, and to start rebuilding your life back to how you would like it to be.

Your therapist will ensure that the programme is carefully tailored to meet your needs.

What are the benefits of iCT-PTSD?

  • Includes all the elements of traditional face-to-face therapy but delivers them online
  • Regular support from your therapist
  • Avoids the costs and time taken travelling to appointments
  • You can work on your treatment at a time and location convenient to you
  • Treatment is tailored to your specific concerns
iCT-SAD

Do you feel anxious in social situations? iCT-SAD is a new internet-based Cognitive Therapy programme for adults experiencing social anxiety.

Do you feel anxious in social situations?

This Cognitive Therapy programme will help you learn what keeps social anxiety going and how to overcome it, through the use of online modules, videos and practical exercises. You will have regular support from your therapist, via telephone, secure messaging, SMS, and video-calls. Your therapist will ensure that the programme is carefully tailored to focus on your specific concerns about social situations.

What are the benefits of iCT-SAD?

  • Includes all the elements of traditional face-to-face therapy but delivers them online
  • Regular support from your therapist
  • Avoids the costs and time taken travelling to appointments
  • You can work on your treatment at a time and location convenient to you
  • Treatment is tailored to your specific concerns

Page last reviewed: 14 April, 2023

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