Virtual couples counseling is whereby a licensed marriage counselor helps couples overcome challenges both individually and shared. The process usually takes place online which is mainly a three-way conversation and each person answers questions asked in turns.
There are several advantages why couples take online counseling and they include:
Flexibility
Virtual couples counseling is normally flexible and it allows partners to express themselves fully. For example, there are those who want to learn new ways of doing things, where else there are those who dissect every conversation and argument.
Convenience
The process is usually convenient for everyone involved because there is no commuting to the counselor’s office, and mostly when the couple involved has children or a busy schedule at work. It allows people to arrange a time when the sessions will be conducted, this is because it can be conducted anywhere as long as there is an internet connection.
It’s comfortable
Online couple counseling is also a comfortable process thus enabling one to express themselves freely because individuals do not need to walk in a new space then start discussing with them their details.
It also allows long-distance couples to participate because it’s all about planning a session with a counselor from where you are. Another benefit is that when one has the sessions from their home, they are easily able to practice the skills they have learned. Examples, communication skills, empathy, and also honesty.
For an online couple sessions to be successful, it’s important to ensure the followings:
Join on one screen.
This is helpful because it enables the couple to be physiologically connected, and will also be able to have eye contact and also physical touch. Another way that ensures a successful session is by avoiding any distraction, and this involves turning off other gadgets, and ensuring that the kids are asleep or occupied.
Being somewhere private
This helps in proper concentration and can be somewhere in a different room or in a private office away from anything that may cause the couple not to express themselves properly. Another way to ensure a perfect session is by reducing any issue related to technology by ensuring that there is a good Wi-Fi connection.
When seeking a counselor to help in online virtual counseling, it’s always great to choose one that has a private practice, one who has specialized in couples’ therapy in-office and also conducts online sessions. The therapist should also have completed training on couples’ therapy and has a certificate.
