INTERNET COUNSELLING AND THERAPY

If you have access to broadband internet you may wish to consider internet counselling as an alternative to face to face counselling. The primary advantage of this type of technology is the convenience of counselling in the privacy of your own home. The technology involves the use of MSN Messenger, which is free software provided by Microsoft allowing you to converse over the internet with sound clearer than that of your typical telephone connection. If you wish to have confidential counselling via the internet you will need to follow these steps:

1.	Organise access to Broadband Internet through either of the many providers available. You may wish to visit Whirlpool to find the provider that best suits your needs
2.	Ensure that your computer system has good speakers and a microphone. Alternately you may wish to purchase a good headset.
3.	Download the free software MSN Messenger and follow the instructions to install and obtain a MSN Passport. You will now be ready to make contact.
4.	Contact Ian Clayton (Psychologist) and Associates by phone on 0438 247 989 or e-mail ian.clayton@internode.on.net to organise an appointment time.
5.	At your appointment time, simply activate MSN Messenger (usually by clicking the icon stored under programs) Go to Tools ® Add Contact and request contact from ian.clayton@internode.on.net by typing this e-mail address into the appropriate space This will immediately begin the counselling session.
6.	If in addition to clear sound, you wish video then you must install a web cam. This is a simple process as all web cams today come with USB connection.
7.	Remember, as with all face-to-face counselling. The initial half hour of the first appointment is free with each subsequent hour charged at a rate of $80.

If you are interested in internet counselling but are unsure about the technology, please feel free to make contact by phone or e-mail.