University of Tasmania, Australia

Is Online Counselling 4 you?

Online counselling currently allows you to talk with a UTAS counsellor using asynchronous email. We hope to soon be able to offer sessions via an instant messaging (IM) format, voice chat over the internet or video chat via web cam as well. The service lets you access a counsellor in your own space, which means no one else needs to know you are using it.

Please note that while it is confidential and private, online counselling is not an anonymous service. You will be asked to register by providing your name, student identification and contact details. However, people say that online counselling using email allows them to feel anonymous because no one knows what you look like and no one can see you going into the counsellor's office. It may not always be the most suitable or effective means to access counselling and this will be further explained below.

What is Online Counselling for?

It's for students who would like counselling via the internet, to support them in developing strategies for positively dealing with a range of personal issues such as:

• depression, anxiety and stress
• adjusting to university life
• eating and body image
• grief and loss
• self-esteem and confidence
• substance abuse

If you have a more general, once-off enquiry, check out our online resources list for additional information sites.

What is Online Counselling not for?

It may not be an appropriate service for you if:

• you are experiencing a crisis situation, such as thoughts of wanting to hurt or kill yourself or others
• you are experiencing an immediate threat to your physical safety
• you are currently suffering from a mental illness that you need immediate medical treatment for

For immediate support if you are in a crisis situation, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Please also consider accessing face-to-face counselling.

What you need to know about Online Counselling at UTAS