Telephone Therapy UK
Telephone therapy is not offered as a standalone service. It is available as a backup option only — if your internet connection drops during a scheduled video session, we can continue the session by phone. All sessions are scheduled and begin on video via Google Meet. If you are looking for telephone-based therapy as your primary format, I am not the right fit, but I can help you find a therapist who offers this.
Telephone is available as a backup only. If your internet connection fails during a scheduled video session, we can continue by phone to avoid losing the session. Telephone is not offered as a standalone or primary therapy format. All sessions are booked and begin on video via Google Meet.
How Telephone Therapy Works
Telephone sessions follow the same structure as video sessions. We agree a regular time, I call you at that time, and the session lasts 50 minutes. The therapeutic work is the same – the only difference is the medium.
I do not currently offer telephone therapy as a standard option. All sessions are held via video using Google Meet. If the internet connection drops during a session, I may call you by phone to continue, but this is a backup rather than a planned format.
Who Telephone Therapy Suits
Telephone therapy may be a good option if you:
- Prefer not to be on camera
- Do not have reliable internet access
- Find it easier to talk when you are not being watched
- Have a safety concern that makes video calls risky (for example, if someone might see your screen)
- Are travelling and cannot access video
- Simply find phone calls more comfortable
What You Need
- A phone with good signal or a reliable landline
- A private space where you will not be overheard
- The same commitment to regular attendance as video sessions
Differences From Video Therapy
While telephone therapy is effective, there are some differences to be aware of:
- No visual cues – I cannot see your facial expressions or body language, and you cannot see mine. This means we rely more on tone of voice and what is said
- Some clients find it easier – the absence of being watched can make it easier to talk about difficult things
- Some clients find it harder – without visual connection, some people feel less engaged or more disconnected
Most clients have a preference. If you are not sure, we can discuss it during the introductory call.
Is Telephone Therapy Effective?
Research supports telephone therapy as an effective form of treatment, particularly for anxiety, depression, and general psychological distress. It is widely used within the NHS and by specialist services. While video therapy is generally preferred for longer-term psychotherapeutic work, telephone therapy remains a valid and effective option.
UK-Wide Availability
Telephone therapy is available to clients anywhere in the UK. There are no geographical restrictions.
Scope and Boundaries
Telephone is not offered as a standalone therapy service. It is available only as a backup if your internet connection drops during a scheduled video session. If you specifically need telephone-based therapy as your primary format, I am not the right fit, but I can help you find a therapist who offers this. All scheduled sessions begin on video via Google Meet.
Is telephone therapy as effective as video therapy?
Telephone therapy is effective and well-supported by research. For most concerns, it produces comparable outcomes to face-to-face and video therapy. Some clients actually prefer it and find they open up more easily without being on camera.
Can I switch between telephone and video?
I do not offer telephone sessions as a standard option. If the internet goes down during a session, I will call you by phone so we can continue. Flexibility around the medium is something we can discuss. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and able to engage.
Do you call me or do I call you?
If a phone call is needed due to a technical issue, I will call you.
Is telephone therapy cheaper?
The fee remains the same regardless of whether a session is completed by video or by phone due to technical issues.
If you would prefer telephone therapy, I offer a short, free introductory call to discuss your options. There is no obligation.