Professional, caring, and convenient counseling at your finger tips

Online Counseling and Life Skills

FAQ

What are the benefits to online counseling?

Online counseling is a convenient alternative to face to face counseling.  ONLINE COUNSELING DOES NOT TAKE THE PLACE OF FACE TO FACE COUNSELING, however, this alternative can still give you the guidance and support from a professional counselor.  This option is not only convenient, but it is private and discreet.  There is a stigma that goes along with receiving counseling. Many people do not go because they feel embarrassed or they think that others are going to think that they are “crazy.”  Although clients are in no way “crazy” for seeking counseling, but rather smart and brave for going through with it, online counseling allows people that are still hesitant for the above reasons to get the help they need and never have to face a counselor or tell anyone else , if they choose not to.  There are a million reason why people can’t make it to counseling.  With online counseling, there are no more excuses, you can have a session on your lunch break, or conduct an email session when you can’t sleep at night.  It’s that convenient.

Live Chat Counseling or Email Counseling; which is better?

Both types of counseling can be effective.  Often this questions is answered by considering  what a client’s needs are.  Email counseling can be helpful when needing answers to specific questions.  On the other hand, a live chat session can be useful when you are dealing with an issue in which a process is required to get to a better place emotionally.  Email sessions can be helpful to organize your thoughts and feelings in writing, which can be a highly effective tool.  We do recommend that you choose the Live Chat Counseling option if you are seeking couples counseling together with your partner.

What are the limitations to Online Counseling?

There are limitations to online counseling.  As stated, there is no replacement to face to face counseling. One aspect that is missed in online counseling is the ability of the counselor to read and interpret the body language of their clients. Because of this there are times that something is lost in the translation of online counseling, which is why we ask clients to be so specific.   Another limitation to online counseling is the possibility of technical problems.  As far as we have come with technology, there is still a chance of glitches and errors and may interrupt the counseling process.  In addition, although we make every effort to protect and offer you privacy, there is always the chance of a security breach in any online setting, and unfortunately, online counseling is not completely immune to those breaches.  However, we are constantly aware and sensitive to this issue and make every attempt to protect your privacy.  Finally, and perhaps the most important limitation to online counseling, is that online counseling will not be useful to individuals suffering from a significant or profound mental health issue.  Individuals that fall into this category should always be under the care of a therapist on a regular basis (face to face) and if necessary, under the care of a psychiatrist.  Individuals contemplating suicide should call 911 or your local suicide hotline.

How do I know my counselor is a Licensed Professional?

Jennifer Duque is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois.  To verify this information you may visit the Illinois Professional Regulations Website where License information can be verified.  Visit www.idfpr.com/dpr/licenselookup Where it says Profession scroll to Clinical Prof Counselor and then type in Last Name: Duque and First Initial: J .  This will verify Jennifer’s active license.

How do the Live Chat Counseling Sessions work?

Please visit Begin Live Chat Counseling Session for complete details.  Once a client has paid for their Live Chat Session, they will be directed to schedule an appointment.  ALL CLIENTS SEEKING A LIVE CHAT SESSION MUST MAKE AN APPOINTMENT.  APPOINTMENTS ARE SCHEDULED AND CONDUCTED IN CENTRAL TIME ZONE.  You will receive an email confirming your appointment.  With that email you will receive an invitation to your private chat session.  All you need to do when it is time for your session is to click on the link in the email sent to you and you will be directed to your private chat room. ONLY CLIENTS INVITED MAY ENTER THE CHAT ROOM. No Downloads necessary.

How do the Email Counseling Sessions work?

Email sessions can be conducted at any time.  Once you have paid for your session you may begin your session at any time.  Upon receiving your email, you will receive a lengthy response no later than 48 hours after receipt of your email.  Please visit Begin Email Counseling Session for detailed information.

How can I pay for my sessions?

Online Counseling and Life Skills accepts payment through Paypal.  Paypal offers a variety of options for payment.  Paypal is easy, convenient, and secure.

How old do I have to be to receive counseling services at OCLS?

You must be at least 18 years of age to receive counseling services from OCLS. See Terms of Service/Counseling Agreement for more details.