Course Overview

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to working ethically and effectively in the digital counselling space, will explore the following:

Foundations of Online Counselling understanding the psychology, ethics, and professional frameworks that underpin digital practice.

Skills & Technology – developing presence, communication, and digital competence, while managing risk and safeguarding responsibilities.

Reflective Practice – adapting therapeutic tools for online use, engaging children and young people, and deepening cultural awareness.

Development – building a sustainable online private practice, marketing ethically, and maintaining competence through supervision and CPD.

Inclusion – ensuring therapy is adaptable, inclusive, and neurodiversity-affirming.

Transitions – managing closure, planned or unplanned, with professionalism and care.

The end of this course, you will be equipped with the confidence, competence, and reflective capacity to practise counselling online with safety and integrity.

Course curriculum

    1. Printable Slides

    2. Part 1

    3. Part 2

    4. Part 3

    5. Part 4

    6. Part 5

    7. Part 6

    8. Part 7

    1. Introduction to Online Counselling

    2. Psychology & Presence Online

    3. Communication & Body Language

    4. Safeguarding & Risk

    5. Platforms & Practice

    6. Case Examples & Reflective Learning

    7. Future Directions

    8. GDPR & Data Protection Checklist for Online Counsellors

    9. Sample Online Counselling Contract

    10. Troubleshooting Guide for Online Sessions

    11. Secure Practice Checklist for Online Counsellors

    12. Cultural Reflection Worksheet

    13. Creative Toolkit for Online Counselling

    14. Reflective Task: Creative Practice

    15. Safeguarding Flowchart for Online Sessions

    16. Parent – Therapist Contract Template

    17. Creative Tools for Children & Young People Online

    18. Counselling Directory Profile Template

    19. SEO Basics for Therapists

    20. Ethical Marketing Checklist

    21. Competence Self-Assessment Tool

    22. Reflective Journal Prompts for Online Counsellors

    23. Online Intake Form Template

    24. Suitability Decision Flowchart

    25. Accessibility Checklist for Online Counselling

    26. Neurodiversity Support Guide

    27. Ending Session Worksheet

    28. Ghosting Response Template

    1. End Of Course Quiz

    1. Student Feedback Request

About this course

  • £85.00
  • 38 lessons
  • 1.5 hours of video content

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN ON THIS COURSE

The core principles and benefits of offering therapy online. Key differences between in-person and virtual counselling How to navigate legal, ethical, and insurance issues when working with clients abroad The pros and cons of using online platforms vs. running a private online practice. BACP and NCPS positions on online therapy and professional guidance How to create a safe, confidential, and effective online counselling environment Practical strategies to safeguard clients and manage risk in a digital setting Limitations of online therapy and how to assess client suitability Best practices for maintaining boundaries, privacy, and therapeutic presence online

Course Tutor

Lynn

Shirley Marais

Seasoned CPCAB Tutor

Shirley is a passionate educator and seasoned CPCAB tutor, dedicated to shaping the next generation of counsellors through her work at Aloe Counselling Training Centre for Counselling Studies. She teaches accredited courses at Levels 2, 3, and 4, ensuring aspiring professionals gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Shirley is deeply committed to providing a rich, comprehensive education that fosters growth and confidence in emerging therapists. Beyond her formal teaching, Shirley is passionate about designing and delivering CPD courses that equip and support counsellors and coaches in practice. She develops engaging and practical learning experiences, empowering professionals to continually refine their skills, expand their therapeutic approaches, and stay at the forefront of the evolving field. In addition to her work in education, Shirley is a dedicated psychotherapist, clinical supervisor, and lecturer, specialising in relationship therapy. She integrates Person-Centred theory as her foundation while incorporating various therapeutic modalities, including Psychodynamic, Transactional Analysis (TA), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Emotion-Focused Therapy, to provide tailored care for individuals and couples. As a Registered Member of both the NCPS and BACP, Shirley upholds the highest standards in her practice. She runs her own private practice, offering a safe and compassionate space for clients to explore and overcome life’s challenges. Combining expertise with empathy, she supports people in navigating their unique personal journeys while empowering future and current therapists to do the same.