Live Chat Counselling

Spiritus Counselling and Education Services now offers live web based counselling as a safe and anonymous alternative to face-to-face services. Live Chat Counselling uses the Elluminate Live! Java platform, which is web based and needs no prior installation. The virtual room will have three options for communication:

1. Videoconferencing using a webcam. If you choose this option, you will talk to your counsellor live and "virtually face-to-face." If you do not have a webcam, or elect not to use one, then that is fine. It is entirely up to you.
2. Text based chat. There is a text box to type your messages into, and your counsellor will also respond via text.
3. A Whiteboard. This is a space in which you can express yourself creatively, with drawing, or inserting images, clip-art or documents. Again, whether you use this or not is up to you.

Availability

Initially, Live Chat Counselling will be available within the hours shown below. Appointments will be booked with your counsellor via email. Please note that the time zone is for Brisbane, as are appointment times suggested by your counsellor

If none of these times suit you, please consider email counselling as a more flexible alternative.

What to expect

Once you have decided that live chat counselling is right for you, the following process will apply:

1. You will first need to complete our Live Chat Counselling Intake Form. Here you provide some information around your background and counselling needs. The information from this form will be sent directly to your counsellor.
2. Your counsellor will then get back to you via email to arrange a date and time for your first counselling session.
3. You will be provided a link to the Elluminate Virtual Room, which you should log in to at the scheduled time.
4. The first session will be focussed mostly on you and your counsellor getting to know each other; allowing you to get a feel for the Virtual Room, and your counsellor a chance to get a broader understanding of your situation.
5. Following sessions will then be scheduled as necessary.