5. Confidentiality solutions Use encrypted software to protect against hackers Screen clients Use passwords with clients and software Keep information on an external hard drive placed in a secure area when data not in use Use webcams and microphones to help establish client identity
6. Lack of face to face interaction Use a two-way webcam to see the variances in body language and give the client a person to interact with Use a microphone to hear differences in clients voice Services like Skype provide both
7. Possible ethical issues Screen clients to make sure no minors seek counseling without proper permissions Screen clients to make sure they are suitable for an online relationship, make sure to give them the limitations of online counseling Confidentiality issues should be taken even more seriously with an online relationship
8. Be careful There are many companies which provide internet counseling. Clients need to research their counselor to make sure they are certified by either the American Counseling Association or the American Psychological Association.
10. References Kaplan, D. (2006). Ethical use of technology in counseling. Counseling Today Online. Retrieved from www.counseling.org/Publications/CounselingTodayArticles.aspx?AGuid=421e99b9-ec6c-4f46-a6c4-4f8b6101275a Oliver, M. (n.d.). Use of computer technology in counseling [Powerpoint slides] Retrieved from http://www.slideshare.net/Littlemark23/use-of-computer-technology-in-counseling Patrick, P. (2006). Providing counseling online: Because we “can” should we? Vistas 2006 Online. Retrieved from www.counselingoutfitters.com/Patrick2.htm
