Online Counselling Platforms If You Need It Or Know Someone Who Does

As we navigate through this tough period in our lives, many are finding it increasingly hard to cope with the realities of isolation. We’re all used to interacting and socialising with others prior to the lockdown — so being in quarantine can have its toll n our mental health especially when we’re cooped up at home.

Thankfully enough, in this digital age where we can be connected online, seeking help can still be done through new means — more specifically, we’re zooming in on online counselling.

Now for some, you might be ashamed to admit that you do need help to cope with this difficult phase, but there’s honestly nothing to be ashamed of when it comes to seeking help for the sake of your mental wellbeing. Whether you’re looking for a platform to reach out to help yourself or even your loved ones, here are some online services that offer online counselling.

1. NATIONAL ADDICTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Many out there are resorting to gambling online to satisfy their need at the chance of winning more money and to keep themselves busy during this quarantine. It can be addictive but it can also lead to dire consequences that can be harmful to one’s psychological and physical health — leading to feelings of despondency and helplessness.

Thankfully enough there are services out there like National Addiction Management Services (NAMS) that cater to individuals that are experiencing problems with gambling, as well as other addiction problems. Through this, the online service provided by NAMS and the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) is extending their Live Webchat service that provides advice on gambling issues in real-time. This service is free-of-charge and is open for online consultations from 8am to 11pm everyday. However, it’s also important to note that the helpline is not meant to replace or substitute for professional advice from a health professional.

WEBSITE: National Addiction Management Services
PRICE: Free-of-charge

2. SAFE SPACE

When it comes to discussing our mental health, it’s important for some of us to find a platform that connects us to someone we can open ourselves up to. Here, at Safe Space SG, you’ll be able to rely on their team of professional counsellors that are available to provide you with all the support and guidance you need.

Currently, they are now offering teletherapy support and preventive mental health education through video calls that are fast, discreet and affordable. These prices start from $80 to $200 depending on the type of therapy session you’re looking for — they offer individual and couple therapy options.

Also, the great thing about this platform is that you’re able to access it through your desktop or even their mobile app, so it’s really accessible — all you need to do is to reach out.

WEBSITE: safe space
PRICE: $80 individual therapy session (1 hour) and $200 couple therapy session (1 hour)

3. BETTER HELP

Getting help when you need it is now possible with the touch of a button. BetterHelp, a US-based online counselling platform, offers professional counselling services for individuals, couples, and even for your child. With this service, you can tap into the world’s largest network of licensed, accredited, and experienced counsellors who can help with issues including depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, and more.

To find the most suitable therapist, the platform requires you to answer a few questions to find a therapist that fits your needs and preferences. With this service, you’ll be able to contact and message your therapist any time from anywhere without scheduling your appointment. Also, you have the option of scheduling a live session with your therapist whenever you want.

The cost of online counselling through this platform is also relatively affordable with prices that start from USD$40 to USD$70 per week — of which you will be billed monthly. You can also cancel your membership at any time.

WEBSITE: BETTERHELP
PRICE: USD$40 TO USD$70 PER WEEK (BILLED MONTHLY)

4. ANNABELLE PSYCHOLOGY

For professional counselling services, look over to Annabelle Psychology. Based in Singapore, the business, specialising in clinical psychology, is now offering teleheath services for free for frontline healthcare workers.

Here, frontline healthcare workers can seek for mental healthcare services that are done over the phone through calls — providing a safe space for them to seek help while tiding through the immense pressure and psychological stress from their workload.

Alternatively, for non-frontline healthcare workers, you can still seek counselling through their telehealth services that start with rates from as low as $80 for 30 minutes and $160 for 60 minutes.

On their website, Annabelle Psychology also provides in-house resources for those who need help managing stress and/or isolation from working or staying at home.