We will be using Zoom or Teams for online sessions. Shortly before your appointment, your adviser will email you a link that is specific to your scheduled session.
Consider what you'll need to be comfortable – your seating, headphones (if these are helpful), a glass of water. Avoid being backlit by a window or lamp.
Where possible, use a laptop, iPad or desktop that is set up on a stable surface. If you need to use a mobile phone, turn off notifications and place your mobile on a stable surface.
Safety, privacy and distractions
Find a location where you can speak comfortably and freely. Try to reduce background noise and potential distractions and use headphones (also useful for reducing voice distortion or echo).
Connection problems
In the event of connectivity issues, where it is not possible for the session to be carried out, it may be necessary for your adviser to terminate the session and reschedule via email for another time.
Managing risk concerns
To manage any risk which might arise during remote sessions, the service will follow a distress protocol. Although these circumstances are unlikely to occur, it is important that you know what steps are taken to ensure your safety.
If you terminate the connection during the session and this happens when you are agitated or upset, or made statements which indicate your safety is compromised, your adviser will first attempt to re-contact you online. If reconnecting with you online is unsuccessful, they will try you by email.