What qualifications do the eChat counsellors have?

Between them they have:

1. •Over a century of combined life experience as professionals and parents
   

2. •Advanced diplomas and diplomas in counselling from an organisation (ATERC) which is a constituent member of PACFA (the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia Inc.)
   

3. •NALM Adult Educator training
   

4. •Masters of Education degree
   

5. •Bachelor of Arts degree
   

6. •Teaching Certificate
   

7. •Employment in Pastoral care and counselling of adults and children
   

8. •80 years combined professional experience in state and private education and state and private corporations in Australia and overseas
   

What could I include in the first email?

Your first email it is likely to be longer than others because you may choose to include:

1. •An introduction to yourself and include a brief biography - history of your life to date
   

2. •Your family and living situation
   

3. •Your reason for contacting eChat
   

4. •How the issue affects your life both day to day and long term
   

5. •Anything you may have tried in the past to resolve the issue
   

6. •What outcome are you hoping for
   

7. •Anything else you feel relevant
   

Everyone’s challenges are unique so the above is simply a guide.  Use your own words and include any examples to illustrate the issue. Most importantly be as honest with yourself as possible.

One A4 page is a guide for subsequent emails.  Try to ensure they do not exceed the equivalent of two A4 pages.

Send your emails to counselling@echat.net.au . 

How does eChat email counselling work?

eChat email counselling is simple. Follow three easy steps and then send an email. Your email will be considered by a male/female team experienced and qualified in counselling.  You will, in normal circumstances, receive a reply within 24 - 48 hours. You then consider the eChat reply and respond to it, when you are ready. eChat counsellors will stay with you as long as you need.

Is eChat email counselling confidential?

1. •Yes, read our confidentiality statement
   

What payment method is used?

1. •For your security we use the Paypal system. You can pay by credit card securely by joining Paypal (FREE). Just follow the simple steps shown in the sign up page
   

2. •If for any reason you would prefer to pay by direct fund transfer please email us for our bank details
   

Why is eChat a good option?

1. •Flexible, compassionate, professional guidance
   

2. •Inexpensive
   

3. •Three easy steps to follow to get started
   

4. •Support for as long as you need
   

5. •Sensible approach to life’s challenges
   

How many eChat email exchanges will be needed?

It is anticipated in most cases that a series of interactions will be required to effectively explore the issue that is presenting. It is not possible to give a concrete answer because some issues may be easy to resolve, and others may be complex and require time and deliberation.

Do I have to tell the counsellor everything?

1. •The more you can build a true picture of what is happening, the more realistic can be the responses. It may take a while for you build a relationship with the eChat counsellors, or you may want to tell all straight off. Its up to you.
   

Does Echat offer other services?

1. •Phone and/or face-to-face counselling may be possible depending on individual situations and locations