FAQ

1. Why is counseling with VBC free of charge?

VideobasedCounseling.com is funded by donations and sponsorships so that counseling can be made available to everyone. You're welcome to make a donation for services that are provided by VBC or make a contribution in the name of someone else. Don't assume that because VBC is free that you won't receive the quality and professional counseling you deserve. VBC never wants price to be a factor when making the decision to get the help you need.

2. What happens during the first session of VBC?

During the initial session, we will discuss the problems and concerns that brought you to seek assistance. The initial session is called an intake session and information will be requested and discussed concerning family history, problem(s) history and other background information in order to let me know more of who you are and what your specific strengths are that could be applied to solutions. Goals and treatment methods will be explored. You will be referred elsewhere if another counselor or resource is more appropriate or if it is determined that VBC is not for you.

3. Are other types of e-counseling -- such as e-mail, chat or phone counseling -- offered on this site?

Yes, other types of e-counseling could be incorporated into the counseling process if deemed necessary. For example, your counselor may ask that you e-mail/journal during the week if concerns or issues arise or if you want to share certain experiences that happen between scheduled sessions. These e-mails will be read prior to your next appointment and if necessary, will be replied to or used as information sharing to help enhance the counseling process.

4. Who should use VBC?

Anyone with a computer, webcam and microphone can use VBC. There are come instances when VBC should NOT be used. They are:

If you suffer from suicidal thoughts;
If you have serious mental disturbances diagnosed by a psychiatrist;
Any issue involving law enforcement or a court order for treatment;
Emotional or behavioral conditions that might require hospitalization;
If you are under 18 years-old without parental consent

5. If I share my computer with someone else, will they be able to access my private communications with VBC?

No, as long as a few basic precautions are taken, other using your computer will not have access to your VBC activities. We suggest that you sign VideoBased Counseling and your system when you're done using your computer. We also suggest that you do NOT use the automatic form complete feature in most browsers.

6. I have heard that web browsers will sometimes store information about the pages I visit. Is this something I need to look out for?

Yes, there are a few areas on all browsers that you need to look out for:

First, never save site bookmarks (also called Favorites)
Next, there is a history button on most browsers. This area should be cleared following each visit to a confidential site or as the last step before shutdown
Finally, every browser has a location you may delete cached filed. Cache are file that are stored locally to make your system faster. On Internet Explorer, this section is located under the TOOLS, INTERNET OPTIONS and then DELETE TEMPORARY FILES

7. If I'm in a private area or office at work, do I need to work about the confidentiality of my computer access?

Yes, if you're connected to the corporate network, network administrators have access to the "digital traffic" going over their wires.

8. Do I have to be concerned with VideoBased Counseling placing a cookie on my computer?

No, VideoBased Counseling does not use any permanent cookies.

9. How can I tell if my computer will work with VideoBased Counseling.com?

Are you connected to any online service? This indicates that you can connect with us. If your system has speakers, chances are it also has a modem and a CD-ROM. Please read the "What you will need" link for more equipment information.

Links to other important information:

Choosing the right Counselor When to seek counseling

What counseling is & isn't