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Rumena Pervin - Video Calls FAQ

Video Calls - Frequently Asked Questions

In this post-COVID era, the use of video calls is now a firmly established means of conducting therapy sessions.  Even if you can make in-person sessions, video conferencing can help when there are special circumstances such as train strikes.

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If you are thinking about using video calls for your sessions with me, you might like to review these frequently asked questions.

Is using video calls as effective as the alternatives?

It depends on the client's situation.

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For example, in general I would say video calls are more effective than voice calls, but that won't be true for all clients, for example anyone with body dysmorphia disorder who feels so uncomfortable about being seen on a camera that they can't concentrate on the discussion.

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I would also say that in-person sessions are generally more effective than video calls, but not if the difficulties of travelling to my therapy room mean that appointments are regularly missed.

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For a rounded view of which option might be best for you, I would suggest reading this page.

How secure is video calling?

Video calling is certainly secure enough to be a viable option for private therapy sessions.

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I use video conferencing software that is securely encrypted and each therapy session has a new and unique (randomly generated) set of access credentials to ensure security.

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I operate from a totally private room and my own computer has security software installed; it is highly recommended that you have the same arrangements.

What will I need for a video call?

To make video sessions as effective as possible, you will need the following:

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  • A suitably quiet and private space:  It is important that you will be free of interruptions and comfortable to speak openly

  • Video conferencing software:  I will send you an invitation link for each session that will allow you to download any required software to your device

  • A sufficiently strong and stable network connection:  If you are relying on wifi, use whatever suitable private space is closest to the router.  If there are other people at home during your session, it will help if they are not downloading or streaming video at that time

  • Power for your device:  Make sure that the device you are using to connect to the video call either has mains power or a sufficiently charged battery

  • A microphone and camera:  You will need these items whether you are using a desktop PC, a laptop, a games console, a Smart TV, a tablet or a phone

  • Headphones:  These are optional but can help you to focus on the discussion.

How will I access the video calls?

Ahead of your session, I will send you an email containing an 'invitation link' for you to click on.


After clikcing on the link, follow the instructions to set up at your end.


For security, each session will have a unique invitation link and set of access credentials.

Payment is made in the normal way i.e. via a bank transfer.

How do I pay for a video-based session?

Can I use video calling from outside the UK?

I accept international clients so this is not a problem in principle.

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If you take the opportunity of a free pre-assessment, we will use that time to discuss your location and whether the country you are in presents any challenges in terms of limits on what software can be used and/or whether that country has any licensing laws for practitioners which prevent me from helping you.

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