Is Online Counselling Right for You? A Guide for Muslims
More Muslims than ever are choosing to see a counsellor online. For some it is about privacy; for others, there is simply no Muslim counsellor nearby. If you are wondering whether online counselling could work for you, this guide answers the questions people ask us most.
Does online counselling actually work?
For many common concerns, such as stress, anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties and life changes, research suggests that counselling by video can be as helpful as meeting in person. What matters most is the relationship with your counsellor and your willingness to engage, not whether you are in the same room.
Online counselling is not suitable for emergencies. If you are in crisis or at risk of harm, contact emergency services or a crisis line straight away.
Is it private?
Yes. Sessions are one-to-one video calls; nobody else joins. Your counsellor follows a professional code of ethics and will explain the limits of confidentiality at the start. For many Muslims, online counselling actually feels more private: there is no waiting room and no chance of being seen by someone you know.
To protect your privacy at home, choose a room where you will not be overheard, use headphones, and let family know you need some uninterrupted time.
Can I see a counsellor of the same gender?
At Sincere Counselling, yes. Men speak with Wasim and women speak with Mayssa. Many people find this makes it much easier to open up, especially about personal or family matters. Women can read more about counselling for Muslim women.
Will my faith be respected?
Absolutely. With a Muslim counsellor you do not have to explain why prayer, family, modesty or halal boundaries matter to you. If you wish, your counsellor can draw on Islamic principles as a source of strength alongside evidence-based methods such as CBT. If you prefer to keep faith out of the sessions, that is respected too.
What do I need?
- A phone, tablet or computer with a camera
- The free Zoom app (or Zoom in your browser)
- A stable internet connection
- A quiet, private space for 50 minutes
Your Zoom link is emailed after you book. If you have never used Zoom, don’t worry: it takes one click to join.
I live overseas. Can I still book?
Yes. Our booking calendar shows available times in your own local time zone, so there is no need to work out the time difference. Prices are in Australian dollars, and your bank converts them automatically.
How much does it cost?
- Individual counselling: $160 AUD
- Couples counselling: $210 AUD
- Youth counselling: $110 AUD
- Family counselling: $250 AUD
All sessions are 50 minutes. Please give at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel.
Is online counselling right for me?
It may be a good fit if you:
- want support from someone who understands your faith and culture
- value privacy and discretion
- have a busy schedule or young children at home
- live far from a Muslim counsellor, in Australia or overseas
If you are unsure, contact us for a free phone chat and we can talk it through.
See session options and book online →
Sincere Counselling is not a crisis service. In an emergency, call 000 in Australia (or your local emergency number). For 24/7 support in Australia, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
