Steve Garufi, M.A. LPC, Psychotherapist, Telephone Counseling, Office Located in Buena Vista, Colorado
eMail: stevegarufi@juno.com - Phone: (719) 221-4477
The Benefits of Telephone Counseling
 I'm frequently asked: Is telephone counseling as effective as face-to-face counseling?
My short answer this:
Face-to-face might be preferable, but there are definitely benefits to telephone
counseling in many circumstances. Below are four:
The Advantages Of Telephone Counseling
People Living in Rural Areas - For those living in rural areas,
doing counseling via telephone might be the only practical option. As an example,
group participation is usually imperative
for those seeking help for sexual addicton, and small town environments and
rural areas simply do not have the resources. Additionally, the risk for
"small town gossip" is greater in low populated areas which makes in-person group work difficult and sometimes impossible.
High Profile Clients - Some potential clients may be
"high profile" in some manner and may not want to be risk going to counseling or participating in a group setting.
While the stigma of seeing a counselor has greatly diminished over
the years, the stigma of sexual addiction remains very high. Also, instances exist where
it may be too "risky" for a client to expose oneself face-to-face in a group setting.
Examples may include a religious leader, political leader,
celebrity or one who's job would be at risk "if everyone knew." In this type of scenario, a telephone-based group may be very helpful and critical for one's growth.
A Therapist With A Unique Specialty and/or Reputation - Some clients may want to work with a counselor
who has a unique specialty. Some clients may bypass a face-to-face counselor to work with a therapist who has
a solid reputation or where rapport has already been built from previous contact, which may have come from
prior counseling, a weekend retreat or attendance at a seminar.
Clients Desiring To Avoid An Extra Drive - Time and energy can be a very precision commodity.
Some individuals, particularly those who are busy and consumed by work demands, might appreciate not needing
to drive across town in traffic to appear for their appointment. Phone counseling can be extremely convenient with a
client participating anywhere including the privacy of one's home.
My Offer Of Telephone Counseling
If a client's circumstances fits any of the advantages noted above,
I would be more than happy to work with them.
Please contact me more if you have any questions about my rates, my counseling philosophy
or other information.
Steve Garufi, M.A. LPC
Journey of Hope Counseling
Ph:
(719) 221-4477
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