“I am undertaking a trial of the “Buddy System” methodology of enabling clients to work confidently in therapy with me through email. This method has already been used within the NHS, specifically in the Maudsley Clinic and has been noted to offer benefits to clients.
Clients are given a secure email account, where they can write up a daily diary of their thoughts, feelings and behaviours. The only correspondent is me, and I can read the diary regularly, or before our weekly phone session. During that session, I can give support or advice, or simply engage with the client in the reflection of their week.
This means that clients who are unable to take time out to travel to sessions can engage with me from the comfort of their own home, and start to keep track of helpful behaviours.
The Buddy System could be very helpful to clients with a disability, people who are ill, residents of isolated areas or people who have hectic schedules and cannot take time out for face-to-face therapy.
I am very enthusiastic about this way of working, and as soon as the trial has finished, I will evaluate its success for clients. This could lead to the system being adopted on a permanent basis.
If you are interested in working with me through email and diary-keeping, I would be pleased to hear from you. I will, of course, evaluate each client’s suitability to this method prior to treatment, as it may not be suitable for everyone.”
Please call Jo on 07966 672 950 if you want to know more.