Starting at the beginning
What is The Helpnet ?
Why should I use The Helpnet?
Because you do not want your little problem to become an actual problem.
Many problems start small and grow like a snowball if you don’t start and stop them right away. So why not just pick up the snowball while you can still carry it?
What can I use The Helpnet for?
The Helpnet can be used in a wide range of ways. For minor or major problems. These can range from everyday problems at work, communication, family, with friends, partners, colleagues, in general, to more serious problems such as death, depression, sleep disorders, addiction, burnout, etc.
The counsellors have different trainings and specialities. You can choose the one that suits you best.
When can I use The Helpnet?
You can use The Helpnet whenever you need it. If you have minor problems at work, in your relationship with your family, etc. or if you have bigger problems where you need help and don’t know where or how to get it. However, this does not replace a entire and proper therapy, but this can be used in addition to it.
Why are they called counsellors?
For us it is important to us to find a uniform name. Because here it is not about what kind of training one had but about the work one does and whom for.
All of the counsellors work united for mental health and to help others to have a happier life and help where they can. You don’t get this motivation in an education of any kind, you have it in you. Therefore we have decided to use a neutral word.
How do I log in?
To log in to The Helpnet it is very easy. Click on Login and enter your user name or email address and enter your password. You will then be taken to your dashboard.
What is The Helpnet, and how does it work?
The Helpnet brings together licensed counsellors with different specialities and trainings, offering private online consulting by means of a secure voice or video call. All from the comfort of your own home, at the time you actually need it.
To get help you must first register (for free) on The Helpnet as a client, after which you can book an appointment with the available counsellors by clicking on the book appointment button.
Are the counsellors qualified?
Yes, they are all qualified with their possible qualification. All the counsellors who have therapeutic or coaching backgrounds have diplomas. We require them to submit their diplomas for verification. However, alternative medicine professionals are not required to submit diplomas; you are to determine that through your own experience, like in the real world. You have the option to write a review or contact us to monitor any consultation with an alternative medicine professional. This will help us monitor it and take actions if things should go wrong.
How do I register as a counsellor?
By clicking on the “register” button in the top right-hand corner, you will be taken to the registration page. Follow the instructions and note that sometimes emails can take a little longer and (in rare cases) can end up in spam. Once you have completed the registration, you will need to select a tariff. After you have completed the order, you can set your profile. If you need help with this you can get information here
How do I register?
By clicking on the “register” button in the top right-hand corner, you will be taken to the registration page. Follow the instructions and note that sometimes emails can take a little longer and (in rare cases) can end up in spam. Once you have completed the registration you can find and book your counsellor. If you should still have difficulties to register, please contact us.
Why The Helpnet?
Because the world can be a complex place sometimes and everyone handles life’s difficulties differently. Negative feelings, conflicts or doubts which seem small at first, can however quickly evolve into something bigger. It’s important talk about it before things become too overwhelming.
General Things that are good to Know
What is the difference between Coach and Therapist?
Briefly the difference is the approach and severity of the problem.
Coaches mainly are solution oriented. Their methods can help fast.
Therapists are solution oriented after having found and analysed the problem. Therapists take more time to work on the problem identification in order to resolve it.
Read here a blog post about it.
Who are the counsellors?
The counsellors on The Helpnet are all self-employed counsellors who have agreed to provide help through The Helpnet. They are counsellors with different backgrounds: Psychotherapists, psychiatrists, coaches and many more other professionals who focus on mental health. We want to give you the freedom to decide which counsellor you find best suited to your needs. Because only if you are convinced of the method can it work.
However, if the counsellor does not feel that he or she is able to support you in solving the problem for professional reasons, he or she can recommend another counsellor, or you can choose another counsellor.
Which is ideal between video or phone call?
How do you prefer it? Your choice! Your consultation, your rules! Do you want to stay anonymous? Just call by turning off the camera! Do you prefer to see your counsellor face-to-face? Do a the video call, by leaving on the camera! However, we recommend that you receive your consultation through a video call. This will help you create a bond with your counsellor. Also, it helps the counsellor when he or she is able to see your gestures and face, which makes them more efficient.
Is online therapy as effective as in person?
Yes, it is! Many studies have been made, and they have shown that online therapy can be as effective as in-person. It is very subjective, and everyone should know for himself what he prefers. Still, some severe issues have to be worked on in a face-to-face therapy.
How long do I have to wait to get an appointment?
This depends on the counsellor you want to consult with. The more flexible you are in your choice and needs, the easier it is for you to get help quickly.
Can I meet the counsellor at his or her office?
This is up to you and the counsellor involved. If you both discuss and agree to it, then The Helpnet is all for it (especially when you need a proper therapy) – since we also want you to seek and get the help you require at all cost. It’s not about our finances, it is about your health!
How does The Helpnet choose the counsellors?
We do not choose; we only assure and certify each counsellor has a diploma and have obtained the necessary license (if the field permits it) to practice as a counsellor. Once they are able to present these, then the remaining is up to you as a client to choose which of the counsellors you would like to work with.
Can I have more than one counsellor?
Yes, you can have more than one counsellor on The Helpnet. However, if you require long-term counsel, we recommend building a relationship with one counsellor. If you need therapy we do not recommend to do it only via The Helpnet, but look for one on your area.
What types of issues can I seek help for on The Helpnet?
You can get help for most mental health issues on The Helpnet, including but not limited to depression, stress, relationship and marital issues, anxiety, substance abuse, panic disorder and social media topics. But you don’t need to be diagnosed with anything. Sometimes you just need to be heard or listened to, or just need advice. Here you will find it.
We are reminding that The Helpnet is not a therapy replacement for severe mental diseases, that need actual medical or clinical attention.
How old must I be to use The Helpnet?
You must be at least 18 years of age to register on The Helpnet and hire a counsellor. If you are below 18 years of age, we may have your account terminated without liability.
How do I pay for a consultation?
After having booked a counsellor you first receive a confirmation. Just before the consultation and getting in to the waiting room, you will have to pay the counsellor up front. You can choose between the payment methods that the counsellor chose. Mostly it is between PayPal and credit card.
What are the advantages of The Helpnet?
The Helpnet offers 24/7 access to specialist help. Whatever you need, whenever you need it. All consultations take place in the comfort of your own home which means you save time by not having to physically travel back and forth to a counsellor’s office. Just find a counsellor able to accommodate your needs and book an online appointment when it works best for you.
All about the Settings
What can I find in my dashboard?
What can I find in my dashboard in logged in status?
In your dashboard you have the possibility to view your appointments. Both future and past appointments. You also have your messages that you have exchanged with counsellors and a list of your preferred counsellors.
You can also change your personal details here at any time.
What do I do when I have technical issues?
If you encounter any technical problems, please contact us to speak to one of our employees. We will do our best to help you.
Why does my camera not work? I can’t get into the session.
Please, ensure that you grant access to your camera to get into the session. If, however, you have granted access and the problem persists, please contact us to determine the cause of the problem.
All about appointments
Which is ideal between video or phone call?
How do you prefer it? Your choice! Your consultation, your rules! Do you want to stay anonymous? Just call by turning off the camera! Do you prefer to see your counsellor face-to-face? Do a the video call, by leaving on the camera! However, we recommend that you receive your consultation through a video call. This will help you create a bond with your counsellor. Also, it helps the counsellor when he or she is able to see your gestures and face, which makes them more efficient.
Is it possible to establish a long-lasting relationship with a Counsellor on The Helpnet?
Yes, it is possible. This depends on you – since it is about you and your needs. You may hire a counsellor and get used to them. On the other hand, you may also hire a counsellor and not get used to them. It all depends on how you both get used to each other.
How many appointments do I need?
There is no specific length or number of appointments. We are not qualified to comment on this. The number of appointments you need depends on you and your needs. Some circumstances may require a long-term commitment. However, we remind you that serious illnesses (severe depression, etc.) cannot be treated through The Helpnet. In this case, please consult a therapist face to face. The Helpnet functions only as a safe means of communication to stay in touch under special circumstances.
How many appointments will make me better?
There is no specific length or number of appointments. We are not qualified to give an opinion on them. The number of appointments you need depends on you and your needs. Some circumstances may require a long-term commitment. But we remind you that serious illnesses (severe depression, etc.) cannot be treated via The Helpnet. In this case, please consult a face-to-face therapist. The Helpnet only functions as a secure channel of communication in order to keep in touch even in special circumstances.
Can I change my counsellor?
Yes, you can change your counsellor at any time – the choice is yours. However, be aware that if you already received a consultation from the counsellor and you decided to change to another one, you will not be entitled to a refund for the consultation already received.
What about the consultation payment?
To be able to consult a counsellor on The Helpnet, you must pay the fee for the type of consultation you want. The counsellors are free to offer you different types of consultation, which you can choose on the counsellor’s page. When you click on the type of consultation you want, you are booking the consultation as it were and will be asked to pay for it before entering the consultation room.
What payment methods does The Helpnet accept?
You can pay for any consultation booked with PayPal or Credit/Debit Cards, depending on the options offered by the counsellor. Payment is processed via a secure payment processor, Stripe and Paypal
Will my health insurance refund my consultation fees?
Depending on how and where you are insured, a consultation can be reimbursed by your insurance company – at least partially if you choose a therapeutic approach. This varies depending on the insurance company; therefore, you should ask your insurance company about it. At the moment, we cannot ensure reimbursement. At the moment, you may certainly not be reimbursed for any consultation with an alternative medicine counsellor or coach. In any case, we ask that you reach out to your insurance company to know your options.
Can I cancel an appointment and get a refund?
Yes, you may cancel an appointment. Since you pay only just before the consultation starts, you can cancel until then. Nevertheless, we ask you to consider the schedule of the counsellor as the time slot you booked could be useful to others. We therefore kindly ask you to only book a consultation if you are certain you can make it.
Will I get a refund if I am not satisfied with the consultation I received?
No, we do not offer refunds. Due to the nature of the services, you cannot get refunds for a service you have already received. This is because it will not be fair on the counsellor since he or she has already provided you with his or her service. But you can of course write a review about the service provided.
Can I cancel an appointment ?
Yes, you can cancel an appointment. As you will only be paid shortly before the consultation starts, you can cancel until then. Nevertheless, we ask you to keep your appointment schedule.
How much does a consultation cost?
Just as with regular counselling, the individual counsellors determine the pricing depending on their specialisation and the nature of the consultation. Rates can therefore vary and will be arranged individually by the counsellor.
You pay the counsellor of your choice directly. Check with your insurance company whether the therapeutic consultations are reimbursed. All counsellors have different prices and some offer their help sometimes without compensation.
What about privacy and security ?
Who has access to my consultation, videos, chats, etc.?
Apart from the counsellor you are consulting with, no one has access to your consultation. It is a secured connection, and no third party has access to those informations which means that only your counsellor has access to any information you share during the consultation. All your information is on our private server and cannot be accessed by anyone else.
Is my consultation confidential?
Yes, they most definitely are! Anything you talk about is between you and the counsellor you booked an appointment with. All counsellors have officially sworn a confidentiality oath. The only time your information is not considered confidential is when your counsellor believes that you pose a viable risk to yourself or other people around you. In this case, your family or your general practitioner may be contacted. However, this will be discussed with you beforehand.
Is my submitted information secure?
Does The Helpnet allow anonymity?
Yes, it does! You can choose to be anonymous when you are setting up your profile (display name). This means that you can choose to do the consultation without the camera and without revealing such as your name, etc.