Where to go for help

October 25, 2010 8:38 AM

Is it possible to get one on one relationship help online?

I can post stuff here but I want to unwind a lot of issues and I need help. What if you just want someone to listen?

posted by harh07 to Human Relations (5 answers total)

There are several places that offer online therapy. Here is one. I do not vouch for them, or for any of the programs, but they're out there. There is also some avatar based therapy in Second Life.
posted by OmieWise at 8:45 AM on October 25, 2010

Amy Alkon, who's a syndicated columnist, not a therapist, does individual sessions. I can't vouch for her work, but her columns are pretty good.
posted by Ideefixe at 9:38 AM on October 25, 2010

Michele Weiner-Davis's site Divorce Busting offers telephone counseling one-on-one... it's possible they have some sort of set-up for online sessions as well. They do have a forum where you can discuss relationship problems with other members.
posted by Serene Empress Dork at 12:39 PM on October 25, 2010

It's not 100% clear from your question whether you are looking for structured therapy or just a sympathetic ear, but if it is just about having a space to occasionally unload, then I recommend either the Samaritans (they are UK-based but your location doesn't matter to access their services) and the e-mail service, a trained volunteer will respond within 48 hours. If you want something more interactive, Youth in BC offer support via on-line chat and e-mail as well. It doesn't really matter either if you are past the youth stage so to speak:) I'm in my thirties and found them helpful on a couple of occasions when other support was not available. Anyway, good luck!
posted by coffee_monster at 1:33 AM on October 26, 2010

Some employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (usually through their health or life insurance provider) that give you a 1-800 number you can call and talk to someone who is trained to listen and help with a huge variety of issues. The one my employer offers has personal counselors, financial planners, retirement advisors, child care and elder care help, legal referrals, etc. and it's all free.
posted by Coffeemate at 12:47 PM on December 30, 2010