Start an online and phone counselling practice

Individuals paying privately, including busy professionals, people in rural areas and those who prefer to talk from home.

A fee per session, sometimes with a slightly lower rate than in-person work. Evening and weekend slots can be popular with working clients.

• Active listening and empathy, including over a screen or phone
• Comfort with video software and basic tech troubleshooting
• Keeping firm professional boundaries
• Careful note-keeping and confidentiality

• Check that your insurer covers online and phone work, and any clients outside your home nation or abroad
• Data protection: check whether you need to pay the ICO data protection fee and use secure, confidential platforms and storage
• Have a clear plan for risk and emergencies, such as knowing a client's location and an emergency contact
• You need a private, quiet space where nobody can overhear sessions
• Working from home may need permission from a landlord or mortgage lender, so check your agreement
• Many clients are looking online, so it can take time to stand out and fill your diary

Startup costs are typically around £300 to £1,500, depending on your software, equipment, insurance and marketing. These are estimates, so check what your insurer covers for online and phone work.

Monthly revenue is typically around £400 to £3,000, depending on your caseload and fees. Many clients search online, so it can take time to stand out and fill your diary. Treat this as an estimate.

Check that your insurer covers online and phone work, including clients outside your home nation or abroad. Check whether you need to pay the ICO data protection fee, use secure platforms, have an emergency plan, and have a private space. Check your landlord or lender's permission too.