Integrating Email Communication with Counseling at School

Children are immersed in technology, from television to the Internet, and increasingly, education curricula have embraced the powerful potential of integrating technology to facilitate student learning and success. However, to date, researchers and practitioners have not fully considered the potential for technology to help counselors access and enhance their empirically supported counseling services in schools. This article aims to fill this gap by initiating a discussion about the key considerations, merits, and limitations of using email with counseling services in schools. Beginning with a brief literature review, recent research describing the scope and potential benefits of telemental health is discussed. Specific legal and ethical considerations are outlined, as well as recommendations for counselors to consider when implementing this tool in counseling. This article also presents a case study to illustrate the key considerations in using email when counseling a student. Finally, future directions related to use of technology with counseling at school are explored.