Just picking up on your question on the pros and cons of going by Skype. We haven't done counselling, but we have done vision therapy, dyslexia assessment and coding lessons virtually, both before and after working with the person face-to-face.
Generally, the interaction via computer is not ideal. Lag can be frustrating and you may find yourself talking over each other. Visual cues are reduced and the interaction is more stilted, less fluid. Skype is no substitute for an unhindered conversation between two human beings.
That said, it does have some advantages. For example, it's possible your DD might find that extra distance and impersonal approach makes therapy feel less intrusive and easier to engage with. Sometimes it's easier to say hard things when the person isn't quite right in front of us. We can feel a little safer when our body language and cues aren't so obvious, when it's easier not to look the person in the eye, or even to wander around a little, sit on a yoga ball, stand on the wobble board, or whatever.
There are also advantages to being on your own turf, in your home environment, able to choose what your child needs to be comfortable. The right set-up, chair, fidget toys, stuffie, whatever it takes. And the ability to provide snacks, hot chocolate or a small treat when I judge a little booster is needed to get through a session helps too.
Finally, not having to drive results not only in time savings, but also seems to de-escalate the stress around appointments. You don't have that "going to the doctor" [insert operatic music here] big-deal feeling. You're just making a call. It's much lower key, more relaxed and informal.
So while Skype is not ideal, it does have a few unexpected advantages, especially when it comes to trying out a new specialist.
