If you choose anonymity you should be aware that in case of a crisis your Web Counselor would have no way to intervene. In addition, Web servers sometimes crash or go down for maintenance and consequently email could can get lost or delayed. Also, your Web Counselor would like to know that he/she is communicating with someone who has a real need. This will help insure that trust between you and your Web Counselor, which is an important factor in any counseling relationship, is established. Online anonymity can be beneficial for those clients who will discuss sensitive issues online more freely than they would in a face to face setting. Your Web Counselor may begin by allowing anonymity, and as trust is built up, may gradually encourage you to supply identifying information under strict confidentiality.