Online counseling involves interaction between a client and therapist via the internet and can take various forms such as email, video chat, or online support groups. It provides benefits like convenience and accessibility but also challenges regarding competence, informed consent, privacy, and legal issues that counselors must address. Counselors must have technical skills and training for online counseling, obtain informed consent that covers its unique aspects, and take measures to protect client privacy and confidential data transmitted online. Counselors also need to be aware of legal restrictions regarding practicing across state lines without proper licensing.