1. a method of treating and managing the problems of clients by telephone. The skills for telephone counseling include (a) careful selection of problems that lend themselves to the medium, (b) active listening for cues to issues and ramifications of the problems, (c) good verbal skills that guide the client appropriately, and (d) the ability to respond quickly to avoid gaps and awkward silences.

2. free hotline telephone services that provide listening and referral services rather than formal counseling. Hotline volunteers are trained to provide emotional support in serious situations, especially those involving suicidal callers, but not to give formal advice. See also distance therapy.