online therapy

• A 2018 study published in the Journal of Psychological Disorders found that online cognitive behavioral therapy is, “effective, acceptable, and practical health care.” The study found the online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was equally as effective as in-person counseling for major depression, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder.
• A 2014 study published in Behaviour Research and Therapy found that online cognitive behavioral therapy was effective in treating anxiety disorders.

The internet and technology have opened doors for mental health treatment and has bridged a gap that previously existed by making counseling more accessible and convenient to people, no matter their location. The accessibility and anonymity provided by online counseling often lead to increased willingness among clients to seek help and to be open during sessions, which can enhance the therapeutic process. There are many benefits to online therapy:

• Accessibility: Online counseling breaks down geographical barriers, making it more accessible to individuals in remote or underserved areas. This can be particularly beneficial for people with limited mobility, transportation difficulties, or those living in rural regions where mental health services are scarce. Individuals with anxiety, especially social anxiety, are more likely to reach out to an online therapist. You can see any provider you want regardless of where you live in the state.
• Convenience: The ability to attend sessions from the comfort of one’s home or any private space eliminates the need for travel, saving time and reducing stress associated with commuting. This convenience can lead to more consistent attendance and better engagement in therapy.
• Comfort: Being in a familiar and safe environment during sessions can help clients feel more relaxed and open, which can enhance the therapeutic relationship.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Clients save on gas and time, making it a cost-effective option.

If you’d like to read more about how online therapy is beneficial, be sure to check out these resources:

• Online therapy may help some with emotional problems. [https://health.usnews.com/health-news/articles/2015/11/03/online-psychotherapy-may-help-some-with-emotional-problems]
• Online cognitive behavioral therapy benefits people with depression, anxiety. [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/11/151102125440.htm]
• A Verywell Report: Americans Find Strength in Online Therapy. [https://www.verywellmind.com/americans-turn-to-online-therapy-for-strength-5085208]
• Advantages of E-Therapy Over Conventional Therapy. [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-pregnant-pause/201712/advantages-e-therapy-over-conventional-therapy]

Despite of all these benefits, online therapy does have a few drawbacks, such as:

• It is more difficult for a counselor to observe body language, other cues, and overall demeanor during the counseling session. To compensate for this, I do ask that you sit further back from your webcam so body language isn’t completely missing from your communication during your sessions.
• Technology doesn’t always cooperate the way we want it to and there can be issues – like dropped calls, internet interruptions, frozen videos, etc. I do have a checklist with tips that I provide that talks about how to make sure your teletherapy session is successful.

Important tips:

• Make sure you have a reliable and fast internet connection.
• Ensure you have a good location that is totally private so you can fully immerse yourself in the session without interruption.

Online counseling presents a highly effective, beneficial, and convenient alternative to traditional in-person therapy for many individuals. Let’s talk and see if online counseling is right for you.