Online therapy has become very popular recently and it’s not only because it is convenient. Both busy workers and those living in remote areas are increasingly preferring to see licensed therapists over video, call or text. Is online therapy just as good as seeing a therapist face-to-face? Is everyone able to benefit from it?
This post will help you find out the real advantages and possible disadvantages of online therapy.
Increasingly, Online Therapy Is Following
It’s not surprising that online therapy is becoming more common. Anyone can link up with a therapist remotely using only a smartphone or computer. For those with work, family or other obligations, this feature can change their lives.
Being able to offer therapy on the internet means it is now much more accessible. No matter where you live or if you just want to work from home, finding a therapist who fits your needs is very easy now. Just a couple of clicks and you are connected with a licensed therapist in your area of interest.
Pros of Online Therapy
1. Being able to do things quicker and with more options
It’s most attractive because of its easy use. You can get coaching in the comfort of your house, during your lunch hour or on the road. A number of platforms give you the option to make appointments outside business hours, so you won’t have to interrupt your life for therapy.
You can avoid traveling to classes and don’t have to worry about cancelling or skipping sessions if you are sick. People who struggle with moving or being around others may benefit from the ability to view classes online.
2. Greater Accessibility
Individuals living in areas with not much mental health support can use online therapy. You can now reach out to experts who might not be available where you live. It is particularly handy for people who want help with trauma, their LGBTQ+ identity or culturally sensitive care.
On many platforms, it’s possible to get help from therapists who speak your preferred language. As a result, more people have access to therapists who really get them.
3. Affordability
There are instances when online therapy costs less than therapy held in person. If therapists use a subscription model, a sliding scale and lower costs for running their practice, they may pass on the savings to their clients.
Insurance companies are beginning to pay for online therapy and various platforms show you clear prices, so there are no unplanned expenses.
4. Having comfortable and private rooms
If you’re in your own place, it might feel easier to relax and share your thoughts. Starting therapy remotely can help people who find it hard to share their emotions experience less anxiety.
You also feel that your private information is protected. You won’t see any people you recognize in the waiting room and you never need to describe your destination. Using the platform, you can have your consultation in a secure and hidden way.
Cons of Online Therapy
1. Being apart from people in person
A few believe that therapist-client bonds are more likely to develop during face-to-face conversations. Without looking at body movements up close or noticing others’ moods in real life, clients can sometimes miss the real presence an in-person meeting offers.
Central to treatment is how the client and therapist interact and not every person is comfortable using these platforms.
2. Technical Difficulties
Technical problems, slow internet or not knowing how to use the platform may cause a session to be disrupted. Even though they are small, these issues might affect someone’s mood or conversation flow.
For therapy to be helpful, you have to pay attention and stick with it. Even simple technical problems have the power to interrupt how things are going or lower the quality people experience.
3. Shouldn’t Be Used to Address All Kinds of Mental Health Problems
Online therapy won’t work for all individuals. When someone has a serious mental health challenge, a current mental health crisis or high psychiatric needs, being treated in person or with intensive care is often more helpful.
Those who share their home with others may not be able to engage well with therapy without a peaceful space. If employees are distracted or they are not sure the discussion is confidential, the process won’t work properly.
4. Standards of services differ by location.
With more and more platforms available, different ones give different levels of care. The fact that some therapies use computers for matching or assign therapists many clients can remove some of the personal touch from therapy.
You should always check a therapist’s training, read reviews and read the site’s privacy rules before using it.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
A great number of people consider online therapy an excellent choice. It makes it easier for many, as it’s flexible, lower-cost and less difficult to get into than most regular therapies. It makes it easier for people to focus on improving their mental health whenever they like.
Still, it doesn’t work the same for everyone. Therapies work best, online or offline, when the therapist is good, the client’s needs are clear and the two have a strong therapeutic relationship.
It’s worth exploring the different platforms, checking out users’ experiences and using a few trial sessions at first if you’re interested in online therapy. Improving your mental health is an effort you should take.
