Online therapy, also known as, teletherapy, telehealth, or distance counseling, is a way to access mental health treatment over the internet or phone. It connects individuals to licensed therapists and counselors anywhere in the world. The only requirement is that you have reliable and secure internet or phone connection.
As compared to traditional therapy, online therapy is still a new concept for people. Its history started in the early 1980s at Cornell University, with the mental health counseling service called “Dear Uncle Ezra.” Soon after, the telehealth industry began to expand. However, it became more prevalent with digital evolution.
Almost all of the world’s affairs are now handled electronically in the modern technology era. The COVID-19 outbreak had put the entire world on lockdown and that took a toll on our mental health. 4 in 10 adults in the United States experienced anxiety or depression during the pandemic.
Social distancing and lockdowns had paused traditional therapy in these two years, leading to many people considering online therapy. It’s proven to be just as effective as traditional therapy for treating common mental health disorders.
Benefits of Online Therapy
There are several reasons why online therapy is a better option than traditional therapy. Here are a few examples:
Affordable & Cheaper
Online therapy is relatively cheaper and cost-effective. Unlike traditional therapy, you won’t have to travel miles to reach your psychologist’s clinic. You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on gas or travel for long hours.
Some U.S. states require insurance companies to cover teletherapy. Even if insurance isn’t an option for you, online therapists don’t charge a hefty amount of money. Because they don’t have to rent or lease a building or hire a number of employees, online therapists are generally less expensive.
There are many reputable websites that offer online therapy to people all over the world. Some of them allow you to pay monthly or yearly subscriptions instead of paying per appointment.
Different Ways to Express Self
Traditional therapy may not be everyone’s preferred choice. While some people are more comfortable being vulnerable in face-to-face conversations, others may not be.
People with social anxiety find it difficult to interact in person. The idea of meeting someone can make you nervous, especially if you’re just getting started with therapy.
Online therapy is the best solution to these problems. Phone calls, video calls, and asynchronous audios are all options for speaking with your therapist in online therapy sessions. Text messaging is a great option for those who like to express themselves through writing.
Anonymity
People refrain from getting therapy because of the mental health stigma. The fear of bumping into a familiar face in the therapist’s office makes them avoid getting treatment. However, some virtual counseling services allow you to remain anonymous. You can use a nickname or a different name with your therapist if that puts you at ease.
Can you get online therapy?
Online therapy is accessible to people of all demographics and it treats many conditions such as anxiety disorders, eating disorders, depression, obsessions and compulsions (OCD), phobias, etc.
Common mental illnesses can be treated effectively through teletherapy but it can’t be the treatment for every condition. Bipolar disorder, addictions, schizophrenia, and suicidal thoughts may need intensive care.
Does online therapy really work?
Online therapy is a great alternative to traditional therapy. As it’s gaining popularity, many people are benefiting from it. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a form of psychotherapy, is successful in telepsychology.
If your condition can be treated through online counseling then you shouldn’t hesitate to give it a chance. It might be the best decision you make for your mental health.