Why You Should Try Therapy Online
You are not alone when it comes to finding psychological support. Many people are turning to the internet as a source of help for managing their mental health. With just a few clicks, you can now have instant access to a counselor. Forget the awkward sessions on the couch; with online therapy, you can find sessions with verified counselors without leaving the safety of your home. Here are the four options that will help you get started with your online therapy
What is Online Therapy?
Any type of therapy delivered by telecommunications tools and devices is referred to as online therapy. Online therapy is also known as e-therapy, e-counselling, teletherapy, or cyber-counselling. Previously, telepsychology was mainly used by members of the military, but as the smartphone era emerged, internet-based therapy became more popular and widespread in its practice. One can interact with his/her psychologist using a web online chat, a smartphone, text messaging or a video conference.
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Online Therapy vs In-Person Therapy
How does online therapy differ from in-person sessions? With traditional psychotherapy, one physically meets with a therapist at the therapist’s office at a specified time. Working online with your therapist means no need to commute to a brick and mortar office. You don’t need to reserve time, travel and meet a psychologist in that specific time frame.
E-therapy is generally more affordable and manageable. While comparing online therapy to in-person therapy, the most interesting difference that came out during research is that people are often afraid to be labelled as mentally ill, so they avoid visiting a psychologist in person. Due to this reason, they may find it difficult to get to an in-person therapy appointment. Moreover, the cost of online therapy is more affordable as compared to traditional therapy.
Why People Prefer Web therapy
Web therapy has become the preferred choice for certain psychological reasons. Here are some of these. [1]
Convenient and Time-Saving
Online therapy can save you time, especially if you live in a remote area. You just need to log in to a site, and the session can happen wherever you are comfortable.
Cost-effective
Online therapy has significantly lower charges than traditional therapy. Some websites provide unlimited use for a weekly or monthly fee.
Online communication is comfortable for many people
Some people become resistant to therapy as they could feel shame and embarrassment while sharing their private information. Thus, reaching out anonymously can be a good step to start with.
Easily accessible and greater selection of therapists
Some people with chronic illnesses may not be able to drive or easily leave their home. In these situations, web- or telephone-based therapy may be their only option for help. Online therapy also gives you a wide selection of therapists.
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Where to Find Online Therapy
Advances in telehealth services mean there are dozens of apps and websites available to provide the best services. Here are some of the top recommended platforms.
1-Talkspace
Talkspace is a licensed online therapy platform where counsellors meet their clients virtually. After a detailed questionnaire assessment, the client can choose the therapy plan that fits his budget. The site then matches them with a therapist.
Talkspace allows you to contact your therapist anytime. They also assure the confidentiality of the client. It includes options for adults, teens, and couples.
2-BetterHelp
Through better help, you can get access to trained and licensed professionals. They provide services in a variety of areas. BetterHelp provides services in almost every domain of mental health including anger management, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and much more. The site matches people with a suitable counsellor based on their questionnaire.
BetterHelp counsellors interact with their clients through live chats, messages, phone calls, and videoconferences.
3-Teen Counseling
As the name indicates, Teen Counseling is specifically geared toward people between the ages of 13 and 19. They offer online therapy for mental health challenges that may be unique to teenagers. During the session, the parents or caregivers do not have access to their virtual counselling room. Teen counselling assures teens their confidentiality.
4-ReGain
ReGain offers both individual and couples counselling but mainly focused on relationships and marital issues. They have many licensed professionals, trained psychologists, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and professional counsellors. Couples can share a joint account to talk with their counsellor together.
Final Thoughts
If you are someone who feels like coping with their mental health but never gets a chance to talk to a psychologist, online therapy is a great way for you to get your feet wet. Always do your research online and be careful about online scams. Before picking up a therapist make sure you feel comfortable sharing your private details with them.
References
[1] Why People Choose Online Therapy. https://www.psychotherapy.net/blog/title/why-clients-choose-online-therapy.
[2] “Achieve Your Potential with Talkspace Online therapy.” Online Therapy with a Licensed Therapist. https://lp.talkspace.com/try/free-trial?utm_content=nd92398b3a03b469fa523c1f11539ed1b05-4691206&siteID=Q.Sg3glZ_fs-fo7pUjtsrHeSBZp.8bpu5g&ranMID=41986&ranEAID=Q*Sg3glZ/fs&ranSiteID=Q.Sg3glZ_fs-fo7pUjtsrHeSBZp.8bpu5g&LSNSUBSITE=LSNSUBSITE&utm_source=dotdash&utm_campaign=Affiliate_Linkshare&utm_keyword=3&utr_adgroup=3672320&utr_adid=70&utm_medium=affiliate.
[3] “Professional Counseling With A Licensed Therapist.” BetterHelp. https://www.betterhelp.com/.
[4] “Teen Counseling.” Teen Counseling. https://www.teencounseling.com/.
[5] “Get Started.” ReGain. https://www.regain.us/start/.