Mental health services today have undergone a profound transformation. That includes online therapy also known as teletherapy or telehealth. Online therapy has surged in popularity in recent years, and particularly in recent times due to the pandemic. Research from Technavio has shown the increase in online therapy post pandemic due to rising awareness about mental health, increase in mental health issues, and improvement in prioritization of mental health in the corporate sector.
Today, we have prominent platforms like Amaha, Felicity, and DocVita, among others, who have a singular focus on enhancing accessibility and convenience for patients seeking top-notch medical care.
If you’re contemplating the idea of seeking help for your mental well-being, or if you harbor reservations about the concept of online therapy, our in-depth article will help you.
Here are a few advantages of online therapy
Accessibility
Online therapy transcends the constraints of geography, allowing you to connect with a therapist of your choice. This accessibility is most useful for those residing in remote or under-served areas and individuals grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder in conflict-ridden regions.
Variety of therapists
Virtual consultation opens doors to an extensive array of therapists hailing from diverse backgrounds, presenting a wide range of specialties and therapeutic approaches. With just a simple click, you can select a therapist whose expertise matches your exclusive needs and preferences.
Reduced stigma
Online therapy offers privacy to effectively tackle the unfair stigma attached to seeking professional support. By receiving therapy discreetly from the comfort of your own space, you can set aside the fear of being judged.
Flexibility
Online therapy offers flexibility in scheduling which is a game-changer in the modern day. Most therapists today offer a wide range of time slots. This makes it far more hassle-free to integrate therapy into your daily routine.
Comfort and familiarity
The soothing embrace of a familiar environment during therapy can work wonders in putting you at ease, fostering a more candid and open dialogue. It works especially well for those grappling with social anxiety.
Cost and time efficacy
Online therapy tends to be far more cost-effective than in-person therapy. The elimination of transportation expenses can result in substantial savings. Additionally, the absence of a commute saves a considerable amount of time.
Consistency
Online therapy offers the advantage of consistent treatment, even with traveling or chaotic work-weeks that life often throws our way. This feature proves to be a lifeline for individuals wrestling with the enduring challenges of long-term mental health issues.
Accessibility for disabled individuals
Teletherapy has been a boon for those grappling with physical disabilities.
Are there any drawbacks to online therapy?
However, online therapy, while a convenient and accessible option in the present-day, may not be suitable in all cases. Here are a few disadvantages that online therapy might pose for you:
Lack of personal connection
One of the most significant drawbacks of online therapy is the absence of face-to-face interaction. Initially, the therapeutic relationship may not be as robust, which can lead to overlooking subtle non-verbal cues. Warmth and empathy from the therapist, which are the key components of therapy, could be diluted.
Technical issues
Online therapy relies heavily on technology, and technical glitches become an unwanted part of the consultations. Poor internet connections, software malfunctions, or disruptions can interrupt sessions, leading to frustration and a less effective therapeutic experience.
Privacy concerns
It can be a challenging task to ensure the privacy of the patients online. It is imperative for the client and therapist to have a secure and private environment, which may not always be guaranteed. The credentials of the patient could be compromised if the online platform is not adequately protected from data breaches or unauthorized access.
Distractions and interruptions
Clients participating in online therapy sessions from their homes or workplaces are more susceptible to distractions and interruptions. These external factors can disrupt the flow of the session and interrupt the therapeutic process. A survey conducted by onlinetherapy.com to find the challenges that have occurred during the transition to online therapy reported that 21% of therapists have had trouble in remaining focused while conducting virtual sessions with clients.
Digital fatigue
With the influx of technology in our daily lives, some clients may experience digital fatigue. Engaging in therapy through a screen may feel like a routine task, particularly if you are already spending a sizeable portion of your day online.
Limited access to certain therapeutic techniques
Some therapeutic techniques, such as certain forms of body-based therapy or experiential therapies, are difficult to execute effectively in an online setting. This limitation can reduce the range of available treatment options thereby limiting the therapeutic experience.
Difficulty in crisis situations
Handling crisis situations in online therapy can become complicated. When immediate intervention is needed, online platforms may not offer the same level of support and responsiveness as in-person care. Crisis situations like suicide, and extreme trauma cases, will require in-person therapy.
The efficacy of online therapy
A 2017 study by Cureus reported that online therapy has been significantly effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other panic-related disorders. Over a period of time, online therapy has been able to establish a patient-centric nature of the web-based appointment system, unveiling a plethora of benefits and triumphs over initial challenges.
However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Some preliminary research is required from your end to find a therapist who will suit your needs.
Before finding the perfect therapist, outline your therapy goals.
The world of therapy encompasses a vast spectrum of concerns, ranging from anxiety and depression to trauma to marital issues. It would be good to choose someone who is most equipped to tackle your perceived issue.
Comfort is also a big factor. An individual who identifies as binary might find solace in the guidance of a queer affirmative therapist, for instance.
And don’t forget to check for referrals and recommendations. Friends, family, or healthcare providers can offer invaluable insights into a therapist’s reputation and the quality of care they provide.
Online therapy has many compelling advantages, rendering it a viable option for addressing a wide spectrum of mental health concerns. However, it is best to research the available options including in-person counseling before narrowing it down to a therapist. Severe symptoms of mental illnesses require intervention and face-to-face counseling. It may seem like a tedious task at first but will be well worth the effort to find the mode of therapy that works for you.
