Forget fighting traffic or rescheduling your life for a therapy session. Online therapy has taken mental health care by storm.
Virtual therapy sessions offer a convenient, flexible, and often cheaper alternative to traditional methods. Additionally, they provide an innovative approach to mental health care. What’s the real deal with online therapy, and does it actually work? Let’s explore this modern mental health approach.
The Nuts and Bolts of Online Therapy
Online therapy, or teletherapy, connects people with licensed therapists via video, audio, or chat. This method breaks barriers, offering professional help from home. Specifically, platforms like BetterHelp and Talkspace make therapy accessible and user-friendly.
Resha Altai, an associate clinical social worker in Los Angeles, shared her thoughts.
“The convenience of online therapy can’t be overstated. You can attend sessions without the hassle of commuting or rearranging your schedule.”
This is especially useful for those with busy lives, mobility issues, or living in remote areas.
What to Expect in an Online Session
The structure of online sessions is similar to traditional therapy. Following your choice of a provider, you get a secure link for your session. In your first meeting, the therapist explains online therapy logistics, including confidentiality and security.
“An important aspect to consider is what actions the therapist is taking to prioritize your privacy,” Altai emphasized.
Sessions start with a thorough assessment of your mental health history and current situation. Following the outcome, you and your therapist will set goals, such as coping strategies or personal growth. Many platforms offer interactive tools like screen sharing for worksheets, live chat, or virtual whiteboards for exercises. Additionally, your therapist will guide you on communication between sessions. You’ll also be educated on what to do if you need immediate support outside of scheduled times.
Effectiveness of Online Therapy
Does online therapy work as well as in-person sessions? Research says yes. A 2023 study comparing online therapy with traditional methods for major depressive disorder found both equally effective.
“Online therapy offers the same level of professional care as in-person sessions, with the primary difference being the screen between you and your therapist,” says Altai.
However, for severe issues like psychosis or suicidal thoughts, in-person therapy is recommended for the immediate support it provides.
Different types of online therapy suit various needs. Video and audio sessions are common, but some platforms also offer messaging-based options. While research shows text-based therapy can be effective, some find it less supportive than video or audio methods.
Finding the Right Therapist
Choosing an online therapist involves similar steps to selecting one in person. Verify that the therapist is licensed.
Altai advises, “Check their profile on the platform and verify their credentials.”
It is crucial to determine the service’s reputation. Additionally, you must review its client data and privacy policies. The Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) 2023 case against BetterHelp for mishandling user data demonstrates the importance of this step.
During your first session, discuss how the therapist will protect your privacy and rights in therapy. This transparency builds trust and ensures a safe environment. Moreover, assessing the therapist’s style and experience with your specific issues is also key. Consider your budget and preferred therapy format—video, audio, or text-based sessions.
Knowing your priorities helps find the best fit. Whether you need couples therapy, LGBTQ-friendly providers, or an online psychiatrist for medication support, identifying your needs will guide you in choosing the right service. With many options available, online therapy can be tailored to meet diverse needs and preferences. Therefore, it can serve a wide range of clients.