Five Surprising Facts About Online Counseling Services For Mental Health
As the digital world becomes a more integrated part of many of our everyday lives, many services that were once only offered in person are now available virtually as well. Mental health counseling is one of these. Now, through online therapy services, qualified, licensed therapists can provide mental health services to treat a variety of conditions via phone, video, and/or online counseling chat.
According to Medical Daily, online counseling is a necessity in the modern age for at least one simple reason: Many people will not be able to reach mental health help in any other way. Statistically, only one-third of all people demonstrating symptoms of major mental disorders or high stress will seek mental health services. For one thing, with traditional therapy, traveling regularly to an office for therapy sessions may be difficult for people with a physical disability or those who live in a rural area, and the relatively higher costs of in-person sessions may be prohibitive for many.
The best online therapy services and provide flexibility and choice in meeting the needs of their clients. Many online therapy platforms have affordable online therapy options such as cognitive behavioral therapy, couples therapy, and group therapy. Online therapy websites may also have a variety of specialists including addiction therapists, marriage and family therapists, and others.
Five facts about online therapy you may not know
Whether you’ve been actively considering seeking virtual therapy or are new to the concept, taking in the following facts about it may help you understand a bit more about how it works and who it can help before choosing an online therapy platform.
1. Online cognitive behavioral therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy
2. Online counseling services can be helpful for those experiencing stigma around mental health care
While the importance and normalcy of seeking mental health care has increased significantly in recent years, some stigma around it still exists. For those who fear the judgment of family or friends for meeting with a therapist, virtual therapy can offer a more discreet method of seeking care since it can be done from the comfort of one’s own home, office, or anywhere else an individual has a working device and an internet connection.
Others may worry about potential judgment from their therapist or counselor, and online therapy may be able to ease this concern as well. First, qualified therapists or other mental health professionals—whether they work in person or virtually—are trained to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where people can say their true feelings. In addition, one study found that online therapy users in particular were more likely to rate their connection with their online therapy provider as “personal”, which may correlate to better treatment outcomes. Another study on pairs who pursued virtual couples therapy via video found that they tended to feel less intimidated, less judged, and more in control over the session.
3. You can easily try out multiple licensed therapists with online therapy
For the most effective treatment, it’s important that you feel safe and comfortable saying your feelings with your counselor. Not every provider will be a perfect match for every client. You may meet with a few different mental health counselors or therapists before you find one who suits your needs and preferences and who you feel most comfortable with. Doing this with in-person sessions can be difficult as it may take months to arrange multiple appointments with different offices and travel to each one. It can be much easier when done virtually with an online counseling platform. The best online therapy for you may not be the same as for another person, this is why it may be beneficial to search online rather than in person.
Consider the process with a virtual therapy platform like BetterHelp. When you sign up, you’ll be asked to fill out a brief questionnaire about your needs and preferences, such as why you’re seeking mental healthcare and what you’d prefer your therapist to have experience with in—like LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, ADHD, parenting issues, depression, etc. You’ll then be matched with a licensed provider accordingly in a matter of days. If you don’t feel like they’re a good fit, you can restart the quick process and get matched with different online therapy providers. You can meet with both within a brief time period, all from the comfort of home, which means your timeline for finding a therapist who works for you can be shorter than it might be otherwise. This is especially helpful for families trying out different family therapists, it is important that each family member feels comfortable with the therapist, which may mean trying a few out first.
If you are experiencing trauma, support is available. Please see our Get Help Now page for more resources.
4. Virtual therapy allows you to connect with your therapist in different ways
Some people may feel hesitant to engage in online therapy because they’re worried that video calls with a counselor may feel awkward. Or others might be concerned that they won’t be able to personally connect with their provider adequately if sessions are only by phone. However, the best online therapy platforms and many online counseling chat services offer a variety of formats so you can choose the one that’s best for you. With BetterHelp, for example, you can meet with your therapist via phone, video call, and/or in-app messaging.
5. Virtually anyone can seek online counseling
One common misconception about counseling in general is that a person needs to have a diagnosable mental health disorder to seek therapy. In reality, almost anyone can seek and potentially benefit from counseling, whether online or in person. In fact, many people use it as a maintenance tool to help keep their mental health and/or relationships on track. Others may use it to prevent major problems from occurring rather than only seeking help for them once they arise. Of course, many also use it to address symptoms of a mental health condition. Therapists and clinical social cannot prescribe medication or determine a medication management plan for patients, however, they can refer clients to doctors or psychiatrists who are able to write prescriptions if needed.
Flexible mental health care for teens and adults
It’s also important to note that mental healthcare is available for both teens and adults, because both age groups may experience mental health challenges. Online counseling services like TeenCounseling provide care to those between the ages of 13 and 19, while virtual therapy platforms like BetterHelp offer services to adults. Additionally, you do not need to have insurance to seek mental health care virtually. Platforms like those mentioned here may not accept insurance, but in some cases, their rates might be comparable to some health insurance copays.
Starting your counseling journey with an online therapist
After learning more about online counseling, you may be ready to begin your own therapeutic journey. Whether you believe you’re exhibiting symptoms of a mental health condition or you simply feel you could benefit from the nonjudgmental listening ear of a therapist, you deserve to seek the support you may need. If you’re interested in meeting with someone in person, you might search for providers in your local area. Or, if you’re interested in the relative reachability and affordability of virtual therapy, an online platform like BetterHelp is one option to consider.
Takeaway
People in many different situations and circumstances can benefit from seeking mental healthcare. For those who would like to have this type of care from the comfort of home, online counseling may be an option to consider.
What is online counseling?
Online counseling, sometimes called telepsychology or online therapy, is psychological counseling facilitated by a licensed therapist via a website, phone, or mobile app. While some local psychiatric providers may offer this therapeutic modality, therapist availability can still be a problem. Online therapy companies like BetterHelp provide a convenient way for people to access therapy without having to travel. In most cases, people are matched with a mental health provider within 48 hours, which can help people avoid having to be on a waiting list for care.
How effective is online cognitive behavioral therapy?
Is online therapy effective? Although research is ongoing into the effectiveness of online counseling, so far, numerous studies indicate that online counseling is as effective as face-to-face therapy for treating many types of mental health disorders using various methods.
For example, research suggests that online support using behavioral therapy and other talk therapy techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy can be highly effective, as can online family therapy or couples therapy.
How is working with licensed therapists online beneficial?
Online treatment for ongoing mental health disorders is good for you in many ways. It can help you manage symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, and more. Many people find that therapy also increases overall well-being, boosts self-esteem, and teaches coping skills for everyday challenges associated with mental health issues. It can also be a useful option for therapy newbies as it allows people to meet with a therapist anytime from the comfort of their own homes.
Additionally, individuals find mental health coaching an excellent option for extra support when navigating singular life challenges or achieving goals. The best online therapy experience is typically conditional on the individual's unique needs and preferences.
What are the advantages of online counseling services?
There are several contrasting advantages and disadvantages of online therapy for mental health treatment. These may vary depending on individual circumstances and preferences.
Flexibility
For some, finding a therapist in their area is a challenge. Therapists who take telehealth appointments are accessible from anywhere via the Internet or phone. This can also benefit people with physical limitations that make it difficult to leave their homes or commute to in-office sessions.
Eases stigma for some
Individuals who feel uncomfortable visiting a therapist because of fear of judgment or criticism may prefer to attend therapy sessions from the comfort of home. Online therapy also eliminates the possibility of encountering others in an office setting, such as administrative workers or other patients.
Convenience
Scheduling and changing appointments through an app or website may be simpler and more convenient, particularly if your schedule is often unpredictable or you must cancel your appointment.
Flexibility
Online therapy is typically more flexible for individuals who travel or may need to attend sessions outside the home. Clients have the option to participate in sessions according to the technology that works best for them. For example, some people feel more comfortable speaking via online or text chat, while others prefer live video chat.
Affordability
Attending therapy from home eliminates the costs associated with traveling to and from appointments. Additionally, online therapy platforms often offer more affordable options than conventional therapy without health insurance coverage.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using online services?
The advantages and disadvantages of using online platforms depend on the service you're looking for. For example, e-commerce users may appreciate the ease and convenience of purchasing goods and services and returning items if necessary. The downside may be that people have a more difficult time accessing live customer service representatives if needed.
In most online services, individuals may appreciate the convenience and timeliness of transactions, but they might be wary of providing personal or financial information needed to complete transactions. Some people appreciate the ability to shop or interact with online services at any hour but may feel unsure about purchasing an item they can't see or touch.
Another disadvantage is that some online therapy platforms do not provide medication management services. If you feel that you need a treatment plan that includes medication, talk to your doctor or look through a therapist directory to find psychiatrists or psychiatric nurse practitioners in your area to learn more.
That said, many people may not require psychiatric medication. In this case, it is possible to access effective treatment with licensed clinical social workers, licensed professional counselors, and other providers for individual therapy services online.
Is online school better for mental health?
Whether online school is better for mental health or not largely depends on an individual's experience and preference. However, like online therapy, there are some advantages to online school that might make it less stressful and more supportive of mental health:
It offers more scheduling flexibility and control
Online learning can give students the opportunity to schedule classes (and breaks) when it's convenient for them. A greater sense of control over your schedule might give you more confidence and empowerment in determining what classes would best suit certain times of your day or night.
No need to commute
Commuting to and from classes can be stressful when you must cope with traffic or schedule your commute around public transportation. Eliminating the commute might also free up more time to spend on doing things that support your mental health and well-being such as exercising, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in a hobby.
More control over the learning environment
Distractions and interruptions are sometimes unavoidable in a classroom setting. Some students find that they focus best online rather than in a brick-and-mortar classroom. Attending class from home can provide students with more control over their learning space to minimize distractions and maximize focus.
Easier connection and collaboration
If a student experiences challenges in a specific subject, virtual learning may allow them to reach out for help and support from teachers or classmates. Similarly, collaboration with peers on shared projects or assignments may be more accessible and convenient in a virtual environment.
More flexible communication
In online education environments, teachers have the ability to check in with students frequently to provide support and ensure they are meeting deadlines.
Reduced social discomfort
For students who struggle with anxiety or don't feel comfortable socializing with others, online education can relieve some of the pressure to interact with peers or adhere to social standards in an in-person learning environment.
What are the positive effects of online interaction on mental health?
Online interactions, whether through social media or one-on-one messaging, may have some mental health benefits for some people. For example:
People might have greater opportunities to reconnect with old friends or share interactions like photos, messages, posts, and comments with friends and loved ones.
Online interactions can increase an individual's exposure to mental health and wellness resources that may provide guidance in making healthy lifestyle changes.
Reputable resources for learning about mental health conditions and therapeutic methods, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, may motivate people to reach out for help from a mental health professional.
Individuals afraid of stigmatization around mental health issues have the option of communicating anonymously with support groups and other positive influences to share experiences, encouragement, and advice about their mental health challenges.
Why do you use online services?
People may use online services for a variety of reasons, including convenience, accessibility, and flexibility. In some cases, utilizing online services can be a less stressful way to stay productive and connected.
When you sign up for an online mental health service, you will be matched with a therapist licensed to practice in your state. Whether you choose weekly video sessions or another time table, being able to meet with a therapist at a time that suits your schedule without having to commute to an office can make therapy more accessible.
Is online or in-person therapy better?
Whether an individual benefits more from in-person or online therapy is dependent on a variety of factors, for example, people who aren't particularly tech-savvy may have difficulty learning how to navigate platforms providing therapy online. Individuals with schedule or commuting challenges may prefer online treatment. Some might find it difficult to maintain a connection with their therapist online, while others find it easier and more preferable.
Virtual therapy can be an effective way to address mental health disparities. It can increase access to care, helping develop coping strategies that could improve mental well-being and emotional health in people who are managing a chronic illness that makes traveling difficult or have other barriers to accessing care. Online providers can deliver individual therapy to help meet the mental health needs of those who have limited access to care and are qualified to deliver multiple types of treatment, including trauma therapy, depth therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Why is therapy expensive?
You might be wondering, does insurance cover online therapy? While some insurance plans may cover virtual mental health services, it ultimately depends on your insurance benefits and the provider you use.
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