Mental Health Support And Online Therapy: Exploring Telehealth Counselling Australia

Online therapy has existed in different forms since the 1960s, but its use rose during the 1980s and 90s as more sophisticated technology emerged for mental health services. Today, platforms like BetterHelp build strong, supportive therapeutic relationships between millions of users and experienced, credentialed mental health professionals around the world—including in Australia. 

Research shows that BetterHelp online counselling can offer a more convenient and flexible mental health care plan for some individuals seeking therapy. Online therapy is also effective for many, with an estimated 72% of its more than five million users report a “reduction in symptoms in their first 12 weeks of therapy on the platform.” 

This article examines why and how telehealth counselling access has expanded in Australia and its impact on collective mental health. It also offers information about how online therapy works and who can benefit from it.

The growing demand for mental health support in Australia

The increasing demand for mental health support in Australia may be driven, in part, by the rising prevalence of mental illness. Statistics show an estimated 43% of Australians aged 16 to 85 have experienced a mental disorder at some point in their life, and nearly 22% experience a mental disorder in any given year. 

Impacts of limited mental health resources in Australia 

On an individual level, delayed or inadequate availability of psychological services can lead to worsening mental health conditions and poorer quality of life. Individuals may resort to maladaptive coping behaviors while waiting for treatment, and limited mental health resources have been linked to higher suicide rates, particularly in rural and remote areas. Families and carers might also experience challenges due to the lack of support services.

On a national and community level, limited resources can put significant strain on the overall healthcare system, leading to hospital overcrowding and difficulties in obtaining specialized services. Mental health difficulties, if left untreated, can become more complex and challenging to manage, increasing pressure on the healthcare system. Additionally, untreated mental illness can have significant economic consequences, including lost productivity, increased healthcare costs, and welfare dependence. The Australian Government’s Productivity Commission has estimated that improving mental health care could generate billions of dollars in economic benefits. 

The benefits of online therapy 

The rise in popularity of virtual therapy is partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many individuals who were already in treatment had to transition to online therapy during the pandemic, and those who developed conditions like depression and anxiety disorders while in isolation often found support through online treatment. 

After the pandemic, individuals are still taking advantage of the numerous benefits offered by internet-delivered therapy, with many choosing to attend online sessions over traditional modalities. Below are some of the benefits of online therapy.

Reduced geographic barriers to mental health support

Online therapy allows individuals to connect with therapists from any location with a stable internet connection, often providing more options for care in rural and remote communities with limited numbers of practicing mental health professionals. Virtual therapy may also benefit those with limited mobility or who face mental health challenges that make it difficult to leave the house. 

Increased flexibility and convenience with online therapy

Virtual therapy sessions can be scheduled around work, school, and other commitments, typically offering more flexibility than traditional in-person sessions. Many users can fit virtual therapy into their busy schedules more easily, potentially reducing missed appointments. Online therapy also eliminates the need to commute to an office for appointments, saving time and transportation expenses. 

Reduced stigma associated with psychology and mental health treatment

Some individuals may be more comfortable seeking help online due to concerns about mental health stigma and distress over in-person encounters with others in an office setting. Sessions conducted from the comfort of one's own space may also be beneficial for individuals with social anxiety or who feel more comfortable in a familiar environment. 

Cost-effectiveness of online counselling and telehealth counselling Australia

Online therapy can be more affordable than traditional in-person therapy, especially when considering travel costs, without insurance or Medicare rebates. It might also eliminate the need to pay for childcare or transportation to and from appointments. Therapists working through online platforms may have lower overhead costs, allowing them to pass the savings on to their clients. Additionally, BetterHelp offers financial assistance with sliding-scale fees for those who qualify. 

Affordable Australia therapy options and payment plans

Medicare rebates, bulk-billing services, and low-cost options like university clinics and community health centers are a few supportive options offering access to affordable mental health services in Australia. Other options may include employer-sponsored employee assistance programs (EAPs) and individual health insurance extras. Some online platforms may offer payment plans or financial assistance for psychology sessions and mental health services, as well. 

Using a mental health care plan to access rebates

Rebates can help some with affordability concerns access mental health care. To access Medicare rebates, you must first get an assessment and establish a plan managed by a GP so they can refer you for treatment. A GP referral allows you to receive rebates for up to 10 subsidized sessions per calendar year for psychology, psychiatry, social work, or occupational therapy. You'll need the referral and a valid Medicare card to claim a portion of your session costs back after paying the full fee upfront or having a provider use the HICAPS (health industry claims and payment services) facility on-site. 

Studies on the efficacy of online therapy

Studies have shown that online therapy can be as effective as traditional therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. One 12-week therapist-supported online treatment program yielded “sustained and clinically meaningful improvements in depression and anxiety.” 

In a UK study, researchers compared online CBT-TF (cognitive behavioral therapy with a trauma focus) with face-to-face therapy, finding similar benefits for both modalities. Online therapy can also facilitate communication between therapists and clients, leading to better treatment outcomes, especially for individuals who are more comfortable communicating through technology. 

Advantages of telehealth programs for underserved populations in Australia

Certain populations, such as First Nations communities, may experience greater challenges obtaining mental health services due to factors like racism, discrimination, geographic challenges, and cultural differences. Telehealth programs may provide increased opportunities for those communities, as well as immigrants, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and other marginalized groups to receive mental health treatment. By expanding the pool of potential therapists, online platforms might also make it easier for individuals to find a culturally competent therapist specializing in their specific needs and preferences. 

What mental health conditions do therapists treat in online counselling?

The number of mental disorders treated successfully in online therapy may continue to grow as research progresses and clinical psychologists utilize new approaches to online treatment. Anxiety disorders, including social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), are among the most commonly addressed conditions in virtual therapy. Depression and mood disorders like bipolar disorder are also commonly treated in online therapy. Other conditions that may be addressed in online treatment include the following:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) 
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) 
• Eating disorders
• Substance use disorders 
• Phobias
• Insomnia and other sleep-related concerns

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

Finding the right therapist for your needs

The ease of finding a therapist that suits one’s unique needs is one of the many reasons why platforms like BetterHelp are a popular option for online therapy. Users have access to support from mental health professionals with a wide range of specialties, including issues with relationships, anxiety, depression, and more. If your BetterHelp chosen therapist isn’t a suitable match, you also have the option of changing therapists, no matter how long you’ve worked with them. 

When mental health support via telehealth may not be appropriate

While it can be a supportive option for individuals with issues like low mood, anxiety, stress, or problems with relationships—online therapy may not be appropriate for everyone. For example, people with severe symptoms like psychosis, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and other conditions that require more structured and intensive support than a registered psychologist or therapist can provide via online therapy. Individuals experiencing psychiatric emergencies or who are thinking of harming themselves or others should seek immediate in-person assistance.

Additionally, not all online platforms provide diagnostic and medication prescription services. In such cases, individuals might seek in-person consultations to receive a diagnosis and medication (if recommended) and then speak with an online therapist for regular sessions.

Treatment modalities in psychology used in online therapy 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness-based therapies, and exposure therapy are a few examples of the treatments an online clinical psychologist may use on virtual platforms. CBT is among the most widely used approaches for treating many mental disorders, both online and in person. It typically involves using cognitive restructuring techniques to challenge negative thought patterns, encouraging healthier coping strategies, emotional regulation, and other skills. “Homework” assignments can be an integral part of the therapeutic process. Counselors may ask clients to engage in mindfulness practices like journaling and grounding techniques between sessions.

What to expect from your first session

In the first session, your therapist will likely gather a few details about your symptoms, history, and other concerns you may have so they can provide support tailored to your needs. Research shows that positive relationships between therapists and clients is key to better outcomes. As such, your mental health professional will also use this time to build rapport and help you feel comfortable, cultivating a sense of safety in which you can work together as a team. 

Online counselling as a popular option in Australia

BetterHelp connects individuals with mental health professionals from diverse backgrounds who can provide support via a variety of mental health services. Upon signing up and matching with a provider, you and your therapist can work together to assess your symptoms, areas of concern, and treatment expectations, developing a personalized and supportive approach that fits your specific needs and preferences. If you don’t believe that you and your counselor are a good match, you can change therapists at any time for no additional cost. Users can attend video, audio, or online psychology sessions, as well as communicate with their therapist via in-app messaging outside of scheduled appointments.