Real-life success stories from online counselling in the UK
If you've ever considered online therapy for therapeutic support to deal with depression, social anxiety, stress, mental health conditions, regulating emotions, or day-to-day life advice, you are not alone. In 2021, over 1.6 million citizens were referred to therapy for mental healthcare within the UK. Many of these individuals utilized online therapy platforms—services that offer counselling virtually, instead of in person.
With online counselling, UK residents can navigate mental health concerns, express their emotions, and address life challenges from home (or wherever they have an internet connection). Online therapy participants can get matched with a suitable professional based on their needs and preferences. According to recent data, the rate of online therapy usage in the UK has doubled in the past five years. If you’re ready to speak with a therapist, this article can help you decide whether online counselling is right for you.
The growth of online counselling
Often available at a low cost, online counselling allows individuals to participate in therapy through a website or app. Several organisations provide such services in the UK, connecting participants with the right mental health providers for them (typically through a short questionnaire or assessment). Because of these benefits, the utilization of online therapy and counselling is expected to continue into the future. Virtual therapy may be an option for those in the UK who have found that the standard of therapy care in their area is not up to par with their needs or just want to attend therapy within the comfort of their own home outside of the NHS network. For people struggling to make progress in finding an in-person therapist that fits, it can be helpful to try online counselling. When seeking online counselling, UK citizens may explore platforms like BetterHelp when starting their mental health journey. Online therapists may have schedules that are more flexible to accommodate patients' busy lives.
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Can therapists from virtual sessions provide effective mental health support?
Therapy sessions conducted through the telephone or computer can be more convenient than face-to-face appointments. But is online therapy as efficacious as in-person counselling with a registered professional? Research suggests that online platforms are suitable for individuals experiencing a range of mental health challenges.
According to a study from the University of Zurich, over half of all virtual clients reported ease of depression symptoms after attending remote therapy. In this case, the virtual model of online counselling exceeded the performance of clients attending in-person counselling.
Three months after the study concluded, over half of all online patients reported no more significant symptoms after seeing their therapists, compared to 42% of conventional therapy patients.
Similar studies have been produced by the American Psychological Association, and one study demonstrated that counselling online is effective for those dealing with prolonged daily stress (chronic stress).
Online counseling for depression, anxiety, and more
Virtual counseling or remote therapy may be utilized for a variety of reasons. For example, many people seek out and access therapeutic help from an online counsellor when experiencing:
Depression or anxiety
Symptoms of a personality disorder
Symptoms related to autism, ADHD, or dyslexia
A learning disorder
Life stressors
Relationship or marriage concerns
Parenting concerns
Life changes, such as a new job or moving to a new city
Grief and loss
Distressing physical health symptoms
A need for life advice or counselling
A medical diagnosis
Delusions or hallucinations
Difficulty socializing
Help with improving overall well-being
When to seek counselling for specific challenges
It can be hard to know when psychological care might be necessary. If you believe you’re living with one of the above mental health concerns, consider speaking with a healthcare professional who can provide you with a thorough evaluation. However, there may be certain signs that therapy will be beneficial for you. The following are signs of mental health concerns in both young people and adults:
Difficulty managing emotions
Fluctuations in mood
Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Excessive use of alcohol or drugs
Trouble processing a traumatic experience (e.g., sexual abuse, bereavement)
Professional or academic challenges (e.g., lower college GPA)
Addressing other concerns through online counseling in the UK
If you're not sure whether web-based therapy online can benefit you or the issues you face, consider exploring possible therapists. You don't need to have a mental health condition or diagnosis to get support from therapy online. In-person and virtual therapists often provide help to those who want to better themselves, learn new life skills, improve their well-being, or discuss their experiences. Online care can be beneficial for anyone wanting to work through current life challenges, self-exploration, or relationship struggles, as well as those with mental health issues.
Mental health support with certified United Kingdom therapists
Therapy sessions with an online therapist can help you explore and understand your emotions more effectively. An online therapist can help you develop and practise techniques to improve mental health. They may monitor your progress and adjust sessions as needed. As with in-person therapy, your sessions with an online therapist are confidential. You may get in touch with anonline counsellor in the UK through:
UK national counselling services
Counselling services that have international counseling coverage in the UK
Online counselling platforms with certified UK therapists
Independent UK therapists who provide telehealth counselling services
The Online Therapy Process: From Referral to First Session
In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) provides free talk therapy services. The process may start with a self-referral or a referral from a GP. In addition to utilizing services through the NHS, individuals have access to online therapy through online therapy platforms like BetterHelp. Signing up for online therapy through BetterHelp can be a simple process that can be completed entirely online.
After a person is registered through BetterHelp, they take a survey and are matched with a therapist. Once matched, a person can book an introductory session to get in touch with their therapist and see if they are a good match. Finding a therapist who meets your unique needs is important; with BetterHelp, this means that you can connect with different therapists if your first match isn’t a good fit.
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Learning and Developing New Coping Skills
As with in-person therapy, an online therapist can help a person learn and develop new coping skills. These tools can include mindfulness practices such as deep breathing or relaxation techniques that may help a person overcome anxiety, depression, or deal with overwhelming emotions. A therapist may also help a client to practise or roleplay through challenging situations.
In addition to techniques to manage stress in the moment, therapists may also help patients explore strategies for improving mental health in the long term. This can include therapeutic techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to help a person recognize and reframe negative thought patterns.
Common Challenges People Overcome Through Online Counselling
People may come to therapy or counselling to overcome a variety of difficulties or challenges. In many cases, an online therapist can help a patient develop the skills that they need to make progress on their mental health journey. Some common challenges that people can overcome through online therapy may include:
Managing bereavement or grief–A therapist can provide support and coping strategies for a person struggling to manage emotions after the loss of a loved one.
Depression and anxiety–During therapy sessions, a therapist can implement strategies and lifestyle changes to reduce depression and anxiety.
Stress–People may deal with stress in their lives for many different reasons, and therapy can help a person develop relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to reduce stress.
Challenges with family and friends–Interpersonal relationships can go through ups and downs. A therapist can help navigate challenging times in a relationship and help a person develop empathy and understanding.
Trauma–Trauma occurs after experiencing a distressing or overwhelming event. Therapists can help reduce the impact of trauma and help a person process complex emotions.
Success stories of remote therapy and online counselling
Anecdotally, many counselling patients have come forward to explain why they felt a difference in seeking an online therapist for their mental health journey. One story published in the New York Times followed Dale Love Callon, who struggled with sleeping each night; he credited virtual therapy with helping him better manage insomnia. "I'm sleeping much better now," he said. Therapists can help individuals develop the tools needed make progress on personal goals or overcome personal challenges. Working with a virtual therapist can be a way to understand and deal with emotions more effectively. A therapist can help an individual track events that have happened throughout the day and create a plan for managing adversity.
Recently, a Wall Street Journal writer used BetterHelp and called remote therapy a "positive, professional experience." NPR (National Public Radio) interviewed Lauren Kay, who stated her streaming video psychotherapy sessions were better than in-person counselling. She stated the online appointments felt friendly and connected.
What’s included with BetterHelp
Fast matching – you can get matched in as little as 48 hours.
Transparent pricing – no hidden fees, know what you’ll pay upfront
Therapy sessions your way – video, voice or chat
Message anytime – your therapist will respond when they can
Easy to switch – Change therapists anytime until you find the right fit
When it comes to the experience of online counselling, UK therapists and professional organisations have also reported experiencing significant benefits. According to clinical psychologist Carla Croft, the ability to offer counselling remotely provides “additional flexibility”. According to Croft, this added convenience makes online therapy sessions suitable for clients who are “on their lunch break, in their car, or in the work quiet room”.
Many therapists find that clients are better able to express their emotions or speak their mind when they are not face-to-face. Others decide to conduct online sessions because it helps eliminate the need to pay rent (or the rest of the overhead costs associated with keeping an office). Therapists in the UK have had success conducting individual, couples, and group therapy sessions remotely.
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Breaking Stigma and Encouraging Others to Get Help
One of the barriers to that can cause some to hesitate before getting in touch with a therapist through the NHS or other services is the stigma around mental health. Some may feel that struggling with mental health challenges or seeking support for mental health is a sign of weakness, and they fear judgment from friends and family. It may be important to understand that connecting with a therapist is not a sign of weakness. Seeking support can be empowering and may be a good first step in improving overall health and well-being.
Getting started with virtual therapy can be simple. You may start by connecting with your GP and discussing your mental health concerns; they, in turn, can refer you to a mental health professional. Alternatively, you may book your first appointment through an online platform like BetterHelp. With BetterHelp, you can access a therapist who meets your needs without having to get referred by your GP.
What are the potential benefits of doing therapy online?
There are multiple ways in which working with therapists via online platforms may be more appealing to some people. Video chat, texting, and phone chat with a virtual therapist may allow patients to feel comfortable telling personal, honest, and vulnerable thoughts and feelings to someone else. There are no physical barriers in online counselling, such as a chair, desk, or uncomfortable office environment. In addition, because the client is attending the therapy session from their own home, they may have a stronger sense of safety; a therapy service may also be easier to reach for those with a busy schedule or limited transportation.
Please note, this is not a substitute for a mental health emergency. Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.
Convenience of UK online counseling
Other advantages to online UK talking therapies with a qualified therapist may include a more straightforward scheduling process, as patients don't have to physically travel to a location and can "log in" to online counselling whenever needed.
Benefits of online counselling for young people and families
The convenience and increased availability of online therapy make it a suitable tool for children, adolescents, and other young people who are seeking mental health care. Younger generations are typically comfortable with technology, using apps and websites to engage with certain services or connect with friends. Additionally, online therapy can be more convenient for young people who may face time constraints; for example, a college student registered for several classes throughout the week may be able to squeeze a session in more easily if it’s online.
Families can also benefit from online therapy. Working with a professional, family members can learn to communicate, resolve conflicts, and discuss complex emotions arising out of their relationships. Additionally, online therapy allows couples to participate in therapy at the same tim,e even when they aren’t in the same area.
How it works
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Tailored match
We can match you with a licensed therapist, which can happen in as little as 48 hours.
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Brief assessment
Answer a few questions about how you’re feeling and your goals.
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Start therapy
Message your therapist any time. Schedule one live session per week.
Research suggests that sessions conducted through the telephone or computer can be as effective as face-to-face sessions. For example, in a systematic review of eight studies that included 764 participants (348 in online therapy, the rest in face-to-face therapy), researchers found that online therapy was as effective as in-person counseling when treating anxiety disorders. These results can be added to those of an increasingly large number of studies showing that online therapy is a suitable alternative to face-to-face therapy for those seeking to manage mental health symptoms and address complex emotions.
Types of support offered
Online therapy can be conducted in a variety of formats. Individual sessions and couples counseling are available through most platforms. In addition to participating in low-cost online counselling, individuals can attend group sessions geared toward addressing specific mental health-related challenges (e.g., alcohol use, bereavement, sexual abuse). Further, therapists can connect clients with useful resources, such as at-home exercises or informational materials.
Choosing the right type of counselling for you
If you’re ready to speak with a therapist, it can help to think about what you want out of the experience. Are you uncomfortable discussing your thoughts and emotions in person? Do you prefer a professional who has a similar background as you? Are you looking for someone who is registered to treat specific challenges? Remember that it’s okay to change formats or therapists if you decide the current arrangement isn’t working. As you begin therapy, try to make an assessment of how well it is fitting your needs and determine whether specific changes are needed.
Find mental health support through online therapy: Virtual therapy options
Research shows that connecting with a counsellor or chosen therapist virtually can be a positive experience for those in the UK and beyond.
In the UK, if you're unable to find an in-person counsellor that fits your needs, you might contact a counselling platform such as BetterHelp counselling for individuals, or Regain for couples, that offer mental health services in the UK. Through the BetterHelp website, you can get registered and start searching for therapists without a referral from a GP. The site can match you with potential therapists and put you in touch with them so that you can book a confidential introductory appointment.You may also be able to access a therapy service that suits your needs by searching ‘Online therapy UK’ online. Some online counselling services may allow you to book a free introductory session so you can get a good idea of what the licensed therapist, therapy process, and general therapy appointment would be like.
To contact BetterHelp or Regain customer support, email us at contact@regain.us or contact@betterhelp.com. You can also call BetterHelp Support at +1(888)688-9296.
"Working with Salome has been wonderful. She is very thoughtful and understanding. She really listens to what I am saying and is able to recall things from previous sessions that really draw concepts together. I was initially hesitant about working with an online therapist. But, working with Salome has proven to me that online therapy is not only helpful but also convenient."
How to get started with online counselling services Online therapy makes taking the next steps on your mental health journey easy.
Choosing the right type of counselling for you
How to get started with online counselling services. Online therapy makes taking the next steps on your mental health journey easy. For example, with BetterHelp, you can simply navigate to the website and, when prompted, complete the questionnaire. This brief assessment allows BetterHelp to connect you with a professional who fits your needs and preferences. While some organisations that offer counselling place clients on a waiting list, matching can occur in as little as 48 hours with BetterHelp. Once you’ve registered with BetterHelp and been matched with a suitable therapist, you’ll be able to start scheduling sessions and taking advantage of the features available through the platform.
Takeaway: Making counselling available to everyone
Finding therapy today can be challenging. However, online counselling options exist for those looking for fewer barriers to care. Platforms like BetterHelp are available worldwide and offer care, excellence, and healing to those in the United Kingdom looking for support to overcome mental health challenges or to make mental health progress in their lives. An online therapist can help a person deal with and manage emotions, explore new coping skills, and develop tools to improve mental health. Whether you’re looking to work with a therapist in face-to-face therapy or online, investing in your well-being can help you live a more fulfilled life.
Schedule your first session today and improve your mental health by reaching out to a fully qualified online therapist. You can also read through other articles on a therapy blog to learn more about the process and benefits of online therapy, including coping strategies for better mental health and personal growth.
Frequently asked questions
Read more below for answers to questions commonly asked about remote therapy and counselling.
What is the best online counseling option in the UK?
The world’s largest online therapy platform, BetterHelp, is typically at the top of the list of best online therapy platforms and is considered affordable and well-rounded. ReGain is often most recommended for those seeking out couples counseling. TalkSpace is another trusted choice, butit may be a bit more expensive than the previous options.
TalkSpace does allow you to check out different plans, while BetterHelp is a more fixed pricing system. Pricing and meeting options with your therapist for BetterHelp are offered after filling out an online matching questionnaire.
How much does online therapy cost in the UK?
Plans can range anywhere between $70 to $100 per week, depending on therapist availability, location, and your preferences.
What are red flags to watch for in an online therapist?
While usually safe, you want to do your research to make sure that you're going with an e-counselling service that keeps your space in place and isn't fraudulent. Virtual counselling platforms are more reliable now, but some red flags to look for when working with a therapist include:
Your therapist doesn’t seem to be listening (minimizes your feelings, ignores concerns, talks over you)
Weak boundaries, or no boundaries
Doesn’t clearly establish their speciality, or how they can help
Isn’t able to build trust with you, make you feel safe
Their knowledge seems outdated
More established and trusted online platforms like BetterHelp offer the option to switch therapists for any reason if you don’t feel that they are the right match.
What is instant counseling, and how does it work?
Instant counseling is a term that some use to describe online counseling, due to the speed with which you can access services compared to traditional counseling. Online, or instant counseling can be accessed through an online service platform, and works in the same way as in-person therapy. The difference is that you meet with your therapist or counselor over video chat, phone, or live chat.
How quickly can I start speaking with a therapist online?
This may depend on the specific platform you use, but typically, you should be able to start talking to a therapist within a few days of signing up for services.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person counseling?
A number of rigorous studies have been conducted on online therapy in recent years, due to its increasing popularity. The evidence suggests that online therapy is as effective as in-person counseling for many mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression.
How do I find a qualified online therapist in the UK?
To match with a qualified online therapist in the UK, you may ask your primary care doctor for options, or work with an established and trusted online platform like BetterHelp.
What should I expect during my first online therapy session?
A first session for therapy (both online or in-person) typically consists of a “getting to know you” period. The therapist will work to establish trust and find out more about your history and what you are looking for from therapy. You may also start working together on setting realistic goals for your future sessions.
Can online counseling help with urgent mental health concerns?
Online therapy is not typically appropriate for serious, complex, ongoing mental health disorders or for mental health emergencies. For an urgent mental health concern, reaching out to emergency services is recommended.
Is online counseling secure and confidential?
If you are working through a well-established and trusted online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can rest assured that your information will be secure and confidential.
The information on this page is not intended to be a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. You should not take any action or avoid taking any action without consulting with a qualified mental health professional. For more information, please read our terms of use.
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