United Kingdom Virtual Counselling
If you've ever considered looking online for support with depression, social anxiety, stress, mental health conditions, or daily advice, you are not alone. In 2021, over 1.6 million UK citizens were referred to mental healthcare within the United Kingdom.
In addition, the utilization of online therapy has skyrocketed since 2020. Virtual counseling may be an option for those in the UK who have found that the standard of care in their area is not up to par with their needs.
How Can Online Therapy Benefit Me?
According to a study from the University of Zurich, over half of all online clients reported ease of depression symptoms. In this case, the online model 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, compared to 42% of conventional therapy patients.
Similar studies have been produced by the American Psychological Association, and one study demonstrated that online counseling is effective for those dealing with prolonged daily stress (chronic stress). Online therapy in UK cities is often carried out through cognitive-behavioral therapy, a proven scientific treatment for teaching patients coping mechanisms and healthy thinking patterns.
What Is Therapy Used For?
Counselling may be utilized for a variety of reasons. For example, many people seek out the support of a therapist 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
- A medical diagnosis
- Delusions or hallucinations
- Difficulty socializing
Proven Online Counselling Success Stories
Anecdotally, many patients have come forward to explain why they felt a difference in seeking an online confidante. One story published in the New York Times followed Dale Love Callon, who credited online therapy with helping him better manage insomnia. "I'm sleeping much better now," he said.
Recently, a Wall Street Journal writer used BetterHelp and called online therapy a "positive, professional experience." NPR interviewed Lauren Kay, who stated her streaming video psychotherapy sessions were better than in-person counselling. She stated the session felt friendly and connected.
Why Do People Prefer Online Counselling?
Video chat, texting, and phone chat with an online therapist may allow patients to feel comfortable confiding personal, honest, and vulnerable thoughts and feelings to someone else. There are no physical barriers such as a chair, desk, or uncomfortable office environment. Other advantages to online communication may include a more straightforward scheduling process, as patients don't have to physically travel to a location and can "log in" whenever needed.
Additionally, you may feel more connected with your therapist through online counseling. If you have pets, you can introduce them to your counsellor, which may help ease any awkward silent moments as you get to know your therapist.
Getting Started With Virtual Therapy
94% of virtual therapy users prefer it to face-to-face therapy, and 98% of users seeking support with symptoms related to depression and trauma experience significant improvement in their mental health symptoms. These studies show that connecting with a counsellor online can be a positive experience.
In the UK, if you're unable to find a counsellor that fits your needs or haven't been able to be referred to a counselor within NHS, you might reach out to a platform such as BetterHelp for individuals or ReGain for couples.
Online Counselor & BetterHelp Counselor Reviews
Aimee Bishop, MS, LMHc, MCAP
“Amie has truly helped me so much these past months with my anxiety and feelings of depression. She has continuously helped me with my social anxiety which is the main reason I came on here. I would always recommend her to anyone. My life has been much more positive and fulfilling ever since my journey began.”
Ann Voorhees, LCSW
“Ann is respectful and an artful listener. When I was in my manic episode she was able to calm my mind and bring me back to the task. Ann was the correct fit for me as she has a great understanding of bipolar and menopause and the UK systems. I shall miss my weekly sessions with her as I always felt uplifted after our sessions. I was able to video call, write to her outside of the sessions and do regular journals that I knew she would read and make comments on. We laughed, we cried I got better through her understanding and skills as a counselor. Thanks, Ann.”
Takeaway
Finding counselling can feel challenging. However, options exist for those looking for fewer barriers to care. Platforms like BetterHelp are available worldwide and offer care to those in the UK looking for support.
FAQs - Online Counselling
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