In Sydney, Australia, like many other parts of the world, it’s possible for individuals in need of mental health support to find it through online therapy and counselling services. Online therapy allows you to receive accessible, flexible care on your mental health journey, so you can explore your emotions safely, effectively, and at your own pace. This article explores the reasons why online therapy is on the rise in Australia, how it can reduce mental health care barriers, and ways to connect with a registered counselor or mental health professional to improve your wellbeing.

Finding the right online therapist in Sydney

According to research, you may benefit more from therapy if you find a dedicated online therapist or psychologist online who you feel comfortable with and who has the expertise to address your needs. 

First, consider the credentials you want your provider to have. For example, if you are: 

• Looking to address short-term challenges like a major life transition, you might look for counsellors
• Experiencing symptoms of a common mental health condition like depression or anxiety, you might look for a therapist
• Experiencing symptoms of a more complex mental health condition, you might explore clinical psychologists or a therapy team

If you’re not sure what type of provider you need, online platforms like BetterHelp can guide you through the process of finding the right fit. As a new client, BetterHelp will ask you to share a few details about why you’re seeking therapy and your preferences in a provider. You can then get matched with a suitable provider for your needs. If your match is not the right fit, you can switch providers at any time for no additional cost.

Why online health support is on the rise

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for mental health support has been on the rise in Australia. After a time of uncertainty, the shift toward digital mental health support can highlight the general demand for convenient, affordable, and flexible care. Other factors, including the high cost of living, an inability for some individuals to travel to in-person sessions, financial barriers, and cultural barriers, may also contribute to the shift toward online counseling and telehealth therapy. Online therapy sessions can be an easier and more reachable option for many people.

Convenient mental health support in Australia

Especially in larger cities like Sydney, day-to-day schedules can become packed with work commitments and other responsibilities, making it difficult to prioritize self-care. Online mental health support can help by enabling individuals to receive therapy services without commuting, making care more flexible and efficient.

How online counselling for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions works

Online therapy is a modern, flexible alternative to in-person therapy, offering similar outcomes to traditional treatment for patients across Sydney. It often follows a similar format to face-to-face therapy, except that clients access sessions virtually. During your first appointment, your therapist will do an intake assessment, asking about your health history and reasons for seeking therapy.

In subsequent sessions, individuals experiencing anxiety disorders, depression, or other mental health conditions can work on addressing symptoms through any of a range of therapeutic modalities. Different people may benefit from different forms of therapy. For example, psychodynamic therapy may help individuals process prior experiences, while behavioral activation therapy may improve mood through structured activities. With a large network of therapists available online, individuals can often find a suitable professional who practices the modality they’re interested in.

Online cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety, depression, and more

Today, anxiety disorders and depression are some of the most common mental health conditions experienced by Australians. For an online psychologist, registered counselor, or other mental health professional, it can be vital to implement targeted interventions that address these concerns. Research suggests that internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (i-CBT) can reduce symptoms of both anxiety disorders and depression. In CBT, a therapist typically works with their client to identify and adjust negative or distorted thought patterns that may be contributing to mental health symptoms. Changing the way a person thinks can lead to positive changes in emotions and behavior as well.

Support for everyday issues and complex challenges

Online therapy can also be an effective way to address life challenges you may be dealing with. Many people seek therapy for support with everyday issues, like stress or relationship conflict. Some online therapy platforms can help you  to get treatment for more complex concerns, such as trauma or potentially diagnosis of mental health disorders (though please note that therapists on the BetterHelp platform do not diagnose or prescribe medications). Online therapy sessions can help clients manage different life challenges and symptoms, build coping skills, and improve wellbeing.

If you are experiencing trauma, support is available. Please see our Get Help Now page for more resources.

Reducing barriers to mental health care in Australia

For individuals living in areas with limited mental health services, attending therapy can be challenging – whether due to travel time, stigma, or a lack of culturally competent care. However, online therapy removes many potential barriers. For example, people who are unable to travel or have mobility issues can attend sessions from the comfort of their own homes, making mental health support more convenient and inclusive.

Comfort and connection from a safe and supportive environment

Meeting with mental health professionals from home can have benefits beyond eliminating the need for travel. In their own space or another safe and supportive environment, individuals may be more comfortable discussing sensitive topics, which may lead to more honest, productive sessions.

Ongoing mental health care

Because many online counseling platforms provide online chat, phone call, and video call options for appointments, individuals can customize the mental health care experience to their comfort level. This personalized approach may make them more likely to adhere to treatment. When symptoms are heightened or guidance is required, it can be simple to get in touch with a mental health professional online through a platform like BetterHelp, which allows users to message their therapists any time.

An online opportunity to learn about and use self-care tools

During online therapy sessions, therapists often introduce clients to variety of self-care tools. In addition to helping individuals care for themselves between sessions, these tools may also support the therapeutic process, strengthening a person’s ability to reflect, engage, and apply insights to everyday life. 

Common self-care tools 

Below are some self-care tools that can be implemented at home or with the help of a mental health professional.

• Guided meditations, breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation can promote self-awareness and relaxation.
• Journaling can offer an opportunity to reflect, process thoughts and emotions, and track mood, potentially leading to personal insights.
• Setting boundaries may help individuals maintain a sense of autonomy and trust in their relationships.
• Spending time in nature can improve various aspects of health and provide a break from daily stressors.
• Practicing gratitude, from appreciating a cozy pair of socks to enjoying the taste of local fruits, can make everyday life seem more enriching.

How to find credible Australian health professionals online

Qualified and dedicated counsellors, clinical psychologists, and general therapists uphold high standards of care in Australia. They are extensively trained in how to use suitable, evidence-based approaches for each patient’s needs to help them feel safe, understood, and supported on their healing journey.

In Australia, there are various online tools, platforms, and websites available to help individuals find credible therapists in their local areas. Below are a few examples:

• The Australian Psychological Society’s Find a Psychologist tool
• The Australian Register of Counsellors & Psychotherapists
• The Australian Counselling Association’s Find a Registered Counsellor tool

Questions to ask when choosing Australian health professionals

To decide if a therapist is the right fit, individuals can consider asking some of the following questions: 

• Are you a registered psychologist or mental health professional in Australia?
• Do you accept my insurance plan?
• Do you have training in cultural competence, and what is your experience working with diverse individuals?
• What mental health conditions are you most familiar with treating?
• What would you say are your strengths and areas for growth as a therapist?

How to access services through a plan or Medicare

Many Australians access mental health care through Medicare or another plan. To receive counseling through Medicare, you’ll typically need to seek GP referrals to a mental health professional. If they bulk bill, your costs of care may be covered. If you are receiving plan managed care through NDIS coverage, your plan manager may be able to help you address billing questions related to receiving mental health care. 

Therapy provided online through a platform like BetterHelp is another option, suitable for those who are looking for virtual care outside of the Medicare or NDIS system. Online counselling takes place 100% virtually, ensuring equitable access to care regardless of location or schedule.

Online therapy platforms for a simplified process

Online therapy can be a beneficial and convenient tool for personal growth and well-being. To get started with virtual sessions, individuals can visit an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. After filling out a brief questionnaire, individuals can be matched with a therapist according to their needs and preferences. The matching process can take a few hours or a few days, depending on therapist availability. 

Current research on online therapy

Many people wonder whether online therapy is as effective as traditional face-to-face sessions. A growing body of research suggests that online therapy can often produce the same client outcomes as in-person therapy, and it can treat a wide range of mental health conditions.