Teletherapy is nothing new. It's been around in some form since the early 1990s. But online counselling may be new to you. Which is why you may be considering it with some scepticism.
After all, how do you know whether therapy online will really work? Does it even approximate the safety and engagement of your in-person sessions?
Perhaps some research will reassure you.
Who Says Online Counseling is Favourable for Clients?
You can thank the global pandemic for normalizing online counselling and driving us all toward safer interaction. So, by the mere fact that it's available, the consensus among many clients and therapist alike, is that teletherapy is quite helpful.
In addition to anecdotal acceptance amid the COVID crisis, the method has been given a good report over the last half-decade for two key factors in particular:
- In 2017 a review titled, "Telemental Health Care, an Effective Alternative to Conventional Mental Care: a Systematic Review," revealed positive findings regarding 2013 telehealth research. the review indicates that online counselling is beneficial as it offers mental healthcare services for people who have geographical limitations. Besides, clients and therapists can meet during mutually appropriate times.
- In their online article "What is Teletherapy? A Helpful and Definitive Guide", writer Howard Goode and therapist Elana Shinkle (2019) wrote that in a familiar physical environment, you can interact comfortably and safely in real-time, virtually, in much the same way you would face to face.
Who Says Online Counseling Serves Most People Well?
Teletherapy is similar to traditional therapy in that you can seek out a therapist for a single session, to manage a single problem or challenge. Or, you can set up a regular meeting time. This is particularly key because, unlike lab or physically invasive health exams, telehealthcare for your mind is not limited by much. Thus, teletherapy can address various conditions and concerns. Depression, trauma, anxiety, relationship trouble, chronic stress, or anger can be helped online.
Attesting to its diverse application, teletherapy is beneficial for a range of people, as well. Many adults, children, seniors, veterans, and various ethnic groups find it useful, the 2017 review mentioned above noted improved client satisfaction in recent years.
Who Says Online Counseling is Quality Therapy?
Most important to you is how effective teletherapy is for those who use it, right?
Beyond convenience and inclusivity, you need to know if research indicates that teletherapy is reliable for diagnosis and assessment. Generally, is online counselling comparable for effecting meaningful change in your life?
First, several studies found teletherapy was quite effective in diagnosing and supporting certain groups such as dementia sufferers and those facing higher mental health risks, as therapists can meet with them more frequently.
Also, current research proposed that teletherapy can treat people productively via many treatment methods:
- In a 2010 treatment review, "distance-based" cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) for depression had a high degree of efficacy.
- In a 2013 study, researchers investigated the benefits of teletherapy for depression sufferers. The group reported a higher decrease in depressive thoughts and feelings. Those who used traditional treatment reported a minimal reduction.
- Research in 2016 suggested that CBT programs geared toward women clinically diagnosed with Postnatal depression were effective treatment options.
Why Not Take the Next Step? Give Online Counseling a Try
You don't need to go through tough times alone. Online counselling is proven support and effective therapy. The uncertainty of our time requires all the resources possible.
Perhaps your relationships are problematic, depression or anxiety are overwhelming you, or you have no idea how to envision your future from here. That's okay, as long as you seek help to face those challenges. I have lots of experience and loads of compassion. Please read more about online counselling and contact me at 403.461.6488 to talk about beginning counselling online.
