Does Online Counseling Really Work?
Even before the pandemic, there were decades of research showing that teletherapy and online counseling were successful. Many groups received
effective virtual mental health care for many conditions including:
- Anxiety Disorders
- Panic Disorder
- Depression
- Trauma
- OCD
- PTSD
- Family Conflict
What Are the Benefits of Online Therapy?
During Covid and the need for social distancing, online sessions made it possible for kids, teens, adults, and families to get help and support.
In general, one of the main benefits of online counseling and phone therapy is making it possible for people to get the help they need. Other
benefits of online counseling include:
- Health and safety.
- Privacy and discretion.
- The convenience of scheduling appointments.
- Easier access to providers for people who are limited by disability or illness.
- Access to therapists for those who live far away from mental health services.
- The ability to work with a therapist who specializes in the issue they are dealing with.
- Some people feel more comfortable talking about difficult feelings online than in person.
When is Virtual Therapy Not a Good Fit?
Not every person, couple, or family is a good fit for online counseling. A trained therapist will assess your needs and situation. They will be able to tell you whether online therapy can help you or face-to-face counseling is needed considering your case.
Virtual therapy is generally a
poor fit for anyone who:
- Has limited privacy.
- Has poor or no internet access.
- Is in crisis or experiencing an emergency.
- Has intellectual disabilities.
- Is struggling with trauma or other issues that make face-to-face sessions essential.
- Is dealing with mental health challenges that require more support.
