The Pros and Cons of Online Therapy

Online therapy, or mental health counseling delivered online by a mental health counselor, has long been a successful and practical choice. It has become more of a need than a choice in today's COVID-restricted cultures, however, and this has necessitated some adjustment on the part of both clients and counselors.

I was first skeptical as a psychologist with more than 25 years of experience working as a "conventional" face-to-face counselor. Would the customer and I really be able to connect properly via the internet? How about my capacity to read nonverbal cues in a Zoom meeting? Would I be able to provide a client in distress enough emotional support from behind a screen? While the apparent positives mumbled unconvincingly in the background, I was leaning toward the disadvantages.

My first online session failed to persuade me differently due to technical difficulties with the internet, inability to turn on the sound, and general unease with the new "office." However, things began to flow after a few more sessions. The customer was just as "genuine" in this situation as it had quickly become normal. Even customers who initially tested both settings—face to face and online—decided to stick with the latter. The benefits were beginning to exceed the drawbacks, but why?

The Benefits

Privacy is something that the majority of clients—if not all—highly appreciate while receiving mental health therapy. Since there is no need to visit a clinic where one can encounter other patients or therapists, online therapy provides more privacy. This is very relaxing for a customer who may feel upset upon leaving the clinic and want some alone time.

Time and logistics: There is no travel time (or money) wasted, and a session may even be crammed in during lunch at the office or after work. Sometimes, even the automobile may be utilized as an office!

Effectiveness: Studies have shown that using internet therapy to address mental health conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, and mild to moderate addiction may be just as beneficial as traditional treatment.

Accessibility: An online meeting is open to anybody with a stable internet connection. People who live in rural areas, have impairments, or are responsible for caring for children may now readily receive therapy.

Convenience: Online treatment performed comfortably from home gives you the option to plan sessions around your schedule rather than sticking to set office hours.

There is no place for this. Regardless of where they live, you may choose the therapist you choose. I've had the privilege of being able to deliver ongoing treatment to my clients globally since I've worked in various different nations over the years, even if we are separated by time zones.

different time zones and nations.

The Drawbacks

Confidentiality. In psychotherapy, maintaining the confidentiality of your personal information is always of utmost importance. However, when you receive counseling online, things become more complicated, especially when the therapist sends you information and exercises rather than discussing them with you privately. It's a problem that the client and the therapist should talk about.

Insurance. Some insurance companies, but not all, will pay for internet therapy. However, insurance firms have also had to modify their expectations during these Corona times. However, confirming with your insurance provider might ease your mind.

Not in therapy. People who are in severe distress, suicidal, or who have a major mental disease need prompt in-person care or treatment; e-therapy is insufficient in these circumstances. However, if you're currently receiving treatment online, your counselor will be able to assist you in finding the required facilities.

COVID. Last but not least, online treatment provides a clear and completely safe alternative to acquiring Covid in the workplace and avoiding the trouble of quarantine. Clients and therapists who had been in direct touch with the covid-infected counselor who was recently working in our practice, including myself, had to spend a week in isolation.

I hope that this essay was able to provide a broad summary of the advantages and disadvantages of online treatment. Personally, I've changed my mind and am a strong advocate for online therapy for patients with mild to moderate psychological problems. If you're still unsure, I strongly advise you to give it a go!