While most of know about the traditional therapy session with either a psychologist or a psychologist in their office, there are now other services offered that are very convenient.
In fact, online therapy has proven to be a very popular alternative to the traditional therapy sessions.
There are many benefits of online therapy and below are just 6.
1. Convenient Setting
Online therapy is very convenient as both the patient and the therapist can schedule the sessions any time of day. With having sessions from your home, you are also in a very comfortable setting and can have sessions at night, weekends, or whatever times work for you.
2. Affordability
Online therapy is much less expensive than traditional therapy and is a great option for those whose health insurance doesn’t cover therapy. However, many insurance companies will offer online therapy. Make sure to contact your insurance company to see if this is an option.
3. Physically Impaired have easier access to therapy
Online therapy is a great alternative option for individuals who are either house bound or disabled. Those who are unable to leave the house due to physical or mental illness will not only be able to receive therapy but will be much more comfortable doing so.
4. Great Option for those in remote environment
For those who live in a remote area, online therapy is a great way to receive therapy. For those who live outside a city location, it can be very difficult for them to drive to the city for a one hour therapy session. And there is a good chance there might not be a therapist office in their location.
5. Takes the Stigma Out
Some individuals who want therapy but are uncomfortable either going to a traditional office setting would do well with online therapy. In fact, if the person who is seeking counsel isn’t comfortable speaking face-to-face with someone, he or she would do well with this form of therapy.
Further, some individuals might not feel comfortable if they saw other patients when either waiting for counseling or entering the office. And on-line counseling is an excellent alternative for this scenario.
6. Many Forms of Communication
With on-line therapy, you can get therapy via email, texts, a quick phone call or video. The choices of communication are much more convenient.
When Online Therapy Isn’t Appropriate
Confidentiality
We all know the importance of keeping our personal information private. With online therapy, anything written by email or text during these meetings can be either leaked or get out. Of course, this could be said of anything on-line, but is something to consider.
Those with Serious Psychiatric Illnesses
Online therapy can be very helpful in a variety of situations, but if someone has a serious mental health issue, the traditional setting would be much more effective. Of course, this is also the case for those who have a more complicated set of issues.
A few final things to consider:
- You want to make sure to only talk to therapists that are licensed within your state. Therapists are usually required to have at least three years of clinical experience.
- Make sure that your therapist adheres to Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), just as any in-person therapist needs to before seeking his or her counsel.
- Make sure you have a good rapport with your online therapist and feel as if the treatment is helping, then it can be a valuable and helpful experience for both of you.
Online therapy can be a great alternative for the convenience and access. As with any form of therapy, the most important thing that needs to be addressed is comfort level.
To learn more about on-line therapy and the best companies that offer therapy, this guide can provide you will some helpful and important information.
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