Online Counseling: Is it Right for You?

Thanks to technology, new mental health treatment options have become available that can offer you an alternative to traditional in-office therapy. Through online counseling services, it is now possible to engage in virtual appointments with a therapist and receive the counseling you need in the comfort and privacy of your own home, at a time that is most convenient for you. Provided you have a stable connection to the Internet, your sessions can take place on your computer, tablet, or Smartphone.

Is online counseling as effective as meeting in person?

Several studies have been conducted on this topic, and the consensus seems to be that yes, online counseling services can be just as effective as in-person therapy when you’re dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, everyday life challenges, relationship problems, or PTSD.

However, it is not recommended for more serious disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or psychoses that include complex symptoms such as suicidal thoughts. (National Center for Health Research)

Benefits of online counseling services

Accessibility. Online counseling services make it possible for you to communicate with a counselor from anywhere you have internet or phone access, instead of having to visit a therapist’s office.

This can be a special boon for people with mobility issues, social anxiety, verbal communication concerns, or who live in remote areas too far from a physical office location to easily access it. Online counseling services are also a great platform for teens, who may be more comfortable video chatting than with face-to-face sessions in a traditional office setting.

Convenience. For those leading a life so busy that trying to find time to fit traditional, in-person counseling into an already tight or erratic schedule seems near impossible, online counseling services may be an ideal solution. Appointments can be made for when it’s most convenient for you, and you don’t have to lose extra time driving back and forth to a physical location.

Plus, you have the added benefit of being able to message your therapist from wherever you are, whenever the need arises, and receive a prompt reply, rather than trying to remember what you’re feeling in the heat of the moment, writing it down so you don’t forget it, and then having to wait an entire week until your next appointment before you can speak to your therapist about it.

More therapist choices. Since location is not an issue, and you are not limited to your immediate geographic area, you have many more options of therapists to choose from. This enables you to find the one best suited for your needs and makes it possible for you to continue your sessions with the same therapist even if you must travel or if you move to a different locale.

Easy to coordinate group sessions. Online counseling services make it possible for couples or families to engage in joint therapy sessions even when one or more family members are in a different location.

Affordability. Online counseling fees are typically less expensive than in-person office visits since online therapists are likely to have fewer overhead costs such as having to rent office space. Instead of being charged an hourly rate, as is the norm for traditional office visits, you will usually be charged a flat monthly fee which includes all chats, phone, or video sessions, as well as unlimited messaging.

Comfortability and anonymity. Many people find online interactions to be less stressful than face-to-face interactions for a variety of reasons, including the stigma associated with mental illness.

The option of online counseling services can serve as an important lifeline to anyone reluctant to make an in-person appointment with a therapist out of fear of being labeled, privacy issues, or plain embarrassment over the thought of meeting face-to-face with a stranger to discuss difficult matters that society may consider taboo.

Knowing that this alternative exists and that it is possible for them to receive counseling without having to visit a therapist’s office, can act as a soothing balm on their concerns that makes all the difference between seeking or not seeking the treatment they need.

Another reassuring advantage of online counseling services is the measure of anonymity it provides. This can be an especially important feature for anyone unduly concerned about what others may think of them for seeking the help of a therapist.

With online counseling services, there is no risk of bumping into someone you know or having someone see you pull into the parking lot of your therapist’s office, and unless you have chosen the video chat option, not even the therapist can see you – or you, them – which eliminates the chance of accidentally bumping into one another down the road.

How to choose the best online therapy service for you

Following are some practical suggestions to help ensure you receive the best online therapy.

Make sure you have a reliable Internet connection, as well as a quiet space where you can be free of distractions or interruptions.

Think about your goals ahead of time. Look for a therapist who specializes in your area of concern. For instance, if you are struggling with depression, you might want a therapist who specializes in that.

Or, if you are dealing with a major life event such as a divorce, or a death in the family, or a job loss, there are therapists who specialize in helping people cope with those kinds of challenges as well. Consider whether or not you have a gender or age preference. Would you feel more comfortable with a male or female therapist, or with someone older or younger?

Make sure your therapist is licensed to practice in your state. Investigate how the company screens its counselors, and if their certification is valid. Verify their full name, credentials, and license number. A trained therapist should have at least a Master’s degree in a field related to mental heath.

You can also check to see whether they have a website. Many therapists do have personal websites where you can learn more about them, their methods, their views, and their experience, as well as read reviews other people may have posted about their services.

Check on the organization’s privacy policies. What type of security do they provide? Ask them if your chats will be encrypted, and whether or not you will have the ability to remain anonymous to your counselor.

Fees and policies should be clearly stated. Check to see if online therapy is covered by your insurance, and if not, whether your budget can cover the cost. You should also find out if the contract is binding, or whether you can opt out of it at any time.

If you are interested in pursuing online counseling, contact our office today to schedule an appointment with one of the faith-based counselors listed on the online counselor directory.