By Ravneet Dhingra, Psychologist
Online therapy refers to counselling services and psychotherapy provided by a licensed counsellor or therapist on electronic devices such as phone, computer and tablet etc via the internet. It is also known as tele -therapy and e- therapy.
It is evident that online therapy plays a substantial role during the pandemic. Moreover, tele therapy is going to stay, may even rise in use post covid. Online therapy is in demand more than ever before. According to Centers for Control study CDC, there has been significant rise in depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts in the population ranges from 18-24 years of age since pandemic. In addition to aforementioned conditions, substance use and domestic violence have been also augmented.
Many people these days are choosing online therapy over the in- person therapy for the following reasons:
Online therapy is as effective as in – person therapy
Although some people hesitate to opt for online therapy but research reveals that e- therapy can be very effective for diverse mental health conditions. Following are the results of few studies
- In 2014, a research published in the Journal of Affective Disorders states that online treatment is just as effective as in-person treatment
- In 2014, a study published in Behaviour Research and Therapy states that anxiety disorders can be effectively treated by online cognitive behavioural therapy. It was cost effective and the optimistic improvements were seen at the one-year follow-up.
- In 2018, a study published in the Journal of Psychological Disorders refers that online cognitive behavioural therapy {CBT} is considered as” acceptable, effective and
practical health care.” The study also reveals that the online cognitive behavioural therapy is equally effective as in- person treatment for anxiety and depression disorders.
Accessibility and Affordability
Accessibility of e- therapy is an imperative reason that it is becoming popular nowadays.
- It allows easy access to the clients residing in remote/ rural areas. There are chances that remote/rural population might not have access to mental health institutions near to them because of scarcity of practitioners and non availability of mental health organizations
- Travelling long distances and taking off from their busy routines is a burden for people who need instant help. If you have reliable internet connection, booking an online therapy allows you to save time and quickly connect with therapist of your choice which otherwise might not been readily available.
- It has also been proven boon to people with physical limitations. Housebound and specially- abled persons where mobility has been an issue could have an easy access to online therapy. Population with various reasons such as mental illness or physical illness who are unable to leave their house may find e- therapy a constructive
alternative over the traditional therapy.
- E- Therapy is reasonably affordable and convenient as you will be booking your therapy sessions with the comfort of your own at a pocket friendly price.
Enhanced approachability of treatment
Approachability of the treatment has been increased because of internet. People are comfortable sharing their physical issues with family, friends, colleagues etc but it is not same in case of mental health concerns which are equally important. Online therapy offers easy
access to overcome the stigma that has been traditionally linked to mental health conditions. It is not necessary that you are diagnosed with some mental health issue clinically. You could identify and learn more about your coping skills and strategies which can ultimately lead to better mental well being.
The negative connotations attached with mental health concerns are diminishing fast since Covid. Many countries like Uk, Italy, New Zealand , Germany, France who are imposing lockdowns in Covid frequently found out that remote therapy has become more affordable, accessible, and less stigmatised. Once upon a time, it was odd having a therapist however it is new normal now- a- days. Many couples and working population are making the best use of their quarantine times to deal with their long standing interpersonal issues by benefiting from the online therapy.
Enhanced privacy and confidentiality
Many times people find it difficult to visit the local mental health institutions because they see themselves exposed and vulnerable while visiting therapist. They are afraid of being judged by society. They fear people will look down on them. Therefore, taking online therapy is virtue for them. They can search variety of therapists with different expertise, book an appointment
with therapist of their own choice, schedule according to their own convenience. Work from home is new emerging trend which is here to stay. People get additional privacy from their colleagues and schedules are flexible. One can take therapy in their own comfort zone; lying on the couch, the quiet work room, in the car, on holiday etc.
The use of HIPAA-compliant portals for therapy has been increased since pandemic. This enables the various services by therapists to be provided over video sessions securely. It creates safe space and people are more comfortable knowing that video sessions are private and
confidential. Client can take therapy in either way he/she wants, be it an audio call, video call, live chat etc.
Online therapy is proven boon and made mental health services more accessible to the society, however it does not mean it is right for everyone. The severity of the symptoms and condition determines whether it is appropriate or not. If you want to try online therapy, research thorough for the therapists, read reviews and ask questions. Hunting the right therapist might be a time consuming process but it is worth making effort.