Online therapy is here to stay.
What started as more of a niche solution has become mainstream. Chances are many of your friends and family members work with a therapist they’ve never met in person.
With the
rise in mental health conditions, the ease online therapy offers has made it a welcome, necessary option. According to
one survey from Forbes Health, 63% of people who tried teletherapy found it effective.
What Caused The Increase In Online Therapy?
Teletherapy is not a new concept.
Whether it was over the phone, on a webcam, or through text messages, forms of digital therapy have existed for more than 20 years. Even one of the biggest names in online therapy,
BetterHelp, was founded nearly a decade ago.
But there’s no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic sent the need for online therapy into overdrive. With everyone being forced to adapt to a new normal and traditional therapy becoming less accessible, it was a welcome solution.
According to
Google Trends, even though it has been two years since the initial outbreak, searches for the phrase “online therapy” within the United States have not returned to pre-pandemic levels.
What Are The Benefits Of Online Therapy?
It’s no surprise that many people love online therapy because it:
- Eliminates barriers such as time and travel
- Allows access to therapists who are not local
- Gives people a more convenient, affordable solution
- Offers an experience that may feel less intimidating
- Provides options for people with physical limitations
One common objection is that people with serious mental illness (SMI) would be less likely to adopt and continue with online therapy. However,
according to one study, this wasn’t the case. Conversion rates between SMI and non-SMI populations were similar.
What Are The Negatives Of Online Therapy?
Even with all these benefits, it’s not perfect.
The reality is that not everyone has the necessary technology. Online therapy is only an ideal option if it’s easily accessible. Without the need to leave home and engage face-to-face, this type of therapy can also contribute to feelings of isolation as well as loneliness.
Online therapy can be especially difficult for children. Many have not developed the ability to fully engage and stay focused on a screen. Kids may also not feel safe at home, which could prevent them from opening up.
Who Tends To Find Online Therapy Most Useful?
Online therapy isn’t for everyone, but it could be the right option if you:
- Have limited time or can’t travel
- Want to try therapy from the comfort of home
- Need a more convenient option
- Are comfortable connecting with people online
- Would not otherwise seek out therapy
It can also be an excellent stepping stone into
traditional counseling services. No matter the venue, the most important thing is the people get the help they need.
Headwaters Counseling serves the Fort Wayne area with counseling services as well programs for employee assistance and substance abuse.
