The Benefits of Online Therapy
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in innumerable ways. But, as stressful as this lockdown has been for most of us, we have learned much about ourselves as individuals and as a nation.
Another silver lining that has emerged from this crisis is a new awareness and embracing telehealth. Telehealth and online therapy have been around for decades but are now experiencing a surge in popularity because of the mandatory quarantine.
Once life gets back to normal, will these virtual tools fall by the wayside? It’s doubtful because they simply offer too many benefits to patients and providers. Here are some benefits of online therapy and why you may want to start making the switch:
Better Access to Care
In some rural areas of the country, it’s not easy to find qualified mental health therapists. Online therapy would provide access to care to anyone that needs it, regardless of where they live. People can now access a therapists that has the specialist skills they need which may not be available in their community.
Privacy
Despite the progress we’ve made over the last couple of decades, there is still a stigma attached to mental health treatments. This stops many people from seeking the help they need. Online therapy means an individual can receive help from the comfort of their home without anyone knowing, and avoids the awkwardness that some experience in waiting rooms.
Convenience
Online services bring the help you are looking for right in the comfort of your own home or office. It eliminates lost time driving to and from appointments, or getting caught in traffic and turning up late. For those with children, it often reduces the need to get a baby sitter. Busy couples can even log on from different locations.
Safety
We are currently seeing a situation where it isn’t safe to be around other people. And yet, should a person lose access to mental health care because of illness and disease? Certainly not.
What about unsafe weather? In many parts of the country, there are snowstorms, icy roads, and hurricanes that make it impossible to travel safely.
Online therapy allows people to receive the help they need, regardless of any unsafe conditions.
Effectiveness
When we all started doing telehealth out of necessity there was a fear that it would not be as effective as seeing people face to face. The research to date has put our minds at ease and has demonstrated that online therapy is as effective as face to face therapy.
If you are interested in online help, please reach out and contact me.
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