It’s not hard to see why online therapy is growing in popularity. For one, we now live in a technology-dominated society; tech is a huge part of modern life – especially for millennials.
Some may be sceptical, but e-therapy undoubtedly has some clear benefits. Here are some of the advantages of online therapy:
1. Accessibility for those with physical limitations
Online therapy provides accessibility to individuals who are disabled or housebound. Mobility can be a big issue when it comes to accessing mental health care. Individuals who are unable to leave their home for various reasons may find online therapy a useful alternative to traditional therapy settings.
2. Convenience and comfort
Many people with mental health issues struggle to motivate themselves to get to the doctors; even just leaving the house can be a challenge. People can find it especially nerve-racking to visit the GP to talk about mental health. It is much easier and more comfortable to talk about such personal matters in the comfort of your own home. The disinhibition effect is a key factor here – people tend to feel more comfortable and confident opening up and discussing problems when they are online, rather than face-to-face.
Since with e- therapy, you will be attending therapy sessions online in the comfort of your own home, you can often schedule your therapy sessions for times that are the most convenient for you.
3. Great for mothers
Becoming a mother is a major life event. It is one of the most exciting and fulfilling adventures a woman can experience in their lives, and also one of the most stressful. Being a mother, would normally involve staying at home for the most part. But because online therapy can be delivered anywhere, this means you could have therapy while still caring for your baby or child.
4. Good option for remote areas
Online therapy offers access to mental health information to people in rural or remote areas. Those who live in such areas simply might not have access to any other form of mental health treatment because there are no mental health practices in their geographic area. E-therapy gives these individuals access to treatment that they might not have otherwise.
5. No waiting lists
GPs have long waiting lists whereas online therapy can can be instant. This is clearly an excellent thing for everyone in need but especially important for those with severe depression – they can’t afford to wait awhile – especially if they may be suicidal.
Some online therapy may offer typed messaging therapy which may not be a great idea for many requiring detailed mental health help and counselling. However, we at Dr Julian offer video call therapy, which is essentially face-to-face therapy, just in the comfort of your own home and at your own convenience.
All of our therapists at Dr Julian are professionally trained and accredited. Visit our website for more info, or download our app.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on Dr Julian. Read the original article.
Dr Julian Nesbitt is the chief executive and founder of Dr Julian. He has been interested in mental health care since his schooldays.
