5 Reasons You Should Try Online Therapy
Person with laptop with small dog beside them.
So, it’s here. Online therapy, telehealth, tele-mental health, tele-therapy, distance therapy, distance counseling—whatever you want to call it, therapy using technology is here to stay. We were heading in this direction prior to COVID, but there were still a lot of doubters out there. COVID sped up the process significantly and showed us that it could be done, but maybe you’re still hesitant. (And that’s ok!) So here are five excellent reasons you should consider tele-therapy. Buckle up, and let’s dive in.
It works.
Let’s go ahead and tackle the big one here first, because this is one that’s hard for some therapists, as well as clients to acknowledge. Now, what I am not going to say is that online therapy always works. In fact, in-person therapy doesn’t always work. There are a variety of factors that contribute to the effectiveness of therapy in general. However, current research generally supports the idea that tele-therapy can work, similarly to in person therapy. It is possible to build a strong working relationship within a digital space. This takes some skill on the part of the counselor, so make sure you ask a potential therapist about their training and experience. Listen for things like specific trainings (for example, conferences, classes, or a training like the BC-TMH certification), experience working in a digital environment (beyond the necessity of COVID times), or specific strategies (such as, “I make sure to check in with clients about body language I am seeing, because it may be a little harder to read from a distance.”).
It’s accessible.
You don’t have to live in the same town as your counselor. In fact, you don’t even have to live in the same state if they’re licensed in more than one state. This is a game changer if you don’t have a lot of therapists in where you live or if you live in a small town and happen to see the therapist everywhere where you go and would prefer that not be the case. Which brings me to my next point.
You can access someone with specialized training.
Maybe you don’t have a therapist who works with adolescents in your area, but you have an adolescent who needs counseling. Perhaps you have experienced childhood trauma and want a therapist who has experience in supporting clients who have this in their history. Maybe the only person in your town for a particular speciality area has a waitlist 85 miles long. Online therapy allows you to cast the net across your state for someone qualified to meet your specific needs. It also expands your pool of people to increase the likelihood of finding that unique fit between client and counselor that can really level things up.
Relatedly, online therapy is flexible.
Have kids you have to get off to school in the a.m., a full work day, and then kid and dinner duties in the evening (weird that they need to be fed EVERY day right????)? Got a lunch hour and a quiet space in your car or office? You can do therapy then and with no cross-town drive to a therapist’s office, you likely have time. In other words, you get to choose the “couch.” This can be really helpful when you are trying to make time for therapy (and your own needs) or when you’re feeling anxious about beginning therapy. Wouldn't it be more comfortable to be in your own space, with your own things? You choose the space. Need that special pillow or blanket? Feel better when your pet is present? Can do!
This is a great fit for adolescents.
Have a kiddo who needs some therapy and is feeling somewhat hesitant? This is how they connect already anyway. The medium is familiar, and the distance gives some safety as they decide if they are going to trust this strange adult. Further, some online therapists are able to communicate via phone or text, which may feel even safer for a hesitant adolescent.
AND A BONUS REASON.
(It’s your lucky day!)
Online therapy affords you extra privacy. Perhaps you’re feeling hesitant to attend therapy. I get it. Taking that leap is a big deal. Maybe you don’t know what to expect. Or maybe you’re about to embark on a healing journey that feels scary. Maybe you don’t really want to tell anyone yet that you’re going to therapy, and the idea that they’d see you going there scares you. It’s ok. Therapy is a good thing, and you’re showing strength seeking it even when you’re scared. But maybe you’re contending with some cultural norms that suggest you shouldn’t go or there’s just that ever-present (though inaccurate) voice in your head that says, “Only people with something wrong with them go to therapy.” Online therapy gives you a chance to process that hesitation from the safety of YOUR space.
I hope these reasons have helped you consider reaching out to explore the world of online therapy. If you live in North Carolina or Tennessee and any of these feel true for you, please connect with me and schedule your free consultation to see if online counseling with me is a good fit for you. You will find a welcoming, open, and affirming practice where you will be supported as you challenge yourself to grow. I have specific expertise in self-compassion practices, trauma, relationships, LGBTQ+ affirming practice, and working with adolescents, children, and their caregivers. I look forward to welcoming you to the world of online therapy.
