While many people are just beginning to seek out therapy online, it is actually a practice that has been around for many years. Telehealth therapy is not just valuable for those practicing social distancing. Also referred to as online counseling, it has a variety of other tangible benefits for many.
Benefits of Therapy Online
Access
The proliferation of telemedicine has resulted in access to therapy where there previously had been none. While large cities are abundant in counseling options, rural areas were left with a disproportionately small number of therapy providers. Luckily, innovative internet companies have made some form of online connection a reality almost anywhere. Now, distance is not an issue and mental health providers can connect with the patients who need them. This is especially helpful for those seeking out specialists. Telecounseling has also greatly benefited talented therapists in saturated areas to connect with those who need them most.
Ease
As much as we wish it were not true, there is still a stigma surrounding mental health in many communities. Unfortunately, many who need help have internalized this and do not seek out treatment. Online therapy can not change this, but it can provide a gentler and more private way for some to ease into counseling. The simple act of going to the office of a mental health professional can be overwhelming. With online counseling, you can relax and have your appointment where you feel the safest. Even if traditional therapy is your eventual goal, online sessions can be a great tool to help you actually get to the office. By doing introductions in a “neutral space” you’ll have the opportunity to become acquainted with each other, making your first in-person meeting seem much less daunting.
Comfort and Privacy
Some people are just more comfortable interacting with others online than they are in person. Online therapy can offer them the opportunity to have more relaxed and productive sessions. This is especially true for teens and young adults who may find one-on-one therapy a cause for anxiety. By removing the barrier of in-person interaction, some people feel a sense of ease and are able to better express themselves.
Others find that the benefit of doing therapy online is avoiding the commute or office setting. These things themselves can be extremely panic-inducing for some and the reason treatment is avoided. They create an unpleasant lead-up to the appointment. This can be worse than the session itself and often make the patient too distracted to really see a benefit. With telehealth counseling you can click over to your appointment from watching a movie or writing an email, making the whole experience seem like much easier an undertaking.
Morgan Center For Counseling & Wellbeing
No matter your reasons for seeking out online mental health counseling, Morgan Center is happy to provide secure video telehealth services for you. We serve all of Florida and are eager to create a plan that fits with your lifestyle. It has been shown that teletherapy can be just as effective as in-person treatment. So no matter the roadblocks before, why not see if therapy online is the perfect mental health solution for you?
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