Online therapy is increasingly popular, especially since the Pandemic.

With many people turning to online therapy sessions and discovering the benefits and convenience, many predict that its growth will continue to extend far beyond.  It has become a permanent fixture in mental health support.

Personally, I have learned that there has been no difference in relation to client outcomes comparing face to face with online work.  I had worked face to face for many years prior to working online from the Pandemic.  Once I got over the initial learning curve regarding IT and tech, I realised that working online actually enables individuals to access therapy more easily, from the comfort of their home or private space and still end therapy achieving the goal they had set for themselves.

Some clients are reluctant to work online. Like me, once people try it, most realise it is the same as face to face working but with added flexibility.  For example, a person who is disabled, can’t drive or a person wants to work with you but they don’t live nearby.  The cost of therapy plus travel cost was another added benefit.

There are many questions I am asked about online therapy, so I decided to compile and answer some common questions below, drawing from my extensive experience of working both face to face and online over the years, which might help you make your own considerations around working online:

How do I access the session?

Prior to every session I set up our Teams meeting in advance which will be sent directly to your Teams app/browser.  The day before our session, I will also send you a reminder of our session with the date and time and the Teams link also bedded into the email for you to click on and connect with ease.

What if my Wi-Fi doesn’t work?

If there is stormy weather it can affect Wi-Fi connection from time to time.  If this happens I will do my utmost to ensure we have our session online, if it is not possible we can revert to telephone for the remainder of the session.

Will my privacy be protected online?

Yes, I work via the Teams platform which gives privacy and confidentiality.  I also use anonymised details on the platform as additional anonymity.

It is important that you also take the necessary precautions to ensure privacy within your home and with your specific electronic devices.

Can online therapy be as effective as traditional face to face therapy?

Yes.  Until we were forced to work online (Pandemic), it wasn’t as popular.  Since then, I have found that the outcomes are the same as when working face to face.

With more people seeking online therapy every year, it is very likely research around this will emerge.

Why should I choose online therapy over traditional face to face therapy?

Online therapy has numerous advantages. For one, it’s convenient. Online therapy fits into your day, and you don’t have to worry about commuting to an office or sitting in a waiting room. It’s accessible for people lacking transportation or living in more rural areas. Many clients prefer the discreet nature of logging in for sessions from wherever they are with minimal disruption to their day.

What equipment for I need for online therapy?

You need an internet connected electronic device like a computer, phone, or tablet with a microphone and webcam.

Beyond technical equipment, it’s crucial to find a space free from distractions, where you’ll be fully comfortable opening up about personal and challenging issues.

 

I hope this has been a helpful read for you regarding online therapy if you have been considering it.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.

 

See you next time.

 

Amy