Long gone are the days when you need to book an appointment to see a therapist. The digital age has given us more convenient options to seek therapy from the comfort of our laptops. With the growing popularity of online therapy, here are the essentials you should know before booking a session.
It’s Convenient
You can book a session with the click of a button on your laptop or by downloading an app. Whenever you feel like you need to talk to a psychologist, you can get online and arrange an appointment. You can also book something up at any time of the day. Therapists and psychologists are available on demand around the world. This means you schedule your time for whenever it works best for you. You won’t need to travel to get to the office. Instead, you fire up your laptop and can start your session.
You Need to Research Your Therapist
Not every online therapist has the same qualifications or can perform every type of session. If you feel uncomfortable about opening up to a stranger, it will take time to build rapport with your psychologist. And if you’re planning on taking therapy over the long-term, it might be better to book a few calls with different people. Then you’ll get a feel for which one is right for you.
Online Therapy is More Affordable
Compared to traditional therapy, online sessions are typically more affordable. Many people feel like they need to speak to a psychologist to enrich their lives, but they just don’t have the budget. The main advantage of online therapy is that more and more people are able to access the services they need. You can also pay for the amount of time that you need rather than a set time. So you’ll get better value for money.
You Can Choose What Type of Communication Suits You
The biggest benefit is that you can choose whether to conduct your session as an audio call or through text. People with social anxiety would find this a significant advantage compared to traditional methods. If you feel uncomfortable talking to someone face-to-face or over the phone, text-based conversions are going to be much more helpful. You’ll be able to express yourself more clearly and get much more out of your therapy session. Alternatively, if you feel more comfortable talking, then you can arrange that option too. Whichever type of communication you prefer, you’ll be able to find it.
Tailored to Your Specific Needs
Before you book an appointment, you’ll often have the chance to fill in a questionnaire. This helps the psychologist understand your specific needs and tailor a session so that you get the most benefit out of it. As a result, you’re going to have a more efficient session. You’ll also get more value for money. Traditional therapy often involves a getting to know your session at the start of the therapy. Sometimes this can feel frustrating because it delays how long it takes to help you improve your quality of life.
You Have the Same Level of Confidentially
All therapists need to maintain their patient confidentiality. This applies to anyone who speaks to them in the office and through any form of online therapy. If you’re going to try this for the first time, you can feel assured that what you talk about will be completely private. However, you need to go to a reputable specialist. Anyone can set up a website and suddenly claim they’re a psychologist. You should do your due diligence to make sure they’re who they say they are.
Online Therapy Isn’t For Everyone
Despite the advantages, it’s not a suitable alternative for anyone suffering from a more serious psychiatric condition. This includes anything where you need direct treatment or medication. If you do fall into this category, you’ll still need therapy in person. The scope of treatment is very restricted, and only really works best for people with minor conditions.
Should I Go For Online Therapy?
If you’re suffering from a mild condition or just want to improve your quality of life, this type of therapy would work. You’ll have the chance to book a time based on your schedule and will find it more affordable. And all licensed psychologists keep confidentiality as their highest priority. But online therapy isn’t suitable for anyone with more serious and complicated conditions. Or someone who needs medication.