Online therapy – How it works
With the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, online options of everyday activities have become more popular. From online shopping to online therapy, it seems that life can now be lived almost virtually.
What is online therapy?
Online therapy simply means that a therapist and her client use an online platform for therapy sessions as opposed to in-contact face-to-face sessions. There are a few options available for seeking help online:
- Using an app to improve one’s mental health. These apps are usually created by therapists or, theoretically, rely on expert insight into the realm of mental health.
- Text therapy. This is usually used as part of a broader framework of mental health assistance. Here, clients are given the opportunity to pose quick questions via email or text messaging services to the therapist who, in turn, responds via text and/or facilitates an upcoming meeting to tackle the issue at hand.
- Video-based teletherapy. This modality offers clients the opportunity of accessing face-to-face therapy virtually with an internet connection.
More about Video-based teletherapy
Video-based teletherapy simply means that a client meets with her therapist on an online live-chat platform. With the advancement of technology, most people have access to smart phones or laptops with microphone and video facilities. Popular platforms for online therapy include Zoom and Skype, with Instagram and WhatsApp video call also becoming more common choices.
Pros and cons of online therapy
Online therapy offers quick access, lower cost therapy without the hassle of getting dressed and incurring travel expenses.
However, as with most things, some limitations do exist:
- Privacy. If the session is not delivered over a secure encrypted channel, third-parties could access the session. Another aspect of privacy is seclusion. Are the client and therapist appropriately secluded in their respective areas where they will not be disturbed or overheard?
- Jurisdiction. Depending on laws and guidelines, a therapist may not be licensed to practise internationally.
- Confidentiality versus Duty to Warn. While all efforts are duly taken to ensure proper confidentiality and privacy, therapists generally have a duty to warn officials should they believe a client is at risk or poses a threat. However, if the therapist and client have never met in person or the therapist does not know the client’s physical location, it may be difficult for the therapist to meet their ethical obligations.
- Establishing rapport. For some clients and therapists, establishing rapport may be difficult when they have not met in person. A therapist should keep this limitation in mind and consider using techniques to develop a strong therapeutic bond.
- Clear expectations for communication. Online therapy does not mean that your therapist is accessible 24/7. Clear guidelines should be discussed regarding when and how frequently they may be contacted and what you should do if you experience a mental health emergency.
How to begin
Starting your journey towards improved mental health is not at all complicated. It involves simply making contact with your chosen therapist and booking a session at a time that is mutually suitable. Remember, not all therapists may be a ‘good fit’ for you. However, consider having at least three sessions before deciding whether you would like to stick with that therapist or not. In these three sessions you will learn whether the therapist’s techniques fit your unique needs and personality.
Stay well, inside and out
Waheeda, a.k.a Waydi
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