Is Online Therapy Effective?
Therapy…from your bedroom?
In the ever-changing world of mental health, online therapy is fast becoming one of the most convenient and effective ways to access therapy. What started as a way to cope with the pandemic, online therapy is now a permanent and life-changing solution for many people. Many people who were initially skeptical about online therapy have found it to be not only convenient, but also rewarding. Some people find that they are more comfortable opening up online because they feel safer.
The therapeutic relationship, or “chemistry”, is at the heart of effective therapy, and you can build that sense of connection online. It may not be the exact same experience as sitting across someone on a couch, but that does not mean it’s worse- it’s just different. I started seeing a new therapist right after the Covid-19 pandemic started. We've been working together online since then, and it's been just as helpful as a face-to-face session.
Online Therapy Breaks Down Barriers to Access Therapy
With online therapy, you can access therapy whenever, wherever you want. Here are some of the reasons why online therapy could be right for you:
Transportation Freedom: Ditch the commute! Online therapy is a game-changer for those without easy access to public transportation or a reliable car. Say goodbye to traffic woes and parking hassles.
Childcare Solutions: Juggling parenting and self-care can be challenging. With online therapy, you can seamlessly access sessions during your child's naptime, eliminating the need for childcare.
Tailored to Your Schedule: Busy work or school commitments? Online therapy empowers you to limit your time away from your professional or academic responsibilities. You can even do therapy during a lunch break!
Consistency Across Life Changes: Life transitions, such as moving or attending college out-of-state, can disrupt traditional therapy. Online therapy eliminates the process of starting with a new, local therapist.
More Clinical Options: Online therapy gives you the ability to select a specialist to work with you on your individual needs, as opposed to finding a therapist in your local area. This is particularly helpful if you're in a remote area with limited access to specialized mental health professionals.
What are the Disadvantages of Online Therapy?
There are also some downsides to online therapy. If you have complex mental health issues, you may be better off in a face-to-face setting that can provide a higher level of care. For some people, it’s easier to build a connection with a therapist who’s physically present. You’ll also need to make sure you have a good internet connection.
Ready to See if Online Therapy is Effective for You?
Telehealth can be an effective and convenient tool to access therapy services, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. If you would like to try online therapy or have questions, please reach out for a free 15 minute consultation. As a therapist in Chicago, I see clients locally and online in Illinois, Minnesota, Washington, Indiana, and Michigan.
Online Therapy Services Offered at Empathic Counseling Services in Evanston, Chicago, and Beyond
Ivy Ellis, LCSW PMH-C is a licensed mental health therapist dedicated to helping overwhelmed adults feel better about themselves and their lives in Evanston, Chicago, and beyond. Ivy’s niche specialties include supporting Autistic/ND adults, anxious adults, and pregnant and postpartum women. Ivy, at Empathic Counseling Center, offers online therapy for adults in Illinois, Minnesota, Washington, Indiana, and Michigan.