Finding the right therapist can be a bit like dating. There is endless web research. Interim Outreach. An awkward first phone call. Vulnerable chat. It can all feel quite overwhelming, especially if you need immediate connection and support.
Fortunately, the internet has made it easier than ever to find the right therapist. The pandemic has also made attending weekly therapy sessions more accessible. last year, 37 percent Most mental health visits in the United States are now done online, and the popularity of online treatment shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, the number of mental health telemedicine cases remains. Post-pandemic highs more than any other medical specialty.
Considering all this, you should be practically guaranteed to find someone online that meets your needs. This is much better than finding a gem on a dating site. Read expert-backed tips on how to find a therapist online and find out if they're right for you.
Benefits of virtualization
“Online therapy has many benefits,” he explains. Bisma Anwarprofessional mental health counselors and therapists certified in virtual therapy platforms talk space. “It offers convenience, accessibility, and flexibility.” For these reasons, she says, many clients prefer to meet with therapists in person online. You can use it in between work or meetings without spending extra time preparing or commuting. “Not having to go to a therapist's office is good for people who have busy schedules, have mobility issues, or live in remote areas. Because you're not limited by geographic barriers, Increased access to mental health services.”
Needless to say, online therapy really works.One of the recent studies found Seeing a therapist virtually can be just as effective as meeting in person, especially for people dealing with anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Also, in some cases, instant therapy can be even more effective, especially if you are using an online therapy platform that provides additional communication tools such as text and voice messaging. “Recent research shows that found “Asynchronous messaging therapy, or exchanging text messages with a therapist, is effective in treating a variety of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety,” Anwar explains. “Many people report significant improvements in their health and symptoms.”
Ease of use and accessibility
Being able to text your therapist whenever you're feeling confused is definitely appealing, as is not having to commute to an office across town. But there are other benefits to doing therapy remotely. Many people report that it is much easier to cry, express emotions, and talk freely in their own space. “Some people prefer to work within the safety of their home to address difficult therapeutic topics,” she explains. Stephanie HarimotoCertified Marriage and Family Therapist. Highland Park Therapy In Los Angeles. “Having worked both virtually and in-person, I have never noticed a difference in effectiveness.”
In fact, some therapists say the benefits include: they, too. “By seeing a client's face up close through video, like in a therapy office, you can sometimes notice very subtle facial expressions that you might have missed if you were sitting further away,” he says. I will explain. Elizabeth Morey, PHDonline therapy platform psychotherapist alma. Still, she says it's important to note that online therapy doesn't work for everyone or in every situation. Health professionals, such as those experiencing eating disorders. ” The same is true for children, who may need to engage with clinicians in more nonverbal, dialogical, or play-based ways.
Direct access to the source
Once you decide that online therapy is the right option for you, you may want to do a thorough Google search. While that may work, experts say it's best to take the time to assess your needs first. “What I recommend is to clarify the goals of treatment,” says Harimoto. For example, are you looking to reduce codependency in your relationships? Are you looking for support for sobriety? Are you interested in trying new and popular treatments such as EMDR, or are you interested in trying a new and popular treatment such as EMDR? Prefer therapy? “Prioritizing and understanding your needs before you start your search can give you an edge,” Harimoto explains.
