Are you considering Online Counseling, but need more information before diving in? Online counseling is mental and emotional health services delivered thru tech devises such as phone, email, chat, and/or video. Maybe you have heard it called these terms also: Tele-mental Health, Virtual Counseling/Therapy, E-Therapy/Counseling. No matter the term, there are many benefits to those who utilize this treatment modality.
These are some of the many benefits to online counseling:
- Studies show online therapy is as effective as in person therapy
- You can cut travel to and from therapy office
- You can choose the location of our session
- Bad weather? No need to cancel
- If you already use FaceTime and Skype, connecting via video for counseling is just as easy
- If you work long hours or even odd hours, Online therapist has flexible hours to fit in your busy schedule.
- A great alternative if you are homebound, a full time care taker, or have small children in your care, as it allows you to attend sessions from home
- You do not need to be an expert in technology to access these type of online services
- Because I’m saving money by not having to rent an office space, I can pass on those savings to you
Counseling sessions with Bienestar C&E are accessed easily, and I can easily walk you through the first connection. If any of the above mentioned benefits resonated with you, then you are on the right track and Online Counseling may be right for you.
Here are several other things you may take into consideration before making a decision:
- Anyone experiencing thoughts of hurting your self or others should seek the help of local hospital or crisis unit immediately, or call the national suicide prevention lifeline at 1800-273-TALK (8255). This will be your first avenue into care and Online Counseling may not be appropriate to attend to your immediate needs.
- Individuals in need of detoxification services from illicit use of substances, should also seek immediate services from community agencies or hospitals.
So, there you have it, but don’t just take my word for it, many studies not only expound on the convenience of online therapy, but also its effectiveness.
If you believe that online counseling is for you, give it a try, you have nothing to lose.
For your wellbeing,
Sarah
Links to articles about effectiveness of online counseling: Article 1, Article 2, Article 3, Article 4, Article 5, Article 6, Article 7. Please note this is not an exhaustive list, as there are many more studies, and also many studies taking place right now, as Online Counseling continues to become more mainstream.
