Prior to COVID-19, seeing a therapist usually meant a face-to-face session in a psychologist’s office. Today, online psychologist consultations are the new normal.
With the change in perception and accessibility, the online therapy industry has experienced rapid growth. The increased demand for online sessions is caused by an increase in mental health needs and awareness, and the need to find convenient and inexpensive methods of managing mental health.
Along with this, myths are emerging that make some people doubt the effectiveness of virtual sessions. Here, we’ll try to dispel the most common misconceptions about online therapy.
Research into the effectiveness of online counselling
Many are still sceptical about online psychologist therapy. Patients may worry that the virtual delivery will be less effective or won’t provide a sense of deep contact.
However, research has shown that there is no disadvantage in clinical outcomes from virtual delivery of psychological interventions. In addition to that, there has been a significant increase in therapy completion rates due to the convenience of admin, logistic and privacy benefits that virtual therapy provides. For example, one randomised study has demonstrated that internet-based CBT (Interapy) is highly effective for managing PTSD symptoms, as well as depression, anxiety and dissociation.
Distance therapy is beneficial for people who struggle with:
- Social anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Phobias
- Fear of leaving home
A viable alternative for teenagers, people with mobility challenges and carer responsibilities and those living in remote areas
Online psychologist counselling has proven to be effective and preferred by teenagers. Teenagers tend to be more comfortable with digital technology. With our secure clinical platform, parents can also feel comfortable that their children are receiving support without leaving home.
An individual with mobility challenges or carer responsibilities may face more obstacles when it comes to leaving home. With the convenience of virtual therapy, individuals can still receive all the benefits of psychological counselling without the logistic liability of leaving home.
Individuals living in remote areas may have trouble accessing in-person psychological services. With virtual psychology sessions, not only can you have easy access to psychological support, but you also have access to the most suited therapist across Australia, no matter where you are in the world.
Technical aspects and privacy
Some patients are concerned about being recorded during their sessions. This fear is another myth. We only use clinical platforms that have the highest security standards, and we comply with Australian Privacy Laws, clinical regulations, HIPAA (USA privacy standards) and GDPR (EU privacy standards).
There’s a chance that technical issues may hinder the effectiveness of online therapy. Of course, comfortable and uninterrupted communication does require a reliable Internet connection, a good camera and a well-functioning microphone. These technical aspects won’t diminish the effectiveness of your sessions if you have adequate preparation. Alternatively, our clients can also opt for telephone sessions.
The bottom line
Should you start online psychologist therapy instead of face-to-face sessions? It all depends on your personal needs and comfort. But remote therapy has a number of advantages:
- No need to spend time travelling
- Ability to get help during relocation
- Access to a wide range of specialists from all over Australia
- Lower cost of sessions
The quality of the therapeutic process shouldn’t depend on how sessions are delivered. It’s more about the relationship and trust between the patient and the therapist.
You can book your online psychologist consultation here, and let Limbic Flow match you with the right therapist wherever you are.
