What is online therapy?

First, let's paint a clear picture. Online counselling and psychotherapy, also known as teletherapy or e-therapy, refers to therapeutic services provided via the internet. This can take the form of video calls or phone calls. But does the absence of a physical setting make counselling and psychotherapy less effective?

What do I need to consider when choosing online therapy?

While online therapy can be as effective as in-person, there are a few points worth considering:

Sometimes, tech issues like poor internet connections can interrupt sessions. In these cases, we may need to switch to audio only. However, this might not feel right for everyone.

Privacy is also essential while working online. I use Zoom because it's a secure platform, but I also encourage you to consider the environment you are in. Does it protect your confidentiality in the way that works best for you?

Does online therapy actually work?

The good news is yes! Research says online works. 

Firstly, for many experiences like depression, anxiety, stress and living with long-term conditions, online psychotherapy has show equivalent results to in-person psychotherapy.

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Being in a private environment of your own choice can make it easier to open up about your experiences. Whether it's from your own home, your car, a forest or a friends place, you can experience greater comfort when you get to do online therapy in a space that feels comfortable for you.

Is it a crisis service?

Online therapy is not a crisis service. If you are in distress, crisis or need urgent help/or are at immediate risk of harm to yourself or someone else, contact your GP or emergency services on 999 immediately. If you are thinking about suicide or self-harm, please contact Samaritans on 116 123, NHS 111, or Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 97.

Online therapy and accessibility:

Many people face multiple barriers to in-person therapy For people living in remote/rural areas, or people who have health related access issues, online therapy can mean support that was previously inaccessible due to it's physical location is made possible from more comfortable locations. In other words, it opens doors to services that might have been previously out of reach.

The bottom line:

In the end, whether you choose online or in-person, the most important aspect of your experience is the therapeutic relationship we grow together. Feeling comfortable and connected is what supports you to build a trusting, safe and self-aware relationship with yourself. So, while online therapy definitely works for many, the best approach is the one that suits your individual needs and circumstances.

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The journey to feeling more resourced to deal with life's challenges is deeply personal. Whether you're navigating it through the lanes of the internet or in-person, what matters most is taking that step towards understanding yourself, your needs and healing.