Telehealth: A Modern Approach to Mental Health
In recent years, online therapy (telehealth) has surged in popularity, offering a convenient and flexible alternative to traditional face-to-face counseling. With the rise of technology and changes in societal attitudes toward mental health, more individuals are turning to virtual therapy options. Here are some key benefits of online therapy that highlight why it might be the right choice for you.
1. Accessibility: One of the best conveniences of telehealth is its accessibility. Can’t make it to the office? No problem! Take your appointment virtually in between work hours or errands throughout your busy day. It cuts commute time for those traveling to the office, which can be a logistical nightmare at times. It’s a flexible alternative to in-person therapy and quickly has become a popular option, especially since the COVID pandemic.
2. Comfort: Therapy can be a vulnerable experience, so to take a session from the comfort of your own home or other safe space enhances some clients’ ability to open up more. This can increase engagement and decrease anxiety for some. Therefore, making therapy more productive and improve outcomes.
3. More Provider Options: Choosing a telehealth option for therapy expands your options for what providers are available. You are no longer limited by what’s available in your immediate area. This can give you greater access to more providers, with differing credentials and specializations. For considerations on choosing a clinician, check out our blog, How to Pick the Right Therapist for You.
4. Flexible Scheduling: Having more provider options also allots for more flexible scheduling. Some therapists who offer remote options may have more evening or even weekend availability. If you’re someone who has a rigid schedule, this may be perfect for you!
5. Anonymity & Privacy: Telehealth also brings automatic anonymity and privacy. If you live in a small town, like me, sometimes people recognize your car. This has been an issue brought to me in the past by clients- that they don’t want other locals seeing their cars in the parking lot of an outpatient clinic. Being in your own home erases those concerns. I’ve also worked with clients who liked the option to speak on the phone to address anxiety, as well as focus on the content of session, rather than the urge to fiddle with their appearance in the self view camera.
6. Continuity of Care: Telehealth creates a more client-centered approach to care. For example, if you are in a transient phase of life as a student bouncing from college town to hometown or an avid traveller, this eliminates having to find a new therapist every new chapter of your life. Of course within limitations- you must be receiving telehealth services from a clinician who is licensed in the state you’re residing in.
Don’t get me wrong, in-person therapy has a lot to offer. However, the benefits listed above now allow telehealth therapy to function in today’s modernized culture quite effortlessly. Give it a try! Maybe even a hybrid in-person/telehealth option suits your needs!
Get Inspired,
Lauren
