3 Reasons to Consider Online Therapy

Have you ever thought about talking to a counselor or mental health professional? If so, then online therapy could be a way to get the help you need from the comfort of your own home. Here are 3 reasons to consider online therapy.

This year has been tough. And if a pandemic wasn’t enough, add two hurricanes, winter weather, and life struggles into the mix, and naturally stress levels go up. When everything shut down last year, to help individuals navigate the uncertainty and emotions of this new reality online therapy moved to the forefront of mental health care.

Before COVID, online therapy (also called teletherapy) was starting to become more utilized. Many, if not all the components of in-person therapy are available in an online setting. In fact, many individuals have found online therapy even more beneficial. Here’s why!

It can be more comfortable

First, online therapy can be more comfortable than in-person therapy. You may be more willing to talk about things online rather than in person. Some people feel they can be more open about the struggles they were facing online. During the pandemic, some have reported it makes them feel more safe. For those who feel anxious going into new places, online therapy can be a good first step.

It’s convenient

Next, it’s very convenient. If you have an internet connection and a computer or smartphone with a webcam and microphone, you can show up to your appointment with a click of a button. Many therapy offices have a safe and secure way for you to easily login to your online appointment. This is especially beneficial and convenient if you live far away from your counselor’s office, saving you time and money. Many working professionals find online therapy helpful. They can often meet during their lunch break without having to take time off or leave the office. The ease, flexibility, and convenience can be helpful for those who have time constraints that prevent them from going to a counselor in-person.

It’s accessible

Lastly, it’s accessible. Before the days of online therapy, you were limited to who you could seek help from depending on where you resided. Now, you can access counselors throughout Louisiana. For those who live in rural areas with limited access to mental health care, it allows access to care. Needing to find a counselor with a certain specialty who doesn’t live in your area? This is now available through online therapy. Do you travel for work or other reasons? Through online therapy, you can continue seeing your counselor without having to wait weeks or months before your next appointment. As a counselor, I am grateful for the ability to refer people to fellow colleagues who may be more specialized in a certain area in other parts of the state.

Before quarantine, many insurance plans did not cover online therapy. But, things have changed. Now, many insurance plans cover all types of telehealth services. This makes online therapy more accessible than ever.

Is online therapy right for you?

It is important to know that even with all it’s benefits, online therapy may not be for everyone. First, some individuals prefer and enjoy in-person interactions. For more severe mental health concerns, online therapy is often not enough. More intensive in-person mental health services can prove more effective and beneficial. Also, some types of counseling need in-person facilitation such as animal assisted, play, or art therapy.

No matter whether you choose online or in-person therapy, just know there is help available. I hope this reasons to consider online therapy were helpful. The comfort, convenience, and accessibility online therapy provides can be a great option if you feel hesitant about seeing someone in-person. Asking for help can be the hardest step to take, but it’s a step worth taking.

Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting provides in-person therapy in Alexandria, Louisiana, and online therapy to individuals throughout the state of Louisiana.  Our team of compassionate clinicians are here to help! Contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our clinicians Elizabeth Beebe, EJ Babcock, or Christy Pennison today!