Online therapy is one of the newest trends in mental healthcare. Although many clients still choose in-person therapy, online counseling has become an important option for some clients in certain situations. It is not intended for serious mental health issues or illnesses requiring medication, but it can be successful in helping people through difficult life issues like divorce or interpersonal conflict.

A Mental Health Minute by Cristina Frick

Electronic therapy is often conducted through e-mail. Clients ask therapists questions about a situation or express their thoughts and feelings, and the therapist will respond. Internet chats are sometimes used as well, allowing clients to have a “real-time” fifty-minute session on-line. Therapy using web cameras is currently being developed as well.

This method of counseling is surprisingly effective when used in addition to other treatment. One study found that clients who received on-line therapy as a follow-up to inpatient treatment fared better than those who did not receive it. The study made no comparison of on-line follow-up with face-to-face follow-up to see which would be more effective, or which would lead to greater participation by patients.

Another study concluded that on-line therapy is an important source of support for those struggling with addiction.

There are good reasons why someone might seek on-line therapy, like being homebound or wanting anonymity. Other reasons on-line therapy is succeeding include the following:

1. People living in rural areas who do not have easy access to a psychologist can receive therapy.
2. People who could not normally afford therapy can get e-Therapy, via e-mail for as little as $25, or for a flat rate, which is usually cheaper than traditional therapy.
3. People who would not normally seek traditional therapy because of stigma might choose the on-line option.
4. It is convenient for those with difficult schedules.
5. It allows people who are disabled or cannot leave the house to receive treatment.

Although it shows promise in many situations, if you suspect you may have a serious mental illness, such as major depression, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder — and certainly if you are feeling suicidal, you should seek a therapist’s help in person rather than using the online approach. Here are some other cautions about this treatment type:

• The therapist may not even have the client’s real address or contact information should an emergency arise.
• The Internet poses confidentiality issues.
• Many insurance policies do not cover it.
• If web cameras or Skype/voice systems are not used, it may be impossible for therapists to read a client’s vocal tone or body language in order to decipher whether the client is telling the truth.
• It is much harder to build a trusting relationship, which is one of the hallmarks of effective treatment. It may also be harder to build positive regard and empathy for the client. Less attention may be given to the online client.
• Therapist credentials need to be checked carefully.

While it shows promise for clients who might not otherwise receive therapy, it is important that it be conducted ethically and that clients educate themselves about its appropriate use. Learn more about online therapy from USA Today.

Cristina Frick is a contributing writer and volunteer editor at the Good News Network since 2006. She is currently completing her Master’s degree in Clinical and Community Psychology at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and plans to gradute in December.

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