Virtual Counselling: The future of Mental Health Support

As people around the globe navigate the effects of the COVID-19 epidemic, there’s an unnoticed epidemic that’s slowly fading away: an increase in mental health issues. But if COVID-19 can teach us something, it’s that the most challenging situations require unprecedented solutions. With regards to the growing demand for treatment for mental illness, virtual counseling has become an effective and efficient alternative to traditional face-to-face therapy.

Virtual counseling, or online counseling, is the future of mental health technology

Teletherapy doesn’t have to be as complex as it may sound

Teletherapy is a type of online service for mental wellness offered through telecommunication platforms, such as phone calls, video chats, and texts. Like traditional therapy, the online therapy process is usually performed by a licensed therapist, counselor, or other health professional. Online therapists provide a variety of treatments, ranging from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to psychodynamic psychotherapy.

If you’re thinking about switching to online counseling, keep in mind that teletherapy isn’t the same as telepsychiatry–which includes services like medication management, mental health diagnosis, and psychiatric assessment. While many online therapy providers provide online psychiatry by a licensed psychiatrist, not all of them do.

Online mental health services are here to stay

As with any other type of treatment for mental health, teletherapy has its own issues, ranging from the quality of care to privacy issues. To get the most benefit from your treatment for mental illness, be sure to work with a skilled therapy provider who is certified and licensed to work in your particular state. Before scheduling an appointment, you should thoroughly research a therapist’s credentials and experience. Additionally, ensure that your sessions are secure by selecting the right therapist or an online therapy service that has a HIPAA-compliant system.

Despite these issues, experts in mental health agree that teletherapy will be around for the long haul, even after the face masks are removed. The future is bright for teletherapy. Experts believe that the field of mental health will be transformed into an integrated model which will include treatment plans that comprise the use of both online therapy sessions as well as in-person sessions.

Teletherapy is just as beneficial as traditional therapies

Research has shown that teletherapy can be effective in treating many mental health problems. One meta-analysis showed that videoconferencing can be just as effective as therapy in person in the majority of instances. A different study, however, found that those who took online CBT for depression saw similar mental health outcomes as people who received in-person CBT.

In the majority of cases, teletherapy or virtual counseling gives easy, private, and secure access to treatment for mental illness. It also eliminates obstacles like scheduling and transportation concerns that many individuals cite as the main reasons why they don’t seek medical treatment for their mental health.

Although the technology to provide online chat therapy was available in the mid-90s, it’s unlikely that the move to online therapy would have occurred without a major event like COVID-19. This is according to the American Psychological Association. If you’re thinking of moving into online counseling or are thinking about taking therapy for the first time in your life, this post will tell you everything you should know about online therapy.

But, it’s important to note that online therapy isn’t suitable for all people. If you’re suffering from severe mental health issues or a serious mental illness like schizophrenia or substance abuse, discuss with your psychiatrist your options for online treatment prior to making the move.

Online therapy platforms can help you find the right fit

The therapeutic relationship that you have with your therapist can affect your mental health even after the therapy has ended. However, if you’ve had in-person sessions with a therapist, you’re probably familiar with the emotionally draining and exhausting search for a psychotherapist.

The good news is that online therapy can help. Online therapy websites like HopeQure allow you to access more therapists without worrying about lengthy travel or scheduling. You may be looking for a specialist in panic attacks, an experienced family therapist, or a skilled social worker who is culturally proficient. Online therapy websites will help you locate the best care provided by an accredited therapist in your area.

For a therapist online, contact an expert in mental health through HopeQure. We’ll match you with an experienced therapist who you feel at ease with, based on your individual preferences and needs. Our experienced and supportive therapists will assist you deal with your mental health issues as well as provide emotional support and live a more peaceful and healthier lifestyle.

Bottom Line

In the wake of the visible mental health epidemic that has gripped the 21st century. Online mental health therapies can ultimately make it easier to access medical treatments to patients who otherwise would not receive treatment at all.