Last year Nest founder, Tracy posted her experiences of offering & receiving online therapy, fast forward to 2021, and we have all had a LOT more experience in telehealth delivery and I recently completed the AOTT Level 1 Online Therapy Fundamentals course which has prompted me to share my musings…
What is it?
There are so many ways to describe online therapy, it can get a bit confusing to say the least!
- e-therapy
- internet or web therapy
- telehealth
What do they all mean? Here are some basics around online therapy and how it can have the potential to be just as, and in some cases more, useful for people compared to face-to-face therapy. So, let’s start with some basics, what exactly is online therapy?
Online therapy is a type of therapy offered over the internet, usually via teleconferencing software or apps but it can also include emails, instant chat services such as Lifeline or Beyond Blue and some providers offer virtual reality too (McDonald, 2021). It’s a way to provide support to people where it isn’t possible or preferred to conduct face-to-face sessions. It has grown in popularity, particularly over the last year in response to the lockdowns because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Are there any benefits to online therapy?
Our team and our clients think so, they include:
- Accessibility – this is particularly important if you live in a rural or regional area, or if a specialised service is not near you. Online therapy can increase access for people that may experience difficulties accessing traditional face to face sessions. Accessibility can also assist individuals experiencing mobility challenges or have issues attending therapy practices.
- Convenience and Flexibility – Sessions can occur in the comfort of your own home or wherever your choice of venue is, so it can eliminate the need for travel. Some therapists have increased availability for the same reasons.
- Privacy – accessing therapy at home means you can schedule your appointments when no one is home and have no concerns about who you may see visiting a practice in the community.
Ok, is there anything I should be worried about when it comes to online therapy?
We do recognise that whilst it is a great option for some, it can be less beneficial for others. Things to consider:
- Confidentiality – ensure your therapist only uses platforms that ensure your privacy and confidentiality are maintained – encrypted software, meeting guidelines set by acts such as the HIPAA, GDPR and The Privacy Act of 1988 (McDonald, 2021).
- Unreliable technology – internet connections, software, hardware and user experience can all present challenges when receiving online therapy. Ensure your therapist discusses their back up plan with you before your session begins.
- Lack of physical contact – some people may struggle with the digital element of online therapy and prefer direct human contact.
So, is it better or worse than face to face therapy?
You might be wondering how effective online therapy is. Fortunately, there is growing research that supports its efficacy. A review of 17 studies found that when it came to reducing the severity of depression symptoms, online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) was more effective than face-to-face CBT: A comparison of electronically-delivered and face to face cognitive behavioural therapies in depressive disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Here are a few more articles highlighting how effective online therapy can be:
Internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy in the treatment of psychiatric illness
Usefulness of telepsychiatry: A critical evaluation of videoconferencing-based approaches.
What’s my take on online therapy?
I am currently using online therapy for the majority of my appointments. At Nest we use our Zoom licensed business account, however Zoom is FREE for a basic account and easy to download onto multiple devices (https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/360034967471-Getting-started-guide-for-new-users ).
I always ensure I have my client’s contact number if we are unable to get connected and delivering sessions to clients via zoom has been an incredible experience. Initially it took some time getting used to and adapting to changes in connection, audio, video, etc but I love offering it to clients. It’s increased my availability and flexibility with providing counselling. I was particularly worried moving my couples’ sessions to online therapy but the reality is I am still able to maintain that connection and rapport with my clients regardless of whether I am in the same room as them or counselling via a screen. Feedback has been incredibly positive from both individuals and couples.
Ok, you’ve convinced me that online therapy is great, what’s next?
Our therapists are trained and equipped to provide safe and professional online therapy. If you would like more information about the sessions we offer and our availability or whether online therapy might be right for you, reach out to us.
Free 10-minute consultation – just one click away
https://www.halaxy.com/book/nest-psychotherapy-counselling/location/360311
Sources: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-online-therapy-2795752
If you are a practitioner wanting to learn more about providing telehealth, Nest would like to acknowledge the fantastic work of Renee McDonald from Australian Online Therapy Training. Renee offers a variety of courses providing therapists with the skills and knowledge to provide effective online therapy. For more information go to https://aott.com.au/corporate-training/
Bryan McDade, Registered ACA Counsellor & Gottman Lvl 2 trained Couples therapist
If you are struggling and have questions about our counselling services please contact us 0484 223 042
