Is Virtual Therapy Effective?

Is virtual therapy effective?

We live in an increasingly digital world and mental health is no different. While nothing can replace the value of a face to face interaction with a therapist, in a safe and therapeutic environment, times are changing and new avenues are opening up. Not just for the mental health practitioners but for those who seek mental health services as well.

The world has seen a spike in mental health access with the advent of online therapy. It’s broken down the geographical barriers and improved efficiency in terms of time and cost management. How much easier it is to approach therapy when you don’t have to worry about the cost of commuting and time lost on transit and wait times in a clinic. This is especially beneficial to those who need external support for commuting or getting to places– children, older generation, differently abled, and in some cases living in environments where accessing a clinic is difficult.

We, as therapists, are experiencing more consistency from clients on attending periodic sessions. Flexibility is the key feature of online sessions, and this has made the process easy for both the therapist and clients, to stay committed to the process.

Opting for an online session also widens the choice of therapist you have access to and improves the access to specialization and specific treatment needs.

In an in-person session, a therapist has better insight into their client’s non verbal communication and body language and can gauge the emotional state of a client easily. That said, a trained therapist will be able to assess their client’s non verbal cues and read their body language just as effectively in a video session too.

Although virtual sessions are unable to cater to cases where in-person care is required, it is a great starting point to seek help and allow a therapist to assess your needs and guide you towards the right treatment plan.

So, if you have been considering seeking therapy and are looking for the right space to start, then give virtual therapy a try. Better mental health is just a few clicks away.

Dhanya Sukumaran

Founder, Conversations & Care