Teletherapy suitability varies by person but can be a valuable tool. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, over 57 million adults in the United States live with a mental illness, yet less than half seek mental health services.
Seeing a mental health professional can be inconvenient or too expensive for some people. Others may feel uncomfortable sitting in an unfamiliar room talking with a stranger. If you can relate to these issues, teletherapy may be right for you.
To determine teletherapy suitability for your mental health needs, it’s crucial to explore the benefits and drawbacks of this mode of therapy. Keep reading to learn more about this convenient form of mental health support.
What Is Teletherapy?
Teletherapy is like traditional therapy but done remotely instead of in person. Remote therapy sessions may take place over the phone, through videoconferencing online or via a designated telehealth platform. You might even receive teletherapy through instant messenger or email.
As with in-person therapy, you get to know your therapist and then talk about what may be bothering you. Teletherapy can be an important tool in mental health support for those who find it fits their needs.
Considerations for Teletherapy Suitability
When considering teletherapy suitability, it’s crucial to explore various factors to determine whether it meets your personal preferences and mental health needs. However, your first concern may be whether it produces positive results.
Research has shown that online therapy effectiveness is comparable to in-person mental health care. Plus, those using teletherapy rarely report a less satisfactory interaction with their virtual therapist compared to traditional methods.
The nature of the issues you wish to address may impact teletherapy suitability. Teletherapy can be effective for anxiety, depression, PTSD and a broad range of other mental health concerns. While it’s suitable for nearly all clients, there are limits.
Another major consideration may be that teletherapy feels awkward to some people. If you feel uncomfortable talking to a therapist over the phone or via a screen, in-person therapy may be more suitable. Those lacking technological proficiency may also be ill-suited for teletherapy.
Benefits of Teletherapy
Teletherapy often removes limitations to traditional mental health care, such as geographic or psychological barriers. Other virtual counseling benefits include:
- Accessibility. Individuals with physical impairments may find traveling to a therapist’s office challenging. It might also be difficult for those living in rural areas to access care in their area. Teletherapy is accessible without leaving home, no matter where you’re located.
- Flexibility. Those who need to find childcare or leave work for traditional therapy may miss sessions. Teletherapy offers scheduling flexibility to work around personal and professional obligations.
- Convenience. Traditional therapy requires more time. Teletherapy conveniently eliminates time spent in traffic and waiting for your turn once you arrive.
- Cost-effectiveness. Depending on the service, teletherapy may be cheaper than in-person care, even with insurance. Plus, you eliminate the added costs of travel and childcare if applicable.
- Increased privacy. Teletherapy doesn’t require you to sit in a waiting room. You can have your sessions in the privacy of your own home.
Limitations and Drawbacks of Teletherapy
Despite the many benefits, teletherapy also has some distinct limitations. Some prospective patients still face access-to-care issues, such as poor internet service. Other drawbacks that impact telehealth suitability include:
- Loss of nonverbal cues. Therapists don’t just listen to their clients. They also look for physical cues that they’re in distress. Virtual therapy can eliminate nonverbal cues like fidgeting, trembling, poor hygiene and other signals.
- Technical glitches. Technology is convenient but also riddled with glitches. Technical problems can cause disruptions that interfere with therapeutic rapport. Once interrupted, it can be difficult to get back on track, and the session may be a wash.
- Potential distractions. Spouses, kids, pets or noisy neighbors can cause distractions during sessions. Finding a quiet, private space at home may increase stress. Some people may find it easier to focus in a therapist’s office.
- Insurance coverage. Your policy may not include online therapy or the type of online counseling you choose. However, many plans have significantly increased coverage of telehealth services, including teletherapy.
Final Thoughts on Teletherapy
Virtual therapy isn’t a new concept; it’s been used for decades with positive results. While it may take some time to get used to, teletherapy offers a convenient way to access the mental health care you need in the comfort of your home.
If you’re struggling or need support with your mental health, we understand. Our counselors are just a phone call away and available to help 24-7. Call Mental Health Hotline to find a listening ear, emotional support and the right resources to start feeling better.
