If you do a search for “counselor near me”, “therapist for anxiety” or “marriage counseling”, the results that you’ll see will almost undoubtably include some online counseling options.
And some questions you might have are:
How do I know if online counseling is right for me?
Are there downsides to online counseling?
Does it cost the same?
Is one more effective than the other?
This post will help answer those questions.
Traditional face-to-face, or in-person therapy, is what most people think of when they think about counseling. It involves going to an office or clinic and meeting with the therapist in person. Online counseling, also known as teletherapy, virtual therapy, or video therapy, has really taken off in the last few years. It is simply conducting the same kind of therapy sessions as in-person but via phone or video. Some therapists will even conduct some counseling services by text messaging or email.
Some advantages of online counseling are:
No travel cost or time
More ability to work around your schedule
Can meet in places like your home, office, or car
More accessibility for those with physical limitations
More accessibility for those who aren't in close proximity to a therapist
Some disadvantages of online counseling are:
It can be more difficult to connect with your therapist
Nonverbal cues can be missed
Some insurances don't cover online counseling
Technical issues can disrupt a session
Data privacy concerns
Not appropriate for everyone, especially those with severe psychiatric illness
Currently, evidence suggests that virtual counseling is as effective as in-person counseling, so it is important that you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of both in making your decision. Not everyone is a good fit for online counseling and not everyone will like it. But online therapy is a great option for those who really want to take that first step but scheduling or accessibility is an issue. Also, most therapists will be happy to answer any questions you may have and can review any of their specific virtual policies with you.
The good news is that Karis Counseling gives you the option of both in-person and online counseling, so depending on your location, you could meet in person one session and virtually the next. This is a great option for those who like the more personal experience of being in-person, but also have times when they need the convenience of online counseling sessions. And at Karis Counseling, the cost is the same.
If you would like to get started, or want help in determining if online counseling is right for you, contact Anna McDonough by emailing anna@karis-counseling.com.
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