While the prospect of getting help for a mental health or addiction problem is promising, not all therapists who advertise online are equal. There are potential risks and benefits associated with both in-person and online counseling. “We think about it as an informed choice,” says Dr Maureen Huff, director of the counselling and clinical services at CAMH. “Where you begin that journey really depends on where you’re starting from.”
The following factors may help guide your decision:
Your needs
First, think about what’s going on in your life and what you want to accomplish by seeking counselling. Do you want to focus on one issue, form a stronger support network or simply find someone to talk to about what’s happening?
“Don’t wait until you have everything sorted out in your life before you look for help,” she says. “It won’t come together while you’re waiting.”
Availability of services
If your needs are more time-sensitive, consider how long it may take to find an available therapist who can see you if your needs are more time-sensitive, consider how long it may take to find an available therapist who can see you immediately or soon. It will not be a problem if you consider online therapy platforms like https://washingtoncitypaper.com/article/534154/best-online-therapy/ to use. They may help you solve some issues that you’re worried about.
Your preferences
Consider your own personal preferences and needs. Are you more comfortable meeting in person or do you prefer communicating over other channels like telephone or email? What other factors matter most to you – cost, convenience, confidentiality? Besides, you can always go for in-person therapy sessions when you feel that you need to.
Familiarity with the modality
If you’ve been thinking about online therapy but aren’t sure, consider making an appointment with a therapist who uses this approach. “Together you can decide whether it’s right,” she says. “Doing it with your therapist’s guidance, you may find that it works really well for you.” If it doesn’t feel like a fit, consider something else.
Before choosing an online service, some questions to ask include: How do they ensure confidentiality? Do they keep records of our sessions? What happens if your computer breaks down or if there’s a power outage? How will I know if my therapist is out of town?
Your comfort
How do you feel about the idea of seeking help in this way? Do you feel it is safe and appropriate in your case? Do online counselling options sound like they would work well for you, given what you’re experiencing in your life right now? If not, don’t worry – there are many other choices.
Your health care coverage
Does your insurance plan cover it? Some private insurers and workplace benefits plans pay for face-to-face counselling but not online services. If you’re paying out of pocket, how much is it going to cost you per session and what’s the best option based on your budget? In addition, if your insurance does pay for online counselling, there may be a waiting period before you can access these services.
Your level of risk
Finally, keep in mind what kind of care you need and how risky it is for you to see someone who practices online counselling. For example, would see a counsellor through email or Skype be appropriate if you have a history of addiction and relapse? Or, would the support of an online community be a better fit for your needs?
Remember – the best therapist is one you feel comfortable with and connect with. “You want someone who speaks to you in the language you understand, and one that you feel really safe with,” says Huff.
Conclusion
It can be tough to find the best therapist for you. But keep looking, and don’t give up. “If it’s not right at first, revisit it at another time,” says Huff. Your therapist should check in with you regularly about your progress and may periodically adjust the treatment plan if needed.
Above all, finding a good fit with the right therapist is key. “The biggest predictor of success in counselling is not how long you’ve been in counselling, but whether you feel good about the relationship with your counsellor,”.
