Online Mental Health Counseling and how does it stack up against face to face therapy? With the increase in social media and devices we can reach anyone at anytime in the world. This is great if your in need of help immediately and do not know where to turn to. Only an estimated 1/3 of those suffering from mental health issues seek help. Many reasons are travel, finances, lack of availability to get in and see a therapist within a reasonable time period. There is also the stigma people have attached to the idea of getting mental health treatment.
The answer is not always technology as a replacement for face to face therapy. It offers much more flexibility and choices.
There is a lot of strong evidence showing that online therapy can be highly effective. Cognitive behavioral especially. Some research trials show that online therapy is as effective as face to face therapy. Mainly around issues related to depression, anxiety and stress.
Despite the many great benefits, online mental health services does have disadvantages.
Overall it is a great option for those considering therapy but are not able or ready to do in office sessions. Start the work of understanding yourself in relation to the world around you. Any form you choose will only enhance your life tremendously.