Ever wondered whether online counselling is as effective as physical counselling? This blog is here to address your concerns!
Online counselling, often known as teletherapy or cyber counselling, is a type of therapy in which a client communicates with a mental health practitioner over the internet. Audio/video conferencing or a text-based live chat session (instant messaging) are common ways to conduct a session.
Due to a rise in demand for accessible treatment services, online counselling has been increasingly popular in recent years. Technological advancements such as faster broadband, sharper cameras, and better video conferencing softwares have made this possible. More businesses, including online counselling platforms, are now offering their services online.
Online counselling has grown to be more important as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak and the resulting lockdowns. As a result of social distancing efforts and self-isolation, stress and anxiety levels have reached unprecedented highs since the start of the epidemic. Many have also experienced the unimaginable anguish and loss of loved ones.
A study by the University of Zurich was conducted and 6 therapists were asked to treat 62 patients who were suffering from moderate depression. One group was treated face-to-face and the other group were treated online, both receiving 8 sessions of therapy. The study had the outcome that 57% of patients who completed the online treatment were free of depression, compared to 42% of those who had traditional, face-to-face therapy.
So what exactly are the advantages of online counselling?
Firstly, better access to mental health care is one of the key advantages of online counselling. Travelling to seek help can be difficult for people with physical limitations, those who have caregiving duties (such as parents), and those who live in distant or underserved locations. Online counselling lets people get over the physical limitations of obtaining treatment in person. Couples who live in separate places may find it more convenient to seek counselling online. Otherwise, they would have to schedule meetings just when they’re in the same city or nation.
Secondly, busy schedules and never-ending life admin are common reasons for us to put off, delay, or even cancel counselling appointments. We save time and money by using online services because we can communicate with our therapist from wherever we are. This makes it easier for us to fit a session into our day and maintain our commitment to bettering our health. Not only is online counselling more convenient, but it is also more comfortable. We can talk to our therapist from a comfortable location and feel secure. Online counselling also makes disclosure easier. Connecting with our innermost ideas and sharing them gets easier when we are in a safe environment.
Thirdly, in general, online counselling through a platform is less expensive than in-person counselling. Because of the additional costs of conducting counselling in a physical place, in-person prices are usually higher. Individuals save money on travel expenses because most sessions are held at their homes. Individuals can use it as a feasible form of help because of the cost reductions, especially if they want to have frequent sessions.
With these advantages, online counselling is often the preferred choice when it comes to busy schedules and the need for convenience. Online counselling is as effective as physical counselling and might even be more effective in certain cases. Aventis Wellness is an example of a counselling provider that provides both online counselling and physical counselling, feel free to consult us today!