Thinking about giving online therapy a try but have a few questions? You're not alone! Many people are curious about how online therapy works and whether it's as effective as in-person therapy. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about online therapy to help you decide if it's the right choice for you.
How does online therapy work?
Online therapy involves meeting with a therapist over the internet, typically via video call or messaging platform. You'll discuss your concerns and goals with your therapist and work together to develop a treatment plan. Just like in-person therapy, you'll have regular sessions with your therapist to track your progress and address any issues that come up. The sessions are conducted through a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform to ensure privacy and confidentiality.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Research has shown that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. A systematic review of studies published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that online cognitive behavioral therapy was effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety (Andersson, Cuijpers, & Carlbring, 2014). Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that online therapy was as effective as in-person therapy for treating social anxiety disorder (Proudfoot, Clarke, & Cox, 2009). In fact, some studies have found that online therapy can be more effective in some cases because it allows people to access therapy from the comfort of their own homes and fit sessions into their schedules more easily.
Can I build a strong relationship with my therapist online?
Absolutely! Building a strong therapeutic relationship is an important part of successful therapy, and it's possible to do this through online therapy. Your therapist will work with you to create a supportive and trusting environment where you can feel comfortable opening up and exploring your thoughts and feelings, and platforms like Eversparks are designed specifically to connect you with a provider who understands your upbringing and perspective.
Is online therapy confidential?
Online therapy is just as confidential as in-person therapy, with some additional considerations. For example, you'll want to make sure you're using a secure platform for your sessions and that you're in a private location where others can't overhear your conversations. Your therapist will also review the confidentiality of online therapy with you and answer any questions you have.
Is online therapy right for me?
Online therapy can be a great option for many people, but it's not right for everyone. If you're not comfortable with technology or prefer in-person interaction, it may not be the best choice for you. However, if you're looking for a convenient and flexible way to access therapy and are comfortable using a computer or smartphone, Eversparks online therapy could be a great fit.
What if I need immediate help?
If you're in crisis and need immediate help, online therapy may not be the best option. There are other resources available, such as hotlines and crisis centers, that can provide immediate support. However, if you're experiencing more chronic or long-term issues, online therapy can be a helpful resource for ongoing support.
Online therapy like Eversparks can be a convenient and effective way to access mental health support. If you have any other questions about how teletherapy works, feel free to reach out to us at hello@eversparks.com
References:
Andersson, G., Cuijpers, P., & Carlbring, P. (2014). Internet-based and other computerized psychological treatments for adult depression: A meta-analysis. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, 43(1), 1-6.
Proudfoot, J., Clarke, J., & Cox, B. (2009). A randomised controlled trial of cognitive behaviour therapy for social anxiety disorder delivered via the internet. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 65(5), 553-567.