The Benefits of Online Therapy
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in innumerable ways. But, as stressful as lockdowns, social distancing, and ever-changing protocols, such as online therapy, have been for most of us, we have learned much about ourselves as individuals and as a culture.
Another silver lining that has emerged from the pandemic is a new awareness and embracing of treatment tools that have already been available for some time. Telehealth (or telemedicine) and online therapy have been around for decades but have experienced a surge in popularity. Since protocols have currently eased up since lockdowns and quarantines, many people still opt for telemedicine for its convenience. So, whether you are still very cautious about Covid, or you just can’t make your therapy session due to a conflict, telehealth and online therapy can still be of benefit.
Once life gets back to normal, will these virtual tools fall by the wayside? It’s doubtful because they offer too many benefits to patients and providers.
Benefits of Online Therapy
Better Access to Care
In some rural areas of the country, it’s not easy to find qualified mental health therapists. Telehealth would provide access to care to anyone that needs it, regardless of where they live.
Better Integration
Online therapy would allow for the integration of behavioral health care and primary care. This can lead to better outcomes for the patient, depending on your circumstances.
Privacy
Despite the progress we’ve made over the last couple of decades, there is still a stigma attached to mental health treatments. This can stop many people from seeking out the help they need. Telehealth means an individual can receive help from the comfort of their home without anyone knowing.
Convenience
How often do patients cancel appointments or show up late because of other family and/or work responsibilities or traffic jams? Maybe an online therapist for teens in Atlanta, GA would help a teen who has school. Access to online therapy would reduce many of these scenarios.
Safety
Many people who are immunocompromised still don’t feel safe being around other people. And yet, should a person lose access to mental health care because of illness and disease? Certainly not.
What about unsafe weather? In many parts of the country, there are snowstorms, icy roads, and hurricanes that make it impossible to travel safely.
Telehealth allows people to receive the help they need, regardless of any unsafe conditions.
Access for Disabled Populations
Oftentimes the people who need therapy the most are the very people who find it difficult to leave their homes or navigate the outside world, online anxiety treatment in Atlanta, GA would be beneficial for a person with anxiety. Online therapy allows bedridden patients and those with debilitating chronic illnesses access to the help they need.
Why Online Therapy is an Option
While in-person therapy is still ideal, due to the nature of enhancement of relational connection, an abundance of nonverbal queues, and body language engagement, it can prevent loss of access to mental health.
We offer online therapy to patients because we want to help as many people as we can, as safely as possible. If you’d like to explore this style of treatment, please contact us today.
SOURCES:
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/millennial-media/201901/14-benefits-teletherapy-clients
- https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-telepsychiatry
- https://psychcentral.com/blog/is-now-a-good-time-to-try-telehealth-or-online-therapy/
Ready to Start Online Therapy in Georgia?
Finding the time to go to therapy can be tricky, but North Atlanta Psychotherapy understands your time is important. Our team also understands there might be other factors keeping you from attending in-person counseling and we want to accommodate you. To begin online therapy follow these steps:
- Contact us to schedule an appointment
- Meet with one of our caring therapists
- Start online therapy and conveniently receive the help you need
Other Mental Health Services Offered At North Atlanta Psychotherapy
Through online therapy, North Atlanta Psychotherapy can help you with multiple mental health services. These services include anxiety treatment, depression therapy, play therapy, infertility counseling, and grief counseling. We also provide support for men, couples, teens, and children. Feel free to also learn more about how we can support those with bipolar disorder and OCD, or visit our blog or FAQs to learn more today!