The rise of technology has resulted in many welcome conveniences like remote work in your pajamas and food delivery apps that can have a burrito at your door within minutes. But did you know that you can also receive counseling online? You can learn more about this modern form of therapy and whether it may benefit you at Promises Brazos Valley.
Our team understands that each client is unique and requires a personalized approach to healing from mental health conditions and addiction. We aim to accommodate our clients with various treatment options, including inpatient and outpatient plans and a virtual intensive outpatient program. Call 979.426.0086 today to learn more.
Understanding Virtual Therapy
Virtual therapy is a form of counseling called online therapy or teletherapy. Instead of trekking to your therapist’s office for an appointment, you log on for a video call or wait for a phone call from your counselor at a designated time. Some therapists also offer therapy through text messages or live chat.
Is Online Counseling as Effective as In-Person Therapy?
As with many digital alternatives, some people may wonder whether virtual therapy is as effective for mental health and addiction as traditional in-person counseling. Research has generally shown that both forms of therapy provide equal benefits, so if you prefer to speak to a counselor from the comfort of home, you’ll not have to sacrifice the effectiveness of your treatment.
Who Needs Virtual Therapy?
Despite all the benefits virtual therapy offers, it may not be the right fit for everyone. Before enrolling in an online counseling program, consider whether any of the following apply to you:
- You have mobility issues that make it difficult to travel to a therapist’s office.
- You don’t have reliable transportation.
- You don’t feel comfortable speaking to a counselor in person.
- You worry about someone seeing you going to work from a therapy appointment.
- Your schedule makes it difficult to carve out time to drive to a therapist’s office.
If one or more of the above factors describe your concern, you may be a good candidate for virtual therapy. However, each person’s situation is different, so if you’re struggling with a severe mental health condition or addiction, you may need a more intensive, in-person program. Speak to a mental health professional to find out whether virtual therapy or another treatment program is most appropriate for you.
The Benefits of Virtual Therapy
Why would someone want to receive therapy over Zoom? It turns out there are multiple reasons you may want to try this format for mental health or addiction challenges.
Accessibility
Some people don’t drive or live near a therapist’s office, so getting to a session can be a hassle. With online counseling, therapy comes to you.
Convenience
If you lead a busy life, trying to fit therapy into your day can feel like piling on yet another to-do to your never-ending list of tasks. For many, this is enough of a deterrent to prevent them from seeking help for mental health concerns altogether. Although virtual therapy still requires a time commitment, it’s significantly less when you cut out the commute.
Comfort
Talking to a stranger about your problems may initially feel strange, especially in person. Doing so through a video call or live chat may help you feel more comfortable opening up about your issues. You can also count on confidentiality when receiving online counseling, so no one will need to know unless you tell them.
Enroll in Online Counseling with Promises Brazos Valley
Your mental health is vital to your overall well-being. Don’t let obstacles like a lack of time or transportation stop you from getting the help you need. Call Promises Brazos Valley at 979.426.0086 or fill out our online form to speak to one of our friendly staff members about virtual therapy for mental health and addiction.