Most people struggle with their mental health at some point in their life. A fast-paced lifestyle combined with concerns about inflation and making ends meet can leave you feeling overwhelmed and anxious. Lacking someone to talk to about your struggles might tempt you to numb these feelings with drugs or alcohol. Thankfully, you can find the support you need through virtual counseling.
At Promises Brazos Valley, we understand that attending in-person therapy sessions might not be accessible to everyone. But you still deserve to get the help you need to address mental health concerns and co-occurring disorders like addiction. To learn how we can help you get the treatment you need from the comfort of your home through our virtual intensive outpatient program (IOP), call us at 979.426.0086.
What Is Virtual Counseling?
Virtual counseling, also called online therapy or teletherapy, is a modern approach to mental health care that allows you to receive treatment through various digital platforms. You can speak with a licensed therapist over the phone or on a video chat rather than traveling to their office for an in-person visit. Some platforms even offer therapy via text message.
Teletherapy vs. Traditional Therapy: What to Know
You might wonder why someone would choose virtual counseling instead of the traditional arrangement of meeting with a therapist at their office. Although this was once the only method available to those needing counseling, it proved inaccessible to some. Barriers to receiving in-person therapy can include:
- Lack of transportation – If a person doesn’t drive or own a vehicle, it can be challenging to get to a counselor’s office regularly.
- Lack of local therapists – People living in rural areas may not have a counselor available within a reasonable distance.
- Financial limitations – Traditional therapy can be costly without insurance or if your insurance doesn’t cover your local therapist.
- Mobility issues – If you have limited mobility due to health conditions like arthritis or injuries, traveling to a therapist’s office can be more difficult.
Teletherapy options are increasingly dismantling the roadblocks that prevent people from addressing their mental health needs.
Is Online Therapy Right for You?
If you’re considering online therapy but aren’t sure it’s the right fit, here are some factors to consider.
Convenience
One of the top reasons many people prefer online therapy is its convenience. You can attend virtual counseling sessions from anywhere as long as you have reliable internet access. If you don’t have internet access at home or your connection is unreliable, contact your local library about the availability of study rooms. Some libraries have private rooms you can reserve in advance, and you can either use one of their digital devices or bring your own.
Comfort
Another benefit of online therapy is comfort. Many people feel more comfortable discussing their problems in a more personal setting. You might be more apt to open up and share your innermost struggles when talking to a therapist through video chat from your couch.
Privacy
Although the stigma about mental health treatment has reduced quite a bit, some still exist. If you’re concerned about others knowing you’re getting therapy, virtual counseling is the perfect choice, as nobody will know you’re receiving treatment unless you choose to tell them.
Accessibility
Online therapy removes many of the hurdles to accessing mental health care. When you can receive therapy online, you no longer have to worry about how to get to your counselor’s office without reliable transportation. Mobility limitations are no longer a deterrent either. And in some cases, virtual counseling may cost less than traditional in-person therapy, making treatment more affordable.
Call Promises Brazos Valley to Get Started on Virtual Counseling
Nothing should hold you back from getting the help you need for your mental health. Virtual counseling is a fantastic option, whether you’ve transportation issues or mobility challenges or feel more comfortable speaking to a counselor from home.
Getting started with online therapy is as simple as calling Promises Brazos Valley at 979.426.0086 or filling out our online form to speak with one of our friendly staff members.