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Are online therapists safe?
Therapists and patients engaging in online therapy need to be aware of potential security threats to data and private information, including: Computer viruses. Hackers. Damage or theft of devices. Many websites and apps offer free online therapy chat. Online therapy chat allows you to attend therapy sessions via chat room, text, or webcam with a licensed professional in the privacy of your own home. Text-based therapy is also a great option for people who may feel anxious about discussing their problems during a live online session with a mental health provider. Research has found that online therapy can be effective at treating anxiety, depression, and trauma. There is no difference in patient satisfaction depending on whether therapy is online or in-person, and for either method of receiving therapy, the outcomes are better the more sessions someone attends.
Is free online therapy a thing?
Yes, there is such a thing as free online therapy. Some services may offer free or discounted therapy with licensed professionals to certain groups, such as essential workers and People of Color. Others may offer free group chats with trained volunteers. Several studies have found that teletherapy is just as effective as in-person sessions for treating a range of mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression. You may find that virtual therapy is not right for you based on your individual circumstances. Though BetterHelp is not free, it does offer affordable payment plans. Once a client signs up, they will be matched with a digital therapist who meets their needs within 48 hours, with most matches happening within 24 hours. Then, clients can set up a live session from wherever they have internet service. Talkspace is the most convenient and affordable way to improve your mental health. Get matched with a licensed therapist in your state from the comfort of your device, and message via text, audio, and video. Psychotherapy (sometimes called talk therapy) refers to a variety of treatments that aim to help a person identify and change troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. The Value in Therapy Surpasses Monetary Value. Some research shows that psychotherapy (also known as talk therapy) is effective for up to 75% of people. It can improve the behaviors and emotions that are negatively impacting your mental health.
Who is not suitable for online therapy?
Online psychotherapy may not be suitable for all patients, clinical conditions, psychiatric disorders, and problems; it may sometimes be contraindicated, especially in the case of severe mental disorder, or for patients who are highly dysfunctional and/or pose a threat to themselves or others [see (16)]. Individuals fear judgment, change, the unknown, and what they might discover in therapy; additionally, they’re too prideful to admit they need help. Additionally, some people doubt the efficacy of mental health treatment: They’re uncertain it will work or misunderstand how it works. Because a therapy session is totally and completely about you, it isn’t quite a two-way conversation. A therapist or psychiatrist is actually trained to listen. They are not only listening to what you are saying, they are listening for what you are not saying. But beyond that, professionals are divided as to whether it’s a good idea to text clients between sessions about issues that are bridged in therapy itself. Some therapists are open to occasional texts or calls from their clients outside of session, particularly if the client is feeling overwhelmed or particularly low. Is Talkspace free? Talkspace is not a free service, but it is an affordable option for those wishing to improve their mental health through online therapy.