Is Online Therapy the New Wave of Counseling Services?
Why Online Therapy?
Let’s be honest, the thought of beginning counseling is already scary enough. You’re telling a complete stranger about your fears, insecurities, and issues that maybe you’ve never told anyone. Therapy requires us to be vulnerable in a space we are unfamiliar with. This can be a scary, especially if you’ve never talked about the hard stuff before. However, if you’ve been to a counseling session or understand the power of talk therapy, you may realize that it's a necessity during difficult times in your life. As a therapist, I will admit, I’ve had my moments when I’ve been in therapy sessions and thought “ I don’t want to say this out loud’. However, as a mental health professional, I know the power of no longer keeping your fears in the dark and having an empathetic witness.
In my experience in session, or from general observations of the negative stigma regarding mental health, there are a few reasons why people don’t come to counseling. Fear of judgment, not knowing what to talk about, wondering if it will work, lack of time, a negative prior experience or cultural stigma. The list could go on and it does. However, with these fears racking up one topic on the move is online therapy which may add an additional stressor to your search for mental health services. The question is does it work and should I be getting on board?
With the recent events of the pandemic, life has looked a little different. Mental health professionals have had to switch from their beloved therapy offices to the internet to serve their communities. This time has been full of uncertainty, but one thing is for sure, we still have a job to do that we are passionate about. So naturally many therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers, went online.
Some may be skeptical as to whether online therapy helps or takes away from the therapeutic relationship. Some common reasons online therapy has been a hot topic recently is people are unsure about the effectiveness, they know they need help, but with a wide range of therapists available, where do you begin to search? So, the concern about the next steps breeds anxiety and uncertainty. I get it. I've been there and I understand, maybe you're wondering “will this help”, or “is this worth it"? I want you to know that online counseling gives you a space to heal past traumas, grow self-worth, strengthen resilience and get support on how to cope during a GLOBAL PANDEMIC. Let’s dive into the depths of online therapy with both its pros and cons.
Let’s talk about your concerns surrounding online counseling
Perhaps you have done counseling prior to covid and you loved the interaction in person with your counselor. The thought of doing online counseling never crossed your mind. Now you’re worried if your experience will be different because you’ve heard good and bad things about it.
Maybe you’re one of those people who hasn’t needed therapy and have been able to cope with lifes and ups-and-downs. However, the recent stress, anxiety, depression, and ever-changing world have put life in a different gear. This has led you to experience more intense bouts of stress, and you’re getting to a point where you can’t handle coping on your own.
If you’re particularly concerned about the health of yourself and others, then most likely, the thought of getting access to health services because of the risk of infection with in-person sessions is definitely off limits to you. Therefore, you’re considering online therapy.
Perhaps the fear of the unknown, confidentiality, or safety of space is what is keeping you from venturing into the world of telehealth therapy.
These are all fair and valid points. The waters we are treading are different from what we could have imagined. However, I like many now online therapists use safe and secure HIPAA compliant software that allows for complete security on both ends. With the help of secure portals, the therapist will know if it is you on the other end and keep your sessions safe. It is important as you look for your online therapy fit, that you know procedures marking confidentiality and security before you start your first session. Make sure you follow up with your therapist, and most importantly, find a space you’re comfortable in to begin your session.
Pros and Cons of Online Therapy
With anything you experiencing in life, there are both pros and cons. Let’s look at both sides of the coin in terms of whether online counseling may or may not be for you. Here are a few of the pros and cons:
Pros of Online Therapy
If you live in a secluded area, you can still receive therapy from anywhere in your state
Better accessibility
Convenient and more affordable
Saving time from commuting to and from appointments
You don’t have to worry about staying in a waiting room
The space you choose is up to you
Cons of Online Therapy
Some counselors don’t accept insurance
Technology glitches or limited access to tech
Not ideal for a more serious psychiatric disorder
Difficult to determine body cues
While there are many pros and cons to online therapy, figuring what works best for you is key. Regardless, there are many well trained mental health professionals who are eager to help you.
How I make the most out of online therapy with online tools
I am one of many therapists who made the switch to online counseling in Phoenix, AZ. I want you to know that when you begin online therapy, therapists are making sure that techniques and modalities are just as effective online, as they are in-person. One modality that has gained in popularity especially after an episode from the show Grey’s Anatomy is EMDR. Many therapists were concerned about whether they could perform this technique virtually. EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) determined that administering EMDR online is effective. Especially with a skilled EMDR therapist performing this technique online. Furthermore, most modalities are effective even virtually with the right training and tools. More research is likely to come in the next few years as more mental health professionals make the switch to telehealth, or begin implementing both in person and online counseling into their practice.
Online therapy tools for kids?
For kids, I use tools such as the Virtual Sandtray App (VSA) and other strategies to engage children. It can be difficult to begin therapy online for children, but I am specialized to work with adolescents and teens in therapy and can still deliver effective therapy.
When it comes to helping kids feel safe and involved in online therapy, some additional techniques I use include different specialized modalities for kids such as play therapy, because let’s face it connecting online isn’t always ideal. Other techniques I use include a VSA or games that help them to feel like they are really invested in the process.
How do online therapy platforms work?
Therapists use all kinds of platforms to ensure a smooth transition to online services. However what is most important is that it is secure, safe, and HIPPA compliant. Having a conversation about informed consent and confidentiality in your first session with a counselor will help set the stage for your therapy experience.
In terms of my platform, I use a secure platform that works on computers and smartphones. All you do is download The Telehealth app by Simple Practice which is a free download to my clients and fill out some questions. While doing online therapy with my clients, some things I’ve run into the area the somatic senses that a therapist usually gains from working with a client in person.
Some tips when you’re working with me or any therapist is to identify your emotions and what is going on internally. The one con of online therapy that many therapists have identified is we understand nonverbal, body language cues as easily as before. Giving all the information you can, even if you personally don’t understand it helps your therapist to provide the best service. Lastly, with the switch to online platforms, many therapists are happy to engage with client feedback. We do take this seriously because we want to make sure we are meeting your needs. If you’re able, always leave feedback for your counselor. I truly value my client’s feedback.
You’re not alone, online therapy can help you.
Ultimately, if you have concerns about online therapy, they are valid. This is new for some therapists, while others have a bit more experience. One thing I can leave you with is the promise that as therapists we will continue to strive toward providing effective therapy services. At the beginning of therapy, it can be a bit awkward. You are just getting to know your counselor. Don’t take a few hiccups as meaning online counseling isn’t for you. Give it a few sessions, and hopefully, you'll begin to see the process working. In therapy, Your therapist will work with you to create an empathetic and engaging environment to help you move through any discomfort. Remember that change doesn’t happen overnight and if you trust the therapy process healing and growth will happen.
Technology Quirks and Therapy
In terms of technology, there can be ups and downs. We all know in the digital age, electronics don’t always work the way we want them to. In my sessions with my clients, to reduce any technology-related distractions or stress, we typically troubleshoot possible issues. We’ll address audio trouble, wi-fi, etc. Then from there, the therapy process begins.
How can you create a safe and healthy space for your counseling sessions?
Online therapy can be a great resource for those who are ready to begin therapy today. However, some may feel a little reluctant due to being in your home. One way that you can increase confidentiality is by creating a confidential space. This can be done by using a noise machine outside your door. Youtube is a great resource to use for finding white noise videos or look on Spotify for playlists. I also encourage you to use headphones during sessions to enhance your privacy in your space. Another idea is to set boundaries with loved ones during session times. You may set rules by telling them this is your time and you’d appreciate not being disturbed. If you’re worried about not feeling comfortable, bring your pets to the session, grab a cup of tea or a cozy blanket.
Regardless of where you’re within the therapy process, this is a great tool that can widen access to a diverse range of therapists. In therapy may the session work for you and don’t be afraid to play around with what makes you most comfortable.
Begin Online Therapy in Phoenix, AZ
If you’re ready to take a leap of faith with a skilled online therapist, Tahirih Herrera LCSW is ready to work with you. At my Online counseling practice in Phoenix, AZ I work with kids, teens, adults, and young children. Services I specialize in are EDMR, Somatic Experiencing, Brainspotting, Trauma, grief and loss, and anxiety treatment. To begin your counseling journey, follow these simple steps:
Learn more about your Arizona online therapist
Begin getting the help you need!
Other Counseling Services Tahirih Herrera LCSW Provides
Other areas of focus and mental health services Tahirih Herrera, LCSW Counseling provides include therapy for children, anxiety treatment, pre-teen therapy, EMDR, trauma, grief and loss counseling, and therapy for teens. All these services are available via online therapy in Arizona. Let’s begin your therapy journey today whether you’re in Tuscon, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale or anywhere in the state. I look forward to speaking with you.