8 Key Benefits of Online Therapy

Benefits of Online Therapy & Counseling

While both in-person and online counseling can be very effective, there are many reasons to choose teletherapy over face-to-face care. Below, we’re exploring some of the most notable benefits of virtual therapy. 

“Online therapy has increased access to care for many people while at the same time making therapy more convenient. Being able to readily access a licensed mental health professional in a convenient way has also decreased the stigma of reaching out for support.”

Talkspace therapist Jill Daino, LCSW-R, BC-TMH

1. Remote therapy lets you access care from where you are

According to a study by Mental Health America, many Americans have limited access to therapy and mental health counseling services. This is especially true if you live in remote or rural areas. Additional barriers exist for anyone who doesn’t have transportation or those who travel for work, are limited on time, or struggle with consistent access. These are just a few reasons why it might be difficult to seek in-person therapy. 

One of the most significant advantages of online therapy sessions is that access to treatment isn’t limited by location. As long as you have reliable internet, you can talk to a therapist from home, or anywhere you happen to be. No longer is getting to an office at a specific time, on a particular day, necessary. Telehealth services have made therapy far more accessible than it’s ever been in the past. 

2. Patients have access to a wide range of mental health professionals

Virtual therapy also gives you access to a broader range of providers. Instead of choosing someone to work with and being limited by location, now it’s possible to focus on seeking help from a therapist who’s the perfect fit for your specific needs.

Many therapists offer specialized treatments, including types of CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and many other treatments that identify and address problematic or unhealthy thought and behavior patterns. Most have a specific area of focus, like treating trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

3. It’s accessible for people with physical limitations

Those who have a disability, are housebound or have other physical limitations often find it difficult to access mental health care. Teletherapy allows you to receive mental health care without leaving your home. In short, online therapy platforms can help people with special accommodations to reach their therapy goals in ways that have been impossible in the past. 

4. Online therapy can be more affordable than in-person care

Cost and ability to pay are common concerns why people can’t afford therapy. In addition to therapy cost, paying for things like gas or childcare can make getting to therapy even more expensive. 

One of the most significant benefits of virtual therapy is that it tends to be more affordable than in-person care. This is especially helpful if you’re seeking therapy without insurance.

5. It’s very convenient 

When you have a lot on your plate, even just finding the time for therapy can feel overwhelming. However, one of the main benefits of online therapy is that sessions can take place conveniently at home. With virtual therapy, you don’t have to worry about finding parking, taking extra time out of your day, dealing with traffic, or driving to appointments. It’s suddenly much easier to fit therapy into a hectic schedule.

6. Ability to schedule more sessions

When you have to travel to appointments or take time off work to see a therapist, you may not be able to schedule as many sessions as you’d like. Since online therapy is so flexible and convenient, it might be possible to schedule additional sessions. 

Illness, bad weather, and other obstacles can also result in needing to cancel appointments. One of the benefits of online counseling sessions is that, barring a significant illness, you’ll never have to miss an appointment due to unforeseen obstacles like these. 

7. Many people feel more comfortable with virtual therapy

Therapy can be intimidating. Being vulnerable or sharing your fears and concerns isn’t always easy. Doing these things in a strange or unfamiliar environment can be even more daunting.

If you’re living with anxiety – especially if you’re anxious about starting therapy – the process might be easier in a space that you’re comfortable in. One of the major advantages of online therapy is you have control over your environment. Whether you want to curl up under a blanket on the couch or talk to your therapist in bed, you’re more likely to be able to put yourself at ease during online or virtual sessions.

8. You can do things on your own terms 

Another one of the benefits of therapy online is that teletherapy can mean mental health care is more approachable. It offers more control over the process. When you use online therapy, you’re free to talk to a therapist on your schedule and in the way that you find most comfortable. 

“One of the many benefits of online therapy is that it can be used in a variety of modalities that allow for clients to use it in ways that best suit them, which increases therapy’s effectiveness. For example, some clients use messaging-based therapy, writing to their therapist each week, while others use video sessions or a combination of both. This flexibility creates opportunities for clients to work with their therapist in whatever manner is most comfortable and effective for them.”

– Talkspace therapist Jill Daino, LCSW-R, BC-TMH

How Effective Is Online Therapy?

All of the benefits sound great, but does online therapy actually work? Not only is online therapy convenient, but research also suggests it’s similar to in-person therapy in terms of efficacy. A study published by the Journal of Telemedicine and e-Health asked participants to compare traditional therapy to online therapy from Talkspace. A whopping more than 80% said that Talkspace was as effective or better than conventional, in-person therapy.

Studies consistently demonstrate the benefits of online counseling. One report shows that Talkspace Unlimited Messaging Therapy can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. A study on mental health and productivity found that people who use Talkspace are happier, more productive, and more capable of solving problems. It’s clear that online therapy is an effective mental health intervention. 

Start Online Therapy Today with Talkspace

While there are many barriers to mental health treatment, teletherapy services have made it substantially more accessible and convenient to seek help. The benefits of online therapy are impressive, and now, thanks to research, we know that it’s just as effective as face-to-face services. Online therapy could be an excellent option if you’re struggling with mental health issues but have found it difficult to get treatment. 

Talkspace makes getting help on your schedule simple. You can connect with a licensed therapist via video, messaging, or your phone, and you can message them any time you need. With Talkspace, you can overcome obstacles, start your therapy journey, and learn how to improve your mental health.

You don’t have to live with the effects of mental health struggles. Online therapy offers affordable, accessible therapy that can change your life for the better. Not sure how to start therapy? Get matched with a licensed therapist today.