Online therapy

Online therapy

Like many other work activities, therapy has moved into the world of the Internet. Research confirms effectiveness, and online interventions are increasingly viewed positively. In my opinion, the online environment is great, it connects me to the whole world. I can have a meeting in the morning where I speak Czech, in the afternoon I learn how it is going in Mexico. What about therapy, though? Is it ok to confide to the screen? Is it nice to stay at home? As with everything else, there are many advantages and disadvantages to online contact. Therapy is a process in which we often get to intimate topics, and what suits whom in this process is very individual. If you’re still wondering if online therapy is right for you, the following summary may help.

Disadvantages:

  • Technical complexity. “Poor connection will affect call quality. I also have to take care of my computer and all equipment myself.”
  • Contact via monitor screen. The screen shows only a part of the body and you cannot see all the gestures or movements of the body. “Maybe I won’t like it and it will be difficult for me to open up.” It is also not possible to use some common methods, but they can be replaced with others.
  • Personal responsibility. “I don’t get coffee or tissues, I have to take care of that myself.”
  • Space and quiet. “I will not be in the therapist’s office, I must ensure peace and privacy.”
  • Unsuitability for suicidal tendencies or psychotic illnesses. In these cases, face-to-face contact is definitely more appropriate.

Advantages:

  • Availability. “I can be anywhere, like Tenerife.”
  • Accessibility. “I won’t get lost, I’ll avoid looking for a place…”
  • Time. “I don’t have to go anywhere, I won’t waste time in transport, I won’t be late…”
  • Comfort of home. “I can be wearing slippers, having my pillow where I’m fine.”
  • Comfort online. “The Internet is the norm for me. And so I can take the first step, contact the therapist more easily and get on with it.”
  • Choice of therapist. “I don’t have to go anywhere to talk to the chosen therapist.”
  • Availability of dates. “I’m likely to choose faster for online terms.”
  • Suitability for anxiety and depression. “It’s very difficult for me to go anywhere – I don’t have the strength, I’m afraid.”

Is online therapy suitable for me?

Do you already know that you want to try online therapy? Book a session and read how to prepare for it.