Why Online Therapy Can Be a Game-Changer for Clients

By Christine Murray

As I’m in the midst of launching Start Here Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about how I wanted to set up both the counseling and the consulting aspects of the practice. I'll save more thoughts on the consulting side of the practice for other posts, but in this post, I’m sharing why I’m so excited to be focusing exclusively on offering virtual counseling, at least for now.

When I graduated with my Master's degree in 2002, and then my doctoral degree in 2004, never would I have imagined some of the advances that have happened in the counseling field between then and now. Over two decades later, we've seen how technology has had some detrimental effects on people's mental health, especially when they use social media in ways that contribute to anxiety and feeling less-than in comparison to the seemingly-perfect lives of others. 

At the same time, new technologies have emerged that have truly revolutionized the delivery of mental health services and helped to break down barriers to access to mental health services in a way that I could never have imagined would be possible back when I was in graduate school and first entering the counseling profession.

I still really believe in the value of in-person counseling. In my own life, I have sought counseling at different points in time, and I've experienced both in-person counseling services as a client, as well as online counseling services.

I know that many clients still prefer and, in some cases, require in-person counseling support. The value of in-person counseling will never go away, because there can be so much value in sitting in the same room with somebody who is right across from and sharing space with you. And, some clients just are not comfortable with seeking counseling virtually. 

And so while I am embracing online counseling as my service delivery approach for Start Here Counseling and Consulting, I will never completely abandon my belief in the value of in-person counseling and services.

While I deeply value traditional in-person counseling, there are many potential benefits of online therapy for clients. Here are some compelling reasons why virtual mental health services can be a game-changer for many clients:

1. Accessibility beyond geographic borders: Online counseling breaks down geographical barriers, allowing clients to access services from counselors who are licensed in their state, but who may not be located nearby. This means clients can find a counselor who uniquely matches their needs, whether it's a specialized treatment focus, approach, or set of credentials. This is especially beneficial for individuals in rural areas or smaller communities where local counseling options may be limited. Having a diverse range of counselors to choose from gives clients an opportunity to find a provider who aligns with their unique needs and preferences.
2. Convenience and flexibility: The convenience of online therapy is a big draw for clients with busy schedules or logistical challenges. With virtual sessions, clients can skip the commute, waiting rooms, and time constraints often associated with in-person counseling. This flexibility empowers clients to more seamlessly integrate therapy into their lives without disruptions, making it easier to prioritize their mental health in the midst of busy schedule demands.
3. Comfort in familiar spaces: Online counseling can allow clients to seek mental health services from the comfort and safety of their own home environment, assuming they have a private, secure space to connect to the session from. Being in familiar surroundings can enhance clients’ feelings of safety and security, hopefully leading to a more relaxed and open therapy experience. Clients can even maximize their comfort during sessions, such as by using a cozy blanket or by sipping a comforting cup of tea during the session.
4. Reduced stigma and increased privacy: Although the stigma surrounding mental health concerns has decreased significantly in recent years, stigma is still a very present factor for many people today. The virtual format of online counseling can help reduce the stigma associated with seeking therapy, as it provides clients with another option for a way to engage in sessions discreetly from the privacy of their own space. This added level of privacy can encourage more individuals to seek the support they need without concerns about judgment or visibility. 
5. Adaptability to changing needs: The flexibility of online therapy makes it adaptable to clients' changing needs and circumstances. Whether clients prefer a mix of in-person and virtual sessions or exclusively opt for online therapy, they may have the flexibility to adjust based on what works best for them at different stages of their journey, depending on the approaches used by their provider.

Overall, online therapy offers many potential benefits that can empower clients to prioritize their mental health on their terms. The value of in-person services will never go away, and the best cast scenario is that clients will continue to have a lot of options for seeking services in ways that are meaningful, accessible, and responsive to their unique needs.  

The flexibility, accessibility, and personalized experience of virtual counseling can make it a valuable and impactful option for individuals seeking support and growth. If you're considering virtual counseling services, you’ll find a few additional links below to learn more:

• American Psychological Association article: What you need to know about choosing online therapy
• Mental Health America article: How does online therapy work?
• National Center for Health Research article: Does online therapy work?
• Scientific American article: Online talk therapy works as well as an in-person session, a new study shows
• UCLA Health article: Is online therapy right for you?
• University of Colorado Counseling Center: Telehealth vs. In-Person Therapy
• VeryWellMind article: The pros and cons of online therapy
• WebMD article: What to know about online therapy for mental health