Exploring Online Therapy: UK Virtual Counseling Options

Medically reviewed by Elizabeth Erban, LMFT, IMH-E and Nikki Ciletti, M.Ed, LPC
Updated October 23, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team

If you've ever considered looking into online therapy for support with depression, social anxiety, stress, mental health conditions, or day to day life advice, you are not alone. In 2021, over 1.6 million United Kingdom citizens were referred to therapy for mental healthcare within the United Kingdom.  

In addition, the utilization of online therapy and counselling has skyrocketed since 2020. Virtual counselling may be an option for those in the United Kingdom who have found that the standard of care in their area is not up to par with their needs or just want to attend therapy within the comfort of their own home outside of the NHS network.

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Can virtual sessions provide effective mental health support?

According to a study from the University of Zurich, over half of all virtual clients reported ease of depression symptoms after attending remote therapy. In this case, the virtual model exceeded the performance of clients attending in-person counselling.

Three months after the study concluded, over half of all online patients reported no more significant symptoms after seeing their therapists, compared to 42% of conventional therapy patients. 

Similar studies have been produced by the American Psychological Association, and one study demonstrated that counselling online is effective for those dealing with prolonged daily stress (chronic stress).

Online therapy in United Kingdom cities is often carried out through cognitive-behavioral therapy, a talking therapy and proven scientific treatment for teaching patients coping mechanisms and healthy thinking patterns with therapists virtually.

Online counseling for depression, anxiety, and more

Virtual counseling or remote therapy may be utilized for a variety of reasons. For example, many people seek out therapeutic help when experiencing:

  • Depression or anxiety 
  • Symptoms of a personality disorder
  • Symptoms related to autism, ADHD, or dyslexia
  • A learning disorder
  • Life stressors
  • Relationship or marriage concerns
  • Parenting concerns
  • Life changes, such as a new job or moving to a new city 
  • Grief and loss 
  • Distressing physical health symptoms
  • A need for life advice 
  • A medical diagnosis
  • Delusions or hallucinations 
  • Difficulty socializing 
  • Help with improving overall well-being

Addressing other concerns

If you're not sure whether web-based counseling online can benefit you or the issues you face, consider exploring possible therapists. You don't need to have a mental health condition or diagnosis issue to get support from counseling online. In-person and virtual therapists often provide help to those who want to better themselves, learn new life skills, improve wellbeing, or discuss their experiences. Counseling online can be beneficial for anyone wanting to work through current life challenges, self-exploration, or relationship struggles, as well as those with mental health issues.

Mental health support through online therapy: UK options

You may find help through:

  • UK national services
  • Services that have international counseling coverage in the UK
  • Online counseling platforms with certified UK therapists
  • Independent UK therapists who provide telehealth counseling services

Success stories of remote therapy

Anecdotally, many patients have come forward to explain why they felt a difference in seeking an online therapist for mental health. One story published in the New York Times followed Dale Love Callon, who credited virtual therapy with helping him better manage insomnia. "I'm sleeping much better now," he said.
Recently, a Wall Street Journal writer used BetterHelp and called remote therapy a "positive, professional experience." NPR (National Public Radio) interviewed Lauren Kay, who stated her streaming video psychotherapy sessions were better than in-person counseling. She stated the counseling appointments felt friendly and connected.

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What are the benefits of doing therapy online?

There are multiple ways in which working with therapists may be more appealing to some people. Video chat, texting, and phone chat with a virtual therapist may allow patients to feel comfortable telling personal, honest, and vulnerable thoughts and feelings to someone else. There are no physical barriers such as a chair, desk, or uncomfortable office environment. In addition, because the client is attending the therapy session from their own home, they may have a stronger sense of safety; a therapy service may also be easier to reach for those with a busy schedule or limited transportation.

Please note, this is not a substitute if you are in a mental health emergency. Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.

Convenience of virtual counseling sessions

Other advantages to online UK talking therapies with a qualified therapist may include a more straightforward scheduling process, as patients don't have to physically travel to a location and can "log in" whenever needed.

In addition to the above benefits of online therapy, you may feel more connected with your therapist through online counseling. If you have pets, you can introduce them to your counsellor, which may help ease any awkward silent moments as you get to know your therapist.

Finding online therapy: UK virtual therapy options

Research shows that connecting with a counsellor virtually can be a positive experience for those in the UK and beyond.

For example, one study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that people who used BetterHelp experienced a significant decrease in the severity of depression symptoms.

In the United Kingdom, if you're unable to find an in-person counsellor that fits your needs, you might contact a platform such as BetterHelp counselling for individuals, or Regain for couples, that offer mental health services in the UK. You may be able to find a therapy service that suits your needs by searching ‘Online therapy UK’ online. Some services may offer a free introductory session so you can get a good idea what the licensed therapist, therapy process, and general therapy appointment would be like.

Want to give virtual therapy a try?
Join BetterHelp and book an online session

To contact BetterHelp or Regain customer support, email us at contact@regain.us or contact@betterhelp.com. You can also call BetterHelp Support at +1(888)688-9296.

"Working with Salome has been wonderful. She is very thoughtful and understanding. She really listens to what I am saying and is able to recall things from previous sessions that really draw concepts together. I was initially hesitant about working with an online therapist. But, working with Salome has proven to me that online therapy is not only helpful but also convenient."
— BetterHelp member’s review of their therapist

Takeaway

Finding therapy today can be challenging. However, options exist for those looking for fewer barriers to care. Platforms like BetterHelp are available worldwide and offer care, excellence, and healing to those in the United Kingdom looking for support. Whether you’re looking to work with a therapist face to face or online, investing in your well-being can help you live a more fulfilled life.
Schedule your first session today and improve your mental health by reaching out to a fully qualified online therapist. You can also read through other articles on a therapy blog to learn more about the process and benefits of online counseling.
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The information on this page is not intended to be a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. You should not take any action or avoid taking any action without consulting with a qualified mental health professional. For more information, please read our terms of use.
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