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Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy? 

Online therapy can be as valuable and effective as in-person options. In many cases, online therapists can practice the same therapy modalities as in-office therapists, and studies show that it can be more cost-effective. In addition, internet-based treatment offers an immediate or quick solution to finding a provider if you live in a rural or high-demand area.

Without having to pay for a commute or parking, you can reduce the costs of traveling to an appointment and receive therapy in a comfortable location. In addition, many telehealth therapists might work outside of standard business hours, allowing access to a broader base of clients. With these benefits, many therapy clients find online therapy more effective and accessible than in-person therapy.

Can you do therapy online? 

Yes, you can do counseling online. Many clients choose between finding a private practice counselor that offers telehealth services in their state or an online platform that does the matching work for them. Depending on your financial needs, insurance status, and therapy needs, an online therapy platform can be one of the most convenient, cost-effective, and accessible options.

Online therapy services are intended to provide clients access to quality mental health care online regardless of location or ability to pay. If you live in a rural or crowded area, finding a therapist that has openings and meets your needs can be difficult. An online therapy platform lets you find a specialist in your mental health condition, symptoms, or life challenges.

How Much Does Online Therapy Cost?

Online therapy platforms like BetterHelp cost $65to $100 weekly, billed every four weeks depending on your location and therapist availability. Traditional private practice therapists offering telehealth may charge similar fees to in-person therapists, which are, on average, around $100 to $200 per session for individuals and $175 to $275 for couples.

Through an online platform, you can easily change your therapist if you don’t fit with the one you’re matched with, which can reduce initial consultation costs that you might pay with an in-person therapist. In addition, many times you can choose between phone, video, or live chat therapy sessions with your therapist. Both platform and private practice therapists are licensed and experienced. However, you can be sure that therapists are vetted and verified through a platform that does the screening for you.  

Can I use insurance for online therapy?

Major insurance providers may be able to provide benefits for behavioral counseling appointments online if deemed medically necessary. However, not all therapists take insurance, as they must apply to panels to be able to accept your plan. Send a message or call a therapist to discuss their telehealth coverage options.

Insurance may not cover your services if you’re using an online platform. However, many platforms offer weekly rates comparable to co-pays for many insurance providers. Some insurance companies may provide reimbursement for services done through a platform if you send in your receipt. However, this option is not guaranteed and is under the discretion of the insurance provider, not the online platform or therapist.

What is the best online therapy?

The best option for online therapy can be relative to each individuals needs and mental health conditions. Like in-office options, you can choose between modalities and specialties and find an option that works for you. Licensed therapists can work with you to develop a treatment plan using the options available for your unique situation. In addition, if you sign up with an online therapy platform, you can specify your preferences, symptoms, and needs before you get matched with a therapist to ensure you find the best option.  

What are the benefits of online therapy?

Online therapy has many benefits that you may not find with an in-office provider. Many therapy clients enjoy the freedom of participating in therapy via live video or live chat therapy sessions. People who take part in video therapy sessions for treatment often save time and money on commuting to more traditional in-office therapy sessions. In addition, as you don’t have to wait in a waiting room, your therapist can correspond with you from any location with an internet connection.

Internet-based therapy is available for more than just individuals. Couples can also participate in online therapy through platforms like ReGain, priced quite similarly to BetterHelp. At a lower cost, online therapy is often worth it for many clients.

Are there free online therapists?

As therapists go to school for six to 10 years, they provide a premium service with many requirements. Therapists must be licensed and pay fees for continued learning courses yearly. In addition, as they provide a valuable community service, their services come at a cost. Therapists may offer short-term free treatment in-person at free healthcare volunteer clinics, but many therapists do not provide free online therapy. You can often find low-cost services that are more affordable than traditional therapy options through an online platform.

If you’re looking for immediate free crisis support, you can also reach out to one of the following hotlines:

·      National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

·      988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988

·      Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

·      Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.

·      Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386 

·      SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800) 662-4357

·      National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)

·      Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature

·       National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) 

·      Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19

·      Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673

What are the disadvantages of counseling?

Regarding maintaining mental health, there may be some disadvantages to therapy. One of the main concerns for many people who participate in therapy is cost. Online therapy services provide inexpensive alternatives to therapy for those who cannot afford in-person options. 

Although therapy is effective for many, it may be seen as a disadvantage because discomfort can initially occur during sessions. Discussing emotional topics and adverse events can bring up past unwanted emotions or cause fear. In these cases, let your therapist know how you’re feeling, and you can discuss a plan to tackle the symptoms. Sometimes these feelings can improve as you get more comfortable with therapy.

Are online therapy sessions safe? 

Online therapy is a safe alternative to in-person treatment. With this format, you can stay at home while receiving treatment and keep some distance between you and your provider. In addition, you can choose to partake in chat messaging therapy sessions if you’re uncomfortable with phone or video chat due to social anxiety or another challenge.