Which Kind Of Online Therapy Is The Best Choice For Me?

For many people in the busy world of today, in-person counseling just isn't feasible. Time constraints, transportation challenges, and steep therapy costs can prevent one from getting the help they deserve, making the online therapy model something of a modern miracle.

Affordable, discreet, and backed by fully licensed and experienced mental health professionals, online therapy services allow you to book your sessions around your schedule and speak with a therapist from the comfort and convenience of your preferred space and electronic device.

Just as one therapist won't necessarily suit the needs of every individual, it may be worth your while to determine which online counseling platform best aligns with your personal challenges, values, and individual preferences.

For example, you may be seeking specified help for a troubled teen or relationship in need, or just want something unstructured but nonetheless supportive.

Here we'll discuss some of the most popular types of online therapy, and what may work best for your situation and needs.

When You Prefer A More Traditional Therapy Model

If you're ready to move away from the in-office counseling model but still want a more traditional one-on-one therapy structure, there are a number of highly recommended online platform options to choose from.

Notable sites such as BetterHelp are extremely popular thanks to their simple and straightforward system of directly matching you with one of their licensed professionals. All sessions are conducted via live video or phone chat, with a single membership fee charged per month.

There are no third parties sitting in, and your privacy is absolutely guaranteed, as all therapists adhere to a strict code of doctor-patient confidentiality.

When You're Looking For Relationship Counseling

There may come a time when you and your partner require professional help for your relationship, but aren't sure if online counseling includes couples. The answer is yes!

Online therapy platforms such as regain.us work directly with couples of all lifestyles and statuses (married or unmarried) through fully credentialed therapists, which you and your partner will be matched with upon signing up and providing a bit of information.

From thereon, you and your partner will meet with your therapist at the agreed-upon time via standard e-counseling procedures.

When You Prefer A Christian Counseling Model

One's faith can play a significant role in how they approach life's challenges, which is why many seek the help of a counselor with a shared Christian background.

Combining Biblical teachings with clinically-backed mental health care, an online Christian counseling site such as FaithfulCounseling will match you with a licensed and experienced professional who understands the importance of faith-based counseling.

From there you can arrange to speak with your counselor via live chat, phone, or video conferencing, with most fees charged on a monthly basis.

When Your Teen Needs Help

According to TeenMentalHealth.org, 1 in 5 young people will suffer from a mental illness before reaching adulthood. This can include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and addiction, and it's extremely important that they get the help they need.

If you are concerned about a teen in your life and would like them to speak with a therapist, there are some wonderful platforms such as TeenCounseling.com that allow your teen to speak directly with a professional therapist from the comfort and privacy of their chosen space.

While payment (per week or through a monthly subscription) is covered by the adult guardian, all sessions are confidential, as it's important that your teen feel safe and respected when opening up about personal details.

Additionally, many online teen counseling sites offer support for parents as well.

When You Want Something A Bit More Casual

If you're not looking to commit to a therapist just yet, or prefer a more casual structure, sites such as 7 Cups Of Tea may just be, well, your cup of tea.

Boasting a less formal approach, online counseling sites like the aforementioned 7 Cups and Basis allow you to speak with trained listeners via instant messaging at whatever hour the need arises, with many sites offering additional peer support and volunteer opportunities.

When You're Looking For LGBTQ Support

A study released by Mental Health America found that LGBTQ individuals are 3 times more likely to experience a mental health condition than those who identify as straight, and 4 times more likely to attempt suicide and/or engage in self-harm.

While finding a trusted mental health support base was all but impossible in times prior, today there are a number of resources for members of the LGBTQ community to get the help they need.
Online counseling sites such as PrideCounseling.com provide a platform for individuals to receive affordable, discrete, and empathetic care from trusted professionals, and at the time and place of their convenience via live chat, email, phone, or video conference.

Some Tips To Keep In Mind

Much like an in-office professional, your online therapy choice should ultimately make you feel safe, supported, and on your way to a better state of mind. Don't be afraid to "shop around" so to speak; many online therapy sites offer a trial period or introductory session, which you should take full advantage of.

Fortunately, many platforms operate on a monthly subscription basis or pay-per-session, which means you can cancel without losing precious time or funds.

It's always advisable to read reviews from previous or current users, and don't be afraid to reach out to customer support and prospective therapists alike with any questions or concerns.

Your mental health is the best investment you can make, and thanks to the online counseling model your wellness is more attainable than ever.

Image by StartupStockPhotos from Pixabay 
Image by stokpic from Pixabay