Are Online Counseling Services Effective?

If we could choose an upside to the pandemic lockdowns, it would be that mental health and online counseling services became normalized. Due to COVID-19, there was an upward trend toward anxiety and depression, and the mental health community contributed with an ability to reach licensed counselors from the comfort of home.

These online counseling services continue flourishing, but are they as effective as traditional in-person sessions? That’s what we’re exploring today.

Online counseling services compared to traditional counseling

Research has shown that online counseling services can be just as effective as traditional ones for mild to moderate mental health conditions. Online sessions also work well for people struggling with alcoholism, substance abuse, family problems, and other issues.

The pros of traditional counseling

A different environment

Sometimes, moving out of our comfort zone can help us open up to a counselor about problems. If you have issues with a spouse or family member, you may want to meet with a counselor in an office away from the stressor.

Observed behavior

In a traditional setting, the counselor can observe your behavior when they ask you questions or while you discuss specific topics. Body language can help a licensed professional determine if you feel closed off about a subject or more open to suggestions and exploration.

The bond between patient and counselor

You may find it easier to form a bond with your counselor if you can establish a face-to-face rapport. Gauging each other’s reactions may help you relax and feel secure in sharing your problems and concerns.

The cons of traditional counseling

Scheduling conflicts

Sessions may run over for other clients, which can cause a bottleneck effect in scheduling for the day. You may have to wait longer to be seen once you arrive or have difficulty finding a time slot that works for you. Busier counseling centers may need to shorten sessions to accommodate all their clients.

Commutes

Traveling back and forth to counseling sessions may hinder those without a vehicle, as well as disabled clients who live far away. Gasoline prices may also play a role in whether someone can make the drive once or twice a week to see a counselor.

It may be more expensive

When operating out of a building, overhead costs may drive up the cost of counseling. However, many insurances cover limited sessions that may offset your out-of-pocket expenses. Always check with your insurance company before arranging for lengthy therapy treatment.

Traditional counseling is still one of the most effective options for psychotherapy. Family and group therapy seem to do well when clients can interact with each other in person, guided by a counselor.

The pros and cons of online counseling services

The pros of online counseling services

Comfortable, familiar surroundings

You can choose where to hold virtual counseling sessions. You may feel more comfortable in your family room or sun porch. Or you may want the privacy of your bedroom. You can also attend your sessions on your PC, laptop, tablet, or phone.

You may find it easier to share with your counselor if you are in familiar surroundings with a cup of coffee or tea by your side. It may seem like you are chatting with a friend instead of receiving therapy.

Fewer scheduling conflicts

Depending on the counseling center you choose, you may be able to view open time slots in your counselor’s schedule and sign up for the times that work best for you. Unlike traditional counseling in a building, you may have more freedom with scheduling, canceling, and rearranging schedules to meet your needs.

No commute

Online counseling services mean not worrying about traveling to your therapy session. You can attend a session on your lunch break if you have a private area in your workplace. No commuting to an office means lower expenses for you and lowers your risk of being late or missing an appointment due to traffic issues.

The cons of online counseling services

Miscommunication

Online counseling sessions can be a mix of virtual chats, text messages, and phone calls. The problem with text messages is that you cannot always convey tone so that words can be misconstrued.

Miscommunication can create a barrier between you and your counselor. You may take something the counselor says the wrong way and get offended. Try to attend more virtual chats where you can see your counselor’s face compared to quick text messages.

Non-emergency sessions only

Virtual sessions are great for convenience and a relaxed atmosphere. This effectively treats mild to moderate mental conditions and people struggling with other issues that require counseling.

However, if you suffer from a severe case of a mental disorder such as schizophrenia or have suicidal thoughts, you should seek the help of a therapist in person. It may be more difficult to reach a counselor in an emergency by phone or messaging apps. Instead, consider going to a counseling center or hospital immediately.

The counselor cannot see your body language

When you chat with someone virtually, you see only their face. Counselors watch for cues in a person’s body language; screens can limit this view. For example, when you think about a topic or person, you may be unaware of little tics or subconscious movements. Your counselor notices these little changes in your body and can help you explore them further.

Confidentiality

Many people are concerned about how confidential online counseling sessions are compared to in-person office sessions. Computer hackers, either on your end or the counselor’s end, may be able to access personal information.

A thief may access your private conversations if your laptop, tablet, or phone is stolen. Virtual chat sessions are typically conducted on a secure platform, but others may overhear your discussion if you are at home or work.

You may want to opt for a hybrid therapy regimen. For example, you might meet with your counselor at the center monthly for an hour-long session, then meet virtually once a week for 30-45 minutes. Your counselor may also have you text when you feel you need extra support.

The only way to find a format that works for you is to try different things and move outside your comfort zone at least once to see how it feels. Maybe you dislike the idea of a virtual chat because you have never tried it.

Once you do, note how you feel before, during, and after. Were you apprehensive at first? Did you begin to relax during the session as you were sipping a cup of coffee in your own home? Did it feel like you were chatting with a friend? You may find that online counseling is not as complicated as you thought.

Ask your counselor if a hybrid program is right for you. When you contact a counselor for the first time, they will assess your situation. For mild conditions or minor issues where you may only need a counselor a few times, virtual may be all you need to get back on track. Having a little extra support can go a long way in your mental health and how you handle certain situations.

Do not be afraid to leap into counseling. If a format is not working, switch to something different. Your counselor wants to see you improve and move forward. Be open and honest about your sessions and make them work for you. This is your time to heal and recover. You can do this. Try new things and step out toward freedom.

If online counseling services sound like a good fit

Are you in need of online counseling services? Contact our office today to schedule your risk-free assessment and session with a Christian counselor. We would love to help get you back on track.