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We are in a new era. Technology advancements have brought improvements to everything, and the mental health world is not an exception. Unlike before, people have access to better and convenient mental health care. E-counseling, which is the latest invention in the mental health sector, has made things easier. More and more individuals realize its benefits and now prefer it to conventional therapy.
The history of e-therapy
Before going deep into the history of e-counseling, let’s first understand what it entails. E-therapy can be termed as the provision of mental health therapy or care through the internet. These services can be offered via video conferencing, email, or real-time chat.
While some forms of teletherapy have been there for over 35 years, the improvement in technology and the introduction of video chat systems has significantly contributed to better services. It has done so by enhancing better penetration of broadband, thus an increased growth of e-therapy.
How does e-therapy work? As mentioned, e-therapy can be performed through video conferencing, or even through an online text-based chat. To break it down for you, let’s have a look at how each of these scenarios works.
Email e-counseling
This is the kind of therapy session that involves the exchange of emails. The clients share their problems, and the therapists suggest to them things to do to deal with whatever challenges they are facing. The best part about this kind of therapy is that it is super flexible, and both the client and the therapist can leave each other emails. Each party will reply at a convenient time. It, however, has to be within 48 hours.
Video chat
Just as the phrase suggests, vide chat or conferencing is the kind of e-counseling where the client and counselor chat through a video call in real-time. It is suitable for individuals that prefer seeing their therapists face-to-face for them to open up. In this case, you do not have a physical meeting to see each other.
Online texting
In this case, both the client and the therapist agree on a mutual time where they will meet in a private chat room virtually and exchange ideas through typing in real-time. This is the best option for anyone who wishes to stay anonymous since you do not have to reveal your real details, and whatever you discuss remains between you and the counselor.
Why are people shifting to e-therapy?
From the points above, it is evident that e-counseling can be considered better than traditional therapy. The invention comes with a range of benefits which include:
- Convenience – you do not have to leave the house to meet with your therapist. You can attend the therapy sessions right from the comfort of your home. Also, you do not have to worry about people judging you as it is super discreet.
- It is affordable – e-therapy has been reviewed as way cheaper than conventional therapy
- Accessibility – with e-counseling, anyone including people in remote areas and those with mobility restrictions can access the services provided they have internet and a smart device
E-therapy has come in as a life savior to make mental health services available to everyone. It is a massive step towards a mentally healthy society and ensuring that everyone gets the care they deserve.
