Nowadays, with the simple click of the mouse or touching the icon of an App on the mobile, we can have immediate and cheap access to a therapist. This is what many advertisements and banners promise on social networks and web portals that want to take psychotherapy, outside of psychology offices, to any place desired.
Online treatment can, and is, very useful, but we must keep in mind that not everything goes. The online therapist must be asked for the same official training and preparation as the in-person psychologist and, in addition, specific preparation in online therapy. It is not enough to have Skype installed on your laptop or make a WhatsApp video call. Online therapy is much more
We cannot play with our mental health in any way before starting any type of psychological therapy. Regulated and specialized training must be required in the treatment of psychological disorders
So, before you leave your mental health in the hands of anyone, ask them for their membership number, if they are accredited as a clinical or health psychologist, if they have civil liability insurance, the type of therapy they practice and if it is evidence-based. scientific.
Any precaution is insufficient when we talk about taking care of our mental health, it is an issue that must be taken seriously; For this reason, in my psychology center I offer a free telephone interview so that patients can resolve these doubts, and others, that they may have about the therapy process, prices and duration of the sessions.
There is research that has demonstrated the effectiveness of video call treatments similar to the results presented by therapy carried out in person.
These studies ensure that The most important thing for psychotherapy to be effective is the adequate relationship between the psychologist and the patient This relationship of trust can also be achieved remotely, mainly by video call, since we can appreciate the patient’s non-verbal language, in addition to verbal communication.
On the other hand, for video call therapy to be effective and to achieve the necessary trust, it is essential that the patient has a quiet place to do the session and a stable Internet connection.
What problems can we treat by video call?
It is documented that this type of therapy It is effective for major psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, emotional disorders or self-esteem.
Specifically, it has been observed that, in some specific phobias, social anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder, online therapy is beneficial. There are also studies that show therapeutic improvement in depressive disorders.
In some eating disorders, such as body image distortion, weight concerns, bulimia and anorexia, video therapy and follow-up through emails and text messages show very good results.
Likewise, they have investigated its effects on substance abuse, in alcoholism and smoking prevention programs Its effectiveness has been demonstrated in the restructuring of irrational thoughts, suicide prevention, support for chronic illnesses, sexual dysfunctions, insomnia, couples therapy, domestic violence, sex addiction or work stress.
Its effectiveness has also been demonstrated in child psychotherapy Disorders such as encopresis, oppositional-defiant disorder, attention deficit, enuresis and sleep disorders, among others, can be treated effectively by online therapy.
What are the benefits of video call therapy compared to in-person therapy?
These are the benefits that characterize online therapy by video call.
1. Anonymity
Although many people now freely admit that they go to therapy, there is still some of the old stigma that has historically existed about mental health that makes some people keep this topic completely private.
These types of people value the fact that being able to receive quality psychological therapy in the privacy of your home without having to go to physical psychology offices or offices.
2. Confidentiality
Like in-person therapy, online therapy is governed by the psychologist’s code of ethics, so confidentiality in both cases is guaranteed. This happens whenever you go to a registered professional psychologist; if you go to other people, confidentiality could be violated.
3. Privacy
There are times when the patient, being in the privacy of their home, can connect more intensely with their emotions and open up to therapy. This makes communication with the therapist easier being able to work sooner on emotions and problems that could remain hidden.
4. Comfort
Another important aspect to take into account is the comfort of being able to receive treatment from the peace of your home.
5. Agenda
Obviously being able to adapt to a greater schedule, both for the patient and the professional, is a great advantage. At the same time, If the patient travels, whether for pleasure or work, they do not have to stop receiving therapy and the treatment is more effective
Online therapy guarantees, for people who live at great distances from specialized psychologists, quality care without having to spend hours traveling
It also increases coverage and access to people who, due to various circumstances, cannot go to a psychological consultation. Whether they are people with reduced or disabled mobility, people with a disorder that prevents them from leaving the house, etc.
7. Greater follow-up
The certainty and confidence of being able to count on the support of a professional at all times is a huge incentive to maintain motivation between therapy sessions. Whether by email, phone, message or video call, This possibility of immediate contact helps resolve possible doubts before the next session and can also help in times of crisis.
8. Very suitable for young people
Technology greatly attracts younger patients since they are used to making video calls, sending messages and dealing with digital platforms in daily life. For them, an online psychologist can be a greater incentive, as they are digital natives, than a cold and distant office.
Okay! And now… How do I look for a good psychologist online?
Taking into account what was mentioned above, there are many quality offers for this type of therapy. In the Psychology and Mind directory you can find numerous professionals who meet all the necessary guarantees so that you can put your mental health in the best hands. My psychology center is among them, so, if you wish, contact me and start your psychological treatment by video call with all the confidence and professionalism you need.
