Efficacy of Online Counseling
Is it an effective means of receiving therapy? In a nutshell… yes!
With advancements in modern technology, new methods of mental health treatment have emerged. Clients now have the flexibility and convenience of receiving quality therapy from their home or office. Although this type of therapy is relatively new, related research more and more plentiful – and so far it shows that online therapy can be just as effective as in person.
Findings indicate that online counseling is making it easier for underserved populations and people living in remote areas to receive treatment. A study examining treatment for eating disorders found that online counseling had several benefits, among them: 1) Increased accessibility for clients who live far away from treatment facilities, and 2) A positive connotation associated with younger age groups and the use of the internet.
A very compelling recent study (Spring 2010) done by the US Army involved 520 soldiers returning from a 15-month deployment in Afghanistan. In this study they compared the ‘virtual counseling’ with traditional face to face counseling. They found that 95% of soldiers and specialists were satisfied by the results and 75% recommended for it to be “shipped downrange” (army jargon for “used in combat”). The study also showed that soldiers may be more likely to speak candidly via webcam than face to face. This led to the doubling of the rate of behavioral health referrals. Brig. Gen. Richard W. Thomas, Army assistant surgeon general stated, “Tele-med accomplishes three things. It expands access, reduces stigma, and enhances continuity of care.”
Another recent study on the effectiveness on online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) on treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) found a significant decrease in the severity of PTSD after treatment. The results further suggested that there was no significant difference between the effectiveness of CBT online and direct face-to-face interaction. Further implications suggest that online therapy in no way hinders therapeutic outcomes, as well as provides an effective means for receiving treatment for post-traumatic stress. With numerous servicemen and women returning from active duty, online therapy should be considered as a valuable resource that can help meet individual and family needs.
The Leavitt Institute believes online therapy should be considered as a viable option. While research supports many possibilities for online therapy, individuals and couples should note that they do not need to live in a remote area to participate in online services. Online therapy is an option for anyone with a high speed internet connection, a microphone, and speakers. If you have questions regarding online therapy, or would like to set up an appointment, please contact the Leavitt Institute for further details.
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