7 reasons to consider online therapy

One of the few positives that came from COVID-19 is the realization that online or virtual appointments can be just as effective and sometimes more efficient. In fact, many patients and therapists now prefer to meet on the computer rather than face to face.

Online appointments mean no hassle for travel which is convenient for those who don't have a means of transportation or money for gas. It's one less major obstacle to face on a path to help that is often full of obstacles.

Those who are in need of a therapist may struggle with either anxiety or depression and both make getting ready, traveling to an appointment, getting there and getting into the office with the therapist very overwhelming. Online meetings take some of that away.

An online session can be done anywhere. Life can be unpredictable especially for those in need of therapy so taking away all the variables except for access to a smartphone or wifi on a computer which even a public library has makes it easily accessible.

Insurance and sliding scales not only still work for online appointments, the initial costs are often lower since you aren't paying the higher premium for in-person care so you still get a high level of care at a lower cost. This isn't always the case, but it doesn't hurt to ask.

Virtual sessions can be a great alternative for those who suffer from chronic illness and can't always leave home. For someone who often has to reschedule due to digestive issues, migraines or chronic pain, they are often able to keep the therapy session and do it from bed.

Ice and other storms have been on the rise the past few years, changing plans for thousands. Thankfully while they knocked out electricity and trapped people at home for days, many were still able to use devices to connect and virtual therapy sessions were still able to happen.

Some suffer from so much trauma and seeing a therapist feels like a huge first step. But in a time when everyone seems to have social media and online chats, a therapy session online can feel like a safer place to start from in the beginning.

There is no one way for therapy to happen and no right or wrong way. But online therapy is one way that takes away some of the issues that many face in traditional therapy and it could be the solution for you. It's a great option.