Therapy is…lifesaving and amazing, but historically it has been hard to find, difficult to make time for and often, very expensive. These facts have been a given for a very long time and then, some very smart minds came together and decided to add online therapy into the vast array of things we do and accomplish online. Why not make therapy as convenient as it is to find a date, order groceries, send a gift to your best childhood friend for their birthday, plan the closet you have been drooling over on Pinterest…, you get the idea, online equals convenience. There is less time wasted in a car, in a waiting room, away from your job, family, commitments, more time doing what you need to do, when you need to do it.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the demand for online therapy. According to the American Psychological Association, 85% of psychologists switched to remote services in 2020. Similarly, teletherapy usage rose from 0.3% in 2019 to 35.3% in 2020.
It's completely understandable to still feel hesitant about trying online therapy. Setting out to find a therapist or counselor that you like and really resonates with you can feel more daunting than finding a good pair of jeans! So here are few steps to help you feel more confident towards finding and receiving the help you need and deserve through online therapy:
• Take the time to learn more about online therapy, its benefits, and how it works. Read the FAQ pages to really understand what each site offers, what it costs, how often you will be billed and most importantly, their policy if you wish to change therapists.
• Ask friends and family if they have any experience or recommendations for the many online therapy platforms available and the name of a particular therapist if applicable. Knowing that people you love and trust have had positive experiences can help build confidence to try it for yourself.
• Look for reviews or testimonials from other clients who have used online therapy services. Their feedback can give you insights into the effectiveness and quality of the platform or therapist.
• Start with a trial period, BetterHelp, for example, is subscription based, so you can cancel at any time, no questions asked.
• If you decide to try online therapy, remember, just like in person, you may have to try out a few counselors or therapists until you find the right fit. Don’t get discouraged, this is incredibly normal, if you aren’t meshing with the one you were assigned, speak up, no one wants to waste your time and money!
Therapy is personal, and it's crucial to choose an approach that suits you. If online therapy doesn't fit, try another platform or therapist. Prioritizing your mental well-being is key, and this includes seeking online support.
SupportGroups.com offers a wide range of support groups for individuals dealing with various mental and physical health concerns, addiction and life issues. Our groups can provide a sense of community, understanding, and shared experiences. Here are a few examples of support groups offered:
Anxiety: https://www.supportgroups.com/anxiety
Depression: https://www.supportgroups.com/depression
Addiction: https://www.supportgroups.com/drug
LGBTQ+: https://www.supportgroups.com/gay-and-lesbian
Parenting: https://www.supportgroups.com/parents
We're thrilled to partner with BetterHelp, offering 10% off your first month. You deserve the best, and we're here to help you get it. Click here to get started: www.betterhelp.com/themisunderstood
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Wishing you all the best,
Team SG
