Video Counseling: The New Thing

Tele-mental Health (Video Counseling) has evolved and became so popular that many private practices only offer this service solely. But, it come with many nuances that training is needed to ensure the service is being performed to ethics standards.
The BIGGEST benefit which draws many clients is that it is not another appointment which they have to drive too. They can be at home and in the comforts of their pajama. Who wouldn’t want that? Talk about convenience.
But, I also want to explore the benefits:

• Easily Accessible

  • As stated before, no need to travel anywhere especially if you are far from a therapist who you clicked with or experience transportation barriers. It is possible to build a connection with your therapist as you would if you were in-person. Through facial expressions and tone of voice! It is POSSIBLE.

• Convenience

  • More flexibility with scheduling since it is not another appointment that requires travel time.

• Erasing Stigma

  • Everything has become so technology focused that online therapy may break down barriers of having people feel more comfortable to seek help. People are allowed to seek help in private. Now that is not stating receiving therapy equals shame but as with some things it may take time for others to become comfortable with sharing that they are receiving help through therapy. Everyone’s journey is different!

Now, with every good there is a sprinkle of negatives to consider. I am sure you are reading this blog for transparency, right?!

• Limits on Communication

  • Sometimes we miss verbal and nonverbal cues such as full body language so both parties have to pay attention too tone of voice, eye contact and facial expressions.

• Technological Difficulties

  • There is nothing worst than a failed internet connection! The client sometimes have to be tech savvy depending on the software that they would need to download. It can become frustrating on the client if the system is not user friendly and they may be less inclined to return.

• Ethical Issues

  • Therapist has to be mindful of the software that is utilized since mental health practitioners have a ethical responsibility to protect and maintain confidentiality of their clients

Especially, with COVID-19 if you need to speak to someone please feel free to reach out to a therapist. There are many including myself who are offering telehealth services to those in need.