Online Therapy Increases Access to Healthcare – Here’s what the Research Shows
Research studies, many of which are listed in bibliography format by the Telemental Health Institute, also indicate that telemental health is equivalent to face-to-face care in various settings and an acceptable alternative. While much of the research tests only the use of videoconferencing as the telehealth modality, a few studies, including two published in 2013, have also shown that asynchronous messaging therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy (Journal of Affective Disorders and Cyberpsychology, Behavior and Networking).
What are the benefits?
- Easier access: Clients who live in remote areas or who have limited mobility or limited access to transportation may be more motivated to participate in online therapy.
- Reduced cost: Online therapy eliminates the costs associated with travel time and gas.
- More consistent therapy: Online therapy decreases absences due to poor weather conditions or sickness, allowing clients to participate in therapy on a regular basis.
- More intense therapy: Online therapy can be scheduled more frequently, as clients do not have to commute long distances.
- Increased progress: Since online therapy provides more intense therapy, it can accelerate progress.
- Better access to specialists: Online therapy can allow individuals in remote areas to get help from specialists who may not be available in their geographic location.
- Psychological comfort: Online therapy can help with eliminating the social stigma related to receiving mental counseling or other therapy.
- Flexibility: Clients have access to more specialists and can select the specialists who can work with their schedules.