COVID-19 has had a huge impact on nearly every aspect of our daily lives. Research shows that the pandemic has specifically had a huge impact on women's mental health.
Many of us are dealing with job losses, business closures, or the loss of loved ones. Long-term health issues caused by COVID can also add to stress or anxiety.
Therapy can help you to work through these issues. What do you do if you don't feel safe attending sessions? Try online therapy! Let's take a look at the five benefits of online therapy.
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1. Online Therapy Is COVID Safe
While we move towards a sense of normalcy in our lives, we may still feel nervous about attending appointments. Some of us may still prefer not to leave our houses.
Moving your therapy online is a great way to access the benefits from the safety of your own home. The lack of face-to-face contact reduces your exposure to the virus.
2. It's Easily Accessible
Talking to counselors can feel difficult from a logistics point of view. The travel to and from the appointment takes up time.
Depending on where the counselors are based, you may struggle to find a parking space at peak times of the day. If you're suffering from depression, leaving the house can feel like a huge obstacle.
Choosing online therapy removes these unnecessary sources of stress. The essentials you need is a desktop computer or laptop with a webcam and microphone. You'll need either the Chrome or Firefox web browser and access to the internet.
We also recommend a box of tissues and a quiet space for the maximum level of comfort.
3. Enjoy a Familiar Environment
It's easier to open up and discuss difficult issues when you feel safe. Being in a familiar environment makes this a lot easier to achieve.
You can choose wherever you will feel most comfortable. We ensure privacy will be maintained so make sure you choose a quiet space at your end.
People also find that having counseling sessions from home can remove some of the stigmas around seeking help. Research shows online therapy is just as effective as in-person treatment.
4. Reduce the Cost of Therapy
The overall cost of therapy will likely stay the same as in-person options. Yet you still save on transportation costs.
You can put these savings towards extra sessions. Or perhaps schedule self-care activities that will help support your mental health.
5. Find a Wider Range of Options
You may not always be able to find the right options for treatments in your area. Online therapy gives access to a wider range of therapies and specialists.
Your ideal therapist or therapeutic modality might be in a different city. Online therapy brings them right into your own home.
Get the Help You Deserve
Now you know the top five benefits of online therapy that our Edmonton-based clinic offers. It's a great and effective way to make therapy more accessible and affordable.
Are health worries a concern? It's also a good way to get the help you need while staying safe.
Find out more about scheduling online therapy appointments with Gary J. Meiers, Ph.D., Jo Ann Hammond-Meiers, Ph.D. and Associates Ltd.