Did you know that mental health services are not only done at a traditional office? Did you know that some insurance companies are now covering for online therapy? YES! Isn’t that amazing!
Throughout my career as an online therapist many people have asked me if online therapy is actually a thing, and as a matter of fact, yes it is. There have been numerous studies that show providing online therapy is as effective as traditional in-office therapy. Many insurances companies have also gone on board with providing online therapy as an option they cover. Some of the reasons why is to reduce wait time to get an initial appointment, convenience, flexibility and accessibility for members.
In my private practice I see clients mainly struggling with depression and/or anxiety. There are some exceptions in regards to certain mental diagnosis that don’t lend themselves to receiving online treatment like: History of serious mental health issues such as schizophrenia, bipolar or depression that lead to psychotic features, suicidal attempts, or personality disorder.
With that being said let’s get to the nitty gritty about online therapy and how this could be beneficial for you.
You might be a new mom or a woman seeking something less traditional. If this is the case, keep reading. Lets dig into more details of online therapy.
- One of the many questions I get asked by moms is if online therapy is effective in treating maternal mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. The answer is yes, researchers have found that mothers who receive internet-based treatment reported better results for depression, work impairment, and social impairment. Mothers also reported better anxiety scores immediately after they received the treatment. As published in the Journal Psychology Medicine indicate that, “Internet-based treatment could have a positive effect on postpartum depression as a whole, providing new mothers with support at times that are convenient to them.”
- There are also many qualities of online therapy that might fit well with your lifestyle and personality. If you are wondering if online therapy is the right fit for you then check out some of the benefits it provides. If any of these fits what you’re looking for, then yes, online therapy would be a good fit for you.
CONVENIENCE: Therapy sessions can be scheduled during times that are most convenient for you, no travel needed.
COMFORT: You can be in the comfort of your own home, backyard, beach, park, or wherever you feel safe and comfortable.
ACCESSIBILITY: As a new mom or if your lifestyle is very busy, it can be difficult to leave the house or office to attend sessions. Finding the time or child care can be challenging, making it that much more stressful to go to an office for therapy. Online therapy can bridge that gap and make treatment more accessible.
GOOD OPTION FOR REMOTE AREAS: If you live in rural or remote areas in the state of Florida, and are having trouble finding that mental health provider that works with women’s issues/life transition or pregnancy and postpartum mental health, then online therapy is a great option. By providing online therapy I can be with you throughout your journey to recovery and well-being from anywhere in the state of Florida.
STIGMA FREE: No judgment! Do not let the stigma of any mental health disorder prevent you from getting treatment and the support that you need.
- When thinking about online therapy it is given that you might also think about how your privacy would be kept confidential and secure. Don’t worry, only you and I can use and access your information. As an online therapist it is required that I keep the same rules and regulations when it comes to privacy and confidentiality. Thankfully now that online therapy (telemental health) is growing there are many companies that provide secure, private, and HIPPA compliant platforms. In my online private practice I have implemented those same regulations. Online therapy sessions (video or e-mail) are provided through a secure communication platform which provides secure, private, encrypted webmail and HIPPA compliant video for sessions.
- One of the fun ways online therapy is done is by using what you already have. All you need is a comfortable private space, internet access, and a tablet, smart phone, personal computer or laptop. Now a days with all the technology that we have you can basically take your therapy sessions anywhere. It’s definitely great, from the clients’ perspective and therapists’.
This is online therapy in a nutshell. It ‘s easy, convenient and flexible. If you are ready, or have any others questions, then let’s get in touch. Contact me via my website at: https://mamayinbloomcounseling.com/contact/
To learn more on the study done for online therapy and postpartum depression, check out: https://psychcentral.com/news/2013/10/26/internet-therapy-may-ease-postpartum-depression/61212.html
Keep Blooming 🙂
Andrea Arauco, LCSW
