There is a lot of talk about online psychotherapy, and alongside those who have tried it and benefited, there are many who are skeptical without having ever tried it. In this article, we want to help clarify the topic by explaining how online psychologists work and the many benefits you can gain!
Why Turn to Psychology?
Many people every day struggle with stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Unfortunately, there are still many taboos and fears surrounding these disorders, primarily the fear of being or seeming crazy.
However, psychotherapy is recognized as an essential healthcare service. Taking care of your mental well-being means taking care of your whole body, committing personally to being happier and learning to feel better with yourself and others.
Consulting a psychologist does not mean you are crazy; rather, it means accepting that you are experiencing discomfort and want to feel better. Thanks to the increased awareness spread worldwide during and after the pandemic, everyone is gradually learning the importance of starting psychotherapy.
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Is Online Therapy Effective?
Before moving forward, let's dispel two major misconceptions: yes, online therapy is effective and yes, online psychologists are real psychologists.
As early as 2017, the National Council of the Order of Psychologists endorsed the validity of online psychotherapy and defined its guidelines. Particular emphasis was placed on applying the same ethical principles and code of conduct used in traditional face-to-face therapy to online therapy as well.
Therefore, the practices and rules applied to online sessions are exactly the same as those for in-person sessions. The only difference is that online therapy is conducted via video using technology and an internet connection, through a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Regarding how therapy works, this is undeniable, but changes happen especially if you want them to. It is essential to commit consistently and stay focused on the goals you want to achieve. Open up as much as possible without filters, cooperate with your psychologist, and build a relationship of mutual trust—only then can you truly benefit from the therapy.
Why Choose Online Psychotherapy?
There are many reasons to turn to online psychology. First of all, consulting an online psychologist can be much more practical for those who don’t have the time or means to visit a private office in person. This way, if work or life circumstances take us far away—even to the other side of the world—we can always continue therapy with our trusted psychologist.
On the other hand, meeting a professional remotely, separated by a screen, comfortably at home, in total safety, in our own environment and surrounded by our belongings, can help us feel immediately at ease. The so-called “screen effect” helps us open up more and seek ongoing support.
Distance has also increased theeffectiveness of the doctor-patient relationship from the professional’s perspective. The therapist can have many more elements and details to reflect on to better understand and know their patient.
Furthermore, the cost of a session with an online therapist is lower compared to a face-to-face meeting. Online consultation is therefore accessible to everyone, both younger people and those facing financial constraints.
How Long Does Online Therapy Last?
Regarding the duration of therapy, this varies depending on the case, the type of therapy chosen, individual situations, and patient needs. Just like traditional therapy, an end date cannot be predicted, but it is important to follow the process through to the end.
Seeking support can be difficult, but even more difficult is seeing it through. Don’t give up on therapy after the first consultation. Continue for all the necessary sessions, no matter how hard it may seem, without skipping weekly appointments. Continuity is essential for your growth and achieving complete mental well-being.
Which Platforms to Choose
During the pandemic and afterward, due to (or thanks to) the necessary distancing, online platforms offering these services have multiplied. One of the most famous in Italy is certainly unobravo, where you can find over 2,000 professionals and choose the option that suits you best.
For some time now, Meeters has also started focusing on mental well-being. We have created a section on our blog full of content that could help you choose the therapy to undertake. Check out our guide to the differences between psychologists and psychotherapists to understand what kind of help you need right now.
In addition to this content, Meeters is also on the front line organizing group or private sessions with professional psychologists. For all information, visit the dedicated event page .
We hope this guide on how online psychologists work has helped you overcome the fears that still stand between you and your well-being. Don’t be afraid to start a growth journey and don’t delay!