Yes, Online Therapy Works!

There is good news for people who need therapy to help them in their recovery. Research has shown that people who attend online therapy get the same benefits as those who go to treatment in-person.

Socially Distanced, But Not Alone

One of the most significant changes that people in recovery have had to make during the pandemic was socially distancing. The act of remaining at least six feet from people and not hug or touch them has been hard for anyone. People need to connect. We need to be able to give and receive empathy. This is especially true for people in online therapy.

For many people, the pandemic has been a time of crisis. For some people, this means that new symptoms of mental health disorders have begun to intrude on their lives. Depression and anxiety, in particular, are at a high, especially among young adults.

12-step meetings have adapted pretty well to going online, even though it’s not the same as sitting in a room and being able to share or celebrate milestones in-person. People with seniority in recovery saw online meetings as an urgent need, and almost every city with 12-step meetings had to get help from the more tech-savvy members to get set up.

Online Therapy and Tools for Recovery

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective therapy types that can benefit almost anyone in recovery. People participate in their own treatment, focus on destructive patterns and behaviors, and often do “homework” to help them change those behaviors. For many people, learning these skills over video makes no difference; they can still use their therapy effectively and challenge behaviors and negative self-talk.

According to Forbes Magazine, over 14 studies found that “online CBT led to a 50% improvement in symptoms of panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and compulsive gambling disorder.” People also felt less stressed and more energetic, whether their fatigue was from mental illness, stress, or physical health.

In other worse, online therapy works and helps people take back control of their mental well-being.

Reaching People Who Need it Most

For therapists, psychiatrists, and medical professionals, online appointments also helped fill a gap. To reach their clients where they’re at. People in recovery from addiction or mental health disorders are especially vulnerable to isolation and loneliness. A weekly check-in helps clients feel less isolated and more cared valued.

Mental health experts say that even after most of us are vaccinated, online therapy has its place. It will continue to be an essential tool, especially for people in rural areas and other places with limited access.

While the addiction epidemic is still raging, many geographic locations don’t have a treatment bed available when an addicted person is finally ready and willing to get lifesaving help.

Getting Help for Addiction

If you or somebody you love struggles with addiction, online therapy, group sessions, and individual sessions can help you connect to the resources, compassion, and expertise you need to reclaim your life. Get in touch to learn how we can help! You can reach us at 619-363-4767.