Often, the first thing that comes to mind when people think about online therapy are very large national websites that house therapists from all over the United States. While there are advantages to obtaining your counseling services from national counseling platforms, there may also be some disadvantages depending on your individual needs.
Many people looking for mental health counseling view online therapy services as advantageous because their home environment feels more secure and private. Others choose online therapy platforms because of the sheer number of therapists from which to choose. Some like being able to find a counselor who can see them at the exact time they need. Sometimes, therapists on the larger online websites appear to be highly trained experts, especially when the sites are endorsed by celebrities.
However, there are also potential disadvantages to using online therapy services. There are circumstances in which online counseling is not appropriate. People with severe disorders who have trouble with reality, are very unstable, or who are struggling with self-harm or suicide may be better served by going to the local emergency department. The mental health professionals there can provide any immediate help they may need and then recommend inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, in person therapy or online therapy.
What about a local private practice that offers both online and in person services? Birmingham Anxiety and Trauma Therapy has therapists who offer a hybrid form of therapy that includes both online and in-person options as needed or desired. That’s the best of both worlds, something national online sites do not provide.
