Going beyond the standard sitting in a room talking with your therapist, some therapists/counsellors offer the possibility of e-therapy.
Whilst this may sound uncomfortable at first it offers more advantages than one may think. One advantage e-therapy offers is that there can be a continuation of therapy sessions, even if the client or therapist cannot be physically present for the sessions. Both clients and therapists will feel at ease of not having to find a new therapist or being referred to someone else especially if the relationship is a positive one. Having said that, e-therapy should be offered if the therapy will be as effective as one to one physical sessions or else referral should be suggested. Moreover, some clients find it easier and more private to have an online session in the comfort of their home or any place that they feel at ease to talk rather than being physically present in a clinic which can also provide a sense of shame.
It is suggested that the therapist/counsellor advises the client before an online session takes place that there could be difficulties in the connection system thus there could be the need for some repetition.A disadvantage that there exist is that the therapist cannot examine the body language of the client especially if the client is not looking at the camera directly.
Thus it is adviced that both therapist and client maintain regular contact in order to reap the benefits of online therapy. E-therapy is the way forward with today’s busy lifestyle and technology replacing direct interaction.
Therisa Gambin is a psychology graduate who worked in the HR sector for the past 4 years. She decided to change her career path and thus is at present an intern at Willingness and will continue to focus on psychology practices.