Teletherapy is any remote therapy that uses technology to help the therapist and client communicate. Some examples of teletherapy include:

• doing therapy sessions over the phone

• having a group chat for group therapy

• using videoconferencing for individual, couples, or group therapy

• receiving therapy via email or instant messenger

• using apps that connect clients to therapists and offer therapy within the app

 

Benefits of teletherapy 

Teletherapy provides a range of benefits in comparison with traditional therapy.

For therapy clients

Most research suggests that teletherapy can be as effective as in-person therapy. The benefits of seeking research-supported teletherapy with a licensed therapist include:

• Greater access to care: Some people are unable to use traditional therapy due to physical disabilities, geographic location, or scheduling issues.

• Lower costs: Teletherapy may help clients save money on treatment. Clients are also likely to incur fewer therapy-associated expenses when they do not have to travel to receive treatment or pay for child care.

• High satisfaction: Users of quality teletherapy report high satisfaction with treatment.

• More privacy: People who choose teletherapy do not have to sit in busy waiting rooms but can seek treatment in the privacy of their own homes. For some, this alleviates privacy concerns.

• Better public health: The COVID-19 health crisis demonstrates that the ability to seek medical care at home can slow the spread of illness and protect vulnerable populations. Teletherapy allows people to get mental health treatment at home without risking the spread of infection during epidemics and pandemics.

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