ONLINE THERAPY

Online therapy, also referred to as online psychotherapy or internet therapy, is a remote psychiatric support practice in which individual or group therapy sessions are conducted using internet technologies. Online therapy has been a scientifically established method for many years and has been widely used in various countries, particularly in the United States and Europe. Known as Telepsychiatry, Telepsychology, or Online Psychological Counseling, its development process dates back quite a long time in the global context.

According to research findings, there is no significant difference in effectiveness between online therapy and face-to-face therapy for many psychological conditions. Online therapy has been shown to be effective in treating various disorders such as anxiety disorders, headaches, tinnitus, sleep disorders, major depression, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, complicated grief, and burnout syndrome. However, there is no clear consensus regarding its suitability for psychotic disorders, alcohol and substance use disorders, severe depression, and children under the age of 18.

Today, with online therapy, you can receive psychological support from home using only an internet-connected computer or smartphone, without needing to leave your home. This form of mental health treatment is essentially the same as traditional therapy; the only difference is the method of delivery. A psychiatrist typically schedules weekly sessions lasting around 50 minutes; depending on the client’s needs, these sessions may take place once or twice a week. In other words, as long as you have a stable internet connection, a smartphone, and a camera, you can receive online therapy.

The main advantage of online therapy is the ability to access psychological support from any location and at any time, from any psychiatrist you choose. Flexibility in scheduling, based on both the client’s and therapist’s availability, is another benefit. If in-person sessions have already started but later become difficult to attend, treatment can continue online. Unlike face-to-face therapy, it may also allow individuals to express themselves more comfortably without feeling restricted or bored, which can be especially beneficial for introverted individuals.

Some important advantages of online therapy:

• Time savings
• Comfort and convenience
• Safety and ease
• Confidentiality
• Ability to receive therapy without travel restrictions
• Freedom to choose a therapist regardless of location
• Possibility to combine online therapy with in-person sessions