Video therapy is a convenient and affordable way to access psychological help anywhere in the world without needing to commute. One can access it through a personal computer, a tablet or a smartphone at home or any other private location where there is good Internet access. Video therapy is convenient for people that have difficulty travelling to appointments either through distance, mobility problems, childcare commitments or a busy work schedule. It is also, therefore, more affordable.
Common problems such as:
- Depression
- Worry
- Stress
- Sexual concerns
can all be worked with and managed through video therapy. Research has shown that video therapy can be particularly useful where feelings of shame/guilt or embarrassment make it difficult for a person to attend appointments. The aim of video therapy is to provide you with a psychological consultation in the same way as attending a physical appointment. Through Skype or FaceTime, you will be able to interact with the therapist in much the same way as when you go to a clinic for consultation. Instead of arriving for an appointment, you simply connect with the therapist online.
Various studies have consistently found that the therapeutic relationship over video therapy is just as strong as face to face. Therapy in the comfort of your home also removes the need to worry about running into an acquaintance at the clinic and answering their questions. All the sessions are secured, encrypted and remain strictly confidential between you and your therapist. If you struggle to fit a series of in-person therapy sessions into your busy schedule and have a tough time following up with your therapist, online counselling via Skype or Face-time can be a good choice for you. Here at Centre for Sexual and Mental Health several students and young working adults who leave the country for higher studies/jobs stay in touch through Skype.
What kind of presentations are not appropriate for video therapy?
Video therapy is not suitable where a person’s life may be in danger through suicide, or where there are concerns about the well being of a minor. Disorders requiring a multidisciplinary team approach are better suited for an initial in-person consultation that can be followed up with video therapy. Also, individuals who are non-compliant with medication may not benefit from video therapy.