Virtual Therapy: A Convenient and Effective Way to Get Mental Health Support

What is Virtual Therapy?

Virtual therapy, also known as online therapy or teletherapy, is the delivery of mental health services via the internet. This can include video calls, phone calls, or even direct messaging. Studies suggest virtual therapy can have the same level of effectiveness as in-person therapy (Alavi et al., 2023). At Cognito Health, we utilize video calls to build genuine, trustworthy rapport with our clients. Research by Stubbe (2018) highlights that the most important predictor of therapeutic success is the relationship between the provider and the client, regardless of the session being in-person or virtual. 

Benefits of Virtual Therapy 

• Convenience: With virtual therapy, you can attend sessions from the comfort of your own home (or anywhere private with an internet connection). This can be especially helpful for people with busy schedules, mobility issues, or those who live in remote areas. No more worrying about getting stuck in traffic, finding a parking spot, or how long the drive can be to get there. Think of all of the time that can be saved getting to and from your appointment!
• Accessibility: Virtual therapy can make mental health care more accessible to people who might not be able to access in-person therapy due to cost, transportation, or other barriers. How many health professionals in your area are currently accepting clients? With online therapy, you are no longer restricted to waitlists for a provider in your local area.
• Affordability: Virtual therapy can be more affordable than in-person therapy, as it eliminates the need for travel and office space.

Is Virtual Therapy Right for You? 

If you have a busy schedule, have a reliable internet connection and want to prioritize convenience and efficiency, then virtual therapy may be a great fit for you. Clients can even use their phones to access treatment (although computers and laptops are recommended). Virtual therapy is the most convenient form of accessing mental health support, when you need it most. 

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Virtual Therapy. What will I need?

If you decide to try virtual appointments, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of it:

• Find a quiet, private space where you can attend your sessions without distractions. It is essential that there is no one else in the room who can hear you to ensure your privacy during the session.
• Make sure you have a reliable internet connection and a device with a working camera and microphone.
• Being open and honest with your care provider about your experience and capability with technology is important. It’s common to face technical limitations, and your care provider may be able to help troubleshoot solutions. 
• With any kind of therapy, patience is essential. Virtual sessions take time and active participation to work. Remember, mental health is a journey, not a destination.

Team Voices: Here is what one of our providers at Cognito has to say:

“Over the last 10 years of offering virtual CBT sessions, many of the most impactful moments I’ve shared with clients have happened through a screen. Virtual CBT still allows for meaningful connection, paired with the flexibility and comfort of being in your own space. I’ve found that the relationship we build and the skills we learn together matter far more than the room we’re in.” – Maddie Cooper, CBT Manager 

Taking the First Step

If you're struggling with your mental health, virtual therapy can be a great way to get the help you need. It's convenient, accessible, affordable, and it can be just as effective as in-person therapy. If you're ready to take the first step, reach out to our care team to learn about how we can deliver personalized mental health support directly to you through virtual CBT appointments. Remember, you don't have to go through this alone. With the right support, you can achieve your mental health goals.

Reach out to our care team today to schedule your first virtual CBT session. 

Written By: Danial Mirsajedin

References

Alavi, N., Moghimi, E., Stephenson, C., Gutierrez, G., Jagayat, J., Kumar, A., Shao, Y., Miller, S., Yee, C. S., Stefatos, A., Gholamzadehmir, M., Abbaspour, Z., Shirazi, A., Gizzarelli, T., Khan, F., Patel, C., Patel, A., Yang, M., & Omrani, M. (2023). Comparison of online and in-person cognitive behavioral therapy in individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder: A non-randomized controlled trial. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1113956

Stubbe, D. E. (2018). The therapeutic Alliance: The fundamental element of psychotherapy. Focus, 16(4), 402–403. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.focus.20180022 

Disclaimer:

‍Our CBT Care Providers are not Registered Clinical Counsellors or Psychotherapists. They deliver structured, CBT-informed skills training for mild-to-moderate symptoms under the supervision of a Registered Clinical Counsellor and consulting psychiatrists. They do not diagnose, prescribe, or treat complex or trauma-related conditions; clients needing those services are referred to a licensed NP or Registered Clinical Counsellor.