Considering the popularity of the internet, as well as technology which allows online chat, video, MP3 recordings, etc, it is not surprising that more and more people are seeking online relationship counseling. Whether you are wanting help with dating issues, seeking help to cope with a break up, or having marital problems for which you need some advice, online relationship counseling may be a viable option for you if you are unable to find a therapist locally, or if you just want the ease and convenience of getting counseling right in the comfort of your own home.
More and more mental health professionals are offering their services via the internet. For professionals who choose to only offer online relationship counseling, this can save them the overhead costs of having an office, and also allow them to expand their practice to clients they might not otherwise be able to see in person. Of course, it is imperative that they work within the bounds of their expertise and adhere to any limitations of their license, such as location of their clients as most licenses are specific to a given state.
So how does online relationship counseling work? To some degree, that will depend on the particular professional or group who is offering the service, but many function very similarly to traditional face to face counseling. The main difference being the medium in which the counseling is delivered. Online options usually include email, online chat via typed text or audio with a microphone, or video sessions using a web cam and microphone. The majority also provide counseling via telephone.
While some do offer free online relationship counseling, most do require that you pay for your sessions, just as you would for the same services in person. And while the fees may vary, typically they are going to be about the same amount you would pay to see a therapist in his or her office. One of the advantages in terms of fees when using this medium is that many online therapists have the option of short sessions or consultations, in addition to the traditional 50 minute to one hour sessions that are standard with most mental health professionals.
Before pursuing any type of online relationship counseling, it is important that you have some way of verifying the credentials and training of the therapist you will be working with. The internet is fraught with scams, so be sure the therapist discloses his or her first and last name, the type of degree (e.g., M.A., PsyD, PhD, MD, etc.) and the school from which he or she graduated. Also, they should disclose their licensure status. With this information you can easily verify whether or not the information they provide is accurate or not by contacting the school and licensing board.
Before you start with any particular online therapist you also want to find out the person’s particular areas of experience and expertise. If you are seeking help for marriage problems, for example, then it is best to obtain help from someone who specializes in or at least has experience helping married couples with their issues.
Mental health services which are available via the internet are not limited to relationship counseling. Many professionals can provide help for other issues as well including substance abuse, family therapy, career guidance, as well as specific disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD and many others.
If you are struggling with issues in your marriage or other relationships, online relationship counseling is definitely an alternative you may want to consider. It is worth looking into if you live in a remote area where qualified professionals are either limited or are too far away, or if you just prefer the convenience the internet can provide.
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