Tech for Your Health
Telehealth is expanding access to mental health care.
Virtual therapy, also known as teletherapy, has emerged as a new option for mental health care. By allowing patients to access sessions online, virtual therapy removes barriers that have traditionally prevented access to care – such as location, scheduling conflicts, transportation limitations, and social stigma – and makes it easier to implement therapy into a busy lifestyle. It can treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders, and benefit adolescents navigating academic and social pressures; adults managing life transitions; couples working through relationship challenges; and families seeking support.
How Does It Work?
Virtual therapy takes place online via a device such as a computer, laptop, or smartphone. Sessions are secure and private and conducted on encrypted, HIPAA-compliant video platforms. A licensed therapist will work collaboratively with you to establish treatment goals, build coping strategies, and support long-term emotional health.
The Benefits of the Virtual Therapy
- Effective. Research shows that the virtual format is comparable to traditional, in-person therapy at providing effective care for many mental health conditions.
- Convenient. Virtual therapy eliminates time spent traveling and in a waiting room, making it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule.
- Accessible. Mental health care is made possible for individuals with physical limitations or those living in remote or rural areas where in-person options are limited or require long travel times.
- Comfortable. Patients can receive care from the comfort of their own homes, making therapy less intimidating for those concerned about stigma.
- Flexible. Virtual therapy offers quicker, easier scheduling and greater flexibility, allowing patients to attend sessions while traveling or away from home.
- Consistent. These benefits encourage regular, consistent care, supporting positive mental health outcomes.
An Expert Weighs In
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in advertising. While attending Lee, Rachel served as editor-in-chief and creative director for the school’s biannual publication Vindagua and was a member of Sigma Tau Delta English Honors Society. As managing editor for CMC Media & Marketing Group, she is responsible for the development and completion of 16 publications involving health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia. Additionally, Rachel has led digital marketing initiatives for CMC Media & Marketing Group as well as the development of content for the introduction of Choose Huntsville™, Huntsville Resource & Relocation Guide™ for Huntsville, Alabama.
