We realize that these are two rather provocative statements. Firstly, how can online counseling possibly be better than in-person therapy? And secondly, what on earth is a VBP??!
The Shift to Online Therapy
Until relatively recently, online therapy (that is, therapy sessions conducted via video like Zoom) were relatively unheard of. They may have been used in particular situations - for example, if a client is on vacation but doesn’t want to miss their session - but as a whole, in-person therapy sessions were the norm.
As we know, the Covid-19 pandemic changed all that. Work meetings, lunch breaks, job interviews, concerts with friends, and, yes, therapy sessions all went virtual as everyone worked to stay safe and protect others.
Is online therapy effective?
What We Know
We learned several things about ourselves and our society as this prolonged change took place. We learned that most of us can work just as productively (sometimes more so) from home than we did in the office. We learned that it’s chatting with your friends that’s most important, virtually or in-person. And we learned that therapy sessions are just as effective virtually as in-person.
Online Counseling, Effective as In-Person
But how can that possibly be? I hear you say. Online counseling sessions involve two-dimensional people instead of three-dimensional, there’s no one to hand you tissues or let you in and out through an actual door. While these things are all true, the results are conclusive: online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy.
Benefits of Online Therapy
For most people, that means virtual therapy is no better or worse than in-person therapy; it’s entirely up to someone’s personal preference. Maybe they’re too nervous to do in-person sessions or battle a chronic health condition that leaves them vulnerable to infection. Or maybe they just prefer the experience of in-person therapy sessions.
Very Busy People, Ideal For Online Therapy
However, there is a group of people for whom online counseling sessions are absolutely, 100%, no doubt, simply BETTER: VBPs.
Very
Busy
People
If you are someone who is highly efficient, highly productive, and highly booked, taking an extra hour or more out of your day just to commute back and forth from a therapy appointment (PLUS the hour at the practice) is simply not an option for you or a good use of your time.
Benefits of Online Counseling in Utah
The thought of therapy may appeal to you, you may know you need it, but simply struggle to find the time to do it. In this case, virtual therapy sessions are the answer you need.
There is no commute time. No chatty preamble with the receptionist. No waiting in a waiting room, drumming your fingers and thinking of all the extra work you could be doing if you were still at your desk.
You simply schedule your session on a day and time that work for you, connect using the one-click link when you’re ready to join, have your session, and then get on with your day.
You will still have to take the time to schedule the session with your therapist. Which will take fifteen minutes or less, AND you get to schedule the day and time that works best for you to do that too.
So if you are a VBP (Very Busy Person), online therapy sessions may be the solution you haven’t had time to search for.
Begin Online Therapy in Utah
As a very busy person or VBP, it’s even more important to manage your time effectively. Taking care of your mental health does not have to take a back seat! We offer our online counseling services throughout the state of Utah for ease of access and convenience. Follow the steps below to get started on your self-care journey.
If you're ready to get started, you can follow these simple steps:
Reach out to us about scheduling a free 15-minute phone consultation.
Learn more about our counseling services and the members of our team.
Get set up with a counselor who is right for you!