Online Therapy: Help at your Fingertips

Online therapy (also known as web therapy, e-therapy, or SkypeTM therapy) is a treatment for psychological issues provided online via your computer, tablet, or mobile phone. It is becoming increasingly popular because online therapy offers flexibility to clients as to where, when and how treatment is provided.

Some people prefer online therapy as it is easier for them to contact their therapist late at night, after work hours, or when their children are asleep. Others find it better than commuting to a clinic that could be some distance away. The experience of Skype therapy is often more comfortable than traditional therapy as individuals are able to obtain therapy in the privacy of their own home or office and do not have to be fearful that they will bump in to acquaintances in a clinic waiting room.

My preferred method of online therapy is real-time via video conference – coming as close to traditional therapy as possible while enhancing flexibility. This works very well for my clients who travel often and find it difficult to schedule regular office sessions.

Online therapy has been found to help individuals with issues including depression, anxiety, and stress and to have a similar impact as in-person counseling. However, it may not be right for those whose symptoms are severe, especially those at immediate risk of self-harm. If you or someone else you know is experiencing a crisis, a local psychiatrist or hospital will be able to help.

As with in-person therapy, all information is kept confidential.

If you are interested in scheduling an online therapy session or have further queries, please contact us today.

 

About The Author

Dr. Sheri McCurdy

Dr. Sheri McCurdy-Lightbound is a Chartered Psychologist with BPS and a Registered Member of HKADCP. She specialises in treating adults with anxiety and panic disorders as well as those with relationship and adjustment issues. Sheri utilises a combination of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques, customised by client, to bring about positive change in ways of thinking and feeling. She may also work from a psychodynamic perspective as needed to explore and shift self-defeating patterns of behaviour. For those with sleep difficulties, Sheri can provide sleep hygiene and insomnia therapy. Sheri conducts only online therapy via real-time online video (e.g., via Zoom or Skype).