Counselling has traditionally been viewed as an in-person process and despite the infrastructure for telehealth being available since the 1990s, mental health practitioners were slow to embrace it fully.

The COVID-19 pandemic started a whole new digital age, and mental health practitioners were forced to make use of teletherapy. A study shows that 98% of mental health practitioners used teletherapy during the pandemic and 51% said they would continue using it.

As the demand for telehealth increased, so did concerns about its safety and effectiveness. In this article, we will examine the advantages and disadvantages of teletherapy and offer tips for practicing it safely.

What is teletherapy?

Teletherapy is a form of counselling and various other mental health services delivered via video or telephone. The process mirrors an in-person session, but it takes place remotely.

Advantages of teletherapy

There are quite a few benefits to teletherapy. It offers greater accessibility by allowing clients to receive counselling from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating travel time and geographical barriers. Teletherapy also provides flexibility in scheduling, making it easier for individuals with busy or irregular schedules to attend sessions. For those who may feel anxious about face-to-face interactions, the virtual format can create a more comfortable and less intimidating environment. Additionally, it expands access to mental health services for those in remote or underserved areas, helping bridge gaps in care.

Disadvantages of teletherapy

While teletherapy offers many benefits, it also has some disadvantages. Technical issues, such as poor internet connection or software malfunctions, can disrupt sessions and impact the quality of communication. Additionally, teletherapy may lack the personal touch of in-person sessions, making it harder to pick up on non-verbal cues, which are often important in therapy. Privacy concerns can also arise, as clients may not always have a secure or confidential space at home. In South Africa specifically, it can also limit access to services for individuals who lack the necessary technology or internet connectivity. Finally, teletherapy may not be suitable for individuals in crisis or those who need more intensive, hands-on care.

Tips for practicing teletherapy safely:

If you’re a mental health professional considering telehealth as a practice method, taking precautions to ensure you conduct teletherapy safely is essential.

Here are three key factors to consider when exploring teletherapy:

1. Do your research:

As mental health practitioners, safeguarding our clients’ safety and confidentiality is a core aspect of our ethical code. With the rapid expansion of the digital age, numerous online platforms and apps are available to assist with this. It’s crucial to thoroughly research and select a reliable platform for conducting your sessions. When evaluating potential platforms, consider whether the platform is secure and private, and ensure it is user-friendly and easily accessible for your clients.

2. Set digital boundaries

Constant screen use can lead to screen fatigue and burnout, making it essential to set digital boundaries to maintain your online performance. These boundaries might include creating screen-free zones, setting time limits for digital activities, enabling “Do Not Disturb” mode, and scheduling regular digital detoxes.

3. Commit to both professional excellence and personal well-being.

Commit to both professional excellence and personal well-being. Ensure that you maintain high standards in your teletherapy practice by staying updated with best practices, ethical guidelines, and new technology. At the same time, prioritize your own well-being to prevent burnout. Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life, take regular breaks, and practice self-care to remain effective and present for your clients. A balanced approach will help you deliver quality care while sustaining your own health and mental wellness.

In conclusion, while teletherapy has become a crucial tool in expanding access to mental health services, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is not without its challenges. The shift to virtual counselling presents both opportunities and obstacles for practitioners and clients alike. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of teletherapy is essential for making informed decisions about its use. By adhering to best practices, setting clear digital boundaries, and committing to both professional and personal well-being, mental health professionals can ensure the safe and effective delivery of teletherapy, fostering a supportive and accessible environment for their clients.

Reference list:

• McGinn, L. K. (2020, July 8). Online therapy ethics: What you need to know. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/online-therapy-ethics-2795227
• Indago Research. (2023, March 10). Mental health in the digital age: Navigating the challenges and opportunities. https://indagoresearch.org/mental-health-in-the-digital-age-navigating-the-challenge s-and-opportunities/
• Wang, H., Liu, S., & Gao, L. (2023). The effectiveness of digital mental health interventions: A systematic review. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37602724/
• Jones, K. (2022, December 15). Navigating mental health in the digital age: Challenges and solutions. Explosion. https://www.explosion.com/145702/navigating-mental-health-in-the-digital-age-chall enges-and-solutions/
• Psychology.org. (n.d.). How does teletherapy work? https://www.psychology.org/resources/how-does-teletherapy-work/#:~:text=Telether apy%20offers%20treatment%20provided%20bysessions%2C%20just%20from%20 a%20distance