Has gaining control over your mental health been hampered by busy work schedules, being away from home, mobility problems, travel distance or costs or childcare? Have you ever felt you’d be more comfortable talking to a therapist in your own home rather than a consulting room? Have you ever thought it would be great if there was a therapist who could travel with you? Then welcome to the world of remote therapy.
In today’s world, more and more people are finding that they can improve their access to therapy by using tech and apps that they already use every day, wherever they are. Desktop, laptop, tablet or phone, as long as it’s got a camera, a microphone and internet connection, you’re halfway there. Then you just need to choose your preferred video messaging app, such as Skype, FaceTime or Zoom to name a few and your good-to-go.
The content of your session is exactly the same as it would be, minus the travel. If you’re having trouble finding somewhere quiet to talk or busy on the move? Maybe you are based In a busy office or work in a crowded house? CBT has even been evidenced to be effective when done by text – whether through email or messaging apps. Perfect if a quiet corner is hard to come by.
Cut your travel time, not your therapy
Remote therapy has similar levels of patient satisfaction compared to face-to-face therapy, and studies have shown that the empathetic relationship between patient and therapist, that is vital for effective therapy, is not compromised through remote therapy.
Studies have also shown that when remote therapy has been used to maintain consistent appointments during challenging circumstances, people feel less anxious, and may even need to contact their therapist less.
Is it for me?
If you feel that time, location or mobility are preventing you from taking control of your mental health, or you simply feel that you would be comfortable in your own space, then remote therapy could definitely be for you. No therapy is one-size-fits-all, and every case is different. But remote therapy is generally suitable for most people experiencing mild to moderate mental health problems.
We would not recommend it for anyone experiencing more severe problems or conditions such as suicidal thoughts, psychosis, anorexia or for anyone under the age of 16.
All clinicians at Oxford CBT are Cognitive Behavioural Therapists or Psychologists, offering evidence-based interventions and support for a range of issues for both young people and adults. If you would like to book an appointment you can do so on our online booking portal. If you have a question please get in touch via our online contact form or call us on 01865 920077.
