Taking care of your mental health is important, but finding the time, transportation, or comfort level to get to an in-person appointment can be tough. Telehealth has revolutionized mental health care, making support more accessible than ever. New Directions Mental Health believes that care should meet you where you are. That’s why we offer telehealth options for mental health treatment designed to fit your life.

What is online therapy?

Online therapy, teletherapy, telehealth, or virtual therapy is when you meet with a therapist using a secure video call instead of going into an office. It’s still a private and supportive space to talk about your thoughts, feelings, and mental health goals—just from the comfort of your home or another quiet place.

Online therapy can help with many common concerns, such as:

• Anxiety or panic
• Depression or low mood
• Stress and burnout
• Trauma and grief
• Family or relationship challenges

No matter what challenges you may be facing, online therapy provides a flexible and effective way to get the support you need to move forward with greater clarity and resilience.

Who might benefit from online therapy?

Online therapy can be a great fit for people who:

• Have busy schedules and need flexible appointment times
• Find it hard to travel to an office
• Live in rural or remote areas
• Prefer privacy or feel more comfortable at home
• Are managing physical health concerns or disabilities
• Are seeking care for the first time and want to ease into it

For many, online therapy offers a more comfortable and convenient experience. You can attend sessions from the comfort of your couch, bedroom, or any space where you feel most at ease. There’s no need to stress over traffic, parking, or waiting rooms. This added comfort can make it easier to open up, helping you feel more in control of your care and overall well-being.

Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

A study published in JMIR Mental Health found that psychiatric treatment delivered through telemedicine is just as effective as in-person care for conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and mood disorders. Studies like this show that online therapy can be just as helpful as in-person therapy for many mental health concerns. What matters most is the connection between you and your therapist, not the physical space you’re in.

At New Directions Mental Health, our licensed therapists provide thoughtful, compassionate care, whether you’re meeting face-to-face or through a screen. We also offer other types of support, like psychiatric medication management and personalized care plans, to help you feel better over time.

Things to consider before starting online therapy

While online therapy has many benefits, it may not be the best fit for everyone. Here are a few things to think about:

• Privacy: Do you have a quiet space at home where you can talk freely?
• Technology: Are you comfortable using a smartphone, tablet, or computer with video?
• Connection: Do you have a strong internet signal where you plan to take your session?

If any of these are concerns, talk with our team. We’ll help you decide what kind of care makes the most sense for you—and find a solution that fits your needs.

How to prepare for your first online session

Getting ready for your first online therapy session is simple. Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Choose a quiet, comfortable spot where you won’t be interrupted.
• Use headphones for extra privacy and better sound quality.
• Try to log on a few minutes early to test your connection.
• Keep a notebook nearby in case you want to jot something down.

It’s natural to feel a bit nervous initially, but remember that your therapist supports you. Their role is to create a comfortable space and help you feel at ease.

Ready to try online therapy? Call New Directions Mental Health today

We support you with care that fits your life. Our telehealth mental health services are built to remove barriers, so you can focus on healing and growing, not on logistics. Our compassionate team will listen to your story, understand your goals, and help you build a path toward feeling better. Call us today at 724.374.7414 to learn about our telehealth services and schedule your first session.

For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.