What is Video Therapy?

All psychotherapy, counselling, and emotional support that takes place over a digital platform is considered video therapy.

Interchangeable terms for this new format include online therapy, teletherapy, and e-therapy. 

Sessions can be accessed using any device that can link to the internet, such as computers, laptops, tablets, and even smartphones.

What Are the Benefits of Video Therapy?

Online therapy offers several benefits which may contribute to a comforting and constructive experience for those who engage with it: 

• The process to book a session with a licensed psychologist is quick and simple. You can choose a slot based on your availability and which suits your needs.

• Geographical limitations are not an issue when you are ill, live in the countryside, or are away from home, allowing you to attend your regular sessions uninterrupted. 

• You have a greater variety of clinical psychologists to choose from, not limited to your local practice, thereby increasing the chance of a good fit.

• The continuity of meetings that video therapy allows, promotes productive treatment. 

• You can attend sessions from a place of comfort, be that your bed, couch, or simply a favourite place that helps you regulate.

• Privacy and anonymity are protected as you avoid sitting in a waiting room among other patients as you would in a physical practice. 

• You don’t have to carve out time from your day to travel to and from sessions, which may in itself be stressful. 

• It may be easier to feel motivated to attend a session when you don’t have to be outside on a cold or rainy day. 

• If you have children or are physically impaired, you still have the opportunity to receive the support you are seeking in a way that is most convenient to you.

• You can enjoy the predictability of regular sessions and practise control over your schedule.

Are There Any Drawbacks to Video Therapy?

Some insurance companies unfortunately do not cover virtual sessions and internet access may be a challenge if you are in an area that has poor connectivity issues. The scope of treatment through video therapy may be limited as some illnesses are too serious not to monitor in person. 

It is key to note, however, that video therapy is a relatively young platform; as its popularity grows, most, if not all of its cons may be resolved or at least minimised. 

With global reliance on digital technology growing daily, online security systems must and are becoming increasingly sophisticated. This opens up exciting avenues for psychotherapy and support, which highly prioritises privacy and confidentiality. 

Internet connectivity, too, is becoming a need in today’s world. Again, technology is being pushed in new directions to make the internet available in underserved and remote areas, progressively dissolving this obstacle for video therapy in the future. 

And, as the popularity of virtual therapy continues to spread, medical insurance companies will be under greater pressure to broaden their coverage packages to include online psychology sessions.

Is Video Therapy as Effective as In-Person Therapy?

You may be thinking, “This sounds great, but does it work?” The short answer: is yes, it does. 

Several recent studies have highlighted the efficacy of online therapy and have demonstrated its potential as a powerful alternative to in-person therapy. 

Video therapy can be effectively used for an array of personal challenges, including mental conditions such as depression, panic anxiety, social anxiety, or general anxiety disorder. It has been shown to deliver equally good treatment that leads to a lasting positive impact. 

Many people who have tried video therapy like it as much as traditional therapies with some even preferring it. There have been reports of patients developing positive relationships and emotional contact with their psychologists, despite never meeting with them in person. 

Video therapy has also proven to be a useful tool for group sessions, especially in addressing trauma anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, and depression groups, as well as groups that employ cognitive behavioural therapy.

How Can I Start Video Therapy?

It may feel daunting to get started and to find the courage to book a session with someone you have never met. I would like to make that journey as safe and comfortable as possible for you. 

My name is Katharina Ingund Dolan; I  am a registered clinical psychologist offering tailored video sessions to individuals, couples, and families. 

I was thrown into the deep end when the COVID-19 pandemic broke out. I, too, had to navigate the new waters of video therapy, which has led me to where I am now. I have greatly developed my skills and competency in offering supportive online sessions, which pleasantly surprise many of my patients in their first experiences of this format. For some, it has become their first choice, for others it is a helpful alternative when they are sick or on a trip. 

I truly believe that video therapy has great potential in providing safe and proactive treatment. I guarantee high-quality sessions and safe implementation of video processing. I hope to be able to welcome you to my virtual practice!

Learn more about my particular areas of interest and my story to becoming a clinical psychologist and feel free to contact me should you have any further questions regarding what to expect, pricing, and more.