VIRTUAL THERAPY

Virtual Therapy
Student’s Name
Institutional Affiliation

Virtual therapy is the use of digital platforms to connect with distance medical practitioners and counsellors in a secure, discreetly and confidential platform. Virtual therapy is very accessible and convenient regarding time and cost. There are minimal instances of cancellation when dealing with virtual therapy. The client saves times from commuting to and from appointments. Most people fail to attend therapy sessions due to fear of running into known others in the waiting office (Andersson & Titov, 2014). Introduction of virtual therapy has solved the problem hence people can receive therapy comfortably in the homes. Through this, one feels more comfortable in a familiar home environment which enhances vulnerability and disclosure. Also, virtual therapy is flexible and secure since it combines different communication methodologies like audio/video conferencing, emailing and instant messaging (Berle et al., 2015). Through virtual therapy, the issue of social stigma is eliminated. Disadvantages of virtual therapy are technologically related issues like consistency in internet connection or problem with video chat platforms (Andersson & Titov, 2014). Additionally, it is difficult for the client to determine whether the virtual therapist is credible or reputable for the security of personal information.
Virtual therapy is suitable for clients struggling with common-life issues and those with social stigma. It is risky for clients suffering from a social stigma travel a long distance to an unfamiliar place for therapy.

Virtual therapy is suitable for such patients based on its flexibility, convenience and adequate time to share the problem. Ailing persons who are disabled and bedridden are also ideal for virtual therapy (Berle et al., 2015). Last, virtual therapy is effective for working clients who have issue fixing appointment dates with the therapist.
Virtual therapy is not recommendable for clients who require a diagnosis of clinic issues like chronic depression and psychotic. Such patients need to meet with their therapist physically. Additionally, people experiencing an immediate crisis or emergency are not suitable for virtual therapy (Modes & Therapy, 2018).

References
Andersson, G., & Titov, N. (2014). Advantages and limitations of Internet‐based interventions for common mental disorders. World Psychiatry, 13(1), 4-11.
Berle, D., Starcevic, V., Milicevic, D., Hannan, A., Dale, E., Brakoulias, V., & Viswasam, K. (2015). Do patients prefer face-to-face or internet-based therapy? Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 84(1), 61-62.
Modes, T., & Therapy, D. (2018). Distance Therapy. Retrieved from https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/modes/distance-therapy