You may feel freer to be yourself online
You may feel more comfortable receiving therapy in the privacy of your home
You may feel more comfortable writing about your problems than talking about them
You may write about what is bothering you sooner than if you were talking - this can bring faster resolutions to problems
Writing may help you to think through your problems and to feel your emotions - it can bring focus, clarity, insight, and emotional relief
You can read and re-read your emails, and chat transcripts
Writing enhances your relationship with yourself
There are more therapists to choose from online
You can email your therapist any time of day
You can take as long as you want to write
The disadvantages include:
Online therapists don't have access to important information about you without face-to-face sessions, however, having phone sessions as well can provide your therapist with more information
There can be more misunderstandings by email and therefore a greater need to explain things and ask questions. This can be an advantage too as it encourages our being clear and asking questions - something some people are afraid to do in-person
Some problems cannot be resolved online
Confidentiality cannot be guaranteed over the internet
Online therapy is relatively new - although writing as a form of support is not new - and so it's still in its infancy as a form of therapy
There can be more misunderstandings by email and therefore a greater need to explain things and ask questions. This can be an advantage too as it encourages our being clear and asking questions - something some people are afraid to do in-person
Some problems cannot be resolved online
Confidentiality cannot be guaranteed over the internet
Online therapy is relatively new - although writing as a form of support is not new - and so it's still in its infancy as a form of therapy
