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  • Writer's pictureDr. Beth Marnix

Benefits Of Online Anxiety Therapy

Updated: May 23

Talking about anxiety can be difficult and sometimes even scary. It’s an emotion that is all-encompassing, and it can make you feel like the world is closing in on you. You may experience anxiety if you're faced with a big challenge or uncertainty, or if your life appears to be out of balance. People who struggle with anxiety often experience symptoms of physical anxiety such as panic attacks, phobias, and constant worry. Unlike other mental health issues like depression or bipolar disorder, anxiety is usually a disorder of the mind that affects how people think and feel about themselves. People with anxiety can experience a wide variety of symptoms, some of which may be physical (such as stomachaches or headaches), while others are emotional (like feeling stressed out or sad). Anxiety therapy online can help those who live with anxiety cope with their symptoms through exposure therapy, EMDR, or cognitive behavioral therapy.



black woman engaging in online therapy

But what if you’re too busy to visit a therapist? Or face-to-face therapy isn’t an option? Fear not! Therapy online has come a long way over the years and many mental health professionals now offer online video sessions to meet your needs. Online video sessions allow you to chat with a mental health professional from the comfort of your home, work space, or anywhere else where you feel comfortable receiving care. In this blog, we’ll discuss the benefits of online therapy for people with anxiety and how it can help you overcome your symptoms.


Overview of Anxiety and its Symptoms


  • Anxiety is a mental health disorder characterized by feelings of dread, worry, and panic.

  • Symptoms of anxiety include: rapid heartbeat, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, trouble focusing, and difficulty with sleeping.

  • Anxiety can affect any person, but is most common in young adults.

  • The symptoms of anxiety vary from person to person, but many people experience anxiety after experiencing some kind of stress or traumatic event.

  • While anxiety can be caused by a variety of factors, including environmental stress or traumatic events, it is typically treated using a combination of psychotherapy and medication.

  • Therapy treatment methods include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

  • Treatment may also include medications such as antidepressants and beta blockers.

  • There are various types of anxiety disorders that each have their own set of symptoms.

  • When anxiety symptoms interfere with your daily functioning, it's time to seek professional help.


Benefits of Online Anxiety Therapy


Online therapy sessions with Bright Light Counseling Center are conduced via a HIPAA secure video platform. Working with a therapist will provide evidence-based tools to help manage anxiety levels more efficiently. Here are some of the benefits of online therapy:

  • Accessibility: online therapy sessions are easily accessible and can be done from the comfort of your home. This is also a great option for those who prefer distance therapy or find it difficult to make mental health care visits due to geographic barriers (or traffic!).

person engaging in online therapy
  • Convenience: online therapy offers flexible scheduling, allowing busy people to fit it into their daily lives. You do not need to factor in a commute when you are able to sign into an online video session from a private and comfortable space.

  • Privacy: online therapy sessions offer a safe, secure, and anonymous environment for individuals to discuss their issues.

  • Flexibility: online therapy sessions can be tailored to fit your unique needs, making online therapy a great option for busy people on the go.

Just as with in person sessions, our online sessions provide a non-judgmental atmosphere where you can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings. This environment helps foster trust and reduces anxiety in therapy sessions.


With so many benefits, it's no wonder that more and more people are turning to online anxiety therapy as an easy way to overcome anxiety. That said, online therapy sessions aren't right for everyone. Individuals should discuss any mental health concerns with a licensed mental health professional before seeking any online treatment. If you're struggling with anxiety, online therapy can be a valuable tool in your recovery journey.


Common Issues Addressed in an Online Anxiety Therapy Session


  • Identifying triggers of anxiety

  • Managing social anxiety, fears, or phobias

  • Developing healthy coping strategies

  • Overcoming negative thoughts and feelings

  • Reduce avoidance of things that make you feel anxious

  • Increasing engagement in daily life

  • Learning how to cope and navigate worrisome and ruminating thoughts

  • Addressing sleep issues

  • Learning how to set boundaries

Overall, online anxiety therapy can help people who are struggling with anxiety or other mental health issues feel more in control of their lives and live happier and healthier lives.


Research suggests that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy

Frequently Asked Questions


1. Does insurance cover online therapy?


Many insurance providers now cover online therapy as part of their policies, so it's worth checking to see if your provider offers coverage. If virtual therapy/telehealth is covered by your insurance, it can be helpful to speak to a therapist online if you feel uncomfortable discussing your issues in person.


2. What if my insurance does not cover online therapy?


No Problem! At Bright Light Counseling Center, we offer a variety of fee schedules to help reduce barriers to accessing mental health care. Reach out today to explore or out of pocket fees and reduced fee options.


3. Does online therapy for anxiety work?


Yes, online therapy for anxiety can be highly effective and beneficial. For many people with busy schedules or who live in remote areas, online therapy can provide a more convenient, discreet and comfortable setting than traditional in person therapy. It also helps reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. Research suggests that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy for anxiety, so you don't need to worry about not getting an adequate treatment plan. Overall, online therapy for anxiety can be a great way of getting quality mental health care without having to leave the comfort of your own home


4. How can someone make sure they are getting the most out of their online anxiety therapy sessions?


To ensure that you get the most out of your online anxiety therapy sessions, there are a few things you can do.

  1. Make sure you have a comfortable, private space in which to participate in your sessions. This will help create an atmosphere of trust and openness with your therapist, which is essential in therapy.

  2. Be honest and open about your experiences and feelings during therapy. It is important to talk openly with your therapist so they can gain an understanding of what it is like for you to live with anxiety.

  3. Set clear, achievable goals with your therapist that you can both work towards during the course of therapy. This will help give structure to the sessions while providing positive reinforcement and motivation.

  4. Take advantage of other resources such as books and websites that can supplement your therapy sessions. These materials can provide additional information and tips on managing anxiety that you can use outside of therapy.

man exercising outside by doing yoga

Finally, participating in activities outside of therapy can also help reduce stress and anxiety levels. Exercise, yoga, meditation or spending time with family or friends are all great ways to help reduce anxiety levels over time.




5. What are the advantages of online anxiety therapy compared to in-person therapy?


The advantages of online anxiety therapy compared to in-person therapy are numerous. Firstly, online therapy is much more convenient and accessible as it can be done from the comfort of your home. Secondly, online anxiety therapy can be less intimidating than in-person therapy sessions as there are no prying eyes when dealing with sensitive topics. This can make it easier to open up and discuss feelings that may be too embarrassing or difficult to talk about in person.


6. Are there any potential downsides to online anxiety therapy?


There can be potential downsides to online anxiety therapy if it is not done with care and caution. Firstly, online therapy sessions can be more prone to miscommunication compared to face-to-face therapy. Without the physical presence of a therapist, it can be difficult to clearly understand and express concerns, making therapy less effective. Secondly, data security and privacy may also be an issue depending on the online platform you use for therapy. Make sure to thoroughly check the platforms you plan to use, as some online services may not take your confidentiality seriously. Finally, online sessions can make it harder for you and your therapist to build rapport compared to in-person sessions. It is important to feel comfortable and secure when talking about anxiety issues and online therapy may not provide that same level of comfort.


Conclusion

laughing happy couple

Online therapy is a great way to treat anxiety, as it allows you to communicate online while maintaining your privacy and comfort. Aside from its practical advantages, online therapy also offers many mental health benefits. It can help you build positive mental health habits, learn about yourself, and find ways to better cope with your anxiety. These positive mental health habits can be built through online therapy sessions (and sessions with a therapist in-person). Taking care of your mental health is as important as taking care of your physical health. If you’re looking for an online therapist, feel free to get in touch with us today!





 

Disclaimer


Our content is on and related to the topic of mental health. The content is general information that may or may not apply to you. The content is not a substitute for professional services. This website does not contain professional advice, nor is any professional-client relationship established with you through your use of this website.



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