Online therapy has revolutionized the way people in Missoula, MT access mental health services. No longer do individuals have to brave the often harsh Montana weather to get the support they need. Instead, they can simply log on to their computer or phone from the comfort of their own home, with a warm cup of coffee in hand, to connect with a therapist.
“Hi John,” my therapist often says to me, “Is that your cat?”
And it’s kind of cool because she gets to sort of see what it’s like to come inside my house!
My Online Therapy Story
You know, I used to dread going into that therapist’s office. I mean, don’t get me wrong, therapy is important, but man, the whole experience was just so freakin’ uncomfortable. And let’s not even talk about the weather. I swear, every time I had an appointment it was either snowing or 20 degrees outside. It was like the universe was conspiring against me.
But then, something amazing happened. I discovered online therapy. Holy toledo, it was like a game changer. All of a sudden, I could talk to a therapist from the comfort of my own home. No more dealing with the weather, no more awkward waiting room conversations. It was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders.
And then, I found the perfect therapist. She was a godsend, a beacon of hope in a world that was falling apart. With the pandemic going on, and my family constantly fighting, my anxiety levels were through the roof. And then, to make matters worse, the news is talking about UFO’s. It’s like the world had turned into one giant episode of the X-Files.
But my therapist helped me navigate it all. She listened to me, and she understood. And she didn’t judge me when I told her about the time I thought I saw a flying saucer outside my window. (Turned out it was just a weather balloon, but still…)
With her help, I was able to cope with the craziness of the world. And I didn’t have to leave my house to do it. It was like a huge weight had been lifted off my shoulders.
Online Therapy Studies
Studies have consistently shown that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy. In fact, a 2018 meta-analysis of 20 studies found that online cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) was just as effective as in-person CBT for treating conditions such as anxiety and depression. Another study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that individuals who received online therapy for depression reported similar improvement in their symptoms as those who received in-person therapy.
One meta-analysis published in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders found that online cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) was just as effective as in-person CBT for treating anxiety disorders. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that online therapy was effective in reducing symptoms of depression.
Flexibility
One of the biggest benefits of online therapy is the flexibility it provides. Individuals can access therapy from anywhere at any time, which can be especially helpful for those who have busy schedules, transportation issues, or mobility limitations. Online therapy also allows for greater privacy and anonymity, which can be especially beneficial for individuals who may feel stigmatized about seeking help for mental health issues.
Another benefit of online therapy is the ability to connect with a wider range of therapists. For example, individuals in Missoula, MT may have limited options for in-person therapy, but with online therapy, they can connect with a therapist from anywhere in the country. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who may have specific needs or preferences when it comes to their therapist, such as finding someone who speaks a particular language or specializes in a specific issue.
It’s also helps it you’re like, traveling to Mexico or California. You don’t have to miss a session!
In addition to the flexibility and convenience, many people find that online therapy is more comfortable and less intimidating than in-person therapy. Being in the comfort of your own home can make it easier to open up and share personal thoughts and feelings. And having the ability to see your therapist on a screen rather than in person can make it less intimidating to share sensitive information.
Online therapy also offers a wider range of therapeutic options. For example, some online therapy platforms offer text, video, and audio-based therapy, which can be especially helpful for individuals who may have difficulty communicating verbally. Additionally, some platforms offer self-help resources such as interactive exercises, articles, and videos that can supplement therapy sessions.
The Harsh Montana Weather
In Missoula, MT, where the weather is often harsh, online therapy provides a great solution to access therapy without having to leave the comfort of home. It also offers a solution to those who have mobility issues and can’t leave their home, or those who have busy schedules that make it difficult to find time to go to an in-person therapy session.
In conclusion, online therapy is a valuable resource that offers many benefits to individuals in Missoula, MT. From the comfort of their own home, individuals can access therapy that is just as effective as in-person therapy, and can be done at any time, from anywhere. With the flexibility and convenience that online therapy offers, it has become an increasingly popular option for people seeking mental health support. So, if you’re looking for a therapist and haven’t tried online therapy yet, it’s definitely worth considering.
John Michaels is a local Missoula author who graduated from Brown University in creative writing. In between raising kids, he spends his time meandering around downtown Missoula, writing screenplays, doing cryotherapy, and playing chess.