Online Therapy Services for Adolescents: Examined and Evaluated
In the digital age, online therapy has emerged as a viable option for mental health support, particularly for teenagers. This article aims to explore the advantages and disadvantages of online therapy compared to traditional in-person therapy, and provide insights into the world of online therapy for teenagers.
The Advantages of Online Therapy
Cost-effectiveness
One of the primary advantages of online therapy is its cost-effectiveness. Compared to in-person sessions, which can cost $140–$180 for 45-60 minutes, online platforms like TeenCounseling.com charge $65-$100 per week, often including additional support like messaging and group classes[1][2]. Insurance co-pays for online therapy can also be lower.
Convenience and Accessibility
Online therapy offers unparalleled convenience and accessibility. Teens can attend sessions from any location, choosing video, phone, or chat formats that suit their comfort level. This flexibility can reduce barriers for those with mobility issues, busy schedules, or limited local resources[2].
Broad Therapist Options
Online therapy platforms often use matching systems to connect teens to therapists specialized in their needs, regardless of geographic location[2]. This opens up a world of possibilities, allowing teenagers to find a therapist who truly understands their unique needs.
Comfort and Safety
Teens may feel safer and more in control attending therapy from home, which can enhance openness and engagement[3]. For some, this private setting can help them feel more comfortable discussing sensitive topics.
The Disadvantages of Online Therapy
Potentially Weaker Therapeutic Bond
Some studies suggest that online therapy may not foster the same level of connection or trust between therapist and teen as in-person sessions, which might impact therapeutic effectiveness, especially for complex cases[4].
Limitations in Treatment Scope
Online therapy platforms typically do not provide medication management or diagnosis services, which require in-person visits[2].
Technology Barriers
Access depends on reliable internet and a private space; technical issues can disrupt sessions and may limit effectiveness[5].
Differences in Therapeutic Approach Effectiveness
Certain therapeutic techniques or relationship-building might be less effective online, especially for teens facing trauma or intense emotional issues where in-person cues are important[3][4].
In summary, online therapy offers affordable, accessible, and flexible mental health support for teenagers, especially suitable for mild to moderate issues or when cost and convenience are paramount. However, in-person therapy may provide stronger relational bonds and comprehensive care necessary for more severe or complex mental health challenges. Choosing between them depends on the teen’s needs, preferences, and available resources[1][2][3][4][5].
Choosing the Right Therapist
When choosing a therapist, look for one who listens to your feelings, helps you reach your goals at your own pace, does not judge you, allows you to give feedback, and shares a similar background and specializes in your particular concerns.
Parental Involvement
Minors typically need parental consent to get therapy. Parents or guardians can arrange sessions with a therapist, counselor, or mental health clinic. In some cases, parents or caregivers can participate in treatment, such as having parents participate in joint sessions with the teen and sometimes collateral sessions with only the parents, caregivers, and therapist.
Common Mental Health Concerns for Teenagers
Anxiety disorders, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders are among the most common mental health concerns for teens. Therapists may use techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), play therapy, art therapy, and tailored techniques for teenagers.
Online Therapy Platforms
- TeenCounseling.com: Best for support with stress and bullying. Costs between $65 to $90 per week.
- Talkspace: Best for LGBTQIA+ support. Costs between $69 to $109 per week.
- MDLIVE: Best for medication. Costs $108 to $284 for an initial visit and $108 per follow-up visit.
- Synergy eTherapy: Offers night appointments. Costs from $100 per session.
- 7 Cups: Provides free ad-hoc support. Offers free messaging and talk therapy for $159 and $299 per month respectively.
When to Seek Immediate Help
Online therapy is not suitable for mental health emergencies. In such cases, call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 911 or local emergency services. In serious situations, consider calling local emergency services, texting TALK to 741741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor, calling the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, calling 911, or contacting the self-injury hotline at 1-800-DONT CUT (1-800-366-8388).
Recognizing the Need for Mental Health Care
Signs that a teen may need mental health care include changes in mood, behavioral changes, low energy or lack of motivation at school, physical changes, engaging in harmful behaviors, spending increasing amounts of time alone, claiming people are trying to control their mind, hearing things other people cannot hear, loss of interest in things they would usually enjoy, and self-harm.
According to the Child Mind Institute, some teens may not admit they have problems with their mental health. It is crucial to remain vigilant and seek help if you suspect your teen may be struggling.
[1] American Psychological Association. (2021). Therapy and teletherapy: What you need to know. https://www.apa.org/topics/therapy-teletherapy
[2] Child Mind Institute. (2021). Online therapy for kids. https://childmind.org/article/online-therapy-for-kids/
[3] PsychCentral. (2021). Online therapy vs. in-person therapy: Which is better? https://psychcentral.com/health/online-therapy-vs-in-person-therapy
[4] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Online therapy: Is it right for you? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/mental-health/in-depth/online-therapy/art-20485876
[5] National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2021). Online therapy. https://www.nami.org/About-NAMI/Convention-On-Mental-Illness/2016-Convention/Sessions/108834
- Online therapy platforms like TeenCounseling.com, Talkspace, MDLIVE, Synergy eTherapy, and 7 Cups offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional in-person therapy, with prices ranging from $65 to $299 per week.
- The flexibility and accessibility of online therapy make it suitable for teenagers with mobility issues, busy schedules, or limited local resources, as sessions can be attended from any location using various formats such as video, phone, or chat.
- Science and research in health-and-wellness and mental-health fields highlight that certain therapeutic techniques or relationship-building might be less effective online, particularly for teenagers facing trauma or intense emotional issues where in-person cues are important.
- A caregiver may find it beneficial to get involved in a teenager's therapy, as parental consent is often required for minors to receive therapy. Participation can include joint sessions with the teen and sometimes collateral sessions with only the caregivers.
