For many teens it’s a daunting thought to sit in a therapist’s room and pouring out their feelings to someone else isn’t exactly ideal. However online therapy sessions might be a good idea.
With the rise of telehealth, which began at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, psychotherapy has changed to meet the needs of the younger generation. Virtual therapy has been in use for decades, but technological advances have opened up new opportunities for professional psychotherapists, psychologists, clinical social workers and psychiatrists to provide remote mental health services.
Online therapy is here and will stay, however, many parents question whether it’s an appropriate option for their teens. If you’re trying to navigate different online therapy platforms or transitioning away from in-person therapy, here’s everything you should know about teen online therapy.
What warning signs and mental health indicators should you look out for?
Every mental health condition is unique, and symptoms can differ from one person to the next person. However every mental health condition can impact emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. If you’re trying to decide whether or not to discuss the issue with your teen, here’s the signs and symptoms to be aware of.
Unexpected interruptions to their lives routines, routines and relationships. Everyone experiences “bad days” at times If your teen is struggling with everyday tasks it’s crucial to be aware of. Depending on your teen’s daily activities, it could look like issues with friendships with family and relatives as well as academic issues change in personality, low motivation.
The excessive anxiety. Stress is the normal reaction to stressful situations or situations that are threatening. It’s normal for teenagers to feel worried before important tests, deadlines, or sports games. However, if the level of stress and anxiety feels excessive in comparison to the risks, you must pay attention. If your child experiences anxiety attacks, is constantly worried, or experiences intrusive thinking (obsessions) or behavior (compulsions) or compulsions, they could have a diagnosed anxiety disorder.
Depression. We all feel “down” at certain points, particularly when setbacks take place. But if your teenager is experiencing an unending low mood, low energy as well as self-esteem issues or suicidal thoughts, you should talk to the mental health professionals.
Substance abuse. Be aware of changes in behavior which could be caused by the use of substances. Teenagers are at risk of abusing marijuana, alcohol, psychedelic drugs and prescription medications as well as other substances. Substance abuse can also lead to abuse of drugs that are available over the counter or medications.
School performance fluctuates. Teens may have issues with academic work–and that’s normal. However, if your child typically receives high grades and starts having trouble, there might be an underlying mental illness to blame. If the academic problems persist, a licensed therapist can assist your child to find the root of the problem.
Acute or chronic stress. If teens are victims of violence, trauma or abuse in their home, they’re more likely to be afflicted with acute or long-lasting stress. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) typically involves flashbacks, panic, and frequent thoughts about the trauma event. Psychotherapy can aid your teenager to process those experiences so they can start to heal.
How can online therapy aid your teen?
Online teen therapy may aid teens in understanding their mental health, learn lifelong coping strategies, and deal with their problems. If you’re weighing the pros and cons of online counseling or traditional therapy, here are some reasons why teletherapy may be the best choice for you teen.
Teens are more comfortable on the internet. The majority of teens enjoy online chat, so accessing psychotherapy over the internet may be more relaxing than talking to a therapist in person. Online therapy helps your teenager to be more engaged with the process of healing as well as enhance their life quality and achieve their goals within a welcoming and comfortable environment.
Teletherapy is more efficient. For most parents and teens that are online, this is the most efficient option. There’s no need to worry about the commute to and from the therapist’s office, and your teen doesn’t have to interrupt their schedule for therapy appointments. For teenagers living in rural areas or without transportation, online appointments give more accessibility to high-quality healthcare for the mind. Many online therapists provide afternoon and weekend appointments.
There’s less stigma attached. Some teens are embarrassed about therapy, and they may be worried that they’ll be exposed to their peers if that they’re attending therapy. Telehealth and online counseling services can allow your teenager to access therapy from the comfort of their own home which means they won’t need to worry about awkward interactions or anxiety in waiting rooms.
Virtual therapy can be cheaper option. Some online therapy platforms offer the most affordable mental health care as compared to traditional therapies. In Charlie Health, we’re proud to offer low-cost online therapy. We partner with insurance companies of all kinds which include Medicaid to ensure that your teenager can access mental health treatment without spending a fortune.
If your teen requires extra assistance beyond traditional face-toface therapy Intense outside-patient programmes (IOPs) offer more care.
Is online therapy effective for mental health in teens?
Research consistently shows that online therapy can be effective in treating a wide range of issues, including anxiety disorders, major depression as well as bipolar disorders. Teenagers tend to be receptive to working with therapists by using computers for therapy. It can be done through the use of mobile apps, live chat or text therapy as well as video sessions.
In a study conducted in 2016 in 2016, 72 percent of teens said they would access online therapy when they faced mental health challenges. Furthermore, 32 percent stated they would select online therapy over face-toface therapy sessions.
If you’re considering online therapy for your child, or you’ve noticed signs of mental health concerns first, talk to the doctor who treats your teenager. Because some of the symptoms associated with mental health can mimic physical health conditions, it’s important to rule out any existing health problems that might contribute to their symptoms.
Your teen’s healthcare provider can advise you about whether online therapy is an appropriate alternative based on your teenager’s particular requirements. If your child has an illness that is serious to their mental health or your doctor has concerns about safety concerns, therapy online may not be the best option. If, for instance, your teenager is actively suicidal, your healthcare provider could refer you to an inpatient treatment program to provide immediate support.
If the healthcare professional of your teenager suggests an online therapy program for you teenager then you’re given the go-ahead to begin exploring online therapists. As with any other type of treatment, you’ll need to consider your child’s opinions of their preferences, needs, and needs in making a final choice. Based on the American Psychological Association (APA) therapy requires cooperation between your teen and their therapist. As a result, their investment and interest can make a significant difference in their mental health outcomes.
How can you find the perfect online therapy service?
Finding the right therapist might feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Thanks to Charlie Health, you don’t need to spend hours sifting through sites for online therapy and directories for psychologists or comparing subscription plans. If you’re considering online therapy for the first time or trying to find a new online therapist We’re here to assist you find the right fit for your teen and the family.
When you’re ready to reach out for professional help Our admissions team will be there to answer any questions you may have. After you learn more regarding our services, we’ll make the appointment with a counselor to learn about the specific concerns of your teenager. Then, we’ll create an treatment plan that will provide personalized mental health services.
Based on your consultation, we’ll assign a primary therapist that specializes in your teen’s treatment needs. The online therapist for your teenager will be there to help throughout the process of treatment, from admission to aftercare. We’ll also connect your child with specially-curated peer support groups with peers who have similar backgrounds.
The practice of psychotherapy (talk therapy) can help your teen come up with solutions that will improve their mental well-being. Our IOP offers comprehensive access to a wide range of evidence-based therapeutic interventions which include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), so your child can get comprehensive mental health support.
Our skilled mental health specialists are here to guide and help your teen along their journey toward mental wellness with sustainable healing, ongoing aftercare plan, and ongoing support for mental health. We believe that every person can improve their mental health and reaching their therapy goals. Sometimes, all it takes is only a gentle push to that direction.