Online counseling is a form of professional counseling which is practiced by a licensed therapist or counselor through the internet. It serves as an alternative solution for those who need emotional help and guidance. Individuals who are somehow restricted due to their location, physical disability, budget, etc. often patronize online counseling.
Online counseling is also known as online therapy, e-counseling, tele-therapy, or cyber-counseling. The program has experienced a rapid growth in popularity in recent years. There are five basic ways in which clients and their counselors can communicate through online counseling:
- Instant messaging
- Live Chat
- Internet Phone or VoIP
- Video conferencing or video chat
Do you have Texas Medicaid? You can start your journey today with Online Counseling.
Not only is online counseling convenient, it also saves you a lot of time. You don’t need to drive weekly or monthly to therapy appointments. With an internet connection you and your counselor can have a face-to-face conversation. You can get all the help that you need in the comfort of your home.
Online counseling is mainly beneficial to individuals who may have challenges in attending the normal, traditional therapy. Some of the challenges may include poor mobility, limited transportation, illness, low income or budget, or long distance. The online program will provide the much needed therapeutic treatment for those who require emotional and mental guidance. It has been confirmed to be very effective and for some it can make all the difference towards leading a healthier and happier life.
Why do you need online counseling?
It is usually difficult to summon the courage to seek counsel on personal issues, difficult memories, depression, sexual life etc. Online counseling makes it easier to do because you can quickly get the help you need with anonymity. Your therapist doesn’t have to know your name or what you look like.
Online counseling is in great demand. The anonymity helps clients to feel safe with their counselor. Irrespective of your location, you can get the help you need at any time. Also, the amount of information you want to disclose all depends on you. But it is always good to open up to your counselor, so that he/she can easily get to the root of the problem.
Benefits of online counseling
It provides easy accessibility. One of the great benefits of online counseling is the fact that it is easily accessible to those who have a need for it. It has helped to overcome the challenges that may prevent people from seeking therapy. You can have access to counseling regardless of your location, time, or place. People who live in remote areas where they can’t find nearby counseling services can benefit from our online counseling.
Also, those that are physically challenged and are unable to leave their homes can conveniently access such services. People with visual or hearing problems can take advantage of the online counseling service. Young children and teenagers who are comfortable with the internet are effectively encouraged to receive the therapy.
It is convenient. Online counseling is convenient for both the client and the counselor. It affords them the opportunity to conveniently correspond with each other at any time. It has helped to defeat the problem of scheduling and setting of appointments which are common in the traditional settings. It has also enabled therapist to extend their services to more patients. This is because they now cover a wider geographical location with the help of the internet.
Individuals who are not comfortable discussing their problems face to face with someone may find the online therapy suitable. It is preferred by those individuals who have anxiety disorders, social phobias, or agoraphobia.
It gives room for anonymity. Counseling over the internet provides a non-threatening level of anonymity. This is perceived by users as safe and non-inhibiting. Without face-to-face contact, there is an increased level of honesty and self-disclosure by the client. The absence of facial contact enables clients to communicate more openly without worrying about any preconceived notions. They don’t have concerns about the bias of race, age, size, gender, or physical appearance.
It is affordable. Online counseling when compared to the traditional counseling services is very affordable and cost effective. It has been shown to be more economical because most of the administrative cost won’t necessarily be included in the client’s fee.
It helps to eliminate social stigma. Online counseling successfully eliminates the social stigmas that may be felt by those that receive therapy. Individuals who are not comfortable going to therapy can privately have access to the service without visiting the counseling center. It allows the patient to feel less stigmatized because they don’t have to be seen by the administrative staff or other people in the waiting room. Online counseling provides you with a level of anonymity which helps to reduce social stigma. Therefore, you don’t have to hesitate to seek help any longer.
It provides an alternative way to communicate. Writing is the main mode of communication during online counseling. Messages are often exchanged in writing through emails or instant chat. This enables both the clients and the counselor to pay strict attention to their communication. They will have the opportunity to reflect on their feelings and thoughts before expressing it in writing. Writing is a more preferred way of communication for clients who may experience difficulty orally expressing themselves. Some individuals communicate better when they write than when they speak.
Research has also shown that writing during a period of distress is good for clients. It is assumed to provide an important avenue for emotional healing. Also, a written record may serve as a reference document in subsequent discussion, assessment, and progress.
Other benefits of online counseling include:
- It provides opportunity to meet a wide range of medical health professionals, including social workers, licensed psychologists, and family and marriage therapists.
- It is convenient for people with time constraints
Do you have Texas Medicaid? You can start your journey today with Online Counseling.
What makes us different?
Gateway 2 Counseling’s online therapy sessions are instant, confidential, and affordable. We are the only online therapy platform that accepts Texas Medicaid. We provide you with a safe and confidential setting to communicate in a real-time environment. We have a team of qualified, experienced, and professional counselors and therapists.
The duration of the online sessions usually depends on the circumstances surrounding the patient’s problem. Whether you need a deep root analysis of your situation or you need immediate help with a practical issue. You can always get what you want and need.
Our online counseling services allow you to choose the therapist you want. You are allowed to try different therapists until you find the right one for you. With your anonymity assured, it becomes easier to share and discuss your difficult situations and experiences. You are at liberty to discuss any issue with our counselors.
Our therapists have gained experience through years of providing professional online counseling for different individuals. Having dealt with people with different life situations, they are well prepared to coach you through different life challenges. Talk of marital issues, love life and relationships, career and self growth, or just to maintain a happy life. Our counselors are capable and they are ready to help you.
They always remain focus, objective, and non-judgmental to give you the best guidance and advice that you need. With our counselors, you can find the right path to take charge of your life and be happy once again.
We accept Texas Medicaid at our online counseling service.
Medicaid is a type of healthcare program that was initiated by the federal government but is managed by the state government. Texas Medicaid provides healthcare for Texas residents who demonstrated medical needs and those with low income. Gateway 2 Counseling recognizes Texas Medicaid and gives discounts to all beneficiaries of the healthcare program. Texas Medicaid allows you to benefit from our online counseling programs at an affordable rate.
Get the help you need right here.
Life is always full of ups and downs. Nobody can get through this life without facing some challenges. So whenever you are having difficulties and you need to talk someone, Gateway 2 Counseling’s team of professional counselors will help you find lasting solutions to those life problems. Our experienced counselors are ready to help you break free from anxiety, depression, bad memories, or any other life challenges. We are right here for you.
Gateway 2 Counseling can help you to take charge of your life once again. Contact us now to schedule a consultation appointment with one of our professional counselor. Getting a counseling session is easy – select a counselor, read their biography, and schedule an appointment by making use of the “Book Appointment” button.
Do you have Texas Medicaid? You can start your journey today with Online Counseling.