Online Therapy FAQ: What to Know About Virtual Counselling in Canada
- Kaitlyn Boudreault
- Oct 11, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Oct 22
As our digital world continues to expand, so does the number of people utilizing technological platforms for various services, including mental health support remotely.
The pandemic played a pivotal role in this trend by prompting many mental health professionals to transition their practices to virtual therapy delivery through video or phone.
With this shift to online counselling in Canada, you may understandably have questions and hesitations. You may wonder, “Is online therapy effective? or “What does it offer compared to traditional in-person sessions?”
The good news is that whether therapy happens online or in person, a trained mental health professional in Ontario, Canada, is equipped to support you in setting goals, developing coping strategies, and navigating your challenges.
In this guide, we’ll explore what online therapy is, examining its benefits and drawbacks and its overall effectiveness. Read on to discover more and determine if teletherapy might be right for you.
💡 Tip: Bookmark this page so you can return to sections that address your questions as you explore online therapy.
What Is Online Therapy and How Does It Work?
Before diving into how online therapy works, you’ll first need to understand what therapy is.
Therapy is the process in which an individual seeking mental health support regularly meets with a trained mental health professional to work on shared therapeutic goals.
This therapeutic process fosters a therapeutic alliance, which is a professional relationship aimed at addressing the personal, social, or psychological goals faced by the client.
During therapy, the mental health professional utilizes various therapeutic modalities to help you identify your strengths, enabling you to leverage them as you work toward your goals. The process also focuses on addressing challenges and identifying effective coping mechanisms.
Online therapy, also known as teletherapy or virtual counselling, involves receiving this therapeutic support through online platforms, such as phone or video calls.
Unlike traditional counselling, where you must travel to the physical office, online therapy meets you where you are. It allows you to connect from the comfort of your own space, whether it's in your living room or office space, as long as you have internet access.
How Does the Cost of Online Therapy Compare to In-Person?
The cost of online therapy typically aligns with that of in-person sessions, as you receive the same type of support for a similar duration.
However, there are several key advantages that online therapy may offer, including:
Lowers Costs: Sometimes online therapy may be cheaper, as some therapists offer affordable virtual therapy packages or shorter sessions.
Elimination of Travel Costs: No gas, transit, or parking fees, making therapy more accessible.
How Often Should I Attend Online Therapy?
The frequency of online counselling varies from person to person, based on goals and needs.
Generally, during the initial phase, clients may attend once a week or biweekly. This frequency helps establish a strong therapeutic alliance and ensures consistent support.
As therapy progresses, you can continue at the same pace or taper off the sessions in collaboration with your therapist, ensuring that adjustments are made as needed.
Benefits of Online Therapy: Why Virtual Counselling May Be Right for You
Choosing between virtual or in-person counselling is often a matter of personal comfort.
Here are some key advantages of online therapy that may enhance your therapeutic experience:
Feature / Benefit | Virtual Therapy (Online) | In-Person Therapy |
Flexibility | Schedule sessions around work, school, or caregiving; often evenings/weekends available | Limited by therapist office hours and commute time |
Accessibility | Accessible from anywhere with internet; supports mobility challenges, remote locations | Restricted by geographical location, transportation, or physical accessibility |
Comfort | Attend sessions from a safe, familiar environment; pets or personal items allowed | Less familiar environment; some clients may feel anxious in office settings |
Therapist Variety | Connect with therapists across Canada; find specialized expertise. | Limited to therapists within commuting distance; fewer options for niche specialties |
Formats Available | Video calls, phone sessions, text-based therapy, and email support | Primarily face-to-face verbal communication; limited alternatives |
Affordability | Often lower-cost due to no office overhead; saves commuting expenses | Typically, higher fees; costs include office maintenance and commuting |
Privacy | Confidential sessions from home; reduced social anxiety about entering a therapy office | Privacy concerns if commuting publicly; may feel observed entering the office |
Overall, virtual therapy represents a flexible, accessible, and effective alternative to traditional in-person sessions.
Can I do Online Therapy on a Phone or Tablet?
Yes! You use a phone, tablet, or computer, as long as you have a stable internet connection. Use whichever device you're most comfortable with.
Is My Privacy Protected? Will Everything Be Confidential in Online Therapy?
Privacy in online therapy is a top priority. Blue Sky Learning uses platforms compliant with PHIPA, PIPEDA, and other health laws that govern the confidentiality of medical records.
Communications are secure, ensuring the information remains secure, just as it would in an in-person session, with exceptions only in legally mandated circumstances, such as imminent danger to yourself or others, a child is being abused, sexual abuse by a healthcare provider, or the healthcare provider is subpoenaed by the courts.
What Are the Downfalls of Virtual Therapy?
While online therapy is highly effective, there are some challenges:
Limited Body Language Cues: In-person settings allow therapists to observe mannerisms and body language. Some nonverbal communication can be harder to read online.
Internet Connection Issues: Keep a backup plan ready, such as switching to phone sessions.
Noise Disruptions: Use noise-cancelling headphones or a quiet, dedicated space.
Technological Difficulties: While online therapy doesn't demand a high level of tech proficiency, comfort with devices may be helpful, though phone sessions can be arranged.
Are Online Therapy Sessions Covered by Insurance?
Coverage varies by provider. Some plans cover registered therapists, social workers, or psychologists. Confirm with your insurance about your therapist’s credentials and covered formats. Additionally, ensure that your chosen therapist is willing to accept your insurance.
How Should I Prepare for an Online Therapy Session?
Formulate questions or topics to discuss.
Ensure a stable internet connection.
Set up a private, comfortable space.
Follow any platform-specific instructions from your therapist.
What Types of Therapy Can Be Done Online?
Numerous therapy modalities can be effectively conducted online. Here are some applicable types of therapy:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): The client is encouraged to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Support you in managing your behaviours by using techniques that work to manage emotions, improve mindfulness skills, and deepen interpersonal relationships.
Psychodynamic Therapy: A client explores how past experiences and unconscious processes shape their current behaviours.
Other approaches include:
Internal Family Systems
Art Therapy
Strength-Based Therapy
What Can Online Therapy Help With?
Blue Sky Learning supports clients with challenges, including:
Anger management
Anxiety
Mood disorders
Chronic pain
Trauma and PTSD/CPTSD
Relationship issues
Pregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum
Grief
Personality disorders
Dissociative disorders
Schizophrenia
Impulse control disorder
Life transitions
Peer relationships
Self-esteem
Stress
And many more...
Online Therapy vs In-Person: Which Is More Effective?
Research indicates that online therapy is effective, particularly in forms like CBT. One study in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that teletherapy can be just as successful as traditional care.
Moreover, a 2017 study for veterans suffering from PTSD showed that being able to access therapy from the comfort of your own home increased the uptake of the therapy sessions rated as beneficial.
What Options Are Available if Online 1:1 Therapy Isn’t for Me?
If one-on-one virtual therapy doesn’t suit your needs, Blue Sky Learning also offers:
In-person events in partnership with Hard Feelings Toronto.
Free consultations to explore options
Is Online Therapy Right for You?
Determining whether online therapy is suitable involves reflecting on your personal preferences, circumstances, and needs. Consider these questions:
Am I comfortable discussing personal issues virtually?
Do I feel confident navigating technology?
Can I create a private space?
Do I need flexible scheduling?
Still unsure? Book a free consultation to meet your therapist and explore options.
This online therapy consultation will also provide an opportunity to learn more about your therapist and gain answers to your questions about online therapy.
How Do I Book an Online Therapy Session?
Ready to try online therapy? Book a free 20-minute consultation with a neurodiversity-affirming therapist in Canada.
Reach out by emailing hello@blueskylearning.ca, calling 1-437-291-8807, or going through the link below.
Appointments are scheduled online through the Jane App, upon which your therapist will send you further instructions to prepare for your initial consultation.
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