Online Psychotherapy- As Effective As Traditional Therapy?

There has been controversy for some time about whether psychotherapy can be conducted effectively remotely by phone or internet technology. Science Alert reports a study from the University Of New South Wales and St. Vincent's Hospital that argue that online treatments are as effective as traditional face to face treatment for a variety of mental health conditions.

They report that "Anxiety, social phobias and depression are all conditions that respond well to clinician-supported internet-based treatments, the researchers found, with program participants recording recovery rates comparable to those in face-to-face therapy."

These results are based on trials conducted targeting depression (the Sadness program), generalised anxiety disorder (Worry program) and social phobias (Shyness program). The studies were undertaken by Professor Gavin Andrews and Dr Nick Titov, from UNSW's School of Psychiatry and The Virtual Clinic at Sydney's St Vincent's Hospital.

A paper outlining the results of the latest generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) trial appears next month in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry.

They are currrently recruiting for larger trials for futher analysis. The results achieved by all three programs - which involved simple online lessons, regular emails and online discussion forums - reportedly surprised everyone involved.

The programs were described as highly structured and and involve people working systematically through a series of lessons and homework assignments, guided by the therapist.

While such interventions will likely never replace traditional psychotherapy completely, there is the possibility that online therapy may present a cost effective approach for many clients. Some people are likely to prefer this mode of treatment and others likely will find it too impersonal for their liking.

They are accepting new participants, but you must live in Australia to participate. You can check out more information at their Virtual Clinic website. The laws and ethics of providing such services vary from one country and profession to another so you will have to find out for yourself if this treatment option is available for you!