Online counseling/therapy?

[blahman8000]

I came across this earlier this afternoon while browsing an OCD forum. It's far cheaper than the psychotherapy I pursued years ago. Some therapists offer it for $1 a minute, so I can get a cheap 20-30 minute session. And it's also convenient since I don't have a car. They're offering a free initial session, I guess so I can "sample" the therapist and see if he/she can provide the help I need.

My question is, has anybody given this a shot? If so, how'd it go? Right now I can't even know for sure if it's some kind of bullshit scam full of people who won't do a whole lot for me. Hell, it's the internet. Right now I'm looking here: http://www.neuroticplanet.com/onlinetherapy.php. Specifically, they're listing people experienced in helping people with OCD. Again, it says that it's free until you're "ready." That's a little vague to me, but I'm going to look more into it. Please let me know if any of you have tried this and if you found it helpful.

 

[Tripman]

I would strongly advise against this.

Remember it's the internet.

 

[blahman8000]

I agree, Tripman, and maybe it's a shot in the dark. It would be perfect for me right now, though, due to my lack of funds and lack of transportation, not to mention lack of energy and motivation. They provide a list of therapists (full names and credentials). I'm thinking of going incognito, so to speak, and registering from a proxy server. And obviously I shouldn't reveal anything too personal at first, but just the general idea. I feel like, because of some of the issues I'm currently dealing with, it would be easier right now not to have to face the therapist right away.

You're right, though. It is the internet and who the hell knows what will happen with all the personal information I give out. I Googled some of these folks and it seems to check out. They do seem to be actual professionals (or at least the ones I've considered). I just feel like it would be helpful to have someone I can talk to without paying so much, worrying about health insurance, having a ride, etc.

 

[badfish45]

It is a shot in the dark. But you should do your research first, look at people who have used these online therapists and get a numerous amount of feedback and ones that people say are legit. It's worth checking out, but you really need to do your homework with this, it could be a really bad way to get scammed

 

[herbavore]

There are plenty of reputable therapists that offer online counseling. (Many psychologists that specialize in such things as gender issues offer services online as many people do not have access to this specialty in areas of smaller population.) I would check the therapists that are actually near you that may offer online counseling. Then make sure you check with your insurance if you are American because this may be uncovered or covered differently. Good luck. I'd be interested to know what your experience with this is like if you do pursue it.

 

[n3ophy7e]

blahman, considering your current circumstances and the urgency with which you need some help, I reckon that after doing your research and finding a good, reputable online therapist, you should try it out. Online counselling could be better than no counselling at all, so it's worth a try.

Please let us know how it goes, and if you find that it's not helping you, please seek another alternative