Skype Therapy
While face to face therapy has its own distinct advantages, in recent years it has become clear that it also has disadvantages. The rigid structure of such treatment requires time and effort on the part of the patient, and does not leave room for flexibility or unforeseen factors. Beyond that, as long as the treatment is possible only via face-to-face- there will always remain a large group of people who need treatment that technical difficulties of time and distance- simply prevent them from getting it.
Technological developments enable us to hold meetings at a high level of closeness: While nothing can replace meeting one another in person, still with a simple webcam and reasonable internet connection, it is very easy to form a interpersonal and intimate connection. This will allow both parties to experience the sound, appearance, facial expressions, body language, posture and intonation. All those without going through the logistical difficulties involved in meeting face to face.
Accessibility is indeed a major advantage of online treatment. Using this medium allows us to meet late at night or very early, to deal with the difficulties of arrival, and meet despite harsh weather conditions. Furthermore, Skype therapy provides treatment for those who live in a remote places, and of course lowers the costs. The element of accessibility is particularly important in health psychology, as we often meet with patients who have difficulty leaving home due to illness, weakness or other physical disabilities.
Another advantage of Skype therapy is being in your home environment. Many patients feel comfortable receiving care in the familiar surroundings. You can wear comfortable clothes, drink, and even use the home environment for treatment purposes.
Online therapy is indeed a relatively new field, but there has been research to support its success . Effectiveness of psychological treatment for Skypewas tested in a wide range of mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, obsessions, trauma and even guidance for parents struggling with their children's behavioral problems . One study conducted in England, examined the effectiveness of online treatment of patients with major depression. The research compared people suffering from depression who received clinical treatment (medical or otherwise), to patients who received this treatment through chat, from mental health therapists.