Nowadays, it’s hard to imagine spending one day without checking our mobile phones – whether it is social media, keeping in touch with friends or family, or for entertainment purposes. The increasing importance of convenient, instant messaging and typing impacts our personal lives and has revolutionized many fields, including mental health.
Texting therapy fits seamlessly in our increasingly digitalized world. For many, texting therapy allows them to access mental health support in new ways and even empowers individuals to get help when the traditional mental health care system fails.
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What Is Texting Therapy?
Texting therapy is an online therapy where users get support via text messages. This new approach is broadening access to mental health care, taking advantage of the convenience of technology.
There are two main types of texting therapy: asynchronous and synchronous. Unlike traditional in-person visits or video therapy, the first type is unlimited texting therapy; you are in constant touch with your licensed therapist.
You can text them at any time convenient for you – or when you need support – and the therapist gets back to you within an agreed timeframe, usually once or twice daily.
The second type is synchronous texting therapy. Similar to in-person or video sessions, synchronous texting therapy lets you chat with your therapist in real-time. You need to make an appointment, and during your allocated time, you can join a live therapy chat and discuss with your therapist.
Like other types of therapy, texting therapy offers a safe space for people to discuss their worries and begin their healing journey. The difference is the mode – instead of face-to-face, phone calls, or video call interaction, you text your therapist.
Advantages of Texting Therapy
This modern approach makes mental health more accessible to many people, including those with very busy lifestyles, those who live in remote areas with little access to physical mental health clinics, or those who struggle with certain conditions, such as social anxiety, which deters them from seeing a local therapist.
Texting therapy is also extremely convenient – we use our mobile phones multiple times daily. This type of therapy means your licensed therapist is at your fingertips whenever you need support.
In today’s digitalized world, texting therapy comes with unparalleled accessibility. Whether you are traveling to work, waiting in a queue, in the comfort of your home, or during your lunch break, your licensed therapist is a message away. Hence, mental health support is now available to many more individuals, including those with disabilities or mobility issues, those who live in a remote area, or those who prefer not to opt for other types of therapy for any other reason.
Asynchronous or unlimited, texting therapy eliminates the need to organize your schedule. You no longer need to book appointments and reschedule or cancel other tasks; you can text your therapist anytime convenient.
This immediacy also means that when you deal with difficult moments throughout your day, you don’t need to wait until your next appointment to unburden – you can text your therapist.
Another benefit of texting therapy is the added layer of privacy and security. Connecting with a therapist online via texting means that no one has to know this part of your life – which is a breath of fresh air for people struggling with stigma. Also, texting therapy can make it easier for people who want to discuss sensitive topics that may cause unease or embarrassment.
Moreover, many people may find in-person or other scheduled therapy stressful. You need to plan your topics ahead of time and make sure you discuss everything you want to during a strict period. This could create unnecessary pressure, or you may want to take notes during your discussions to review them and reflect on them later.
With texting therapy, you can discuss any topic at any time, and you don’t need to be in a rush – you can re-read and reflect on the previous conversations at your own pace. This may help smooth the healing journey for some people, as they have more time to reflect and improve.
Challenges of Texting Therapy: Who Is It Not Suitable For?
Undoubtedly, texting therapy is for everyone. If you cannot express yourself well in writing, this therapy may not suit you.
You should be at ease when typing and describing your situation very clearly. Otherwise, you may need help to connect with your therapist meaningfully. Your skills are even more important as there will be no body language, tone, or facial expressions to help your therapist gauge your emotions – you need to rely solely on your typing and writing skills to avoid misunderstandings.
Summary
All in all, texting therapy is a valuable tool for many people nowadays. Although it may not be suitable for all situations, some individuals may benefit more from texting therapy than other types of therapy. This is due to its affordability, convenience, and accessibility, but also its proven efficiency.
