Are Therapy Apps Effective? How A Mental Health App Can Help You
Online solutions to many everyday challenges have been popping up in more significant numbers since 2020, and one such option is therapy apps. You can get a therapist or counselor through various mental health platforms offered in-app and through a website from your phone or a smart device. Learning more about these apps can help you decide if online treatment would be a practical choice for your mental health needs.
What are therapy apps
Features of some therapy apps from the app store
Most therapy apps have chatrooms where clients and therapists can communicate. Some therapy apps do not offer therapy but offer a mood tracker, therapeutic games, or meditation exercises.
If you don’t have a therapist located nearby or don’t have the time to schedule weekly sessions, online therapy through an app can be a convenient option. You can get more out of these apps than therapy sessions, as well. Many therapy platforms offer additional tools like webinars and videos to guide you through the techniques you learn from a counselor.
Who are therapy apps for?
Therapy apps can benefit anyone with a smart device and internet connection. Depending on the type of app you choose, you can connect with a therapist, learn new skills, or track your mood. You do not have to have a mental illness, like anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder, to see an online therapist or use a therapy app. You can also get these services for following or treating symptoms, daily challenges, or long-term stressors.
Why sign up for a therapy app?
There are several potential benefits to using an online therapy app like Regain, including the following:
- Instant gain to a platform of licensed therapists
- The knowledge that your online therapist is vetted and verified
- A simple billing system
- The option to change your therapist at any time
- No need to commute or pay for gas and parking
- The ability to choose between phone, video, or live chat sessions with your therapist
- Tools and coping activities you can use from your phone
- Worksheets that can be obtained and printed at home
- The option to send unlimited messages to a licensed therapist when you need it
- Enter webinars and journaling features
Using a mental health app remotely
Most apps can be obtained from the App Store or Google Play store as long as you have an internet connection. You can use these apps from a coffee shop, at home, or on vacation, at any hour of the day. Many online therapists offer flexible hours, so you can attend appointments outside of standard business hours if you’re working during the day.
You can talk to a therapist in a convenient way
In addition, you can talk to therapists located at a distance from you, allowing you to speak to a more diverse range of professionals and specialties. Since you’re interacting entirely online, you can schedule a quick appointment and meet up with your therapist when it works for you both. Once you’re done with the session, you can immediately continue your day, which is convenient for many clients.
Benefits of online therapy apps
Online therapy through an app allows individuals to receive support when needed without worrying about scheduling appointments far in advance or dealing with a waitlist. And because everything is done online, you can avoid waiting in traffic or fearing being late for your in-person therapy appointment. With your mobile device charged and in hand, you can enter your session when it’s time and return to your day afterward.
More options for therapists through an app
When you are limited to options of the therapists in your area accepting new clients, finding someone providing the type of support you seek can be challenging. You might struggle to find a match. You can get matched or have more options within your state through an app. By reaching out this way, you can be sure the provider is available and can support you.
Online therapy can be more discreet
Additionally, internet-based therapy can be more discreet for those looking to keep their mental health treatment personal. You can use a nickname when you sign up for the app and use a chat session format if you’re uncomfortable talking to your therapist out loud while others are present in your home.
Effectiveness of therapy apps
If you’re unsure about the effectiveness of app therapy, studies have found that mental health apps are as effective as in-person options and can be more effective if used in tandem with regular therapy in person. Apps have been utilized in studies similar to this one in reducing depression and anxiety in participants.
Therapy app options for individuals and couples therapy
You can find many therapy apps by searching on the app store on your device for “therapy apps” or “mental health apps.” When deciding on an option, look at reviews and the features involved. Some apps offer licensed and trained professionals; others might only offer short-term questions and answers from licensed providers or coping techniques you can use at home. Try to find an app that offers licensed therapists instead of coaches, as therapists can offer more comprehensive mental health advice and treatment.
Benefits of working with a licensed therapist online
Apps like BetterHelp for individuals and Regain for couples and couple therapy are also effective options for individuals looking for online therapy, and they can also be obtained from a web browser. Through these apps, you can pay one fee for four weekly sessions and unlimited messaging with a licensed provider. When you sign up, you can get matched with a provider within 48 hours and start receiving support.
Effectiveness of online couples therapy
Studies have also found that online couples therapy can be more effective than in-office options as it offers availability for couples looking to attend therapy from two locations or at a reduced cost.
Takeaway
Therapy apps are diverse and provide many services and skills to individuals seeking mental health support. Some apps offer live sessions with a therapist, whereas others provide at-home techniques for bettering your health through various methods like meditation or mindfulness. Regardless of the type of app you use, anyone can use therapy apps to their benefit, and many are available. Consider downloading a therapy app to get started.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Below are several of the most frequently asked questions about therapy apps.
What are the best therapy apps?
Mental health apps are a great way to get advice and support anytime from any location. Today’s world is often digitally connected and offers ways for individuals to personalize their counseling experiences.
Mental health applications you can find through an app store
A few of the most popular therapy apps include the following:
- BetterHelp: An app for individuals looking for a wide range of therapy modalities and specialties from licensed therapists, with over 30,000 providers available
- ReGain: An app for couples looking for online support with over 12,000 providers available
- TeenCounseling: An app dedicated to teens looking for online therapy with parent permission (for ages 13 to 19)
- PrideCounseling: An app dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community and mental health support unique to LGBTQ+ needs
Are there any free mental health apps available from an app store?
Many free mental health apps offer support, coping mechanisms, and diary options for those not seeking a licensed therapist or regular support. A few of these apps include the following:
- Mindshift: An app for teens and young adults to manage anxiety symptoms
- Daylio: A daily mood tracking app with many insights available to understand your mood and symptoms on a more profound level
- Headshift: An app offering mindfulness meditation and guided practices to try at home
- Insight Timer: An app offering over 1,500 free meditation exercises to try at home
Can I talk to a therapist online for free?
As therapists go to school for six to 10 years, they provide a premium service with many requirements. Therapists must be licensed and pay fees for continued learning courses yearly. In addition, as they provide a valuable community service, their services come at a cost.
Therapists may offer short-term free treatment in-person at free healthcare volunteer clinics, but many therapists do not provide free online therapy. If they do, there may be a chance that they’re not licensed. You can often find low-cost services over 50% cheaper than traditional therapy options through an online platform.
If you’re looking for immediate free crisis support, you can also reach out to one of the following hotlines:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800) 662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
How do I get better mentally?
There are many options available to those looking to improve their mental health. For example, you can talk about your feelings to a trusted friend or family, try journaling, start an exercise routine, or eat healthier. Exercise increases feel-good endorphins in your body, which can increase moments of joy during your day.
You can also speak to a trusted therapist if you have difficulties and want to improve your mental health. Many mental health apps are available on your phone or desktop that can offer help anytime, anywhere.
Does online cognitive behavioral therapy work?
Online cognitive behavioral therapy works for the treatment and management of conditions connected with mental health. Several studies have indicated the efficacy of CBT in alleviating the symptoms and making the overall well-being of a person better.
Mental health conditions that cognitive behavioral therapy can treat
- Depression
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- PTSD
- Panic disorder
- Bipolar disorder
- Eating disorders
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