What Is Text Therapy? Text-Based Therapy & Mental Health

There are many different types of therapy available, and not all of them have to be in person. Text-based therapy is a relatively new way to get the mental health help you need without having to drive to an in-person visit with a mental health provider. Text-based therapy allows you to receive therapy services by messaging with your therapist (similar to sending a text message) or through live chat via a platform from a smartphone, tablet, or computer - all you need is a reliable Internet connection.

Who is text therapy for?

Text therapy services are good for people just getting started with professional mental health treatment, but also works for those who have been to a therapist before. It can be an easy way to have someone to talk to without judgment or pressure in the comfort of your own home, or wherever you feel comfortable outside of an office setting.

If you don't think you have the time, you're worried about being face-to-face with someone when you talk about your problems, or you don't think you can afford therapy in the first place, text therapy may be something worth learning more about.

What is text therapy?

Text therapy usually has the same goals as traditional in-person talk therapy, but communication is done online (either via text-messaging or live chat) instead of in person. Text therapy services usually have therapists with different specializations on their platforms, so answering your profile questionnaire accurately can help you match to the mental health provider that is right for you. If you find that you would like to work with someone else, that can also be arranged.

If you're not keen on talking with people face-to-face, with text therapy, you never have to see the face of the person you are talking to if you choose not to. It can be more affordable by the hour than in-person therapy as well. 

There are quite a few text therapy websites for you to choose from, and there are even articles dedicated to telling you which one would be the best for you.

The effectiveness of text therapy for mental health

Some may have questions about the effectiveness of text therapy when compared to in-person sessions. 

In a study published in 2017, researchers found that text therapy treatments were an effective solution for those who experienced symptoms of depression and anxiety. Another review of research from 2021 found that text therapy services may prove a key asset in the expansion of mental health services into underserved areas including rural and remote communities by offering effective treatment at a distance.

So, current psychological research suggests that text therapy is a viable method for treating a range of conditions in otherwise untreated communities or communities and individuals in need of a more reachable alternative.

What is Regain? Does it offer text-based therapy sessions with therapists?

Regain is an online therapy platform that offers messaging therapy (text-based therapy sessions with phone and video options as well) with licensed therapists. At Regain, mental health professionals are focused on helping those who are in relationships or have mental health concerns related to their relationships.

Talking to a therapist

When you sign up, you'll be matched with the therapist that best meets your needs after completing a profile and answering questions about yourself, your preferences, and what you need out of therapy. You'll gain reach to a chat room where you can talk to your therapist about whatever you choose to discuss and receive expert advice in return. You can also message your therapist at any time, and they will respond when they can, which may be helpful if you’re navigating difficult situations during the day.

The availability of online therapy

Along with the text therapy, you can schedule sessions with your therapist over the phone and on video chat if you are comfortable with the idea. These sessions aren’t mandatory but are available by request, so there is no pressure one way or another.

Regain also has a free Advice section available if you have questions about anxiety, relationships, parenting, or other mental health-related topics, but aren't quite ready to decide if therapy might work for you.

Note: Regain does not substitute for in-person counseling if you have a court order or if you are interested in medication or need supervision by a professional with a medical degree, or if you are in an abusive relationship. Please consider seeing a mental health professional in person if you suspect you need medication or more support.

If you or a loved one is experiencing abuse, contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Support is available 24/7.

Regain is not a crisis text line. If you’re experiencing a crisis, contact the Crisis Text Line to speak with a crisis counselor.

Can my partner and I use Regain for mental health treatment?

Regain can be excellent for couples to use together. It is designed so that partners can work on a healthy and happy relationship as a team. When you start your profile, you can specify that your partner will be joining your sessions. If you aren't sure, you are also able to sign yourself up alone and add your partner later. Additionally, if you ever want a discreet session with your therapist, just let your counselor know, and they can modify your conversation settings appropriately.

You and your partner can stick to text therapy if you choose to do so, or you can also set up a phone or video calls as needed - whatever works best for you both. The therapist is there to help you grow as a couple and see your value as individuals. 

You and your partner can use Regain as long as you need to. Plans range from $40-$70 weekly, depending on the type of plan you use.