Online Therapy

[t_nguyen701]

Has anyone ever gave "BetterHelp" and "TalkSpace" a try? I recently just signed up for it, I'm willing to try anything new that can possibly help with my anxiety/ depression. Just wondering what you guys thought if you do use the service....

[Ayla-Kat]

Hello, T! I have not tried the online therapy. I've tied traditional therapy but it does not work for me. I hate waiting every week to talk for only a therapist to for them to only suggest meditation and find time for personal space. I'd rather come up with a solution. And I could have come up with that on my own! I Have GAD, which makes my life difficult.

I have a stressful line of work, so meds help but leave me without emotion. I want to go the natural route, but difficult journey as well. I had to quit my job to take a break from stress but now I have to go back to work.

Have you tried CBT-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy? I can't find a therapist that specializes in this so I had to do my own research. I would look up negative thinking styles because I do all the things it mentions . So I have to come up with strategies.

I found this more helpful because it gives clear processes to work with. I know there are workbooks that you can buy on Amazon that friends have told me are helpful.

So, dependent on the type of problems you have. I'm sure have an online therapist might help. It beats having to go to the physical place. That would make me anxious to try and keep appointments and they are expensive if you don't have insurance.

I wish you well on your journey. Keep up the good work!

😻 Ayla-Kat

[t_nguyen701 in reply to Ayla-Kat]

Hey A! I've been reading about CBT and how it can be beneficial to you, and have been trying to implement it, however I think it would be better if I had some guidance from a professional or someone who is trained. I've set my first video session with a therapist for tonight through BetterHelp so we'll see how that goes and I'll update you on that. I'm reading alot of posts on this site and it seems like many people have to take medication to get through the day so and that is something I would like to avoid. I recently went to see a therapist physically for the first time about two weeks ago but to take time out of my busy schedule gives me anxiety in itself. I was fortunate to have a therapist after work hours but by the time I take the train home (I Live in NYC) I'm exhausted and have no time for myself. This is such a battle, and I along with many other people are living it every single day. It's exhausting....I'm trying to remain optimistic

[makaio]

I recently just signed up for Better Help and I must say I like it. My counselor is great, he even was able to do a live session with me on a Saturday afternoon. Outside of live sessions replies may take a few hours since the counselors also work at mental health centers. I think the service is very convenient! But I am going in for an assessment on Wednesday. I feel Better Help is great for support on your own terms, for the most part.

[t_nguyen701 in reply to makaio]

Hey makaio! How has the app been serving you? I like how when I immediately signed up for it, my counselor was able to fit me in for a video call later on that night on the same day. He's also been able to respond to my messages and we're able to exchange information through writing on the app. So far so good for me. I like it bc I can use it within the comfort of my own home and dont have to wait around for an appmt with can cause me more anxiety and traveling. I guess it depends on the counselor you get paired with but you have the option to switch counselors if you dont like him/ her.