Online therapy is one of the newest trends in mental healthcare. Although many clients still choose in-person therapy, online counseling has become an important option for some clients in certain situations. It is not intended for serious mental health issues or illnesses requiring medication, but it can be successful in helping people through difficult life issues like divorce or interpersonal conflict.

Electronic therapy is often conducted through e-mail. Clients ask therapists questions about a situation or express their thoughts and feelings, and the therapist will respond. Internet chats are sometimes used as well, allowing clients to have a "real-time" fifty-minute session on-line. Therapy using web cameras is currently being developed as well.

This method of counseling is surprisingly effective when used in addition to other treatment. One study found that clients who received on-line therapy as a follow-up to inpatient treatment fared better than those who did not receive it. The study made no comparison of on-line follow-up with face-to-face follow-up to see which would be more effective, or which would lead to greater participation by patients.

Another study concluded that on-line therapy is an important source of support for those struggling with addiction.

There are good reasons why someone might seek on-line therapy, like being homebound or wanting anonymity. Other reasons on-line therapy is succeeding include the following:

Although it shows promise in many situations, if you suspect you may have a serious mental illness, such as major depression, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder — and certainly if you are feeling suicidal, you should seek a therapist's help in person rather than using the online approach. Here are some other cautions about this treatment type:

While it shows promise for clients who might not otherwise receive therapy, it is important that it be conducted ethically and that clients educate themselves about its appropriate use. Learn more about online therapy from USA Today.

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are feeling depressed or think you might be suffering from a mental illness, find a therapist in your state. If you are feeling suicidal, or if you know someone who is, please get help. Call the Suicide Hotline at 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433) or 1-800-273-TALK (8255). ________________________________

Cristina Frick is a contributing writer and volunteer editor at the Good News Network since 2006. She is currently completing her Master's degree in Clinical and Community Psychology at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and plans to gradute in December.