Is therapy possible through e-mail?

Traditional face-to-face therapy as currently defined cannot take place by e-mail, as many of the cues that are usually present in developing a relationship are missing (visual and verbal). However, relationships have been formed through writing, which may possibly allow for the development of a connection, engagement, without the distraction of a visual first impression. There was a time when basic communications, including the development of relationships, began with letter writing and was even sustained through the written word. In the movie, entitled, 84 Charing Cross Road, a deep and lasting relationship develops through writing alone between a New York writer, Helen Hanff (Anne Bancroft) and a London bookseller, Frank Doel (Anthony Hopkins). This was a relationship of great depth and caring that spanned two decades -- demonstrating the possibility of a bond and connection through use of the written word only. Since this is not traditional therapy, we will refer to it as e-therapy, with its visual and verbal limitations, but with other positives and advantages.

What then is needed for an e-therapy session?

First, the individual must be comfortable with writing, and enjoy expressing him- or herself using the written word. Some people do not like to write. E-Therapy or counseling  is probably not the best medium for that person. Some people like to talk, some like the phone, and others, to climb mountains, to dance or paint on canvas or on screen. Most of us fall somewhere in the middle and will be able to express our feelings and articulate our problems in some fashion through words. If you can put your problem "into words," then e-therapy may be for you.

Can I use e-therapy instead of traditional therapy?

E-therapy is not a substitute for traditional therapy and should not be used in place of another form of therapy. The verbal and visual cues that help a therapist evaluate you and provide an immediate/ interactive response in a face-to-face setting are missing! e-Therapy or counseling can be supportive, and well reasoned advice helpful, in the context of the service. But there is no way to immediately check out or verify a statement that may be ambiguous or confusing. e-Therapy should not be used by those with serious mental problems or those so fragile or insecure that an unintentional  misunderstanding would prove devastating. Words can and do have different meanings and they are devoid of emotion or intonation. Although we add little emoticoms to show we are joking or sad or mad -- these still cannot replace the tone, mood, and attitudes that are present and observed during face-to-face therapy, by both the client and the therapist as well. Again, e-therapy is not a substitute for traditional therapy and should not be used in place of traditional therapy. If you are currently seeing a therapist, you should not end your relationship with that therapist for e-therapy, nor should you consult with PsychOptions™  if you are currently in therapy. See Dr. Grohol's Best Practices in e-therapy.

What then are the pros and cons for e-therapy?

Some advantages of e-therapy are:

• Convenience - you are able to make contact 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, at your own convenience.

• Anonymity - the therapist does not "know who you are," unless you choose to share this information.

• Relatively inexpensive - Compared to the usual costs of seeing a therapist (often related to overhead) e-therapy sessions are less expensive overall.

• Exclusion of managed care - There is no "third entity," involved or sharing of your personal information as may be required by a managed care organization.

• Possibly easier to share "difficult to discuss" information when doing so through this medium (written only).

• Scheduling - Especially for those in business, traveling, or leading a very hectic existence.

Some disadvantages of e-therapy are:

• A lack of immediate response - possibly 48 hours.

• Lack of the visual or verbal cues that are helpful in assessing and evaluating others; and part of a relationship.

• Unable to respond to crises/suicidal behavior.

• Simply the lack of "the human factor" - a smile or laugh when it may be helpful for some support or encouragement.

As with anything, there are pros and cons and only you can judge for yourself if e-therapy is for you and something you'd like to try and possibly continue. So what is available and what kind of help can you get through this service? If interested, you may go to Registration or explore the Types of Services/Rates.

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