Distance Mental Health: Benefits & Challenges

Let's explore the benefits and challenges of various communication methods. Please review the table below to understand the positive and negative factors on E-Therapy. 

 

Benefits and Challenges Associated

with Modes of E-Therapy
Communication Type Benefits Challenges
Text-Based Communication 
Email Conversation can be reviewed at a later date; Allows for more thoughtful communication Asynchronous; Does not allow for immediate response; Not completely secure (e.g., messages can be forwarded, copied, etc.); No nonverbal cues; Requires an email account, Internet access, and computer/mobile device.
Instant Messaging Immediate response; Conversation can be reviewed at a later date. Not completely secure (e.g., messages can be forwarded, copied, etc.); No nonverbal cues; Requires an email account, Internet access, and computer/mobile device.
Internet Chat Group setting; Rapid response; Conversation can be reviewed at a later date. Not completely secure (e.g., messages can be forwarded, copied, etc.); No nonverbal cues; Requires an email account, Internet access, and computer/mobile device.
Text Messaging  Immediate response; Conversation can be reviewed at a later date. Not completely secure (e.g., messages can be forwarded, copied, etc.); No nonverbal cues; Requires an email account, Internet access, and computer/mobile device.
Non-Text-Based Communication 
Telephone Immediate feedback; Low cost Client cannot review conversations at a later date.
Videoconference Immediate feedback; Can use nonverbal cues to support intervention. Cost; Requires knowledge of equipment; may need to travel to a location with internet connection, or for a more quiet environment. 
Fax Rapid feedback; Low cost. Not secure; Information can be forwarded and copied. 

 

 

Quick Activity!

Grab a piece of paper, and something to write with. Create two columns: 

  1. Additional Benefits
  2. Other Challenges 

 Piece of paper with two columns: first column is "additional benefits", and the second column is "Other Challenges"

 

Think of more benefits and challenges that students may face in online counseling. Brainstorm and write down as many as you can for each column. The next page will have a full list for each column.