Over the last two years, the term “virtual therapy” is popping up more and more.
Before the pandemic, many of us had never even considered meeting with a therapist via computer, phone, or tablet. The health safety benefits of virtual therapy speak for themselves in a pandemic. But, millions across the world have also discovered the convenience of online therapy.
But what about couples counseling? It’s one thing to connect one on one with your therapist over technology, as opposed to in person. But does that same connection translate to couples? Is seeking relationship help from an expert in Tampa Bay or St. Pete you’ve never met in person as effective as in-person therapy? In this blog, we will discuss the advantages of meeting with an online couples counselor with your partner. Doing so can help you determine if it’s the right choice for you.
First, let’s talk about the advantages of scheduling online.
When scheduling online, you remove barriers such as transportation and travel time. It’s important to find a therapist who specializes in the concerns you have. By doing so, you can better address the issues you’d like to change in your relationship. Scheduling with an online therapist in Florida means that you’re not limited to those close by you. You can expand your search to cover your entire state. Thus, giving you more options and ensuring a better fit for you and your partner.
Many people also feel more relaxed and less anxious in their own homes than when in an office setting. Most couples looking into couples counseling find themselves in an already strained or complicated partnership. More stress only adds to this. So, being able to ease the pressure of making it into an office for your sessions may put you and your partner ahead of the game.
There’s also the added benefit of not having to secure childcare to leave your home for your sessions. Many couples can find ways to entertain their children for the hour it takes to have an online session. It also provides extra privacy and helps couples avoid running into anyone they know walking into or out of the building.
If you’re looking for couples counseling, your relationship may already be struggling.
Many couples view therapy as a last resort, which means timing is of the essence when trying to schedule. Online therapy is quicker to schedule than in-person therapy. Plus, it’s easier to coordinate schedules when you’re not worried about everyone being in the same place at the same time. It can be challenging enough to get two people’s schedules to line up, let alone three! Holding your session from different places can be convenient. But, it can also be an advantage on an emotional and mental level. Consistency and frequency, especially at the beginning of the process are very important. Virtual options make follow-through and regularity more likely.
Many couples in therapy have a hard time being around each other. So, being in close contact during such an emotional process can be very hard for some couples. You may find that you prefer having the time to process the minutes before and after the session alone, as opposed to with your partner.
So far, we’ve discussed several good reasons to attend online couples counseling in Florida. But what about its effectiveness of it? How do you know it will work?
Well, like any therapy, you’re going to get out what you put into it. As long as you’re open and honest with your partner and your couple’s counselor, you WILL see results. The vulnerability shown in a session isn’t any less real in online therapy than in in-person therapy. Much like other online experiences, the effort that you put into it can and will be as rewarding as an in-person session. This may include experiences like dating, social media, catching up with friends through texting or FaceTime, or college classes. But, this only continues as long as you’re committed to it. If you’re willing to put in the work, changes will occur. Many couples also find that by eliminating the challenges that come with in-person therapy, they can give a more consistent commitment. Thus, leading to better results.
We did exclusive online couples counseling during the pandemic. Many couples commented on how they never would have found the time for couples counseling without this option. In the end, they were so glad they did! Now, we are back to offering in-person sessions. Yet, the majority of our couples have opted to continue their couples therapy via video. They find it so convenient and can maintain more consistency and regularity to their appointments. As a result, this has improved connections and oversold outcomes from the process.
The important thing is to get the help that you, your partner, and your relationship need. Even if the method is not one you’ve considered in the past, you might find that it’s the method you prefer once you try it! Find out if virtual couples therapy is a good fit for you. Give us a call today!
Begin Online Couples Counseling in Florida
You and your partner deserve support in facilitating positive changes in your relationship. Our team of caring therapists would be happy to help improve your relationship from the comfort of your own home. We offer support from both our Tampa and St. Pete locations. To start your counseling journey, please follow these simple steps:
- Contact Wellness Psychological Services
- Meet with a caring therapist
- Start improving your relationship with couples therapy
Other Services Offered at Wellness Psychological Services
Our Tampa, FL-based counseling practice offers a variety of services in addition to couples counseling. Our team also offers divorce discernment counseling, support through a divorce, and mediation for couples. We also offer mental health support services including anxiety treatment, trauma therapy, depression counseling, OCD treatment, stress management, and testing and evaluation services for individuals as well! Feel free to learn more by visiting our blog page or FAQ today!