Technology and Online Counseling – Powerful Tool
Technology and Online Counseling – Powerful Tools
There is little doubt that there is a gap in Mental Health care availability and need. In addition to the normal ups and downs of life, survival of trauma and chronic conditions we are also dealing with the impact of quarantine, grief from loss of loved ones and isolation from our families and friends.
How do you build a tool box and a team to manage mental wellness. Technology has been thriving and emerging at a rapid rate that helps the process, increases availability, and can reach even those isolated in quarantine or remote areas.
There has been research showing the effectiveness of online counseling and its near match and in some cases the overtaking of effectiveness as a mental health resource. Including the Journal of Affective Disorder’s report that there was little difference between phone, video and in-person counseling in terms of effectiveness. (Irvin, 2020). On demand, online counseling can be just the right tool when you need to cope quickly, deal with triggers or more proactively to work to manage chronic disorders.
Managing wellness, whether physical or mental wellness takes tools, resources, and support. Counseling from a Mental Health Professional is always a great starting point. Finding someone who understands your past and present issues can have a significant impact on your future. Developing an Individual Plan for your goals, objectives and challenges can be extremely productive. Adding in other tools like online coaches, nutritionists and wellness/movement trainers can be exponentially helpful.
Using application on your phone, computer or tablet can enhance the experience. Apps allow you to track your progress, elaborate on situational changes and to communicate with your Counselor between sessions. It can allow you to see patterns – cycles of symptoms and trigger events that may provoke symptoms.
For Counseling on Demand that has meant developing a team of coaches to work in concert with their Mental Health Counselors. It also means the development of Enthrive™, a mobile application designed to enhance the counseling experience. It will track dreams, spiritual requests, connect with the therapist and to journal day to day experiences.
Other applications will guide meditation, track physical metrics such as glucose levels, blood pressure, etc. In most cases, this allows you to connect when you most need it, like when you cannot sleep at 3 am.
Building a “toolbox” of Mental and Physical Wellness Counselors, technology including apps and web resources. This can all work together to improve your quality of life, remain centered and pursue happiness.
