Services
Online Therapy Seattle
Written by Existential Psychiatry Staff
Takeaway: Technology advances have made therapy more accessible. If you’re struggling with your mental health and face barriers regarding time, mobility, or transportation, online therapy may be a great option for you.
An online therapist is a licensed mental health professional who provides virtual therapy. These professionals help individuals navigate a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges. They offer support, guidance, and strategies to improve mental health, just like a therapist would do in-person.
Research in recent years has found telehealth to be as effective as in-person therapy. This type of health care can even be more beneficial for folks facing physical or time barriers when accessing treatment.
In a world where technology continually transforms our lives, it's no surprise that mental health support has shifted also. Online therapy has emerged as a convenient and effective way to seek help for various emotional and psychological concerns.
One of the most significant advantages of telehealth is that you can attend a session from the comfort of your own home or any private location with an internet connection. This eliminates the need for commuting, thus making it a time-efficient option—no need to take off extra time from work or figure out transportation.
Virtual therapy allows you to connect with a wider range of therapists and psychiatrists from across your state. With more options, you’re more likely to find a specialist who aligns with your unique needs and preferences.
This type of treatment can be more cost-effective than in-person therapy. You don’t have to spend money on transportation, parking, or extended childcare. You also don’t have to take additional time off work for commuting.
Some individuals find it easier to open up and share their thoughts and feelings from the privacy of their own space. Being in your home can provide an added layer of comfort to your session. You also don’t have to worry about seeing anyone in a waiting room.
While some elements may be lost with online therapy and psychiatric care (e.g. ability to fully observe certain body language, ability to do detailed neurological exam), other elements can be enhanced. Due to the nature of videoconferencing technology with up-close high-definition cameras, facial expression is usually easier to visualize, thus improving face-to-face communication. Also, it is often helpful for therapists to directly observe a person’s home environment rather than rely on verbal report. In addition, online therapy allows for the capacity to do unique in vivo cognitive-behavioral exposure therapy that would not be possible in an office setting.
Online therapists use talk therapy to assist with a wide range of issues, including:
Online psychiatrists provide diagnostic assessment and medication management in addition to talk therapy. As licensed physicians, they can rule out other health conditions by ordering blood tests and imaging. They can also prescribe medication and send those prescriptions virtually to your pharmacist. With these additional aspects of care they provide, they can create a treatment plan that holistically addresses your physical and mental needs.
Consider beginning online therapy if you’re:
Telehealth is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including people:
While telehealth offers many benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone. In-person therapy might be a better option for individuals experiencing severe mental health crises or suicidal thoughts. In such situations, immediate in-person help is essential.
If you don’t have a private space where you can share openly, in-person sessions might be more appropriate. This is also true for those with a lack of access to a stable internet connection or a device for online sessions.
Virtual mental health care has become a valuable resource for those seeking mental health support. It offers a convenient, accessible, and effective way to address a variety of emotional and psychological concerns.
To determine if online therapy is right for you, consider your unique circumstances and consult with a therapist to discuss your options. Remember that taking the step to seek help is a courageous and essential part of prioritizing your mental well-being.
Dr. David Zacharias has utilized a caring patient-centered approach for over 20 years, serving individuals with a wide range of issues across various healthcare settings. He uses evidence-based methods while incorporating individual patient needs and desires to help guide treatment.
He provides virtual care to patients across the greater Seattle area and all of Washington state, including diagnostic assessment, therapy, and medication management. Dr. Zacharias works to help patients feel heard and valued. He uses a relational, existential approach to therapy and collaborates with patients to determine the best course of treatment.
Existential Psychiatry is here to help you care for your mental health. Virtual mental health care with Dr. Zacharias is available for residents across Washington state. Whether you need online therapy, medication, or assessment, reach out to our office today for a free consultation.
Langarizadeh, M., et al. “Telemental Health Care, an Effective Alternative to Conventional Mental Care: a Systematic Review.” Acta Informatica Medica, December 25, 2017. Accessed September 9, 2023.