Dispelling the Myth
The digital age is upon us. And with it, the advent of virtual sessions for almost everything—including couples therapy. There’s a resilient myth, almost a cultural assumption, that sitting in the same physical space as your therapist is the only effective way to do therapy. Well, it’s time to question that. At Kairos, we’ve embraced the virtual model, and we’re here to boldly challenge the age-old convention. So, are virtual sessions inferior? Let’s dive in.
The Power of Technology: Bringing Us Closer
It’s a fact: we’re in an era where technology bridges gaps, connects continents, and makes the world feel like a global village. Through virtual platforms, couples can now connect with their therapists from the comfort of their homes. If “home is where the heart is,” then what better place to delve deep into relationship dynamics?
Advantages of Virtual Couples Therapy: Beyond Geography
1. Comfort Zone:
Virtual sessions allow couples to be in their natural environment, which often results in them being more open, honest, and vulnerable. This setting can speed up the therapeutic process as they don’t need the added sessions to get comfortable in a new environment.
2. No Travel Hassle:
For many, the challenge of beating traffic, finding parking, or managing other logistics just adds another layer of stress. Virtual sessions erase this, allowing couples to focus solely on their therapy.
3. Flexibility:
With virtual sessions, scheduling becomes more flexible. Couples can slot in sessions during lunch breaks, early mornings, or late evenings, making it easier to commit to regular appointments.
Disruption of Conventional Myths
“But isn’t it impersonal?”, some might ask. Studies show that virtual therapy can be as effective as face-to-face sessions. The therapeutic relationship, which is a cornerstone for effective therapy, doesn’t diminish in a virtual setting. In fact, some clients report feeling more connected, as the virtual setting often feels more intimate and less intimidating.
The Question of ‘Human Touch’
One cannot ignore the argument that therapy is deeply personal and requires human touch. Yes, the physical presence has its merits, but the essence of therapy lies in the emotional and psychological connections. It’s about understanding, empathy, and guidance—all of which can be transmitted effectively in a virtual setting.
A Paradigm Shift
The move to virtual sessions represents a paradigm shift in the way we approach couples therapy and marriage counseling. It’s not a replacement but an addition, an alternative for those who find it more convenient or effective. It’s time we break free from the chains of convention and embrace the vast possibilities virtual therapy offers.
Conclusion: The Future is Virtual (And That’s Okay!)
At Kairos, we’ve seen firsthand the profound impacts virtual couples therapy can have. The future of therapy is flexible, dynamic, and virtual. So, if you’ve been holding back because you’re unsure about virtual sessions, let’s challenge that together.
Curious about how this could work for you? Why not schedule a free consultation or contact us? Let’s redefine therapy together.
Sources:
Rainie, L., & Wellman, B. (2012). “Networked: The new social operating system”. MIT Press.
Simpson, S. G., & Reid, C. L. (2014). “Therapeutic alliance in videoconferencing psychotherapy: A review”. Australian Journal of Rural Health, 22(6), 280-299.
Jenkins-Guarnieri, M. A., Pruitt, L. D., Luxton, D. D., & Johnson, K. (2015). “Patient perceptions of telemental health: Systematic review of direct comparisons to in-person psychotherapeutic treatments”. Telemedicine and e-Health, 21(8), 652-660.
Backhaus, A., Agha, Z., Maglione, M. L., Repp, A., Ross, B., Zuest, D., … & Thorp, S. R. (2012). “Videoconferencing psychotherapy: A systematic review”. Psychological Services, 9(2), 111.
Hilty, D. M., Ferrer, D. C., Parish, M. B., Johnston, B., Callahan, E. J., & Yellowlees, P. M. (2013). “The effectiveness of telemental health: A 2013 review”. Telemedicine and e-Health, 19(6), 444-454.
