Online Psychotherapy as Good as In-Person Treatment, Study Says
University of Zurich clinical researchers analyzed 62 patients who were experiencing moderate depression. The university said the patients were divided in two equal groups: one that received traditional cognitive behavior therapy both orally and in writing; and another who got online therapy and had to "perform one predetermined written task per therapy unit." The therapists knew the patients by name.
Almost all the patients in the study were reportedly satisfied with both forms of treatment. Among the online group, 96% characterized contact with their therapist as "personal," compared to 91% in the conventional treatment group.
Online therapy could be effective as a supplement, Professor Andreas Maercker explained in a statement :
"Our study is evidence that psychotherapeutic services on the Internet are an effective supplement to therapeutic care.""Our study is evidence that psychotherapeutic services on the Internet are an effective supplement to therapeutic care."
While the overall study results might seem counterintuitive who view virtual treatment as inferior to physical human interaction, it does seem to show potential for supplemental telehealth services.
What do you think about online therapy versus just meeting in-person? Share your thoughts in the comments
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