Online Addiction Counseling

Substance addictions such as alcohol and narcotics, as well as behavioral addictions like gambling or sex, can significantly impact an individual’s physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being. Thankfully, there are effective treatments available, including online options. Online therapy can be a valuable choice for individuals grappling with addiction.

Studies indicate that individuals undergoing online therapy for substance use disorders experience improvements compared to those not receiving any treatment.1

Discover how online therapy for addiction operates, its potential advantages and disadvantages, and the steps to commence online addiction counseling.

Techniques

Certain evidence-based therapeutic strategies are more adaptable to an online setting, including:

As both of these approaches are rooted in verbal therapy, transitioning to virtual platforms is seamless.

Advantages of Online Therapy for Addiction

Below are a few advantages that online addiction therapy offers in comparison to traditional in-person therapy sessions.

Enhanced Confidentiality

Unfortunately, there are still negative judgments surrounding addiction treatment, making individuals concerned about being identified when entering or leaving a treatment facility. This fear may deter them from seeking assistance.

Having the option to receive treatment remotely, such as from the comfort of your home, allows you to have more control over who is aware of your treatment. This can help alleviate some of the apprehensions associated with seeking treatment.

More Accessible

An estimated 10% to 12% of individuals with a substance use disorder do not receive necessary treatment. One common barrier to seeking help is the physical unavailability of treatment options. The presence of online therapy services can help enhance access to mental health resources, increasing the likelihood of individuals receiving the help they need.

Online therapy is particularly beneficial for those unable to attend in-person counseling sessions or group therapy meetings, ensuring they still have access to the necessary support.

Online therapy platforms offer round-the-clock availability, allowing individuals to reach out for assistance whenever they experience cravings or urges. They can engage with their therapist, explore self-help modules, access educational materials, or connect with a supportive peer at any time.

More Options

Online counseling can act as a crucial initial stage leading to more intensive therapeutic approaches. Some individuals who begin with online counseling might be inclined to seek traditional, in-person therapy services later on.

Research indicates that individuals may exhibit higher retention rates in in-person therapy when combined with online treatment.

Effectiveness

Traditional addiction treatments are often not fully effective, leading to high dropout rates. This indicates that these conventional methods may not completely meet individuals’ needs. Online therapy can bridge this gap for those who are reluctant to engage with or continue traditional treatments.

Research reviews suggest that online therapy can result in immediate and long-term reductions in substance use. However, further investigation is necessary to compare the effectiveness of various online treatment options.

Studies have shown that online therapy might surpass traditional therapy in certain aspects. Results published in the American Journal of Psychiatry revealed that web-based treatment participants had greater success rates and were less likely to discontinue treatment compared to those receiving in-person counseling.

Potential Considerations

Online therapy offers affordability and convenience, but it may not be suitable for everyone or every circumstance. Some potential considerations to keep in mind are:

If you are dealing with suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or experiencing psychosis, online therapy might not be the best option. In such cases, utilizing online hotlines, chat lines, or text resources can connect you with professionals who are equipped to provide assistance.

If you are struggling with suicidal ideation, reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 for guidance and support from a trained counselor. In emergencies, contact 911 immediately if you or someone you know is in imminent danger.

For additional mental health support, please refer to The Enlightened Mind’s National Helpline Database.

Tips and Strategies

There are several techniques to enhance the effectiveness of your online therapy sessions:

What to Anticipate

Online addiction treatment utilizes technology to provide or enhance psychotherapy. There are various online therapy options available for addiction treatment. These options include:

The most suitable approach for you depends on several factors. The seriousness of your symptoms may determine the level of treatment necessary. If you need hospitalization, long-term residential treatment, or supervised detox, online therapy may not be the right choice.

Your access to and comfort with technology can also influence which option is most effective for you. Additionally, the therapist’s comfort with technology plays a role in how the treatment is administered.

It’s important to note that you do not have to choose just one delivery method. Often, a combination of therapist-led, computer-assisted, and web-assisted therapy may be the most beneficial.

How to Begin Your Journey

If you are ready to seek help for addiction, the first step is to contact a certified professional. You can explore online directories for therapists, ask your primary care physician for recommendations, or look into online therapy options.

Similar to in-person therapy, the key is to find a therapist who is qualified and with whom you feel at ease. Although the search for a compatible therapist may feel overwhelming, the results are truly valuable.

Access Support Now

Experience comprehensive evaluations and assessments of the top online therapy platforms like Talkspace, BetterHelp, and ReGain. Determine the most suitable choice for your needs.

A Word From The Enlightened Mind

Online therapy for addiction may differ from traditional treatments, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less valuable. It can serve as a crucial and effective tool in your treatment plan. Consult with a healthcare provider or therapist to determine if this approach is suitable for your needs.

References:
Ho C, Severn M. E-therapy interventions for the treatments of substance use disorders and other addictions: A review of clinical effectiveness. Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health; 2018.
Winerman L. Breaking free from addiction. Monitor on Psychology. 2013;44(6):30.
Hammarlund R, Crapanzano KA, Luce L, Mulligan L, Ward KM. Review of the effects of self-stigma and perceived social stigma on the treatment-seeking decisions of individuals with drug- and alcohol-use disorders. Subst Abuse Rehabil. 2018;9:115–136. doi:10.2147/SAR.S183256

Citations

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

Campbell AN, Nunes EV, Matthews AG, et al. Internet-delivered treatment for substance abuse: A multisite randomized controlled trial. Am J Psychiatry. 2014;171(6):683-90. doi:10.1176/appi.ajp.2014.13081055

Gainsbury S, Blaszczynski A. A systematic review of Internet-based therapy for the treatment of addictions. Clin Psychol Review. 2011;31(3):490–498. doi:10.1016/j.cpr.2010.11.007

Kiluk BD, Nich C, Buck MB, et al. Randomized clinical trial of computerized and clinician-delivered CBT in comparison with standard outpatient treatment for substance use disorders: Primary within-treatment and follow-up outcomes. Am J Psychiatry. 2018;175(9):853-863. doi:10.1176/appi.ajp.2018.17090978