CNN – Computer-based therapy has come a long way since ELIZA, a 1960s computer program designed to emulate (and parody) a therapist. Today, with the Internet, people can use the instant message format to communicate with real therapists. A new study in The Lancet suggests that real-time chat therapy with a psychotherapist is successful in helping people with depression.
Participants were randomly assigned to either receive online cognitive behavioral therapy in addition to usual physician care — which may include antidepressant medication — or to continue their usual care and be placed on a waiting list. The intervention consisted of up to 10 55-minute sessions, five of which were expected to be completed by the four-month follow-up.
So what would you prefer, an online consultation or a face to face with a real doctor? Some of us may be more comfortable with the old fashion way of doing things, but eventually online therapy will be available for all of us. I guess it will be the preference of the patient to decide which route is the right one for them. I also believe that the decision will have a lot to do with what you need to be seen for, counseling will be much easier than say a physical issue, like a rash or mysterious lump.
There has to be benefits to online counseling, especially for people that feel awkward in social situations, and those who need counseling even if they are not feeling well enough to go out to a doctor. I think the advances in medicine are colossal and can only get better and bigger. In the end we will all benefit further from these changes and health care will continue to advance.
About the Author -
Lisa Macfarlane is a professional health writer and editor who specializes in sexual health and health issues.
