Fifty to 80% of New Zealanders will experience mental health or addiction issues at some point in their lives. Therefore, we must understand the facts about online therapy platforms because many people turn to these services over traditional ones. In this article, we'll explore the degree of effectiveness of virtual mental health solutions in New Zealand.

How do virtual mental health solutions work?

Virtual mental health solutions use technology to provide remote mental healthcare services to various clients. They allow these individuals to access therapy or counseling sessions online rather than in person. For those interested in joining this growing field and making an impact through digital therapy platforms, understanding how to become a mental health counselor can provide insight into the necessary qualifications, certifications, and digital skills now essential for remote and virtual therapy work. Here’s how these platforms generally operate:

1. Booking Appointments. You can schedule your appointments at your convenience. Online therapies often offer flexible time slots.
2. Online Platforms or Apps. You can use web-based online therapy platforms or mobile apps to connect with licensed mental health professionals using various communication methods.
3. Tools and Resources. Many online therapy platforms offer self-assessment quizzes, medication guides, journaling features, and educational resources to complement therapy.
4. Remote Therapy Sessions. Therapists and patients interact using secure video conferencing software every session. This software simulates the experience of traditional therapy. Some platforms also have chat-based sessions or asynchronous messaging.

Common Therapies Offered Through Virtual Platforms in NZ

Various virtual therapy options have emerged across the country to address diverse mental health needs. Here are the common services offered through these online therapy platforms:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

This form of psychotherapy focuses on identifying and changing an individual's negative thought patterns and behaviors. The Journal of Medical Internet Research study said that the use of guided internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy in managing depression and anxiety is widely accepted. This speaks to the increasing usage of web-based CBT as an acceptable treatment. Internet-based CBTs are now more accessible in New Zealand. Generally, this goal-oriented structured therapy normally requires a few sessions.

Life Coaching+

With the convenience of virtual sessions, clients can access diverse coaching expertise through structured programs or personalised sessions. Online life coaching helps individuals identify their goals and develop actionable plans. It involves a partnership with a coach who helps clients focus on their personal development and goal achievement. These experts use their training and experiences to guide clients in their careers, relationships, health, and personal growth.

What’s a good degree to get online? A life coach can guide you toward a degree that aligns with your personal and professional aspirations. The coaching process typically includes:

• Goal setting
• Identifying obstacles
• Action planning
• Mental health support and accountability

Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT)

This goal-oriented therapeutic approach can help individuals seeking to make positive changes in their lives without delving deeply into past issues. SFT encourages clients to envision their desired future and identify the strengths and resources they already have to achieve their goals. SFT is widely available online, allowing individuals to work toward their goals in a supportive and flexible environment.

Person-Centred Therapy (PCT)

PCT is a humanistic approach to psychotherapy. It emphasizes an individual’s capacity for self-actualisation and personal growth through a supportive therapeutic relationship. The goal principles of person-centred therapy are as follows:

• Unconditional positive regard
• Emphatic understanding
• Congruence

Online PCT is available on various platforms in New Zealand so you can easily access qualified therapists specialising in this empathetic approach.

Digital Therapeutics (DTx)

Digital therapeutics represents a transformative approach in healthcare. DTx uses evidence-based software to deliver therapeutic interventions for the prevention, management, or treatment of various medical conditions.

The global digital therapeutics market is projected to grow from $6.1 billion in 2023 to $21.9 billion by 2028. This reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 29.1%. New Zealand also adopts innovative digital technologies to assist people access services and expedite healthcare delivery.

Are virtual mental health services as effective as traditional in-person therapy?

Research into the effectiveness of virtual mental health support compared with traditional in-person therapy has been of greater interest and discussion. For instance, a 2023 systematic review published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research reported that the interventions of virtual status for depressive disorders had higher odds of remission and smaller symptom severity compared with control conditions such as waitlists or TAU. Another important aspect is that the results for in-person interventions were, arguably, not much more outstanding than those for virtual ones. Both formats have their strengths and limitations. Therefore, the choice between a virtual mental health service or a traditional in-person therapy depends on your preference.

The Benefits of Virtual Mental Health Solutions

Here are the key benefits of online therapy sessions:

Range of Specialisations

Virtual mental health solutions allow you to have access to diverse therapeutic approaches. These online therapy platforms cater to individual needs while promoting convenience, comfort, and continuity of care.

Accessibility

Virtual mental health solutions eliminate geographical barriers. Online therapy is crucial for individuals who may have limited options for in-person therapy like those living in rural or remote areas.

Anonymity and Privacy

Fundamental elements of virtual mental health solutions are privacy and anonymity, which allow people to seek assistance in a secure and encouraging setting. Online therapy can enable clients to participate more fully in their healing process by lowering stigma and improving confidentiality. It is nevertheless crucial for people to select trustworthy providers that emphasise both efficient treatment and the security of private data.

Convenience

Virtual solutions often allow for greater flexibility in scheduling appointments. Specialised therapists can accommodate clients' busy lives, and reduce barriers to consistent care.

Cost-Effectiveness

Many virtual mental health services are more cost-effective than traditional in-person therapy due to reduced overhead costs for providers and no travel expenses for clients. This can make specialised care more accessible to a broader audience. For instance, a 2022 article from PLoS One reported that telecoaching costs an average of $124 per individual, significantly less than teletherapy ($413).

How can patients ensure their confidentiality is maintained in online therapy?

Here are key strategies to ensure confidentiality is maintained in online therapy:

1. Encrypted communication. Make sure the therapist communicates and does video calls using safe, encrypted platforms.
2. Multi-factor authentication. Choose services that implement multi-factor authentication to verify identities to ensure that only authorized individuals can access therapy sessions.
3. Quiet environment. A private, quiet space at home ensures that conversations remain confidential and free from eavesdropping.
4. Private-WiFi. Always connect to a secure, private Wi-Fi network rather than public hotspots to reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your session.
5. Stay informed. Be aware of any updates or changes to the security measures employed by your therapist or platform. Regular audits help maintain high standards of data protection.

How are virtual mental health platforms regulated in NZ?

In New Zealand, virtual mental health platforms are regulated by a combination of government laws, regulations, and standards. Here’s an overview of how these platforms are regulated:

1. Kia Manawanui Aotearoa Strategy. This long-term pathway highlights the integration of digital tools to improve access to mental health care, particularly for underserved populations in New Zealand.
2. Mental Health Act Amendments. The Mental Health Act was amended in 2021 to facilitate the use of audio-visual link (AVL) technology for patient assessments when in-person consultations are impractical.
3. Health Quality & Safety Commission. This body monitors the quality and safety of health services in New Zealand, including digital health solutions.

The Impact and Future of Virtual Mental Health Solutions in NZ

Virtual mental health solutions are an extremely valuable resource for all those searching for an accessible yet flexible method of therapy options in New Zealand. Research studies show that such therapies can be almost as effective as face-to-face services; however, the decision on success would depend on individual preferences, type of therapy, and quality of the platform used. With progressing technology, safe, user-friendly, and effective digital solutions can extend reach toward mental health care while encouraging timely and efficient patient support.

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