Online Therapy: Do the Benefits Outweigh the Potential Legal Ramifications?

The delivery of psychosocial support though the internet is an area of clinical practice that is becoming increasingly prevalent as clinicians search for innovative ways to reach clients in need of psychosocial support (Banach, 2000; Patrick, 2008; Pollack, 2008). There are many benefits to providing psychotherapeutic services online. Internet-based support groups can reduce isolation and increase access to care for individuals that may have physical limitations or live in remote geographic locations. In some instances, online groups can provide individuals with anonymity as they seek out clinical services for stigmatized conditions such as a cancer diagnosis (Banach; Patrick; Pollack). In addition, online therapy can be an inexpensive way to provide service (both for the provider and client), rendering it an increasingly viable option in an era of increasing financial distress (Banach; Patrick; Pollack)