Teletherapy: How Online Therapy Works and Who It Can Help

Teletherapy is counselling or therapy for your mental health delivered by phone, video call or a secure online platform, instead of in a therapist’s office. It makes it easier to get support for stress, anxiety, depression and other concerns, especially when long distances, traffic, busy schedules or stigma make in-person visits difficult. Here’s how teletherapy works, who it can help, and how to get the most from it.

How does teletherapy work?

You book a session with a licensed therapist, counsellor or psychologist, then meet at the agreed time by video, phone or secure chat. Sessions usually last 45 to 60 minutes. The therapist listens, helps you understand what you’re going through, and works with you on practical ways to cope, just as they would face to face.

Benefits of teletherapy

• Convenience: no travel or waiting rooms. You can have a session from home or during a break.
• Access: you can reach qualified therapists even if there are few in your area.
• Privacy: many people feel more comfortable talking from their own space, and no one sees you walk into a clinic.
• Consistency: it’s easier to keep regular appointments, which helps therapy work.
• Effectiveness: research shows online therapy, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), can work as well as in-person therapy for anxiety and depression.

Who can teletherapy help?

Consider speaking to a therapist if you:

• Feel stressed, anxious or low most of the time
• Have lost interest in things you used to enjoy
• Are struggling with grief, a breakup or relationship problems
• Have been through trauma or abuse
• Find it hard to cope at work or school
• Are having trouble sleeping, eating or concentrating
• Want to change habits such as drinking or overeating

Learn about the symptoms of anxiety disorder and common misconceptions about therapy.

When teletherapy is not enough

Teletherapy isn’t suitable in an emergency. If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide or self-harm, or is in immediate danger, go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call emergency services straight away. People with severe mental illness may also need in-person care and medicine from a psychiatrist.

Tips for a good teletherapy session

• Choose a private, quiet place where no one can overhear you
• Use headphones and check your internet or phone signal beforehand
• Turn off notifications so you can focus
• Keep a notebook nearby for thoughts or tasks you agree on
• Be honest with your therapist, including about what isn’t working
• Give it time: it can take a few sessions to feel comfortable

How to choose a teletherapist

• Check they are qualified and licensed, for example a clinical psychologist, psychiatrist or registered counsellor
• Ask which platform they use and how they keep your information private
• Ask about cost, session length and what happens if you need to cancel
• Find someone you feel comfortable with. It’s fine to try someone else

Read more: let’s talk about therapy sessions and mindfulness techniques for stress and anxiety.

Reliance HMO members can check their plan’s mental health benefits and speak to a doctor in the Reliance Care app. Download it for iPhone or Android.

Frequently asked questions

Is teletherapy as effective as in-person therapy?
For many people with anxiety, depression and stress, yes. Studies show similar results to face-to-face therapy.

Is teletherapy private?
Licensed therapists must keep what you share confidential. Use a private space and ask how the platform protects your information.

Can I get teletherapy in Nigeria?
Yes. A growing number of therapists, clinics and health plans in Nigeria offer therapy by phone or video.

This article is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified health professional.

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