Benefits Of Online Therapy For Parents
Online counseling has become the norm for many people these days. Current restrictions and the need for a general sense of safety makes opting to go online for therapy a viable and necessary option. Parents right now, in particular, are stretched very thin. I don't have to tell you why. You're living it. You know.
When we get stretched and there is a lot going on (virtual schooling, new baby sleep season, toddler meltdowns) our own needs are often the first thing to get pushed aside. But they are also sometimes the most important. I'm not saying this in "be selfish" sort of way, but in a way that says when you are showing up for yourself you are better able to show up for others. Support from a counselor for your stress, overwhelm, anxiety, parenting issues/questions, or perinatal mood concerns (postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety) can allow you to take care of yourself and also the people you love.
Ok, so maybe you know that connecting with a counselor would be beneficial for you. But the logistics! Scheduling an appointment is huge step in itself— which should be simple, but unfortunately sometimes is not. Then there is the process of arranging childcare, considering drive time, and working with your partner to make sure you are both on the same page about when you won't be available. A 45-minute counseling session may actually take 2-3 hours out of your day depending on where the counselor’s office is located. The cost of therapy increases if you have to include childcare. The cards are stacked against making it easy for you to get support. But it doesn't have to be that way. With online counseling a lot these barriers are addressed.
Here is a list of reasons why online therapy can be great for new moms and parents, and why it just might be the perfect thing for you!
You can log in to your therapy session from home, your car, or out on a walk during your lunch-break.
You don't have to arrange childcare. Sure, it might be nice and beneficial to have someone watch the kids for an hour, but you can also schedule your counseling time in the morning before they get up, in the evening after they are in bed, during nap time, or maybe a time when your partner can take over for a bit while you go to another room our outside.
You can opt to take a stroller walk and bring your little one along with you. If they are young (infant or baby) and that's something you feel comfortable with, they will likely enjoy the time outside!
Counseling is accessible from anywhere. It doesn't matter if you live in a larger city like Colorado Springs or a more rural area like Buena Vista or Leadville. Maybe you are traveling for work or to visit family. You can get quality mental health services and support, no matter where you are.
Therapy becomes an important part of your day, but it doesn't take up a major chunk of your time. Time is valuable and I want you to keep as much of yours as you can.
You may have some more questions about online therapy. Is it effective? Is it covered by insurance? Is it private? I have attempted to answer these, along with others, in my recent blog post, Questions About Online Therapy: Answered, and also provide extensive information about online counseling at Exploration Counseling and Consulting, LLC on our online therapy page. Check them out.
If you are curious if theletherapy is a good option for you, I offer a free consultation to Colorado residents. We can discuss your needs and options and work to develop a plan that suits your life.
If you feel that your relationship tendencies or patterns, chronic stress, anxiety, or mood concerns are getting in the way of quality relationships with your partner, children, or friends, there are options for change. Counseling may be a good way to address barriers, develop skills, and fully engage with the people you love. Through individual and couples counseling, I provide a specialized and modern approach to treatment in Woodland Park, Manitou Springs, Colorado Springs, and online therapy throughout Colorado.
