Is Online Trauma Therapy Right for You?

When we think about starting trauma therapy, it is understandable to have questions about how working online will feel. Will it feel safe, effective, and supportive enough? For some people, online therapy feels appealing and accessible; for others, it can bring up uncertainty or hesitation. I hope that this post helps you gently consider whether online trauma therapy might be the right fit for you at this time.

Is Online Trauma Therapy Effective?

Online trauma therapy can be effective for many people. One of the most (possibly the most) important parts of therapy is the therapeutic relationship we build together. This can develop just as well online as it can in person if you are comfortable with online working. 

Online therapy is becoming increasingly popular, especially since the pandemic with research regularly indicating that online therapy can be as effective as in person. 

Of course, it depends on each person individually and only you will know whether or not online working feels like a good fit for you. 

The Convenience of Online Therapy

One of the advantages of online trauma therapy is convenience. Working online means we can meet without the need to travel, which can make therapy more accessible if you have a busy schedule, caring responsibilities, health difficulties, or live some distance away.

For some people, being in their own familiar space can help them feel more settled, particularly in the early stages of therapy. Feeling comfortable enough is an important part of trauma work, and for many, this can be easier to achieve at home.

Not Limited by Location

Another benefit of online therapy is that you are not limited by location. We can work together even if you live far away, or if you would find travelling to appointments difficult. Working online means you can choose to work with a therapist who feels like the right fit for you, rather than feeling restricted to those nearby.

Practical Considerations

There are some practical requirements that help online trauma therapy run smoothly and safely. These include:

• Having a private, confidential space where you feel safe and are unlikely to be overheard or interrupted

• Having a stable and reliable internet connection

• Access to a device with a reasonable quality camera and microphone

• Being familiar with, or willing to become familiar with, video conferencing software

A confidential space is especially important in trauma therapy. Feeling watched or overheard can make it harder to relax and engage fully. 

Treating Online Therapy Like In-Person Therapy

One aspect of online work that is sometimes overlooked is how easily people can become more relaxed or ‘disinhibited’ when accessing therapy from home. Of course, it is important to feel comfortable however online therapy still benefits from being approached with the same level of intention and care as in-person sessions.

This might mean:

• Setting aside protected time for sessions

• Minimising distractions such as phones or multitasking

• Being appropriately dressed and seated comfortably

• Taking a few moments before sessions to prepare and log in on time

• Similarly, making time after sessions to ground and transition out of the therapeutic space

Treating online sessions as you would if you were attending therapy in person helps maintain clear boundaries and supports the depth and safety of the work.

Is Online Trauma Therapy Right for You?

Online trauma therapy can be a good option if you value flexibility, have access to a private space, and feel able to engage via video. 

If you are unsure or would like to explore whether online therapy could work for you, I offer a free 30-minute introductory session. This gives us a chance to meet, talk through your needs, and see whether working together online feels like a good fit.