PSYCHOTHERAPY ONLINE
Psychotherapy is a broad field with a variety of specializations. As a psychologist and psychotherapist, I have come to integrate several perspectives, mainly the psychodynamic but also an existential perspective as well as cognitive behavioural therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy.
People have different needs, backgrounds and life situations. When we face difficulties in life, we react differently and may need help that is individually tailored, for example in the form of qualified psychotherapy. Such treatment begins with a conversation in which the client’s problems, issues, life situation and history are identified and become the basis for the direction and design of the treatment.
Perceived problems may manifest as anxiety, fear, depression, relationship problems, rumination, sleep problems or inability to live satisfactorily. Symptoms can be an expression of tensions or conflicts that may arise within an individual, in the family, relatives and other relationships such as at work, but also in the individual’s relationship with society. Psychodynamic psychotherapy seeks greater understanding, insight and self-knowledge, through conversations about the connection between past life experiences and current difficulties and hopes. This can lead to an increased sense of coherence, meaning, comprehensibility and manageability, and a reduction in suffering.
Does psychotherapy work through video calls?
As a psychologist, I was hesitant about Internet therapy for a long time because I thought that the contact in the relationship would not be as strong and present as in physical meetings. During the pandemic, however, I started to try giving treatment via video call and was surprised that it worked so well. That a strong relationship and an effective conversation with presence can be maintained even though the therapist and the client are not in the same room. However, I don’t think Internet therapy is for everyone. Some have a need for the physical space and the meeting in the room. Others find it easier to feel safe and present through the voice and the contact that can be made through the image. The practical benefits of online psychotherapy are obvious, not least in terms of increased accessibility.
Why private psychotherapy when the cost is higher?
In Sweden, short-term psychological treatment is available in primary care or through online psychological services where the patient pays only a low publicly subsidised patient fee. However, the treatments offered are limited, often to a maximum of ten sessions, and the treatment focus offered is usually CBT. In some places the waiting time is long. For clients who want a longer treatment contact and a different treatment focus, it may be worth paying more to receive treatment in private psychotherapy that corresponds to their own needs.