Using Online Therapy in Drug Addiction

Online therapy in drug addiction requires using the internet and technological devices to provide rehab services.

You already know how drugs and substances can create addictive behaviors that can develop negative physical, mental, and social impacts, which affect an individual’s life. Fortunately, with the advancement in technology, several effective treatments are available over the internet these days.

Research reveals that those receiving online therapy for addressing substance use disorders have significant improvement over those who never obtain any treatment.

Check this article to understand the meaning of online therapy and how it works.

Currently, due to the coronavirus pandemic, online therapy for addiction is becoming more popular.

Types of Online Therapy Options for Addiction

The two commonly practiced forms of online therapy for addiction include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

It is the most frequently used, and it relies on assisting people in identifying and avoiding negative thinking and actions. CBT also teaches how to identify triggers that tempt to drug cravings and learning how to avoid them.

• Motivational interviewing

It is the other form of online therapy for addiction, where therapists use organized conversations to solve addict’s issues. Lessons include distinguishing between those living with drug addiction and of those who are living better drug-free lives.

What to Expect in an Addiction Online Therapy

Online therapy for addiction involves enhanced psychotherapy technology. Various therapy options available for addiction treatment include:

• Computer-assisted therapy: this technology connects people with an interactive, online program where they can learn different treatment processes without involving a therapist. It has predefined lessons comprising of computerized assessments, instructional content, follow-up tutorials, and assignments included in its program.
• Therapist-led online therapy: this therapy requires the use of tech devices to provide phone and video calls, emails, and other means of communication with clients virtually. Usually, the setting is similar to the regular in-person therapy sessions, but it takes place online using several technological tools.
• Web-assisted therapy: This technique may use sites with guidelines for online therapy support or mobile apps to provide sessions or programs.
• Technology-supplemented therapy: It combines conventional face to face therapy with technology using phone calls, text messages, video chats, and mobile applications.

Several factors can determine the best therapy option that works best for you. For instance, severe symptoms may determine the intensity of the required treatment. For those in addiction who need long-term residential programs, hospitalization, or supervised detox, then online therapy would not be a suitable choice.

Other factors, such as access to technology, your therapist’s convenience with technology, etc. can also determine whether online treatment will be the best choice for you.

A Word from the Recover

Online therapy is not similar to the in-person meeting treatments since it limits those struggling with severe or critical addictions issues. However, both online and face-to-face options have their advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, the only requirement is to choose the one that is convenient and works best for you.

If you are struggling with addiction and you are looking for an excellent rehab to address your needs, there are various professional rehab options available near you. Additionally, ensure you search and discuss with an addiction therapist whether they support online therapy technology to treat your unique needs.