Online therapy is a convenient, accessible and effective way to access mental health support. It can also be more time-efficient and easier to fit into busy lifestyles.
Why consider online therapy?
Online therapy is becoming an increasingly popular way for people and whānau to access confidential mental health support. It allows people to connect with help from almost anywhere, whether through websites, apps, real-time messaging, phone calls or video sessions.
At Anxiety New Zealand, we offer online sessions by phone and Zoom with registered psychologists, therapists, counsellors and mental health GPs. These sessions can take place at a time and in a space that work best for you — wherever you are in Aotearoa.
So why might online therapy be a good option for you? Here are some of the key benefits.
Effectiveness
Research consistently shows that online therapy can be just as effective as face-to-face therapy for many mental health concerns, particularly anxiety and depression. Online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), in particular, has been shown to be both effective and cost-efficient, with positive results that can last over time.
Some key findings include:
A 2014 study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that online treatment was as effective as in-person therapy for depression.
A 2014 study in Behaviour Research and Therapy showed that online CBT successfully treated anxiety disorders, with improvements maintained at a one-year follow-up.
A 2018 study found that online CBT was equally effective in treating major depression, panic disorder, social anxiety and generalised anxiety.
Convenience
Online therapy can make it easier to fit support into everyday life. With access to a phone, tablet or laptop, you can attend sessions in a way that suits your schedule — whether that’s from home, during a lunch break, or in another private space where you feel comfortable.
For people juggling work, family, or other commitments, online therapy can save the extra time required for travelling to appointments.
Accessibility
Online therapy can improve access to support for people who may otherwise face barriers to getting help. This includes people living in rural or remote areas, those without easy access to transport, and people who find it difficult to attend in-person appointments.
It can also be especially helpful for people living with anxiety, including social anxiety or agoraphobia, who may feel more comfortable starting therapy from a familiar environment. Being in your own space can make it easier to engage with support and practise new skills in the place where you want to see change.
Things to consider
While online therapy offers many benefits, it may not be the right fit for everyone. People with more complex needs, or those in high-risk situations, may need in-person or more intensive support.
There can also be practical challenges, such as unreliable internet access, difficulty using technology, or not having a private space for sessions. These are important factors to consider when deciding which type of support will work best for you.
Breaking down barriers
For many people and whānau in Aotearoa, online therapy can help break down barriers to accessing support. With its convenience, effectiveness and accessibility, it offers a practical and supportive way to improve mental wellbeing.
At Anxiety New Zealand, we are committed to providing care that works for you, wherever you are.
If you’d like to explore whether online therapy is right for you, Anxiety New Zealand is here to help. Get in touch to learn more about our online support options.
At Anxiety NZ, we’re committed to making quality mental health support accessible to people and whānau across Aotearoa New Zealand. Our counselling service is part of that commitment — offering a safe, supportive space to talk, reflect, and work toward your wellbeing goals — at an affordable cost to you (or fully funded for eligible low-income earners or those under 18).
Our counsellors are passionate, skilled, and in the final stages of their professional training. Supported by approved clinical and peer supervision, they bring warmth, insight, and fresh perspectives to their work with clients.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, life transitions, grief, stress, or simply want someone to talk to, our counselling team is here to support you.
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The Empowered course is a free, self-paced course from Anxiety NZ to help you and your whānau navigate anxiety with proven strategies and support.
