VIMHS
VIMHS
Therapy to go: mental health care apps
Therapy to go: mental health care apps
Therapy to go: mental health care apps
Monday 13th June 2022
Dr. Lauri Goldkind explores the pros and cons of mental health care apps, discussing their benefits, risks, and future challenges.
19 minutes
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Get the buttons here!Mental Health on Your Phone: The Pros and Cons of Therapy Apps
The pandemic has also helped us as a field, as sort of professionals who are interested in delivering digital mental health. And so they are interested in expanding services. And I don't necessarily think that that's a bad thing.
Imagine having a therapist right in your pocket. Sounds convenient, doesn’t it? In this episode of People First Radio, Dr. Lauri Goldkind, an associate professor of social work at Fordham University, dives into the world of mental health care apps. She’s been researching these digital tools that connect people to mental health practitioners and shares her findings on their benefits, risks, and challenges. Mental health care has never been more accessible.
With just a tap on your smartphone, you can connect with a therapist via phone, video call, text, or email. This flexibility is especially appealing for those who find traditional in-person therapy daunting. But, as Dr. Goldkind points out, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. One major benefit of these apps is the anonymity they offer.
For individuals with social anxiety, the idea of speaking to a therapist from the comfort of their own home can be incredibly comforting. However, Dr. Goldkind raises concerns about the quality of care provided through these platforms. She emphasizes the importance of reading end-user agreements and understanding the role of practitioners who advertise their services. Often, these therapists are independent contractors, which brings up questions about accountability and regulation.
Despite these concerns, research suggests that digital therapy can be just as effective as traditional face-to-face sessions. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the adoption of digital mental health services, making them more mainstream than ever before. Dr. Goldkind even speculates about the future involving fully automated chatbots providing therapy. While mental health care apps offer unprecedented accessibility and flexibility, they also come with risks that need addressing to ensure quality care. Dr.
Goldkind’s insights provide a comprehensive look at what users should consider when turning to these digital tools for mental health support.