Choosing Your Therapist

Are you considering therapy with a fully qualified professional?
Private therapists are highly trained, accredited specialists who adhere to strict ethical and clinical guidelines. On the other hand, online therapy platforms have faced criticism for inconsistent vetting, sometimes matching clients with therapists who may not have adequate qualifications or experience.

Is a standardised, one-size-fits-all therapy model truly effective?
Online therapy often relies on a uniform approach, offering short-term solutions rather than tailored, in-depth care. In contrast, private practice therapy is personalised to meet your unique needs, promoting deeper and more sustainable progress.

Can you build a meaningful therapeutic relationship?
A strong connection between client and therapist is essential for effective therapy. In private practice, you work with the same therapist consistently, fostering trust and steady progress. However, online platforms often experience high therapist turnover, which can interrupt the continuity of care.

How secure is your personal information?
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of private therapy. Yet, online platforms have been criticized for data privacy concerns, including reports of personal information being shared with third parties.

The US Federal Trade Commission in 2023 required BetterHelp to pay US$7.8m to customers to settle charges it had shared customers’ email addresses, IP addresses and answers to personal health questions with platforms including Facebook and Snapchat – despite promising to keep the data private.

Who is really behind the promotion of these platforms?
Many influencers promote BetterHelp, yet a number of them have never personally used the service. Unlike private therapists, who build their reputation through years of dedicated practice, these influencers are often paid to endorse a platform they might not fully understand.

Therapy That Puts Your Needs First
While online therapy can be convenient, it often lacks the depth, privacy, and expert care needed for true personal growth. For truly personalised, high-quality therapy, private practice is the best option for your mental well-being. At Essex Eating Disorder & Obesity Service, I offer one-on-one, individualised therapy designed to support lasting change. Book a consultation today and experience the difference of genuine, professional therapy.