While online counselors must all be licensed, specific qualifications and areas of expertise can vary between providers. When choosing an online counselor, it is important to ensure the provider has the experience or knowledge required to treat your specific condition. For example, some providers may be more qualified to treat depression, whereas others are experts for substance abuse.
The platform you use to seek an online counselor may match you to a counselor who can best meet your needs. You can also perform a licensure search for the counselor you are matched with and search the internet for his or her work history or their personal website to ensure that the counselor is a good fit for you.
Beyond choosing a counselor who is qualified to meet your unique needs, it is also important to select the level of treatment that is appropriate for you. For example, if you are experiencing only mild mental health concerns, you may be able to improve with a once-a-week video session and occasional text messages with your counselor. On the other hand, if you are struggling with significant distress or serious mental health problems, you may require several sessions per week or daily contact with your therapist. Be sure to consider the level of care you need and select a program that meets this need.
