Teletherapy, also known as online therapy, e-therapy, e-counseling, or cyber-counseling, involves providing mental health services and support over the internet. Services can be offered through email, text messaging, video conferencing, online chat, messaging, or internet phone.

Teletherapy can occur in real-time, such as in phone conversations and text messaging, or in a time-delayed format, such as through email messages. Though this type of therapy has limitations, it is quickly becoming an important resource for a growing number of people.

Techniques

The primary tools for communicating in teletherapy include:

• Email
• Mobile device apps
• Real-time instant messaging
• Telephone
• Text-based chats
• Video conferencing

Such services may be accessed via a desktop computer or laptop, but mobile apps are also becoming an increasingly popular option.