Who’s Logging on? Differing Attitudes about Online Therapy

Abstract

Abstract Online therapy increases access to psychotherapy and is crucial during times of global crisis when services are impacted. Understanding attitudes toward online therapy among the public may help shape the administration and utilization of online therapy. A survey was administered (N = 1,201) to determine differences in attitudes toward online therapy in the U.S. by demographics and life experiences. Across nearly all groups, face-to-face therapy was valued more than online therapy. However, individuals who had more exposure to online therapy valued it as much as face-to-face therapy, and women and individuals who had heard of online therapy valued it more than other individuals. This indicates that merely raising awareness about online therapy may be the key to increasing adoption of it.