This is the conclusion of research by Terry Hanley of the University of Manchester, which will be presented today, Saturday 10 October 2009, at the Annual Conference of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). The event will take place at Newcastle Civic Centre, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

It was found that individuals who seek out online mental health services can receive effective support from doing so. Convenience and accessibility were highlighted as key benefits to online therapy, with clients also noting that the privacy of accessing mental health help online and the resulting disinhibition it afforded were additional advantages.

The study also revealed that clients felt that the therapeutic benefits of being able to write their problems down when seeking help online were another advantage of internet counselling.

Terry Hanley said: "Health seeking behaviours are changing, with people increasingly going online in search of information and services. As a result, it makes sense that there is also an increase in the number of people seeking help for mental health issues on the internet. Despite concerns from many over whether online therapy can be as effective as face-to-face, this research reveals that work in this medium shows great promise, with both successful outcomes and strong alliances being reported online. The findings challenge the views of those sceptical of counsellors entering into virtual arenas."

For further information please contact: Alison Croft, BACP Press and Public Relations Manager, on 01455 883342 (office), 07989 416665 (mobile) or alison.croft@bacp.co.uk or Phillip Hodson, BACP Media Consultant, on 0207 794 2838 or phillip@philliphodson.co.uk

Date: Saturday 10 October 2009

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