Are you not able to access the traditional face-face time with a therapist? Fortunately, several resourceful and reliable online therapy platforms welcomes your call at any time.
With online therapy, you receive just as much assistance and conversation as you’d receive in a psychologist’s office but just in the comfort of your own home as you call, Skype, Zoom call or Whatsapp.
It’s pretty flexible and very accommodating to your time and your needs.
The rise of online therapy during the Covid-19 pandemic
The global Covid-19 pandemic saw the world make a big shift into the digital space and many businesses moved their services online.
“While teletherapy existed prior to the 2019 pandemic, with apps like Talkspace and BetterHelp providing mental health services online, it skyrocketed during the pandemic because therapists and clients were left with no other option.”
– VeryWell Mind
Let’s not forget, not everyone has access to therapy
Not everyone is able to access therapy in their area or community and that’s why virtual therapy is a convenience. VeryWell Mind further notes that virtual therapy is most accessible for those in rural areas and those who need particular therapists that fit their demographic (Black, queer-friendly, intersectional).
Access these online therapy platforms from the comfort of your home
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group
SADAG is one of the largest mental health groups advocating the importance of taking your mental health seriously. They offer free sessions Monday to Sunday from 8 am – 8 pm. They have a variety of 24-hour helplines from suicide prevention to depression and anxiety. Check out the #MindfullMondays initiative with Miss South Africa 2020 Shudufhadzo Musida over on her Instagram as she explores a series of mental health topics.
Contact them on: 011 234 4837
The CounsellingHub
Based in Woodstock Cape Town, The Counsellinghub brings you quality, accessible and affordable mental health assistance. At a low cost of R50, you’re put through to a professional volunteer or qualified student that will conduct your telephonic therapy session. If you’re passionate about mental health advocacy they welcome volunteers too.
Contact them on: 021 462-3902 / 067 235-0019
Hope House
Hope House is a Cape Town based Christian organisation making great strides to help those in need. They counsel those who need support through divorce, addictions, relationship problems and mental trauma. You can find a Hope House Centre in Bergvliet, Tableview and Kuilsrivier.
Contact each centre on:
Bergvliet: 021 715 0424 or 071 328 3715
Kuils River: 021 903 0521 or 071 410 1091
Table View: 021 522 9228
For online sessions: 084 557 7525
Lifeline Johannesburg
The Lifeline centres in Johannesburg, Alexandra and Soweto place empathy, non-judgement and engagement at the forefront of their process as they create a safe space. Lifeline offers a 24-hour telephonic counselling helpline as well as face to face appointments.
Contact number:
Johannesburg – 011 728-1331
National share call number – 0861 322 322
Alexandra – 011 443 3555
Soweto – 067 019 0845/ 074 129 6960