23-July-2025
Technology has been rapidly weaving its way into our lives for the last couple decades, and now it’s becoming a renowned form of therapy, too. Many people have started using digital apps to help cope through their mental struggles after not having access to a physical licensed therapist or form of counseling. The apps created have many contrasting yet beneficial features that have posed a positive effect on those struggling. Some features include AI chatbots who offer one-on-one moral support and are able to provide help for more specific problems and platforms that educate people about mental struggles people face. That being said, there are also certain features you can primarily get from non-technology-based therapy, ones that perhaps can’t necessarily be fulfilled by a screen and machines.
Let’s take a brief look at the characteristics of both worlds:
Technology-Based Strategies:
-Accessible 24/7 through apps, websites, and text support
-Available to teens in underserved areas
-Offer anonymity and privacy, creating a more comfortable environment
-Include mood trackers, meditation guides, AI chatbots to help keep relaxed and mindful of daily life
-Provide self-paced learning of coping mechanisms
-Can be more engaging for tech-savvy teens
-Useful for mild to moderate symptoms
-Allow quick access to resources without always needing appointments
Limitations of Tech-Based Strategies:
-Lack emotional depth and personalized human interaction
-May not be effective for more serious mental health conditions
-Being overdependent on screens can exacerbate issues (sleep, comparison, isolation)
-Some apps may be unregulated or low-quality
-May not offer long-term accountability or follow-up
Traditional Strategies:
-In-person therapy or school counseling offers adequate empathetic support provided the counselor performs their job properly
-Provide human connection, facial expressions, tone, and real-time feedback
-Group therapy or support groups build community and reduce isolation
-Family involvement and trusted adults create safe environments
-Activities like journaling, sports, art, and mindfulness foster healing
-Ideal for moderate to severe mental health concerns
-Schools may offer structured programs with consistency
Limitations of Traditional Strategies:
-May be limited by availability, cost, or location
-Teens may fear embarrassment seeking in-person help
-Appointments may be irregular or hard to schedule
-Not always appealing to screenagers used to digital interaction
I do think it’s best to have a balance of both types of therapy. You can expect and receive the utmost best from both if you can find healthy uses and boundaries. I wonder, though, if technology will possibly overtake traditional strategies someday. It’s no surprise with how fast these machines are taking over our entire universe. Time will only tell.