Counselors’ Awareness of Evolving Technology and the Growth of Digital Mental Health Tools

Nov 22

Written By Mohamed Khalif, PhD, LPC, NCC

In recent years, digital mental health tools have transformed the landscape of counseling and therapy. With advances in technology and widespread internet usage, teletherapy/telehealth and mental health applications have become essential components of modern mental health care (Anser et al., 2025). Counselors are encouraged to remain informed about these tools' potential benefits and limitations to effectively support their clients.

Teletherapy and Access to Care

One of the most significant benefits of teletherapy/telehealth is its ability to improve access to mental health services, especially for individuals in underserved or rural areas. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), many Americans face barriers to receiving timely mental health care due to factors such as geographic isolation, transportation challenges, or shortage of local providers (SAMHSA, 2016). Teletherapy/telehealth can bridge this gap by allowing clients to connect with licensed counselors remotely via video platforms (when used in compliance with all regulating rules, laws, and ethics of the profession), removing many traditional obstacles to care (SAMHSA, 2016). Though teletherapy/telehealth may not be appropriate in all situations or cases, it can offer scheduling flexibility, privacy, and convenience when used for case-by-case situations according to appropriateness and clinical relevance, which may encourage individuals who otherwise would not seek help to engage in treatment.

Limitations Around Technology Access

Despite its promise, teletherapy/telehealth is not universally accessible. A critical limitation is the availability of technology and reliable internet connectivity. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), millions of Americans lack access to fixed broadband service at threshold speeds, with rural communities disproportionately affected (FCC, 2021). Individuals without smartphones, computers, or sufficient internet bandwidth face challenges participating in teletherapy/telehealth sessions.

This digital divide means that teletherapy/telehealth may not be a practical solution for all clients, particularly those from low-income households, older adults who may be unfamiliar with technology, or others with limited digital literacy. Counselors may benefit from awareness of these barriers and work collaboratively with clients to identify safe, confidential, and feasible ways to deliver care or explore alternative in-person options where necessary.

Assessing Suitability for Teletherapy on a Case-by-Case Basis

While teletherapy/telehealth can increase access and convenience, it is not universally appropriate for every client or clinical situation. Suitability for teletherapy/telehealth should always be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Factors to consider include the client's comfort with technology, severity of symptoms, presence of crises, and privacy considerations.

Additionally, clinical judgment and ongoing evaluation to determine whether teletherapy/telehealth remains effective and safe throughout treatment is of significant importance (APA, 2021). Counselors should maintain open communication with clients about their experiences with teletherapy/telehealth and be prepared to adjust the modality as needed.

Conclusion

Digital mental health tools, especially teletherapy/telehealth, represent an important advancement in counseling practices by extending access to care for many underserved populations. However, counselors must remain mindful of technology access disparities and carefully assess the appropriateness of teletherapy/telehealth for each client.

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2021). Best Practices in Telepsychiatry. https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/telepsychiatry
Anser MK, Nabi AA, Ahmad I, Abro MMQ, Zaman K. Advancing Mental Health Care: A Comprehensive Review of Digital Tools and Technologies for Enhancing Diagnosis, Treatment, and Wellness. Health Care Sci. 2025 May 31;4(3):163-178.
Federal Communications Commission. (2021). 2021 Broadband Deployment Report. Fourteenth Broadband Deployment Report | Federal Communications Commission
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2016). Behavioral Health Barriers and Opportunities. In Brief: Rural Behavioral Health: Telehealth Challenges and Opportunities

Mohamed Khalif, PhD, LPC, NCC

About the author:

Dr. Khalif is the owner and clinical director of Ample Counseling Services LLC. He is a licensed professional counselor through the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council and a national certified counselor through the National Board for Certified Counselors. He received his PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision and his master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. When he is not providing mental health care, he teaches in graduate university programs at different academic institutions. Visit his private practice page here at Ample Counseling Services LLC

Disclaimer: Any information provided in this article/blog post is for general educational and/or general informational purposes only related to mental health topics and should not be used for any other purpose. It is not intended to provide clinical services, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing contained herein constitutes professional advice (of any kind) and should not be relied upon as such.