Internetowa pomoc psychologiczna [Internet therapy]

The fast development of sciences and internet offers wide opportunities and one of them resulted in a new form of therapy called cybertherapy, intherapy, online psychotherapy or e-therapy. Sessions proceeded via the web, not through the face to face meetings. Both the therapist and patient may be located in different places, keeping contact via the internet. This method, however accepted by patients and therapists causes worries and doubts about its efficacy as well.Aim. The aim of this article is to show what e-therapy is, as well as to try to find the answer to the questions based on the publication review: Is there a comparability between traditional psychotherapy and e-therapy? What are the indications for e-therapy use? Is e-therapy compliant with ethics code of therapy? How to use the opportunities given by internet therapy development? Results: E-therapy is a form of consultation. The author presents publications of researchers who based themselves on cognitive-behavioral therapy, which was effective in the treatment of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive-anxiety disorders, PTSD, irritable bowel syndrome, bulimia etc. Especially positive outcomes were observed in treatment of anxiety disorders. Results are promising, however the scope of e-therapy use must be carefully defined. Polish ethics code of psychotherapy does not apply to therapeutical contacts via web. We can find directions in American Psychiatric Association advising that despite of the nature of the contact, the same ethical rules should be applied. E-therapy will not replace traditional therapeutical contact but may be considered as an additional method to initiate traditional therapeutical interaction.