I think the terms "insta-therap(y/ist)" are misleading. Most of what I've seen on Instagram accounts like the ones mentioned here are what I'd call psychoeducation -- meant to raise awareness. Maybe to start a discussion. But that's only a portion of what actual therapy encompasses. I worry that the buzzwords are already being accepted and used as if they represent what's actually happening on Instagram. The implications that a follower might think of an account as their therapist or more generally expecting to get the benefits of actual therapy from Instagram are troubling to me.
As far as a movement of psychoeducation, I think that's wonderful! Accessibility is huge. As long as those running the account are behaving ethically, I'm all for it. I think it only helps the stigma surrounding the discussion of mental health.
I think the terms "insta-therap(y/ist)" are misleading. Most of what I've seen on Instagram accounts like the ones mentioned here are what I'd call psychoeducation -- meant to raise awareness. Maybe to start a discussion. But that's only a portion of what actual therapy encompasses. I worry that the buzzwords are already being accepted and used as if they represent what's actually happening on Instagram. The implications that a follower might think of an account as their therapist or more generally expecting to get the benefits of actual therapy from Instagram are troubling to me.
As far as a movement of psychoeducation, I think that's wonderful! Accessibility is huge. As long as those running the account are behaving ethically, I'm all for it. I think it only helps the stigma surrounding the discussion of mental health.