The Value of Small Group Practice in Mental Health Therapy: A Perspective from Mountain Valley Counseling owner Misty Newman, CMHC

By Misty Newman, CMHC

In recent years, the landscape of mental health care has seen a significant shift with the rise of teletherapy platforms like BetterHelp. While these services offer convenience and accessibility, they often reduce therapy to a mere transaction—a commodity in a marketplace driven by profit. As the owner of Mountain Valley Counseling, I believe that true mental health therapy transcends this transactional model. Instead, it thrives on the strength of the therapeutic relationship and the nuanced understanding that only a well-trained therapist can provide.

The Dangers of Commodifying Mental Health

The commodification of mental health services is alarming. Venture capitalists have recognized the profitability of therapy and have pushed for solutions that prioritize rapid, low-cost access over genuine healing. However, mental health care cannot be adequately addressed through quick fixes or superficial strategies. This approach risks undermining the very essence of what therapy is meant to be: a space for deep exploration, healing, and personal growth.

When therapy is treated as a mere product to be consumed, the unique complexities of each individual’s mental health are often overlooked. Brief strategies, while sometimes effective for minor issues, cannot replace the profound benefits of a therapeutic relationship built over time. At Mountain Valley Counseling, we emphasize the importance of creating a safe and trusting environment, where clients can explore their feelings and experiences without judgment.

The Role of the Therapeutic Relationship

One of the cornerstones of effective therapy is the relationship between client and therapist. Psychodynamic therapy, in particular, hinges on understanding the underlying emotional and psychological processes that shape an individual’s experience. This requires a commitment to developing a genuine connection—something that is difficult to achieve in an online platform where therapists may be less invested in each client’s journey.

In small group practices like mine, therapists work collaboratively, sharing insights and strategies while maintaining a personalized approach. This community aspect fosters a deeper understanding of each client’s needs, allowing us to tailor our methods to suit their unique circumstances.  We offer specialized treatments to our clients.  In contrast, platforms like BetterHelp often deploy a one-size-fits-all model, where clients are matched with therapists based on superficial algorithms rather than compatibility or shared values.

The Pitfalls of Brief Therapy Models

Venture capital-backed services often emphasize speed and efficiency, which can lead to a superficial engagement with mental health concerns. The notion that mental health issues can be resolved quickly—especially at a discounted rate—sends a misleading message to consumers. True healing takes time and often involves confronting difficult emotions and patterns that have developed over a lifetime.

In psychodynamic therapy, we explore the intricate ways past experiences shape present behavior. This process requires patience and trust, elements that can be challenging to establish in a brief or transactional context. Clients who seek therapy only to encounter a rushed experience may leave disillusioned, feeling that their struggles are too complex for quick solutions. This, in turn, can deter them from seeking help in the future, perpetuating a cycle of unaddressed mental health issues.

The Benefits of Personalized Care

At Mountain Valley Counseling, we understand that each client’s journey is unique. We pride ourselves on offering personalized care that takes into account the individual’s history, emotions, and relational dynamics. Our therapists are not only trained in various therapeutic modalities but are also committed to building lasting relationships with clients. This investment in the therapeutic alliance fosters a sense of safety, enabling clients to explore their innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.

In contrast to the impersonal nature of therapy services from big tech companies, our small group practice allows for a more nuanced approach. Clients benefit from not only one-on-one sessions but also the collective wisdom of a team that collaborates and shares insights. This depth of care is invaluable for those grappling with complex emotional issues that require more than just surface-level interventions.

A Call to Action

As a mental health professional, I urge consumers to consider the quality of care over convenience. Mental health is not a commodity; it is an essential aspect of our well-being that deserves careful attention and thoughtful engagement. If you’ve had a negative experience with an online platform, I encourage you to explore local therapy options that prioritize the therapeutic relationship.

In a world increasingly driven by profit, let’s not lose sight of what truly matters in mental health therapy. Healing is not a transaction; it’s a journey. Choose a path that honors your unique experience, and seek the depth of understanding and connection that only a dedicated, well-trained therapist can provide. At Mountain Valley Counseling, we are committed to walking alongside you on that journey.