Text-based psychotherapy: analyzing opportunities and challenges beyond the session

Text messaging has become integral to global communication and is increasingly utilized in mental health care, especially post-COVID-19. As an accessible, cost-effective intervention, it enhances care continuity, reinforces therapeutic goals, and supports crisis management. Meta-analyses and studies highlight its benefits for conditions like depression and anxiety, improving treatment adherence, emotional regulation, and engagement. While AI chatbots and VR tools introduce innovation, text messaging remains foundational. This article reviews its efficacy, explores risks and benefits, and provides case examples, emphasizing its integration into mental health care and offering insights for future research and practice.