Virtual Therapy vs. In-Person Therapy

Nonverbal Communication: In-person sessions allow therapists to read nonverbal cues that support verbal communication. Nonverbal information can help a therapist better understand your needs.

However, nonverbal information is not completely lost in video format. Seeing a client's environment with video can also offer additional nonverbal insights, but a phone session would not have this advantage.

Neutral Location: Sessions that take place in a therapist's office can provide a space away from your everyday life. A location that feels neutral can increase your comfort when sharing private information.

Intensive Support: Some mental health needs require direct, in-person therapeutic support. Art, music, and play therapy can provide effective support when used in person.

Limited Therapist Options: Depending on your location, there may be a limited selection of therapists who specialize in a specific area or approach you need or prefer. This can make it more challenging to find the right therapist.

Accessibility: Getting to and from therapy sessions can prove a significant challenge for some. Traffic, public transit issues, and commuting time add up, particularly for clients with young children, people experiencing poverty, or older adults. Taking time away from work or other priorities can also limit access to in-person therapy.

Timing: Long waiting periods due to lack of availability or differing schedules might force a delay in beginning sessions with a new therapist.

Cost: Therapists who join virtual therapy networks might offer cheaper monthly rates when booking multiple sessions at a time. However, while the company might promise increased access to a therapist at lower, weekly or monthly rates, prices can increase later on.

Convenience: With virtual options like texting and emailing, you can connect with a therapist from virtually anywhere at any time. Online services provide access to therapeutic support quickly and with little hassle.

Easy Access: Online options provide easier access to therapeutic support for those with difficulties commuting to in-person therapy sessions. Connecting virtually can also lower social anxieties associated with sharing physical spaces with others.

Reduced Stigma: Online therapy options can reduce some of the negative feelings associated with attending an in-person therapy session. Online therapy sessions allow you to limit interactions by scheduling and attending appointments from the comfort of your home.

Technology Reliant: Video conferencing comes with the added pressure of you and your therapist relying on an internet connection. One or both of you may lose service, interfering with your ability to connect when desired or needed. This should be discussed with your therapist on how this situation will be handled if internet service is lost.

Limits to Care: Some more serious mental health conditions may require an in-person session, putting limits on effective care options online. Also, those who supplement their income by joining a virtual therapy network can sometimes become burned out, leading to lower quality of care.

Communication Restrictions: Text and email communications can inhibit the depth of understanding between you and your therapist. Without body language and nonverbal cues, communication can feel limited. Also, patients should not assume a therapist is available 24/7 virtually.

Privacy and Confidentiality Concerns: Confidentiality and privacy can be critical concerns when it comes to teletherapy. Cyber breaches, email phishing, and malware could put your protected health information at risk. Furthermore, taking a virtual therapy session at home or in a public space can open up the possibility of others overhearing your private conversations.