What are the Benefits of Online Therapy?

Jessica Fairfax

What are the benefits of online therapy, and is it really that effective?

Online Therapy, also known as virtual therapy, or video therapy, could be a good fit for you.

The desire for online therapy has grown tremendously in recent years. Especially since Covid, more people have become accustomed to gathering online, and there are so many benefits of online therapy that have led to its growth in popularity.

As an online therapist, I get asked frequently about the effectiveness of online therapy. Is online therapy worth it? Are video therapy sessions as helpful as in-person therapy sessions? What are the benefits compared to in-person therapy?

Of course, my answer is yes, or I wouldn’t be offering it. But, there are definitely some factors to keep in mind when considering if online therapy is right for you.

What are the benefits of online therapy (video sessions)?

For starters, clients love that it is more convenient and easier to fit into their schedules. It takes less time out of your day if you don’t have to factor in commute time. So, knowing you can log into a private, HIPAA-compliant video session from the comfort of your own home provides some relief when it comes to trying to find the time for it.
Cutting out that drive time also helps on cost. Let’s face it, therapy isn’t necessarily “cheap”. It’s an investment in your health, your energy, and your relationships. It’s worth it. But if you don’t have to drive to and from therapy every week, you can save a lot when it comes to gas and mileage on your car. For many clients, just reducing that factor can also reduce some of the basic stress that comes with getting to therapy.
A major benefit for many clients I see is comfort. It’s so nice when you can make your own cozy space at home for your therapy session. You feel more comfortable. You avoid the lobby/waiting room time and you can be in comfy clothes on a comfy couch. This can do a lot for your nervous system to feel more at ease and engage in therapy.
Along with all the other benefits, it’s helpful to know that online therapy is effective, just like in-person therapy. You’re not reducing the effectiveness of therapy by skipping the office visit. You’re still getting quality support and making real-life, lasting changes.

If you are in South Carolina and want online therapy from evidence-based approaches that help you find relief and growth quickly, reach out today.

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What are the challenges of virtual therapy?

I won’t sugar-coat things. While I love offering online therapy, there are factors to keep in mind that can help you to get the most out of therapy. If any of these factors feel difficult to navigate, talk with your therapist about the best path moving forward.

First, you of course need to still have privacy and ensure confidentiality. That can be tricky if you’re doing therapy at home and there are others around. Go to your room, or a private space. Close the door. Getting an inexpensive sound machine can also help you feel more comfortable.
- In my work with parents, they like being able to schedule therapy during the day when kids are at school. If their kids aren’t in school, they consider getting help from a family member or babysitter to watch the kids in another space during session.
Internet connection is of course needed for virtual therapy. However, sometimes technology fails us all. I make a plan with clients for what we will do if we get disconnected. If you’re considering online therapy, the therapist should discuss this with you in your first session.
The other main challenge I help clients navigate when doing online therapy is the quick return to "real-life" after session. When you do have an office visit, you have a drive to return to home or work. That usually gives you a few minutes to decompress after session. If you’re doing virtual therapy, you may walk out of your room and immediately return to the chaos of life, without time to settle. This is so important to discuss with your therapist if you find that you need time for that transition. Having a “ritual” to close session or doing a grounding technique or breathing technique together before ending the session can be incredibly helpful with this.

While there are challenges with online therapy, that doesn't mean it won't be a good fit for you. Talk with your therapist about what helps to make therapy most effective for you. This is a collaborative process and the goal is supporting your growth.