In-Person Therapy v. Telehealth

In past years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health care has changed significantly. There are no longer just in-person therapy sessions but also virtual therapy sessions, better known as telehealth.

Some individuals find the choice stressful or daunting. Both methods have been proven to be effective but it all depends on the person, their needs, and their goals. 
Research in recent years shows that multiple mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and post traumatic stress disorder have reacted positively to both in person and telehealth therapy. Also, virtual therapy is not only just as effective as in person therapy but also more affordable and accessible (Derring, 2025). However, there is not one right choice due to everyone having their own situation and access to treatment. 

Telehealth therapy means using electronic devices to connect clients and professionals together. This removes location barriers and the stress of attendance. 

Pros:

• Accessibility: It eliminates traveling which is helpful for people with physical disabilities, children or busy schedules. 
• Comfort: Doing a session in an environment that the client picked and is comfortable with can help decrease social anxiety during the session. 
• Flexibility: Telehealth often provides more dates and times along with more therapist options (U.S Department of Health and Human Services, 2025). 

Cons:

• Technology Issues: Technology is not always reliable and may cause issues during sessions. 
• Privacy: If the client lives with someone, they may not get the privacy they want or need. 
• Reduces Cues: Therapists may find it hard to pick up on body language through a screen (Bence, 2025.)

In-person therapy provides physical interaction with people and a dedicated space to focus on goals. 

Pros:

• Face to Face: Being face to face with a therapist during a session could help the brain shift into a deeper focus and result in a more productive session (Deering, 2025).
• Better Cues: The therapist can better assist their client when they can see body cues such as facial expressions and fidgeting. 

Cons:

• Higher Cost: Sessions in physical office spaces often cost more with insurance because the space has to be maintained. 
• Traveling: In person sessions often require commutes which can be hard for a variety of people. 
• Limited Options: People often have less options for in person therapists because of location factors (Institute on Violence, Abuse, and Trauma, 2025). 

Which One?

Both telehealth and in person therapy are effective. It’s up to each individual to decide which option works best for them. It is also important to take into consideration that certain mental health issues may not be appropriate for virtual therapy. 

Telehealth is often best for those needing help with anxiety, depression or stress. It is also best for those who have tight schedules and can not leave home easily. In person therapy is best for those who have severe mental health crises and need social interaction to work on treatment.  


Resources: 
Dexter, G. (October 14, 2025). Telehealth. Verywell Health. 
https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-telehealth-5115712

Deering, M. (September 21, 2025). Online versus in-person therapy. Psychology.org.
https://www.psychology.org/resources/virtual-therapy-vs-in-person/

Institute on Violence, Abuse and Trauma. (2025, April 4). Online vs. In-person therapy: pros and cons. https://www.ivatcenters.org/our-blog/online-vs-in-person-therapy

(July 29, 2025). Why use telehealth?. U.S Department of Health and Human Services. 
https://telehealth.hhs.gov/patients/why-use-telehealth