Should I seek Online OR In-Person Therapy?

There are three things that need to be addressed to answer this question for you: (1) where you live, (2) your budget, and (3) your presenting concern.

(1) Where You Live

• For obvious reasons, those who live in rural communities are going to be more inclined to be forced to entertain online therapy.

• Perhaps you live in a hot or cold environment that makes staying home more comfortable for you.

• Perhaps your therapist works off a busy highway or high-traffic area and the sessions times you desire to coincide with

(2) Your Budget

• Typically a therapist will not charge a different rate for online vs in-person therapy. However, you also have to factor in the commute time, gas prices, and most importantly (IF the therapist takes insurance) whether the insurance company will reimburse online therapy.

• Therapists that have to account for overhead costs due to in-person sessions may charge more on average for a therapist session, meaning you may be able to get an equally qualified therapist for cheaper online as those costs do not have to be factored in.

(3) Your Presenting Concern

• If it’s play therapy or child therapy it’s likely best that the sessions are in-person. Much of play therapy involves the use of toys and other resources to help the child communicate their needs and feelings. As such, sessions that are virtual will inhibit these processes.

• If it’s trauma-focused it’s likely best that the sessions are in-person. Much of trauma therapy include EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) as well as intimate and uncomfortable conversations. As such, being in person can help to create a true experience of safety and care that may be lacking when staring at a camera while talking about such sensitive information.

• If it’s depression or anxiety, online sessions should still work well. CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) is one of the most successful modalities for treating both of these concerns and CBT can be executed virtually.

• The list goes on, but you’ll want to think about how your needs may be hindered, or even helped by online therapy as opposed to meeting in person. Speak with a professional to get their recommendation as well.

Author: Christopher Missimo (Co-Owner Avanti Counseling & Consulting)

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