Alester Brown

What Is the Difference Between Online and In-Person Therapy?

Online therapy has become more popular recently due to changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. If you're considering giving it a try, you're probably wondering how it differs from in-person therapy. In this article, we'll look at the main differences between the two and how you can determine which option is best for you.

What is online therapy?

Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist using an electronic device, such as your phone, laptop or tablet. Instead of driving to a therapist's office, you meet with an online therapist by logging in to a website or app using the device of your choice.

A reputable online therapist will use a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)-compliant platform to protect your data, so you don't have to worry about your privacy. Although many online counseling websites boast more affordable rates, this isn't always the case. It's best to carefully research pricing models and make sure your insurance will cover online therapy.

Online therapy is often ideal for people who live too far from a therapist's office to commute regularly, lack transportation or have a disability that prevents them from leaving their house.

What is in-person therapy?

In-person therapy requires that you travel to a therapist's office to talk with them face to face. Although it's less convenient than online therapy, you get in-person interaction and discussions, if that's important to you. You also don't have to worry about privacy concerns related to technology.

In-person therapy is ideal for people who prefer to meet face to face. However, as far as efficacy goes, both in-person and online therapy are effective for a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), addiction and postpartum depression.

Deciding what's right for you

The primary difference between online and in-person therapy is the method of communication. Consequently, it's important to consider what you value most when it comes to your therapy.

If convenience is your top priority, meeting with an online therapist from the comfort of your own home or while you're on your lunch break might be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you'd feel more comfortable speaking with a therapist face to face or if your insurance won't cover online therapy, in-person sessions are likely the better option.

Author Resource:-

Alester Brown writes about physiotherapy. She advises people on health care, online therapy, anxiety discussion groups & depression message boards. You can find her thoughts at anxiety experts blog.