Many people are unsure if Online or In-Person therapy is for them. It can be hard to determine what you might gravitate towards, especially if this is your first time seeing a therapist. There are common misconceptions about the delivery method of therapy that just aren’t true. Therapists are trained to work with both methods of delivery and have experience in both.
If you have not yet checked out our blogs on "Choosing a Therapist: Finding the Best Fit" or "Things to Consider Before Starting Therapy" please take a moment to start and develop your criteria for your search!
This article will provide you with some helpful information for you to consider in finding the delivery method that feels right, and fits into your lifestyle focusing on Online Therapy. Below you’ll find identifiable pros and cons that you might not have considered that can be helpful in your decision-making process as more therapists are choosing Online Therapy.
"This is all part of your self-discovery and will help to increase your self-awareness in what might be helpful in your therapeutic journey."
Online Therapy: Pros & Cons
The Pros
In the past few years, we’ve learned how incredibly easy, convenient, and accessible online therapy is. Accessing therapy from within the privacy and comfort of one’s own home has made mental health care truly more accessible for every person. Online therapy has greater flexibility and availability in terms of hours of operations as therapists and clinics aren’t bound by leases or building contracts to work within certain hours of operations.
There are misconceptions that therapy isn’t as effective compared to being in-person. This just isn’t true. In fact, there are many ways that online therapy can be a better experience than in-person. It is great for those who have disabilities, chronic illnesses, pregnant, families with small children, those experiencing trauma symptoms, and those with odd working hours. You can lay down, be comfortable, and close to all the creature comforts to make you feel safe. Learning how to create a sense of safety within your own space can be an incredibly powerful and unique experience using what you already have. The presence of the therapist in your home space or wherever you choose to do therapy from can be very comforting and seamlessly integrate into your life.
The Cons
Some challenges and possible deterrents for many people are the technical requirements. Some people have told me, “Just the thought of having to do deal with a system and technology just isn’t for me”. That is perfectly okay! You already noticed that you are overwhelmed by technology, and this may be a key indicator for In-Person Therapy.
Others may not be able to receive the full sense of privacy, especially for those who are in shared living spaces. Some people get creative to eliminate this barrier by sitting in their cars, going to a library cubby, or sitting outside of their home. It truly depends on what feels best for you. If this may sound too unconventional and not a great fit that is completely okay. You may already recognize that In-Person Therapy is more for you.
Final Thoughts & Feelings
Mindful Steps Therapy is virtual practice but that doesn’t mean I haven’t worked in-person therapy, which I have. I’ve just noticed for my niche and clientele that online therapy has served my clients well. Therapy can be more effective when the delivery method fits for you and that connection with your therapist just clicks. Sometimes the method is irrelevant when at the heart of it is the therapeutic relationship. I've noticed that therapy becomes ineffective when the environment of safety and comfort are not provided, or the relationship not longer serves the clients needs. Deciding on which delivery method comes down to personal preference and level of convenience that may be person specific.
Some people might comment that I'm a little biased. Yes, this is true I am a virtual therapy practice and may be a little biased. However every therapist is trained in both methods, I like both methods in providing therapy. Majority of therapists see their own therapists I've had the benefit of experiencing both to know what it's like to be the client. I think that's important to recognize that clients may have a better experience from the safety of their bedroom and being able to close their laptop/device and move on and taking care of themselves. I think it's easier to integrate the therapeutic tools into the daily living when its happening in your home or the spaces you claim.
For those considering Online Therapy, it increases a sense of safety, comfort, and control as therapy is integrated into one’s life in their home; at least this is what I've noticed. I've had many clients end therapy because they've reached the point where things are good or their goals were reached. I hope by this end of this article it has helped you to figure out what you might be better for you. So now that you have all the information of the Pros and Cons of Online Therapy you can get started on your personal healing journey.
If you'd like to start your journey here at Mindful Steps Therapy please visit the Discovery Call button or fill out a Contact Form Here to take that next step.
