Teletherapy vs In-Person Therapy: What Each Option Does & Doesn’t Do

Audience: adult

Teletherapy and in-person therapy are two common ways to receive mental health support. Teletherapy uses video calls, phone, or apps to connect with a therapist remotely, while in-person therapy happens face-to-face in a clinic or office. Both options can help with stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Teletherapy offers convenience and access, especially if travel or mobility is a challenge. In-person therapy may provide a stronger personal connection and better support for complex or urgent issues. Understanding what each can and cannot do helps you choose the best fit for your needs. Remember, teletherapy is a helpful tool but not a replacement for emergency care or situations needing physical exams.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seek immediate emergency care or call a crisis hotline.
• If you experience severe symptoms like hallucinations, extreme confusion, or inability to care for yourself, get urgent in-person evaluation.
• If you feel unsafe or threatened at home or during therapy, contact emergency services or trusted support immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate anxiety and depression
• Stress management and coping skills
• Routine mental health check-ins
• Therapy for relationship or family issues
• Psychoeducation and counseling

What telemedicine cannot do

• Mental health emergencies or crises
• Severe psychiatric conditions needing close monitoring
• Situations requiring physical examination
• Substance withdrawal management requiring medical supervision
• Cases needing immediate medication adjustments in person

What Is Teletherapy?

Teletherapy is mental health care delivered through technology, such as video calls, phone conversations, or messaging apps. It allows you to connect with a licensed therapist from your home or another private place. This option can be easier to fit into busy schedules or for people who live far from clinics.

What Is In-Person Therapy?

In-person therapy involves meeting a therapist face-to-face in a clinic, office, or other setting. This traditional approach lets you build a personal connection and allows the therapist to observe body language and other cues more directly. It may be preferred for more complex mental health conditions or when physical presence is important.

Benefits of Teletherapy

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Benefits of In-Person Therapy

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Limitations to Consider

Teletherapy may not be ideal for emergencies, severe mental illness, or when a physical exam is needed. In-person therapy requires travel and may have less flexible scheduling. Both methods require a private, safe space for effective sessions.

Choosing What’s Right for You

Consider your comfort with technology, the severity of your symptoms, and your access to local services. Sometimes a combination of both teletherapy and in-person visits works best. Always seek emergency care if you experience thoughts of harming yourself or others.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, private space with good internet connection.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone before the session.
• Have a list of your symptoms, questions, or topics ready.
• Ensure you have emergency contacts nearby in case of distress.
• Check the time zone and appointment time carefully.
• Inform a trusted person you will be in a session if you feel comfortable.

After your tele-visit

• Take notes during or after your session about key points.
• Follow any recommendations or exercises your therapist suggests.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as advised.
• Reach out to emergency services if you experience worsening symptoms.
• Keep a journal of your mood and progress between sessions.

FAQs

Is teletherapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Research shows teletherapy can be as effective as in-person therapy for many conditions like anxiety and depression, especially when you have a good connection with your therapist. However, some people may prefer in-person sessions for more complex needs.

What if I don’t have a private space for teletherapy?

Privacy is important for therapy. If you lack a private space, consider using headphones, scheduling sessions when others are not around, or seeking in-person therapy options.

Can I switch between teletherapy and in-person therapy?

Yes, many people use a mix of both depending on their needs, availability, and comfort. Discuss options with your therapist to find what works best for you.

What should I do if I feel worse after a teletherapy session?

Feeling worse sometimes can be part of the healing process. However, if you experience severe distress or thoughts of harm, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline immediately.

Do I need special equipment for teletherapy?

Typically, a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone is enough. A stable internet connection helps ensure smooth communication.

Sources

1. Mental Health and Telehealth — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Telehealth: What You Need To Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Teletherapy and Online Counseling — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telehealth for Mental Health — Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
5. Effectiveness of Teletherapy — National Library of Medicine.

This article provides general information about teletherapy and in-person therapy and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health provider or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or mental health emergency. In emergencies, call emergency services immediately.