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

Audience: pediatric

Teletherapy and in-person therapy are two ways children can receive mental health support. Teletherapy uses video calls or phone sessions, allowing children to connect with therapists from home. In-person therapy happens face-to-face in a clinic or office. Both have benefits and limits. Teletherapy offers convenience and access, especially for families far from clinics. In-person therapy may help with building stronger connections and observing nonverbal cues. Some therapy types or situations need in-person visits, especially if physical exams or close monitoring are required. Choosing the right option depends on the child’s needs, comfort, and the therapist’s advice. Understanding what each can and cannot do helps families make informed decisions about their child’s care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• If your child talks about harming themselves or others, seek immediate in-person care or emergency services.
• If your child shows sudden changes in behavior, severe mood swings, or withdrawal, contact a healthcare provider promptly.
• If your child experiences physical symptoms like fainting, seizures, or severe headaches during therapy, get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Routine counseling and talk therapy sessions
• Behavioral therapy that can be done via video
• Follow-up mental health check-ins
• Parent and family therapy sessions conducted remotely

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency mental health crises
• Therapies requiring physical presence or hands-on activities
• Initial assessments needing in-person observation
• Physical exams or medical monitoring during therapy

What Is Teletherapy?

Teletherapy is therapy delivered through video calls, phone calls, or online platforms. It allows children to meet with therapists without traveling. This can be helpful for families living far from clinics or with busy schedules. Teletherapy often includes talk therapy, counseling, and some types of behavioral therapy.

What Is In-Person Therapy?

In-person therapy happens face-to-face in a therapist's office or clinic. It allows for direct interaction, including observing body language and other nonverbal cues. Some therapies, like play therapy or certain assessments, are often easier to do in person.

Benefits of Teletherapy

\1

Benefits of In-Person Therapy

\1

When Teletherapy May Not Be Enough

Some situations may require in-person visits, such as:

Therapists will guide families on the best approach.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, private space with good lighting for the session.
• Test your internet connection and device (camera, microphone) beforehand.
• Have any necessary documents or notes ready to share with the therapist.
• Ensure your child is comfortable and understands the session format.
• Check the therapy platform is secure and approved by the therapist or clinic.
• Plan for a backup communication method (phone) in case of technical issues.

After your tele-visit

• Discuss the session with your child to understand their feelings and thoughts.
• Follow any therapy homework or activities suggested by the therapist.
• Schedule the next appointment as advised.
• Contact the therapist if you notice worsening symptoms or new concerns.
• Keep notes on your child’s progress to share in future sessions.
• Seek in-person care if red flags or emergencies arise.

FAQs

Is teletherapy as effective as in-person therapy for children?

Teletherapy can be effective for many children, especially for talk therapy and counseling. However, some children benefit more from in-person sessions, particularly younger kids or those needing hands-on activities. Effectiveness depends on the child’s needs and the therapist’s approach.

What if my child doesn’t like video calls?

It’s common for some children to feel uncomfortable with video calls. Therapists can adapt by using phone calls or incorporating engaging activities. If teletherapy isn’t working well, in-person therapy may be a better option.

Can teletherapy handle emergencies?

Teletherapy is not suitable for emergencies or crises. If your child expresses thoughts of self-harm or harm to others, seek immediate in-person care or emergency services.

Do I need special equipment for teletherapy?

Usually, a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access, a camera, and a microphone are enough. Some therapists use secure platforms that may require downloading an app.

How do I prepare my child for a teletherapy session?

Explain what will happen during the session in simple terms. Find a quiet space free from distractions. Encourage your child to speak openly and let the therapist guide the session.

Sources

1. Mental Health and Telehealth — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Telemedicine: What You Need To Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
4. Teletherapy for Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP).
5. Tips for Successful Telehealth Visits — Mayo Clinic.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. Teletherapy and telemedicine services may not be suitable for all situations. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment tailored to your child's needs. In emergencies or if your child is in crisis, seek immediate in-person care or emergency services.