Is In-Person Therapy Better Than Online Therapy?

Starting therapy is a big step, and one of the first decisions you’ll make is choosing between in-person or online sessions. Is one option better than the other? Both have their perks, and the best choice comes down to what works for your life and comfort.

In-Person Therapy

In-person therapy involves visiting a therapist’s office for face-to-face sessions. For some, there’s something comforting and tangible about being in the same room as your therapist.

Benefits of In-Person Therapy

Non-Verbal Cues: Being physically present allows you and your therapist to pick up on body language, facial expressions, and other non-verbal cues that might get missed online. These subtle details often add depth to your sessions.
A Dedicated Space: Walking into a therapist’s office can signal a mental shift—it’s a space designated specifically for your healing and growth, free from the distractions of home.
Personal Connection: Some people find it easier to build trust and rapport with their therapist in person. The physical presence can feel more natural and grounding.
Access to Resources: In-person settings may provide resources like art therapy supplies, worksheets, or group sessions that aren’t available online.

However, in-person therapy does require you to commute to an office, which can add time and stress, especially if you live in a busy city or a rural area with fewer therapy options.

Online Therapy

Online therapy brings the session to you, wherever you are. You connect with your therapist via video calls. If you value flexibility and convenience, this option can be a game-changer.

Benefits of Online Therapy

Convenience: You can attend therapy from the comfort of your home, office, or anywhere with a stable internet connection. This is ideal if you have a tight schedule, travel frequently, or struggle with mobility.
Accessibility: Online therapy opens the door to therapists you might not otherwise have access to. Whether you live in a rural area or have limited transportation, online sessions remove geographical barriers. It’s also a great option for parents who may not have childcare available to leave for an in-person session.
Comfort: For some, being in a familiar environment like home makes it easier to open up and feel relaxed during sessions. You can grab a cup of tea, sit on your favorite couch, and log in.
More Options: With online therapy, you can access therapists who specialize in niche areas that might not be available in your local area, like trauma-focused therapy, LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, or grief and loss counseling.

Still, online therapy isn’t perfect for everyone. A poor internet connection can interrupt your session, and some people may miss the human connection that comes with sitting face-to-face.

Which Therapy is Best for You?

When choosing between in-person and online therapy, ask yourself these questions:

Do you prefer face-to-face interactions, or are you comfortable connecting through a screen?

Is travel to a therapist’s office realistic for you?

Do you have a private, quiet space at home or elsewhere for therapy?

Would you feel more focused in a professional office environment or in your personal space?

Does your preferred therapist offer online or in-person sessions?

For some, a hybrid approach—combining both in-person and online sessions—is the perfect solution. It offers flexibility while still maintaining the personal connection of in-person therapy.

Finding What Works for You

Both in-person therapy and online therapy are effective, but what matters most is what feels right for you. Therapy is about creating a space where you can grow, heal, and thrive. Whether that space is in a cozy office chair or on your living room couch, the most important step is simply showing up.

Get the most out of therapy with our FREE Ultimate Guide and discover 25 ways to optimize your therapy experience.