When the pandemic first shifted therapy sessions from offices to screens, many therapists and clients were uncertain. Would the connection be the same? Could you do deep, meaningful work when you weren’t in the same room? Now, years later, it’s clear that not only does telehealth work, but for many people, it works better.
As a licensed therapist who has practiced both in person and online, I’ve seen firsthand how telehealth therapy has opened doors that were previously closed to many. Here are some of the most significant benefits I’ve observed:
- Increased Accessibility and Convenience
One of the most powerful aspects of telehealth is that it eliminates many of the logistical barriers to mental health care. Clients no longer need to arrange childcare, take time off work, or commute to get the support they need. They can attend a therapy session from the comfort of a living room, parked car, or even a quiet break room. For people living in rural areas or with limited mobility, telehealth may be the only realistic option.
- Reduced Anxiety Around Attending Sessions
For many people, particularly those dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma, the thought of going into an unfamiliar office can be overwhelming. With telehealth, clients can engage in therapy from a space that feels safe and familiar. This often helps people feel more at ease, which can lead to more open, productive sessions.
- More Flexibility = More Consistency
Let’s be honest…life is busy. With fewer logistical hurdles, clients are more likely to attend sessions regularly. Fewer cancellations mean more consistent progress. I’ve seen clients stick with therapy longer and achieve more sustained results when it’s easier to fit sessions into their schedule.
- Greater Insight into a Client’s Environment
One surprising benefit is that telehealth gives therapists a unique window into a client’s day-to-day environment. Seeing a client in their home can offer context and insight that might not come up in an office setting. A glimpse of a cluttered room, interactions with a pet, or even background noise can all be opportunities for meaningful discussion.
- Enhanced Privacy for Some Clients
While it might seem counterintuitive, telehealth can offer a greater sense of privacy for certain clients. There's no need to sit in a waiting room or risk running into someone they know. This can be especially important for those in small communities, or for people who feel stigma around seeking mental health support.
- It Still Feels Personal
A lot of people worry that something will be lost through a screen, but my experience has been the opposite. With clear audio, good lighting, and uninterrupted time together, video sessions can provide a deep, empathetic, and connected therapeutic relationship. In fact, some clients have told me they feel more emotionally present online because they’re less distracted by the environment.
A Better Fit?
Telehealth isn’t a replacement for in-person therapy, but it is a way of evolving into current times. For many, telehealth’s flexibility, comfort, and accessibility are a better fit, without compromising the quality of care. Of course, some situations still call for face-to-face work, and hybrid models can meet those needs. But as therapists, we now have more ways to meet our clients where they are literally and emotionally.
If you’ve been on the fence about starting therapy or returning to it, know that meaningful, healing work can absolutely happen through a screen. You might just find it fits into your life better than you ever imagined.