In person vs Telehealth

One factor to consider when choosing a therapist is whether you prefer in-person or telehealth services. Both can be effective ways to participate in therapy, but each comes with different benefits and things to consider. The best option is ultimately the one that works for you, your needs, and your life.

First, What Is Telehealth?

Telehealth refers to healthcare services provided remotely rather than in the same physical location as your provider. Depending on the provider and type of service, this may include secure video sessions, phone calls, or other forms of electronic communication. When providing telehealth services, therapists should use technology and practices designed to protect your privacy and comply with applicable HIPAA requirements. At Leading Heart Therapy, telehealth sessions are provided through secure video.

Why Choose Telehealth?

More flexibility and convenience.

Without the need to travel to an office, therapy can be easier to fit into a busy schedule. You can attend from home, work, or another appropriate location—as long as you are physically located in a state where your therapist is licensed at the time of your session.

Stay in your own space.

For some people, talking about difficult things feels easier from a familiar environment. You can curl up in your favorite chair, grab a blanket, have your pet nearby, or surround yourself with whatever helps you feel comfortable and secure.

No commute.

Your one-hour therapy appointment doesn’t also require driving to an office, finding parking, sitting in a waiting room, and driving home.

Greater access.

Telehealth can open up your options beyond therapists who happen to have an office nearby. This can be especially helpful if you live in a rural area, have transportation limitations, or are looking for a therapist with experience in a particular area.

Things to Consider With Telehealth

You’ll need to create your own private space.

Your therapist will take steps to protect your privacy on their end, but telehealth makes confidentiality a shared responsibility. You’ll want to find a location where you can speak freely without worrying about someone walking in or overhearing your conversation.

Technology can occasionally be technology.

You’ll need a reliable internet connection and a device you’re comfortable using. And even with everything working correctly, internet connections sometimes drop, audio decides not to cooperate, or technology simply has a bad day.

Some types of treatment may work better in person.

Depending on your needs, circumstances, or the type of therapy being provided, telehealth may not always be the most appropriate option. Your therapist can help you determine whether telehealth is a good fit for the work you want to do.

Why Choose In-Person Therapy?

A dedicated, private environment.

A therapist’s office is specifically designed to provide a private space for therapy. You don’t have to find somewhere in your own home or workplace where you won’t be interrupted or overheard.

Separation from everyday life.

For some people, physically going somewhere for therapy is valuable. Stepping away from home or work can create dedicated time and space to focus entirely on yourself without the distractions waiting in the next room.

No technology required.

You don’t need to worry about internet connections, video platforms, microphones, cameras, or whether your device is cooperating that day.

Some therapeutic work may be better suited to being in the same room.

Depending on the person and the type of treatment, being physically present with your therapist may offer advantages that are harder to recreate through a screen.

Things to Consider With In-Person Therapy

The biggest consideration is often time and accessibility. An in-person appointment doesn’t just require the time you’re sitting with your therapist. You’ll also need to account for travel, parking, and any other logistics involved in getting to and from the office. Your choices may also be limited by which therapists practice close enough for you to reasonably travel to them.

So, Which Is Better?

There isn’t one right answer. Some people love the convenience and comfort of telehealth. Others value having a separate, dedicated space for therapy. What matters is finding the format that allows you to feel comfortable, connect with your therapist, and consistently show up for the work you want to do. Regardless of where therapy happens, your therapist’s goal is the same: to build a meaningful therapeutic relationship with you and help you work toward your goals.

Interested in Telehealth Therapy?

Leading Heart Therapy provides secure video therapy services, allowing you to connect with your therapist from a space that works for you.

Schedule a free consultation to see if telehealth therapy might be a good fit for you.