In-Person vs. Telehealth Therapy: Which One is Right for You?

If you've ever debated whether to see a therapist in person or through telehealth, you're not alone. This is a common question I am asked by people who reach out for consultations, especially when they are new to therapy. Both options have their strengths, and the “best” choice depends on some factors that are personal to you. Some people love the convenience of logging in from their couch, while others find that stepping into an office helps them feel more grounded. Let’s break down some key differences so you can decide what fits your needs.

Privacy: Who’s Listening?

One of the biggest concerns with telehealth is privacy. In an office, it is something you as a client don’t even have to think about; it is a given that it’s just you and your therapist in a quiet, confidential space. At home, though? That depends. If you live alone, great! But if you’ve got roommates, kids, or a partner nearby, finding a truly private moment can be tricky. Some clients take sessions from their car for that very reason. If you worry about being overheard, in-person therapy might feel safer.

Distractions: The Cat (or Dog) Factor

Therapy requires focus. In an office, the outside world fades away, making it easier to stay present. At home, well… let’s just say I’ve had more than one session where a client’s cat decided to be the main character (No complaints, though—pets can be great emotional support!). In fact, there might even be times where you catch a glimpse of my cat’s tail too.

However, if you struggle to stay engaged when you’re not physically in the room with someone, in-person therapy might be a better fit. This can particularly be relevant for children in therapy, though there are ways that we can try to make telehealth sessions engaging for them too.

How We Feel Connected

Some people feel just as connected to their therapist over video as they do in person. Others find that face-to-face conversations make a big difference. If shared physical space is important to you, in-person sessions might feel more natural. But if you’re comfortable communicating through a screen, telehealth can be just as effective.

Age and Comfort with Technology

Telehealth can be fantastic for teens and young adults who are already used to video chatting and texting. But for some older adults—or anyone who struggles with technology—navigating a telehealth platform can be frustrating. If the thought of troubleshooting a glitch mid-session makes you anxious, in-person might be the way to go.

Accessibility and Convenience

This is where telehealth really shines. If you live in a rural area, have mobility challenges, or just hate sitting in traffic or finding parking, telehealth eliminates those barriers. It also makes therapy easier to fit into a busy schedule—no commute, no waiting room, just log in and go. But for some, the act of physically going to therapy is part of the commitment. If leaving the house helps you mentally "switch gears," in-person sessions might be more effective.

Final Thoughts: What’s Best for You?

At the end of the day, therapy works best when you feel safe, focused, and connected. If privacy at home is an issue, you’re easily distracted, or you feel more engaged in person, office visits might be the better choice. If you value convenience, have a packed schedule, or just prefer the comfort of your own space, telehealth could be a perfect fit.

And if you’re not sure? You can always try both and see what feels right. Therapy is about meeting you where you are—whether that’s across a desk or through a screen.

Telehealth With Me:

Since I offer teletherapy, I put a lot of thought into making sessions feel just as connected and meaningful as they would in person. I focus on creating a warm, engaging space where you feel heard and supported. This can mean thinking about how to make your space more comfortable and private, or how to help you to feel comfortable talking in session. For example, I occasionally play games with clients in session or do a shared activity like drawing, which sometimes helps us to feel connected sometimes.

When we are working together, my goal is to make therapy work for you. If you’re curious about how therapy with me might feel, I’m happy to answer any questions and help you figure out if it’s the right fit.