Virtual Therapy

Thinking about trying virtual therapy but not sure if it actually works? You’re not alone! A lot of people wonder if meeting a therapist online is as good as sitting together in an office. Good news: research shows that virtual mental health therapy is just as effective as traditional in-person sessions for most people and conditions.

​

What Does the Research Say?

• Just as Effective as In-Person Therapy
  Multiple studies and large reviews have found that virtual therapy-whether it’s video calls, phone sessions, or chat-works just as well as in-person therapy for treating a variety of concerns (1,3,4). This holds true for both adults and young people.

• High Satisfaction and Better Attendance
  People actually tend to stick with virtual therapy more than in-person sessions. Studies show higher attendance and program completion rates for virtual therapy, and both clients and therapists report being happy with the experience (2). Many even prefer it after giving it a try!

 

Why Do People Like Virtual Therapy?

• Convenience: No commute, no waiting rooms, and you can join from anywhere you feel comfortable4.

• Flexibility: Easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule.

• Privacy: You can have therapy in your own space, which can feel safer for some people.

 

Are There Any Downsides?

For most people, virtual therapy is a great option. Some folks may still prefer face-to-face sessions, especially if they don’t have a private space at home or if they feel more comfortable with in-person connection. Clients with more severe symptoms may also benefit more from in-person services. If you are unsure whether your concerns would be a match for virtual therapy, please send Whitney a message and she can have a conversation with you about it.

 

Bottom Line

If you’re considering therapy, virtual sessions are a proven, effective, and convenient way to get support. 

Ready to give it a try? You might find it fits your life better than you expect!

 

Citations:

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8595951/

2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9302910/

3. https://healthsci.mcmaster.ca/is-remote-therapy-effective-mcmaster-researchers-find-its-just-as-good-as-in-person-care/

4. https://www.cda-amc.ca/sites/default/files/pdf/htis/2025/RC1569%20Virtual%20MH%20counselling.pdf​