The way people access mental health care has changed quickly. Most therapy practices now offer both online and in-office sessions.
Pros of In-Office Counseling
Sitting in the same physical room as your counselor changes the texture of the conversation. In-office therapy also tends to feel better for trauma processing with modalities like EMDR or somatic work.
Cons of In-Office Counseling
In-office therapy asks more of your schedule and logistics (commute, childcare, time off work).
Pros of Online Counseling
Research has found that outcomes for virtual sessions are comparable to in-person for anxiety, depression, and trauma. You can attend from home, during your lunch break, or while traveling.
Cons of Online Counseling
Technology fails sometimes. Privacy can be a challenge if you share a living space.
What to Consider Before Choosing
- What is your life actually like right now?
- What are you working through?
- Do you have a private space at home?
Many practices, including Artisan Counseling in Newport News and Suffolk, Virginia, have moved toward a model where most counselors can see clients either in person or virtually.
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