To Choose Telehealth or In-Person Sessions: A Therapist's Perspective

As someone who has always valued in-person connections in therapy, both as a therapist and as a client, I was initially hesitant about telehealth when it first became widely used. I often heard friends and others express, "I could not have telehealth sessions; I need that in-person connection." For some people, that is genuinely what they need. However, my perspective has evolved over time, and I now see telehealth as a powerful tool that offers flexibility and accessibility for both therapists and clients, making it a great option for those who may not be sure what they need yet.

Flexibility and Accessibility

One of the major benefits of telehealth is the increased flexibility it provides in my schedule as a therapist. I can now offer sessions at times that work better for both my clients and me, making it easier to accommodate busy lives and different time zones. Additionally, telehealth has allowed me to work with clients who might not have been able to access in-person services due to distance or transportation challenges.

Symptom Reduction and Quality of Life Improvements

Recent studies support remote treatment as a viable alternative to in-person mental health services. Both in-person and remote therapy patients experienced symptom reduction and reported improvements in quality of life (Bulks et al. 2022). My own experiences as both a therapist and a client align closely with these findings. As someone who deeply values the therapeutic relationship, I've witnessed firsthand how telehealth can provide equally transformative and meaningful experiences for clients and therapists alike. In both my professional practice and personal journey as a client, I've found that the strong connection we build in sessions transcends the medium, whether we're meeting in person or virtually.

Building Strong Therapeutic Relationships

One of the key aspects of successful therapy is the strength of the therapeutic relationship between the client and therapist. While this connection may look different over telehealth, I have found that it's still possible to build meaningful and impactful relationships with clients remotely. The key is to maintain open communication and be attentive to each individual's unique needs.

As a therapist, I strive to create a warm and supportive environment in my telehealth sessions, just as I would in an in-person setting. This includes being present, actively listening, and offering empathy and validation. Similarly, as a client, I have experienced the positive effects of telehealth when my therapist provided a safe space for me to share and process my thoughts and emotions.

In-Person Sessions as an Option

While telehealth has proven to be highly effective, some clients may still prefer the occasional in-person session. This can be a valuable opportunity for clients and therapists to strengthen their connection and engage in therapy in a more traditional setting. I encourage my clients to communicate their preferences and needs, whether it's through telehealth, in-person sessions, or a combination of both.

Ultimately, the decision between telehealth and in-person sessions should be based on what works best for each individual client. If you’re unsure which is best for you, consider talking it over with your current or potential therapist..- Joelle Santiago DC, AMFT

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog post is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a mental health condition.

If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or crisis, please contact your local emergency services immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.