Virtual therapy has become a familiar and accessible option for people in need of mental health care. What began as a necessary solution during the COVID-19 pandemic has quickly evolved into a preferred format for many clients. For some, participating in sessions from home through telehealth therapy makes care more convenient and easier to prioritize in the midst of a busy schedule. However, some people wonder whether virtual therapy is as effective as in-person therapy and whether it’s an appropriate format for all types of therapeutic modalities.

At Columbia Mental Health, our clinicians offer both in-person and remote therapy services across Virginia and Maryland. Whether you’re based in Arlington, Reston, or North Bethesda, our team is here to help you understand which care format might work best for your needs.

What is virtual therapy?

Virtual therapy, also called online counseling, is therapy conducted via secure video sessions. These sessions are guided by licensed therapists using the same clinical standards as in-person care. Clients can attend from home, work, or any private location where they feel comfortable speaking candidly and can remain free from distraction.

Our services include virtual therapy and psychiatric medication management, delivered through user-friendly technology that protects your privacy.

Which mental health concerns can be treated through online counseling?

Early research supports the effectiveness of virtual therapy for many common mental health concerns. In 2023, JMIR Mental Health found that telemedicine is comparable to in-person treatment for a variety of mental health concerns, specifically in regard to quality and client satisfaction.

Online counseling is a great fit for a variety of concerns, such as:

• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• Life transitions and grief
• Mild obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Relationship concerns and communication challenges

Columbia Mental Health offers a host of treatment modalities. For these conditions, therapists often employ a talk-based approach, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). These formats work as well in a virtual format as in traditional in-person sessions.

When in-person therapy might be a better fit

While virtual therapy is highly effective for many people and across a variety of therapeutic approaches, there are cases where in-person care may offer additional benefits. These include:

• Individuals experiencing acute symptoms or safety concerns
• Children participating in play therapy
• Clients who have difficulty finding privacy in their homes
• People receiving hands-on or experiential therapies (e.g., art or movement therapy)
• Situations where non-verbal cues are a key part of clinical assessment

In-person sessions may also feel more comfortable for clients who find emotional connection and vulnerability easier to develop in a shared, physical space.

Are some therapeutic modalities better in person?

Though virtual therapy works well for many people, a therapist can help you understand if the type of therapy you’re participating in is well-suited for virtual formats. For example:

• CBT: Research has shown this type of therapy to be highly effective both in-person and online. It’s often used to treat depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms.¹
• DBT: Dialectical behavior therapy can also be delivered remotely, though group skills training components may require careful coordination.
• Art therapy and somatic therapies: These methods often rely on in-person interaction, especially when materials or body-based techniques are part of the process.
• Exposure therapy: When working with phobias or panic disorders, in-person therapy is likely best. Being in the same physical location as your therapist will enable them to guide you through real-time, structured exposures.

Therapists at Columbia Mental Health work with each client to determine the right treatment modality and format for their goals. We work collaboratively and compassionately to create a care plan that aligns with each client’s goals, offering these therapies and more.

Virtual vs. in-person therapy

Both virtual and in-person therapy are valuable options for those in search of effective mental health care. A closer look at their benefits and potential drawbacks can help you decide which route might be best for you.

The benefits of virtual therapy:

• No commute
• The comfort of being in your own familiar environment
• Increased access to providers across different locations

Potential drawbacks:

• Internet reliability
• Home distractions
• A therapist may have an inability to observe body language or energy shifts
• You may feel less connected without physical presence

Benefits of in-person therapy:

• Stronger observational dynamics; a therapist can more easily observe body language
• Ideal techniques that require physical actions, like art therapy or other body-based strategies
• Some people find it easier to connect with their therapist and speak vulnerably

Potential Drawbacks:

• Longer time commitment due to commute
• You may have fewer therapist options depending on your location
• Less flexibility if illness or conflict arises

Whether you choose in-person or virtual therapy for your mental health, you’ll receive great care at Columbia Mental Health. Our team is here to support you.

Making the choice that’s right for you

Choosing between virtual and in-person therapy doesn’t have to be a permanent decision. Some clients begin care online and transition to in-person sessions over time, or alternate between formats based on their schedules. What matters most is finding a therapeutic relationship that helps you move toward healing and growth.

At Columbia Mental Health, our providers take time to understand you and your goals before recommending the best treatment path.

We can help—call us today

Columbia Mental Health is here to help you find the care that best fits your life. Call 703.682.8208 today to learn more.

For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.