The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way many people approach therapy. During an unprecedented wave of isolation, when individuals found themselves in need of mental health support, in-person behavioral healthcare wasn’t an option. Because of this, people have turned to other delivery methods, such as virtual counseling. In the years since, online therapy for depression has become commonplace. But, the question is, is it right for everyone?
Columbia Mental Health is here to support you through all of life’s seasons. Our therapists guide clients through in-person and telehealth services with compassion and clinical expertise, helping them make progress toward their mental health goals every day.
The differences between in-person and online therapy for depression—aside from the obvious
Aside from the delivery method, there are other marked differences between in-person and online therapy.
The benefits of online therapy
Online therapy offers several practical benefits that traditional in-person therapy can’t. These include:
- The convenience of not having to leave home.
- Easily accessible for people with mobility concerns.
- A familiar environment can make some people feel more at ease and able to share openly.
However, depending on your particular situation, there can also be drawbacks to this delivery method. Whereas some people may feel more comfortable sharing in their home environment, others may find this a drawback if they’re unable to find privacy there. Individuals might also encounter internet issues, where connectivity makes it difficult to have a session without interruption. Finally, some people simply miss a more “personal” feeling that they get from an in-person experience.
The benefits of in-person therapy
In-person therapy also offers specific benefits:
- Some treatment modalities are better suited for in-person therapy. For example, clients participating in art therapy or other hands-on treatment strategies may benefit more from in-person sessions.
- For some people, in-person therapy offers a greater opportunity to be completely transparent in what they share.
- Therapists are trained to observe non-verbal cues and actively listen to what you share. When having an in-person session, a trained therapist is able to visually assess your responses.
A more traditional in-person therapeutic experience can also come with cons. Therapist availability, for example, is a factor to consider. Opening yourself up to online therapy means having a larger selection of therapists to choose from, since they don’t necessarily have to be within driving distance. Logistically speaking, there are scheduling drawbacks to in-person therapy that often aren’t present when you decide to pursue online therapy.
With these factors and your unique circumstances in mind, you can make an informed decision about whether virtual counseling is the right decision for you. A member of the team at Columbia Mental Health is also happy to walk you through the considerations and match you with a therapist who best meets your needs.
Understanding whether virtual counseling is right for you
Though it’s not the only therapeutic modality utilized at Columbia Mental Health, cognitive-behavioral therapy is one of the most commonly used treatment options for depression. It’s also a type of therapy that fits well within an online delivery method.1 That means that most often, people with depression will find virtual counseling to be a good fit.
Columbia Mental Health can help
If you’ve decided that online therapy is right for you, Columbia Mental Health can help. We provide online therapy in a simple and streamlined way. The process typically involves:
- Reach out by phone or through our online portal.
- The team contacts you to verify insurance, match you with the right provider, and schedule your first session.
- If you decide on online therapy, you’ll be advised to find a quiet, comfortable space where you can speak freely with your therapist.
Call Columbia Mental Health and find online therapy for depression today
Columbia Mental Health is here to help you manage the symptoms of depression. Call us today at 703.682.8208 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.
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