- You are in the comfort of your own home, which often helps people feel less stressed.
- You don’t have to drive, especially in bad weather. You can attend therapy even if you have car troubles, and you save money on gas.
- A variety of therapists allow their clients to enjoy snacks during therapy, especially if it has been a busy day. Eating during therapy might seem more awkward in person.
- Therapy can be scheduled at a time that would be stressful or inconvenient if you had to travel to get to the appointment.
- Most of the time you can see the facial expressions of your therapist as clearly as if they were sitting in front of you so creating a connection is as easy as in-person therapy for many people.
- You can easily access materials and/or other information that may help the therapeutic process, e.g. a piece of artwork, a poem or letter you may have written to a spouse or friend.
- It is easier to attend therapy and not miss out if you are feeling a little under the weather. In addition, people who do not like to drive at night can schedule evening appointments.
- There is no chance you will be exposed to viruses, etc.
- Easier if you are physically challenged, e.g. If you need a wheelchair, a walker, or crutches to move about.
- The convenience is helpful; attending telehealth therapy takes less time out of your day.
- Some people find that teletherapy is less intimidating than in-person therapy, and they may be more willing to begin therapy and/or continue it because of their increased comfort level.
- Less waiting time and more privacy; you don’t have to sit in a specified room where there may be other people.
- You can still care of pets and older children, and not worry about them being alone or finding a babysitter.
- There is no need to worry about your attire since you are at home, and you decide how much of you will be seen on camera.
- “Research shows that teletherapy provides the same quality of care as traditional therapy. According to the American psychological Association, teletherapy is just as effective as in-person sessions for treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety disorders.” (April 19,20)
- Susan Buchalter, LPC, LPAT, CGP