Life, trauma, mental health... It can be so heavy sometimes, can't it? And while many know therapy can help, actually beginning therapy can have a lot of hurdles. One question you'll have to consider before beginning is whether you'd like to meet online, from the comfort of your home or sitting face-to-face with a therapist in their office. It’s important to choose what works best for you. But how do you decide?
Let’s break it down.
For an in-depth guide on how to choose a therapist, consider checking out this blog.
The Case for Virtual Therapy
Virtual therapy—or telehealth—has skyrocketed in popularity, and it’s not just a trend; it’s here to stay. Studies show that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions for many mental health concerns, including trauma.
Here’s why you might want to consider virtual counselling:
Comfortable Environment: You’re in your space. Your couch, your blanket, your cat. If accessing therapy and talking to a stranger feels daunting and scary, meeting from your safe place can make therapy just a little less daunting.
Accessibility: Live in a rural area? No reliable transportation? Snowy roads and not wanting to drive? Virtual therapy eliminates those barriers, allowing you to meet with your counsellor with ease.
Flexible Scheduling: Life is busy. Between work, kids, and everything else, squeezing in an in-person appointment can feel impossible. Online options often provide greater flexibility, letting you maximize your time.
Expertise: If you're seeking care for something specific and searching for someone who gets you and your specific needs, you may struggle to find someone locally who is trained in your needs. Virtual care eliminates this concern and allows you to. connect with whoever is the best fit for you, no matter where they are.
But… there are potential drawbacks. Spotty Wi-Fi, interruptions, or feeling disconnected from your therapist’s energy are real challenges. Sometimes, the nuances of body language and presence are hard to pick up over a screen...
Studies show that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions for many mental health concerns, including trauma.
The Case for In-Person Therapy
For some, nothing can beat face-to-face interaction. Sitting in the same room as someone who is attuned to you and your needs can be powerful. The energy, the vibe, the overall feel of in-person sessions can be a little different.
Here’s why in-person therapy might be your match:
Deep Connection: Being in the same physical space allows for nonverbal cues to shine, which for some can lead to a deeper sense of connection.
Distraction-Free Zone: The therapy room is designed for one purpose: your healing. No background noise, no dogs barking, no Amazon deliveries interrupting your flow.
Ritual: Some clients like to make therapy a ritual, with time before or after being part of their self-care time. Maybe it's showing up early so you have time to reflect before session to it's grabbing a coffee after session. The commute to therapy may allow time for additional reflection.
That said, commuting can be a hurdle. And if you’re juggling a packed schedule, carving out time to drive to and from appointments can add stress.
Relationship/Family Counselling Considerations
If you are exploring whether to do couples/relationship or family counselling in-person or virtually, there are a few extra considerations you may want to explore:
Group Dynamics: In-person sessions can make it easier to read nonverbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions, which can be crucial when addressing group dynamics. Virtual sessions require a skilled therapist who can navigate potential technical lags or missed visual cues. If you're choosing a virtual therapist, make sure they are used and comfortable doing this work.
Space and Privacy: For virtual sessions, ensure that everyone involved has access to a private and quiet space where they feel comfortable speaking openly. Having members not able to speak freely or being distracted can really impact the session.
Technology Challenges: With multiple participants, technology issues such as sound delays or people talking over each other can be more noticeable during virtual sessions. A stable internet connection and proper equipment can help minimize these issues.
Logistics: For in-person sessions, coordinating schedules and transportation for several people can be more challenging than virtual options, where everyone can join from separate locations.
Therapeutic Presence: Some families find that being physically present in the same room enhances the sense of connection and accountability, while others appreciate the comfort and flexibility of virtual settings.
So, How Do You Choose? Virtual or In-Person Therapy?
We've given you lots to think about, but ultimately, how do you make a decision?
Here are four actionable steps to help you decide:
Reflect on Your Comfort Zone: Ask yourself, Where do I feel safest? Therapy requires vulnerability, so your comfort is paramount. If the idea of opening up feels easier from your bed, virtual might be your go-to.
Consider Practicalities: Take a hard look at logistics. Is driving to an office realistic for you right now? Do you have a private space for online therapy? Balance your emotional needs with practical considerations.
Let Everyone Weigh In: For couples or families, let everyone in the group have a say. If you can't come to a decision, this may be a good starting place for some of the work you do!
Trial and Error: You may need to try both to learn what's right for you! You’ll quickly get a feel for what suits you best.
A Final Thought
Whether virtual or in-person, what truly matters is the connection you build with your therapist. A skilled therapist—someone who meets you with empathy, understanding, and skill—can make either option transformative.
At WellMind Counselling, we offer both virtual and in-person therapy in Kamloops, BC to meet your needs. You don’t have to figure this out alone. Book today and let’s take the next step together. You deserve care that fits your life—and your healing journey.
Comments