Let’s be real—COVID threw our entire healthcare system into chaos. One of the many cracks it exposed? The glaring lack of telehealth and teletherapy options for people who needed support—especially mental health care.
Since 2020, we’ve seen massive growth in the use of online therapy services, and now it’s clear: teletherapy is here to stay. And for a lot of people, that’s a good thing.
Whether you’re overwhelmed, burned out, or just don’t feel like schlepping to an office, virtual therapy sessions can offer convenience, flexibility, and real results—from the comfort of your own home (or car, or office… you get it).
So… What Is Teletherapy?
Teletherapy, also called online counseling or virtual therapy, is therapy conducted via video conferencing platforms like Zoom, SimplePractice, or phone calls.
It gives people access to licensed therapists no matter where they are—and eliminates the commute, waiting room awkwardness, and limited in-person scheduling.
If you’ve been searching for:
- “online therapy near me”
- “virtual counseling options”
- “telehealth therapy providers”
…then you’re in the right place.
Is Teletherapy Effective?
Short answer: Yes. And science backs it up.
Studies show that teletherapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for treating many mental health concerns, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- PTSD
- Relationship issues
- Stress and burnout
Some clients even report better outcomes through virtual therapy—thanks to the comfort of being in their own space.
Like all therapy, the key to success is the therapeutic relationship. Whether you’re meeting in person or online, what matters most is finding a therapist you trust and feel comfortable opening up to.
Benefits of Teletherapy
- Convenience: No commute. No parking stress. No taking two hours off work. Just log in and talk—whether you’re at home, at work, or in your car during lunch.
- Increased Accessibility: Live in a rural area? Don’t drive? Have chronic health conditions? Teletherapy removes those barriers, giving more people access to the care they need.
- Enhanced Privacy: Some folks hesitate to go to therapy because of stigma or fear of running into someone in the waiting room. Virtual therapy lets you get support discreetly, without ever leaving your house.
- Flexible Scheduling: Many online therapists offer expanded hours—including evenings or weekends—which makes it easier to fit therapy into your life.
- Cost-Effective: Some therapists charge lower rates for virtual sessions, and you save time and money by avoiding travel. Plus, many insurance plans now cover telehealth therapy.
Downsides and Risks of Teletherapy
No solution is perfect, so here are some things to watch out for:
- Technical Glitches: Internet issues or platform bugs can interrupt sessions at the worst moments. Pro tip: make sure your connection, camera, and mic are working ahead of time—and always have a charger handy.
- Privacy Concerns: To protect your confidentiality, use secure platforms and a private space. Ask your therapist about HIPAA-compliant software and best practices for online security.
- Missed Nonverbal Cues: It can be harder to read body language or subtle emotions through a screen, which may affect communication—especially in more emotionally charged sessions.
How to Make Teletherapy Work for You
If you’re considering online therapy, here’s how to set yourself up for success:
- Find a Licensed Teletherapy Provider: Search platforms like Psychology Today, TherapyDen, or Open Path Collective. Use filters for “Telehealth”, “Online therapy”, and “Licensed in [enter your state here]”.
- Schedule a Free Consultation: Most therapists offer free consultations via phone or video chats. Use this time to ask about their style, experience, scheduling, fees, and the platform they use for virtual therapy.
- Create a Private, Comfortable Space: Whether it’s your bedroom, home office, or even your parked car, make sure you:
- Have a strong internet connection
- Use headphones for extra privacy
- Turn off notifications and distractions
- Have a water bottle, notebook, and tissues nearby (just in case)
- Treat It Like In-Person Therapy: Show up on time. Reflect beforehand. Be present. Set intentions. Therapy only works when you engage with it—and that goes for online therapy, too.
Is Teletherapy Right for You?
Teletherapy isn’t for everyone, but it might be the thing that helps you finally start therapy—or stick with it. If you:
- Struggle with scheduling in-person sessions
- Prefer being in your own space
- Want more flexible therapy options
- Live in an area with limited providers
Then yes—teletherapy could be a great fit.
Final Thoughts
Teletherapy isn’t just a temporary fix—it’s a legit, evidence-based way to access mental health care on your own terms.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, burnout, or just trying to keep it together, online therapy offers privacy, comfort, and real connection.
If you’re curious, book a consultation. Ask questions. Try a session. You might be surprised by how much you can get out of therapy from your couch.
