Although virtual therapy has been around for some time, it’s never been more widely available than since the COVID-19 pandemic started. Many people were no longer able to meet with their counselors in person and had to find other means to receive much-needed therapy at a time when so much was uncertain. The bright side of the post-pandemic world is that online counseling is now easy to find, so you don’t have to give up the convenience of receiving therapy wherever you choose. But is virtual treatment right for everyone? Can in-person counseling be a better fit for some?
Whether you prefer in-person or online counseling, Promises Brazos Valley has a therapy program for you. We offer various treatment options, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), as part of our in-person and virtual intensive outpatient program (VIOP).
In-Person vs. Virtual Therapy: What to Know
When comparing in-person and virtual therapy, it’s not simply a matter of one being better than the other. Both counseling forms have pros and cons, so it’s more appropriate to weigh the benefits and drawbacks.
What Are the Benefits of Traditional Therapy?
In-person therapy provides a more traditional counseling experience. You meet with your therapist at their office at your scheduled time and work through your challenges there. Some people find that meeting with a counselor in person offers the following advantages:
- It helps you build a stronger connection with your therapist.
- It offers a greater sense of confidentiality since you’re behind closed doors, and no family members or roommates can overhear your discussion.
- It makes it easier to focus and open up because you’re in a dedicated space, which can help minimize distractions and put you in the right frame of mind for counseling.
The downsides: You must travel to the therapist’s office, which may be inconvenient depending on your situation. You might also be concerned about privacy if you think you may run into other people during your appointment.
Is Virtual Therapy a Better Fit for You?
Virtual therapy offers the greatest convenience when it comes to counseling. You can engage with it through video chat, phone calls, or text messaging. You can choose a method your counselor offers and connect with them at a designated time. You don’t need to be in any specific location for your session, but we recommend choosing a quiet space where others won’t interrupt you.
Some of the perks of online counseling include:
- You don’t have to travel to a therapist’s office, which eliminates the hassle of finding a ride to therapy if you don’t drive or have access to a car.
- You can save time and money by avoiding a commute, making it easier to fit therapy into your schedule.
- Therapy from the comfort of your home can feel less intimidating, which may help you open up more during sessions.
The downsides: Privacy may be an issue if you can’t find a space where others won’t overhear your conversation. Virtual therapy also introduces the complication of internet connection issues. Unreliable Wi-Fi or cell phone service may disrupt your sessions.
Reach Out to Promises Brazos Valley for Virtual Therapy Options Today
If you’re dealing with mental health challenges or substance use disorders (SUDs), therapy will be a necessary component of your recovery. Both in-person and online counseling offer valuable benefits, but choosing the right option depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider which format best aligns best with your circumstances and goals to make the most of therapy.
Contact Promises Brazos Valley today to learn more about our virtual and in-person therapy options. Call us at 979.426.0086 or complete our online form to get started.