One of the first questions when starting therapy is whether to do it in the office or by video call. The good news is that there is no single answer: both work, and many people even combine them depending on the moment.
Advantages of in-person therapy
- The physical space of the office helps you "switch off" from the rest of the day.
- Non-verbal communication is perceived with more nuance.
- For some people, leaving the house is part of the self-care process itself.
Advantages of online therapy
- Convenience and no travel: you only need a quiet, private space.
- It makes continuity easier if you travel, move or have a busy schedule.
- It lets you reach your psychologist wherever you are.
Does online therapy work as well?
The available evidence shows that online therapy achieves results equivalent to in-person therapy in most cases, keeping the same closeness and follow-up. The key is not the channel, but the relationship of trust and the work done in the sessions.
How to decide
Ask yourself what will make it easier to stay consistent: if you struggle to set aside time or live far away, online can remove barriers; if you value the ritual of going to a space of your own, in person may add to it. You don't have to choose forever: you can start one way and adjust as you go.
What matters is taking the step. The format is the least of it when there is good support behind it.
