Is finding a therapist near me better or is online therapy better so that I can find a therapy specialist easier?

The pros and cons of online therapy versus in-person therapy can be a difficult decision to make. Online therapy has become a popular option due to the convenience and flexibility it offers, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some people may prefer online therapy because it saves time and allows them to participate in therapy from the comfort of their own home. However, others may prefer in-person therapy because they feel they can better read the therapist’s energy or because they do not have a private place to talk at home.

Some of the potential pros of online therapy include:

Options: It is often easier to find a therapist who specializes in what you want if you are able to expand your range of how far you are looking for a therapist.  If you are looking for a therapist within a 10-minute drive to you, you are going to be much more limited in who you will find.  If you are doing online therapy, you can see anyone in your state so you are much more likely to find someone specializing in your issue AND you are more likely to find a therapist who you connect with.

Convenience: Online therapy can be more convenient because it takes less time to get to and from appointments and does not require finding parking or leaving extra time to avoid being late.

Flexibility: Online therapy allows individuals to participate in therapy from anywhere, making it easier to fit appointments into their schedule. It may also be easier to find appointments at convenient times, such as during a lunch break from work.

Comfort: Some people may feel more comfortable participating in therapy from the comfort of their own home, particularly if they have difficulty leaving the house or are self-conscious about being seen at a therapy office.

Specialization: Online therapy allows individuals to access therapists who may not be located nearby or who specialize in specific treatment approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy.

Mask-wearing: In some places, it may still be required for therapists to wear masks during in-person appointments, which some people may find uncomfortable.

Some of the potential cons of online therapy include:

Lack of personal connection: Some people may feel that they have a better connection with their therapist in person, or that they are better able to read the therapist’s energy and body language.

Privacy concerns: Online therapy may not be as private as in-person therapy, particularly if individuals do not have a private place to talk at home.

Technical issues: Online therapy may be disrupted by issues such as poor internet connection or difficulty using video conferencing software.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to choose online therapy or in-person therapy will depend on an individual’s personal preferences and circumstances. It may be helpful to consider the pros and cons of both options and to speak with a therapist to determine which option is best for you.

If you live in California and are looking for a therapist, please give us a call at Long Beach Therapy: 562-310-9741.