Does Online Therapy Really Help? Pros, Cons, and What to Expect
Since the pandemic, online therapy; also called telehealth counseling, has become one of the most common ways people access mental health support. But many still wonder: Does online therapy actually work?
The short answer is yes. Research shows that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for many concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship struggles. Like any therapy, it comes with benefits and limitations. Knowing what to expect can help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
What Online Therapy Is (and How It Works)
Online therapy means meeting with a licensed therapist through secure video sessions. Instead of driving to an office, you log on from a private space using your computer, phone, or tablet.
All you need is:
◦ A private, quiet space where you feel comfortable talking
◦ A device with internet access and a working camera/microphone
◦ A stable internet connection for smooth sessions
From there, sessions often look almost identical to in-person therapy. You and your therapist talk, set goals, and work through challenges; except you’re connecting from home, your office, or even while traveling.
Pros of Online Therapy
Many clients in Illinois and Michigan find online therapy to be a surprisingly good fit for their lives. Some of the biggest benefits include:
◦ Convenience. No commute, no traffic, no waiting rooms. You can schedule therapy into your day without losing hours to travel.
◦ Comfort. You can attend sessions from your own couch, a favorite chair, or any space that feels safe. For many, this helps them open up more easily.
◦ Access. Online therapy makes mental health support available for people who live in rural areas, have mobility challenges, or struggle to find therapists nearby.
◦ Continuity. You don’t have to pause therapy when traveling, moving, or managing a busy work schedule. As long as you’re physically located in Illinois or Michigan, you can continue seeing your therapist.
These benefits make online counseling a flexible and reliable option for many adults and couples.
Cons of Online Therapy
Like anything, online therapy has limitations to keep in mind. Some of the most common challenges include:
◦ Tech issues. A poor internet connection, low battery, or glitchy platform can interrupt sessions.
◦ Less in-person energy. Some people prefer the physical presence and nonverbal connection of sitting in a room with their therapist.
◦ Privacy challenges. It can be tricky to find a quiet, private spot at home if you live with family, children, or roommates.
◦ Not right for all needs. Severe mental health crises or intensive treatment needs may require in-person, higher-level care.
For many people, these limitations are manageable; but it’s important to be aware of them when deciding if online therapy is a fit for you.
What to Expect in Online Therapy
Your first online therapy session will usually feel a lot like an in-person first session. You can expect to:
◦ Review your intake forms and goals with your therapist
◦ Spend time getting comfortable with the video platform and process
◦ Begin sharing your story at your own pace
◦ Ask questions about your therapist’s style and what to expect moving forward
Therapists are trained to guide you through the process and help you feel at ease, even through a screen. Over time, the platform often fades into the background and the focus becomes the relationship itself.
A Gentle Reminder: Therapy Is About Connection, Not Location
Research consistently shows that online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy for many common issues, including:
◦ Anxiety and stress
◦ Depression
◦ Trauma and PTSD
◦ Relationship and couples concerns
At the heart of therapy is not the physical setting, but the connection you build with your therapist. And that connection can happen just as meaningfully online as it can in an office.
Online Therapy in Illinois and Michigan
If you’ve been curious about trying therapy but worried about time, logistics, or accessibility, online therapy might be a great fit.
At Sohail Counseling & Care, we provide online therapy across Illinois and Michigan for adults and couples navigating anxiety, depression, cultural identity concerns, trauma, and relationship challenges. Our therapists offer warm, relational, and culturally responsive care; no commute required.
