When it comes to overcoming mental battles and illnesses, there are often many different ways that help those in need. Most frequently, the solution is through talking to a therapist. With the technology we have today it’s often easier to reach a therapist through different methods. Usually, we hear about those using online therapy and one on one therapy in person. With the different circumstances of the mental illness, there are advantages and disadvantages to those that use a variety of ways to meet with a therapist. While virtual therapy and in person therapy are just as effective, arguments are often made on which source is better. 

Traditional therapy includes mental health support face-to-face interactions with a therapist. Sessions often take place weekly and usually last 45 minutes to an hour. There are pros and cons when it comes to traditional therapy. With traditional therapy, you are able to provide and see nonverbal communication. Nonverbal communication is known to help a therapist understand the patient’s needs. While this is big in the format of face-to-face therapy, it’s not completely lost over video chats. In-person therapy also provides a neutral space, as a way to take a break from everyday life. This is known to increase comfort when communicating your thoughts and feelings. Some of those mental health needs ensure that direct support is needed. With walking into a therapist’s office, oftentimes there are arts, music and games to help those get some thoughts off their minds. While therapy in the office is a great way to get help, there are some disadvantages included. The cost of a session is often quite expensive. Depending on the therapist you see, there is often a fee of 20-100 per session. Along with cost, accessibility and timing are hard to play around with. Taking time out of school or work, traffic and traveling time adds up. Long delays and lack of availability plays a role in traditional therapy as well. 

Online therapy is another way to find the help you need. Online therapy can also often be referred to as teletherapy or virtual therapy, providing mental health support from anywhere. Most used forms of online therapy are texts, phone calls, emails, and video communication. Virtual therapy is equally as effective as one-on-one therapy. As with one-on-one therapy, pros and cons are included in online therapy as well. Cost is often lower compared to in-person therapy, on average running from 40-90 dollars a week. The convenience of therapy online is significant, as you can connect with a therapist online at nearly any time. Online services are able to provide support quickly and without any hassle. Online therapy is able to provide therapeutic support to those who often find trouble communicating. Virtual connections can also  lower social anxiety to those who find difficulty in sharing space with others. No one needs to know about your therapy sessions when online. You can often remain anonymous if chosen to. The frequent cons of online therapy include internet reliability, limits to care and communication restrictions. The internet is often known as the most important source whenever it comes to online therapy. The pressure of you and your therapist relying on the internet connection is known to often be unreliable and stressful. Losing service within your online session often interferes with your needs and desires. Caring for someone virtually may not be helpful with some mental illnesses as some require in-person-therapy. Those who join an online therapy network can become burned out, which leads to lower quality care. While online therapy is easily accessible, those that use it need to be aware that the therapist providing help won’t always be available. Communication can feel limited without nonverbal cues. 

Over time we have found ways to help those mental battles more than ever. Whether virtual or in-person, it’s important to find which source is best for you. Once there has been a decision on which type of therapy will be most effective for you, find the resource and help you need, and improve mentally as time moves forward.