Understanding Online Therapy: A Comprehensive Guide for Families

Over the past few decades (and especially since COVID), online therapy has become a go-to option for people looking for mental health support that’s flexible, private, and easy to access from anywhere. Whether you’re going through something difficult or just want to work on yourself, virtual therapy is becoming more and more common. And it’s not just for adults: kids and teens can benefit from it too!

This guide breaks down how online therapy works, how it compares to in-person sessions, the pros and cons, and how to choose the right online therapist, for you or your child.

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So, How Does Online Therapy Actually Work?

Online therapy (also called teletherapy or virtual therapy) is basically therapy done over the internet instead of in a therapist’s office. The most common way is through video calls, but some therapists also offer sessions by phone or even text.

You book a session, find a quiet, private space, and connect with your therapist using your phone, tablet, or computer. Some therapists work through larger platforms, while others offer their own online services.

Just like in-person therapy, your therapist will help you talk through challenges, explore your thoughts and feelings, set goals, and build coping skills.

Online Therapy for Kids: What’s Different?

If you’re a parent thinking about therapy for your child, online therapy can be a really helpful option, especially if you live in a rural area, have a busy schedule, or move or travel often.

Therapists adapt online sessions for kids based on their age, attention span, and emotional needs. You may be involved at different levels depending on your child’s age and the therapist’s approach.

Sessions might include digital games, drawing tools, visual aids, playful activities and parent check-ins before or after the session.

The key is to find a therapist who’s comfortable working with kids and using online tools. Not every therapist is trained for both, so don’t be afraid to ask.

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Online Therapy vs In-Person Therapy: What’s the Difference?

Here’s a quick comparison:

	Online Therapy	In Person Therapy
Location	Anywhere private with internet	Therapist's office
Convenience	High (no commute)	Lower (you need to get there)
Privacy	You’ll need to find a quiet space	Normally already private
Body Language	It may be harder to pick up on non-verbal cues	Easier to pick up on non-verbal cues
Options	More options	Limited to therapists in your area

Bottom line: Some people love the flexibility of online therapy, while others prefer face-to-face connection. Both can work really well. It’s all about what feels right for you or your child.

Pros and Cons of Online Therapy

✅ Pros:

• Easy to fit into your schedule

• No travel time or parking stress

• More therapist options (especially if you live far from a city)

• Kids can be in their comfort zone (at home!)

❌ Cons:

• You need a decent internet connection

• You’ll need to find a quiet and private space

• Some people miss the in-person connection

• Some people prefer going somewhere else for therapy

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How to Choose the Right Online Therapist

Whether it’s for you or your child, choosing the right therapist is all about feeling safe, supported, and understood.

For Adults:

• Credentials: Make sure the therapist is licensed.

• Specialties: Look for someone with experience in what you’re looking for (e.g. anxiety, trauma, parenting, relationships).

• Therapy Style: Therapists may use different approaches (like CBT, ACT, IFS, ABA…). Ask how they work and what to expect.

• Try it out: Many therapists offer a free or discounted first session. If it doesn’t feel like a good fit, it’s totally okay to move on. But if you’re unsure, try at least 2–3 sessions before deciding.

For Kids:

• Experience with kids or teens: Not all therapists are trained for child therapy. Ask about their background and approach.

• Interactive tools: Therapy for kids can include play, drawing, or other creative activities, even online!

• Parent involvement: For younger children especially, therapists should involve you in some way, either during or around the session.

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The Takeaway

Online therapy can be a game-changer: for adults, teens, and even young kids. It’s flexible, often more affordable, and brings support right to your living room (or kitchen table… or your parked car… wherever you can find a quiet moment).

It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for many people, it’s a practical and effective way to get help when and where it’s needed most.