Why You Should Consider Online Therapy (From Someone Who Was Once Skeptical)

TL;DR I used to worry that online therapy would feel disconnected, less personal, or less effective, especially for the couples I work with. After five years of practicing virtually (and experiencing it as a client), I can say with confidence: online therapy can be just as effective as in-person care. Research shows no significant difference in client outcomes, and for many people, online care removes barriers that might have prevented them from getting help in the first place.

Introduction: I Didn’t Believe Online Therapy Would Work 

I’ll never forget the moment everything changed. When COVID hit, I had to move my entire therapy practice online almost overnight. I remember locking my office door, not knowing if I’d ever conduct an in-person session there again. 

And I was skeptical, especially as a couples therapist. 

I worried: 

• Would we still feel connected through a screen? 

• Could couples still repair, rebuild, or reconnect without sharing a physical space? 

• Would the emotional depth I value so much get lost online? 

Maybe you’ve wondered some of those same things. 

Fast forward five years, and I’m still practicing online—and I genuinely have no plans to return to a traditional office anytime soon. The connection remains. The progress remains. The breakthroughs remain. 

Here is what I’ve learned along the way, and why online therapy may be a fit for you too. 

What Is Online Therapy? 

Online therapy (also called teletherapy or telehealth counseling) is therapy that takes place through a secure online video platform rather than in person. Clients attend sessions from anywhere that provides privacy and internet access—home, an office, or even a parked car if needed. 

Online therapy can be used for: 

• Individual therapy 

• Couples or relationship therapy 

• Family therapy 

• Coaching or psychoeducational support 

The Moment Everything Shifted 

During those early weeks of switching online, I kept telling myself: As soon as this shutdown is over, I’m going straight back to my office. 

But then life had other plans. My husband and I moved to another part of Michigan, and I faced a choice: 

➡ Find a new physical office, or 
➡ Stay virtual and continue serving clients across the entire state 

I chose to stay online. And five years later, I am grateful I did. 

The Benefits I Didn’t Expect 

1️⃣ The Connection Is Still There 

This was my biggest fear—and the biggest surprise. Clients still laugh, cry, heal, and grow in online sessions. Couples still repair and reconnect. The work remains deeply human. 

2️⃣ Similar Clinical Outcomes 

Research consistently shows that online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and relationship distress. 

📚 Evidence-Based Support: 

• A 2022 review in World Psychiatry found that teletherapy outcomes are comparable to in-person therapy for multiple mental health conditions. 

• A 2014 meta-analysis in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders found that online CBT was equally effective for anxiety and depression. 

3️⃣ Fewer Barriers = More People Get Help 

Online therapy increases access for people who may otherwise struggle to attend, including those with: 

• Transportation challenges 

• Chronic illness or disability 

• Childcare limitations 

• Demanding school or work schedules 

• Long distances from qualified providers 

4️⃣ Convenience Actually Matters 

Especially in Michigan, where weather alone can cancel a commute! 
No parking. No waiting rooms. No rushing across town. 

Who Can Benefit From Online Therapy? 

Online therapy may be a strong fit if you: 
✔ Prefer comfort and privacy at home 
✔ Have a full schedule and need flexible appointments 
✔ Live in a rural part of Michigan with limited provider options 
✔ Are a college student who travels between campus and home 
✔ Share childcare and need therapy without arranging a sitter 
✔ Are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or major life transitions 

How We Help at Wild Hope Counseling & Coaching 

At Wild Hope, we provide virtual therapy for individuals, couples, and families across Michigan. Some of the concerns we support include: 

• Anxiety & depression 

• Trauma, grief, and life transitions 

• Relationship and marriage counseling 

• LGBTQ+ affirming care 

• Sex and intimacy concerns 

• Health, body image, and identity concerns 

• Substance use and recovery support 

Our goal is simple: 
Life is Wild, We Provide Hope. 

FAQs About Online Therapy 

❓ Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy? 

Yes. Many studies show comparable outcomes for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and relational conflict. 

❓ Can couples really do therapy online? 

Absolutely. I specialize in online couples therapy, and virtual sessions allow couples to work on communication, repair, and reconnection—even from different locations. 

❓ What do I need to get started? 

Just: 

• A device with a camera (phone, tablet, or laptop) 

• Reliable internet 

• A private space where you feel comfortable talking 

Final Thoughts 

If you’re considering therapy but feeling unsure about doing it online, I get it—I once felt that way too. But online therapy continues to show me how resilient and adaptable human connection really is. 

You deserve support that fits your life, not the other way around. 

When you’re ready, you can be anywhere, open your device, and begin. 

Sources

McCord, C., Ullrich, F., Merchant, K.A.S. et al. Comparison of in-person vs. telebehavioral health outcomes from rural populations across America. BMC Psychiatry 22, 778 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-022-04421-0

Saddichha, S., Al-Desouki, M., Lamia, A., Linden, I. A., & Krausz, M. (2014). Online interventions for depression and anxiety – a systematic review. Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine, 2(1), 841–881. https://doi.org/10.1080/21642850.2014.945934