Why online counselling tends to be better than in-person sessions

There’s no denying that telehealth and online counselling have truly taken off and soared to brand new heights. The changes brought on during and after the height of COVID-19 reshaped what we saw as “normal” and encouraged entire professions to move into the online space.

Some people still feel most at ease in a therapist’s office, where they can connect face-to-face and feel the comfort of physical presence. This is completely valid. But if you’re curious about whether online counselling could work for you, here are some reasons it might be a great choice.

1. More privacy and discretion

Walking into a clinic can feel intimidating for many people. This can be especially true in smaller towns where it’s hard to stay anonymous or if you experience social anxiety.

Online counselling lets you speak with a therapist from a private space of your choosing. Also, many online clinics make their privacy policies easier to access and understand, giving you greater confidence in how your personal information and session notes are protected. 

This sense of security can make it easier to take the first step, especially if you’ve been avoiding support for sensitive issues like emotional neglect or past trauma.

2. Reliable support wherever you are

Life does not always keep us in one place. You might travel for work, live in a remote area, or be away from home for family reasons. Online counselling makes it possible to keep seeing your therapist without interruption, even if you are halfway across the country.

Many services, including Talked, let you choose how you connect (through secure video calls, phone sessions, or live chat) so you can pick what feels most comfortable. Talked’s message feature also means you can send updates or questions to your therapist between appointments, helping you feel supported even on non-session days.

3. No commute or travel costs

Without the need to get to a clinic, you can save the time, money, and energy spent on travel. This is especially helpful if your schedule is busy or if you live far from mental health services. It’s also kinder to the environment, with fewer cars on the road.

For people balancing therapy with demanding jobs and/or home life, removing travel time can make therapy far more doable.

4. It can be more affordable

Some online services cost less than traditional in-person sessions because providers have fewer expenses to cover. Plus, if you have a Mental Health Treatment Plan, you may be eligible for Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions online, making it easier to continue receiving the support you need.

Some private health insurance also offers psychological support. Do check your policy or contact your provider if you intend to use your insurance for counselling sessions.

5. More flexibility in scheduling

When you take away the need for travel, it becomes easier to find a time that suits you. Many people find that online sessions offer more choice, whether that’s early in the morning, during a lunch break, later in the evening, or even during weekends or holidays.

This flexibility can be especially important for parents and those managing unpredictable health challenges like panic or anxiety attacks, which may make attending in-person sessions harder.

6. Access to a larger pool of therapists

In-person therapy usually limits you to professionals in your local area, while online counselling opens up a much bigger choice of qualified therapists.

Many telehealth platforms, including Talked, also have a therapist-matching tool that matches you with a professional based on your needs, preferences, and goals, making it easier to find someone whose approach and personality feel right for you. This is especially valuable if you are looking for a specific skill set, such as experience in workplace wellbeing programs or expertise in emotion regulation or relationship issues.

It’s also generally easier to switch therapists online. You could skip the awkward exit conversion and simply book another therapist whom you feel more comfortable and aligned with.

7. Comfort in familiar spaces

Since online therapy can be done from virtually anywhere, sessions tend to be so much more comfortable for both clients and professionals.

Clients will be more inclined to open up during sessions when they are in a familiar and comfortable setting, which is always a positive thing. Being comfortable during therapy is always of huge importance, so it is fantastic that online counselling is able to provide even more of this aspect. 

8. More support between sessions

Therapy does not have to stop when the session ends. Some online counselling platforms, like Talked, offer secure messaging so you can reach out to your therapist between appointments.

You can also use Talked’s in-app journal to track your thoughts, feelings, and progress, and explore its library of wellness resources to support your mental health goals. Having these tools at your fingertips can help you stay engaged, reflect on your growth, and feel supported every step of the way.

Is online counselling always better?

Online therapy is not for everyone. Some people feel more connected and supported when sitting in the same room as their therapist. Certain types of therapy, such as art therapy or activities that involve shared physical space, also work better in person

 If you’re in a crisis, feeling unsafe, or experiencing severe emotional distress, being with someone physically present can be an important source of comfort.

Final thoughts

The best kind of counselling is the one that makes it easier for you to reach out and keep going. Online therapy can break down barriers like distance, travel time, and limited choice. For others, the atmosphere of an in-person session is what allows them to open up most.

What matters most is finding the format that feels right for you and supports you in taking the next step toward feeling better, whether that is online, in person, or a mix of both.