The Benefits Of In-Person Therapy In A Digital World

By Reva Cook, LCSW, PMH-C, EMDRIA-CIT, Clinical Director

In the age of digital access to nearly everything, is there still a good reason to attend therapy in person?

Let’s be real. It takes more effort to come to your therapy appointment in person. So why might you still want to do that? Let’s talk about it!

Online therapy is effective. Dozens of research studies have confirmed this.  But is it “as” effective as in-person sessions? Maybe. This really depends on the person and the therapist. It is much better than no therapy for people who live in rural areas, or need specialized care, or have situations that prevent them from coming to an office- these are life-saving reasons to use telehealth. 

But if you could come to therapy in-person, should you make the effort? As a therapist and someone who also goes to therapy- I completely understand the convenience factor. If it is a matter of no therapy vs telehealth therapy, telehealth wins every time. But for many of us, in-person sessions are possible, they just aren’t convenient. I encourage my clients to come to in-person sessions when they can. Here are some reasons why you might consider coming in-person as well. 

Better connection and understanding.

Being in person allows me to fully read your entire body language and for you to read mine. Experts agree that up to 90 percent of all communication is nonverbal. We can see each other on the screen, but it is limited, and a lot is missed. When I can see you fully, I make more accurate assessments and reflections, helping you feel more understood and seen. It helps me make better choices about what to do in therapy and how to direct our sessions.  Some therapists, myself included, use their energy and body language to help you regulate and learn.

There are several reasons how this works, but one is mirror neurons. Mirror neurons are specific neurons that fire when we observe others. They help us gain new skills, learn things, and form deep emotional connections. These can help you learn therapeutic tools, and also help you repair attachment wounds. Being able to use my body language, energy, and mirror neurons is one of my therapist's super-powers, and it is limited through a screen.

Less Distraction

My office has fewer distractions than your house or car. Being face-to-face allows us to really focus on each other, and just each other. We are less distracted by our devices, by notifications, by other people in our homes, and by the laundry in the corner. We are less likely to do other things during sessions. We can be more fully present, and this leads to better connection and more productive sessions. 

Getting there may be part of your therapeutic work. 

Clients have told me that when therapy happens at my office, getting to therapy becomes part of their healing work. The office becomes a place where they can work through difficult things and then leave them there until the next time. Driving to and from the office can allow time for transition and be an extension of the benefit of your sessions, where you can think or reflect before you reintegrate into your day. You may also do more efficient and effective work at my office. The process of just coming to therapy may itself become a tool to support your mental health in the future. Figuring out how to get there builds systems and skills that will help you prioritize your needs and get support at other times.  

More therapist bang for your buck. 

Telehealth may make it harder for your therapist to be the best they can be for you. Research studies show that many therapists report finding it more difficult to maintain focus, and stay engaged and fresh during telehealth sessions, especially when they have several back to back. This is something that varies among therapists. Some therapists love telehealth work and excel at it. I know that I am less effective as a telehealth therapist than I am in-person, and I let my clients know this, so they can make the best choice for them. I’m still a great therapist, but there’s a difference. This may be something you wish to discuss with your therapist- see if they have a preference. If you are making the effort to come to therapy and have options, you may want to choose the modality that is more likely to give you the best outcomes. 

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, telehealth has become much more common. We love that it gave us a way to still see people and get our healthcare needs met during quarantine. There are good reasons to keep using it. You also may find that going in person more than makes up for the inconvenience. It’s worth a conversation with your therapist!

If you’re thinking of starting therapy, The Healing Group has convenient locations in Salt Lake and Utah County, and we do offer teletherapy! Call or text 801-305-3171 for more information.