In Person Versus Telehealth

When thinking about therapy, a person would normally imagine two people sitting diagonal from each other. One speaking their truth and the other taking notes on a tiny pad of paper with a pen. For some, that might be how therapy is, but for others, it can be more interactive. I asked a few people what therapy meant to them and whether they preferred it in person or telehealth during this crazy world that we all live in. It was an even split between which they preferred over another but they are both equally productive in their own unique ways. 

In person therapy allows for the person seeking the help to see who they may be talking to and for some, they feel they can be more open during in person sessions. One of the few interviewed said, “In person allows someone to pay more attention to the person talking, less distractions than at home where you can purposely distract yourself with other things.” They make a great point. If a person is in an environment that isn’t their own, they are more likely to focus on the task at hand rather than finding things to do and avoiding the session all together.

Whereas some prefer telehealth due to the fact that they feel they can be more free in their speech due to being more comfortable in their home. One said, “I don’t mind telehealth as long as video is being used in order for me to see who I am speaking to”. But it doesn’t always have to be a video call, it can be a normal phone call. It has been noted that most teens would pick telehealth over in person so they don’t have to leave the comfort of their bed and it allows them to be more open in an environment they trust.

Each person has an opinion about which they feel more comfortable doing and that is completely okay. Having someone from the outside perspective to talk to can be beneficial with the pandemic and quarantine. Even if you don’t believe in counseling or whatever it may be, be sure to check on your family and friends during this crazy time. Maybe someone you know could use an outside friend, whether it is in person or over a screen because you never know who is hurting inside until you talk about it.