Why I do MOSTLY in-person Therapy

Telehealth, also called virtual, online or teletherapy, has become popular in recent years, gaining strength during the COVID pandemic, when it was imperative that we maintain social distancing in order to reduce health risks. It has remained popular with a lot of people, both individuals who want to receive counseling services, and professionals who have moved from in-person, to virtual services only. There are many reasons for this, including physical limitations, living further from mental health services, busy schedules, and reducing commuting costs.

However, I believe that are some limitations and drawbacks to virtual therapy, such as flawed and unsecured technology. But the greatest drawback to me is the lack of human connection that I consider vital to receiving the best mental health counseling experience. I think I am much more effective as a counselor/therapist when I can sit with you face to face, read your nonverbal language, show you warmth and compassion, and also provide constructive criticism, as needed. These are intangible values in a therapeutic relationship that suffer somewhat in the computer virtual world.

When I ask my current clients whether they still believe in-person therapy is better, they mostly agree that in-person therapy seems to work better and provides greater benefits in feeling good. However, they do acknowledge that having the option of telehealth is an important convenience. I do occasionally see my current clients virtually when there is a schedule conflict, a transportation problem, or a contagious illness that interferes with their regularly scheduled visit.

Sometimes I don’t like telehealth because the technology is spotty. I hate when I’m on a virtual meeting with someone, and the internet cuts out, or the sound gets fuzzy. Whether it’s my system’s fault, or the client’s Wi-Fi problems, it really interrupts the flow of the therapy, and can significantly impact the emotional work that may be going on in the session. Other times, my main concern is that people are way more distracted when they are online than they are sitting on my boring couch. Coming in to my office, sitting on the couch, setting your phone down, and not being anywhere near your kids, or pets, or laundry, can really help clients take time to prioritize their mental health and wellbeing without distractions.

For those considering counseling, it is definitely better to get telehealth professional help rather than going without counseling services. However, if you have the option, please consider in-person counseling, rather than virtual. I really think you’ll be glad you did!

Ilia Jones is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), practicing in Suwanee, Georgia. She has been in private practice since 1998, and holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Georgia State University. Ilia uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in her approach, and has additional training and certifications in Level 1 – Team-CBT from the Feeling Good Institute, and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE). Feel free to reach out to Ilia to schedule an appointment using the client portal links.

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