What it is
Online therapy — sometimes called teletherapy or virtual counseling — is a way of meeting with a licensed mental health professional using technology. Sessions usually happen over secure video, though some providers also offer phone calls or messaging between appointments.
The care itself is generally similar to what you would receive in an office: talking through challenges, learning coping skills, and working toward goals you set with your provider. The main difference is the setting, since you join from wherever you feel comfortable.
Many types of providers offer virtual visits, including therapists and counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners, couples and family therapists, and clinicians who work with children and teens. The right fit depends on your needs and what you hope to address.
How it’s traditionally been approached
For a long time, therapy meant traveling to an office and sitting in a room with a provider. This model worked well for many people but could be hard to reach for those in rural areas, with busy schedules, or with limited transportation.
Phone-based support and crisis lines existed for years, but full ongoing therapy by video was less common until technology and secure platforms became widely available. As tools improved, more providers began offering remote options.
Today, online and in-person care often exist side by side. Some people choose virtual sessions for convenience, others prefer in-person connection, and many use a mix. Both are recognized ways to work with a licensed professional.
How the right provider may help
Working with the right provider online may help you build coping skills, understand patterns in your thoughts and feelings, and work toward goals at a pace that fits your life. Because sessions happen wherever you are, some people find it easier to stay consistent.
A first visit usually involves getting to know each other: the provider may ask what brought you in, what you hope to change, and a bit about your history. From there you and the provider can decide how often to meet and what approach feels right.
Good questions to ask include what the provider's experience is with concerns like yours, how they handle privacy and technology, what happens if you have a crisis between sessions, and whether they can prescribe or refer if medication is something you want to explore. If a prescriber is involved, they decide what is appropriate only after an evaluation.
The whole-person view
Mental and physical health are closely connected. Stress, sleep, and how your body holds tension can all shape your mood, and your emotional state can affect your body in return. A whole-person view considers both sides rather than treating them as separate.
Some people find talk-based approaches most helpful, and you can learn more at Therapists.plus. Others are drawn to body-based methods that work with the nervous system and the body's stress response, which you can explore at Somatic Experiences. Many people benefit from a blend, and a good provider can help you find what fits.
Somatic Experiences: anxiety →Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Therapists.plus: how to find a therapist →Therapists.plus: cbt →
Keep in mind
- Online therapy is not a fit for every situation; serious or complex conditions should be guided by licensed professionals who may recommend in-person care.
- If you or someone you know is in crisis, you can call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in the US.
- For any medical emergency, call 911 right away.
- Check that a provider is licensed in your state, and ask how they protect your privacy on their chosen platform.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Frequently asked questions
What is online therapy?
Online therapy is mental health care delivered remotely through secure video, phone, or messaging with a licensed provider. It covers the same kinds of support you would find in an office, such as talking through challenges and building coping skills. The main difference is that you join from a location that works for you.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
For many common concerns, online therapy can be a helpful and convenient option that many people find works well for them. The right choice depends on your needs, the type of support you want, and your provider's recommendation. Some situations may be better suited to in-person care, which a licensed professional can help you decide.
What do I need for an online therapy session?
You generally need a private space, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone, such as a phone, tablet, or computer. Your provider will share how to join their secure platform before the first visit. Choosing a quiet, private spot helps you feel more comfortable and protects your privacy.
Can online therapists prescribe medication?
Therapists and counselors do not prescribe medication, but psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners can. Any prescriber decides what is appropriate only after an evaluation. If medication is something you want to consider, ask whether your provider can prescribe or refer you to someone who can.
Is online therapy private and confidential?
Licensed providers are expected to use secure, private platforms and to follow confidentiality standards similar to in-person care. It is reasonable to ask how your provider protects your information and what technology they use. Joining from a private space on your end also helps keep your sessions confidential.
How do I find the right online therapy provider?
Start by identifying what you want to work on and what type of provider fits, such as a therapist, psychologist, psychiatric provider, or couples and family specialist. Confirm they are licensed in your state and ask about their experience with concerns like yours. You can browse provider types in this directory to compare options.
Educational resource. Providers.plus shares general information and connects people with independent providers. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health. In a crisis in the US, call or text 988 or call 911.
