In-Person vs. Virtual Therapy in New York: Which Is Better for You?
Choosing between in-person and virtual therapy is a question many people are asking these days. As a therapist who has seen clients in both settings, I’ve had a front-row seat to how each can help — and where each has its limits.
In this post, we’ll look at the pros and cons of both formats so you can decide what’s right for you.
A Quick Look Back
Before the pandemic, virtual therapy was rare. If you were doing it, you were a pioneer. It simply wasn’t a common option — and I’ll admit, I never imagined I’d one day see clients online.
But things changed quickly. Since 2020, virtual therapy has become a standard way of working, and many clients (and therapists) have fully embraced it.
Just to clarify: when I talk about virtual therapy, I’m referring to sessions that include both audio and video — not phone-only sessions.
The Case for In-Person Therapy
Pros
Real-world human contact. No matter how advanced your setup, nothing quite replaces sharing a space with someone.
Built-in accountability: getting to the office can strengthen consistency.
Recommended for more acute issues or when certain interventions require in-person care.
Fewer distractions — no home interruptions or device temptations.
Cons
Travel time to and from sessions.
Offices may not always feel as comfortable as home.
Less flexibility in scheduling.
For those who struggle to leave home (i.e. anxiety, physical issues, etc.), travel can be a real barrier.
Fewer local providers offering in-person sessions these days. There are not as many providers to choose from.
The Case for Virtual Therapy
Pros
Greater flexibility in scheduling and location — you can meet from home, work, or even while traveling (depending on the state your therapist is licensed in).
Comfort of being in your own space, which can make it easier to open up.
Your therapist gets a glimpse into your real environment — sometimes offering insights that wouldn’t surface otherwise.
Accessibility for those who are immobile or have difficulty traveling.
A much larger pool of providers to choose from across your state.
Cons
Not appropriate for all situations — some conditions require in-person care.
Over-comfort in your home can reduce accountability or structure.
Easy to get distracted by screens or home life.
Safety concerns if the issue being addressed is acute.
So… Which One Is Better?
It depends.
For some, in-person therapy is necessary — especially if symptoms are acute or the treatment modality requires it. For others, the convenience and accessibility of virtual therapy make it the clear winner.
There’s no right or wrong answer. The best option depends on your needs, comfort, and priorities.
If you’re interested in therapy and live anywhere in New York State, our team at PRGRS Therapy offers therapy for ADHD and other mental health issues.
