Therapy From Wherever You Are
As the weather turns colder and schedules fill up with school pickups, shorter days, and the first signs of the busy season ahead, getting to an in-person appointment can start to feel like one more thing to fit in. For many people, this is exactly when telehealth therapy starts to look like a practical option worth understanding.
If you've been curious about online therapy but aren't sure what it actually involves, or whether it can be as effective as sitting across from a therapist in person, this guide walks through what to expect.
At Chicago Counseling Center, we've offered telehealth therapy for years alongside in-person sessions, and we understand that choosing between the two is a personal decision that depends on your circumstances, preferences, and treatment needs.
The information on this page is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical, mental health, or legal advice.
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If you're considering telehealth therapy, our team can help you determine whether it's the right fit for you.
What Is Telehealth Therapy?
Telehealth therapy refers to psychotherapy conducted remotely, typically through a secure video platform, rather than in person at an office. Sessions follow the same general structure as in-person therapy: the same length, the same clinical approach, and the same therapist relationship, simply conducted through a screen instead of a room.
At Chicago Counseling Center, telehealth therapy is available to clients throughout Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin, expanding access to care well beyond our physical Chicago location.
Is Telehealth Therapy as Effective as In-Person Therapy?
Research on telehealth therapy has generally found it to be comparably effective to in-person treatment for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and OCD. The core mechanisms of effective therapy, a strong therapeutic relationship, evidence-based techniques, and consistent engagement, translate well to a virtual format for most clients and concerns.
That said, effectiveness can depend on individual preference and circumstance. Some clients feel more at ease and open in a familiar, private space of their own choosing, while others find that an office setting helps them feel more focused and separated from daily distractions.
Who Tends to Benefit From Telehealth Therapy
Telehealth therapy tends to work particularly well for individuals with demanding schedules who struggle to fit in commute time for in-person sessions, parents balancing childcare around appointments, individuals living outside the immediate Chicago area but within our broader service area, and anyone who feels more comfortable engaging in therapy from a private, familiar space.
It can also be a practical option during periods when travel to an office is genuinely difficult, such as inclement weather, illness, or a demanding season at work or school.
Who Might Prefer In-Person Therapy
Some individuals find that a dedicated, separate space outside their home helps create a clearer boundary between therapy and daily life. Others may prefer in-person sessions for specific treatment approaches, such as certain exposure-based work, or simply feel that face-to-face interaction supports their engagement more effectively.
There's no universally "better" option. The right fit depends on your specific needs, preferences, and what helps you show up consistently and engage meaningfully in treatment.
What You Need for a Telehealth Session
Getting started with telehealth therapy typically requires a private, quiet space where you won't be interrupted, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Your therapist will provide specific platform instructions and any technical guidance you need before your first session.
Many clients find that a set routine, such as choosing the same private space for each session, helps create consistency and a sense of structure similar to attending an in-person appointment.
Common Concerns About Telehealth Therapy
Some people worry that a virtual format will feel less personal or make it harder to build a genuine connection with their therapist. In practice, many clients find that a strong therapeutic relationship develops just as effectively through video sessions, particularly once a few sessions have established a rhythm.
Others worry about privacy or confidentiality during virtual sessions. Reputable telehealth platforms use secure, encrypted video technology designed specifically for healthcare use, and your therapist will discuss privacy considerations with you as part of getting started.
What to Expect During Your First Telehealth Appointment
Your first telehealth appointment will generally mirror an in-person intake: your therapist will ask about what's bringing you to therapy, relevant background, and your specific goals. The primary difference is simply the format, conducted through video rather than in a shared physical space.
From there, you and your therapist will build a treatment plan together, just as you would with in-person care, revisiting the format at any point if your needs or preferences change.
Why Choose Chicago Counseling Center for Telehealth Therapy
At Chicago Counseling Center, our therapists are experienced in delivering the same evidence-based care through telehealth that we provide in person. We offer this flexibility so that more people across our service area can access the specialized treatment they need, regardless of distance or schedule constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telehealth therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Research generally shows telehealth therapy to be comparably effective to in-person treatment for many concerns, including anxiety, depression, and OCD, though individual preference plays a role in what works best for you.
What states can I access telehealth therapy from with Chicago Counseling Center?
Chicago Counseling Center provides telehealth therapy to clients located in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
Do I need special equipment for a telehealth session?
A private space, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone are typically all that's needed to get started.
Can I switch between telehealth and in-person sessions?
Many clients discuss their format preferences with their therapist and can revisit that choice over time as their needs or circumstances change.
Is telehealth therapy secure and confidential?
Reputable telehealth platforms use secure, encrypted technology designed for healthcare use, and your therapist will review privacy considerations with you when you begin.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Telehealth therapy exists to make consistent, evidence-based care more accessible, not to replace the value of connection and support. Whether you choose telehealth, in-person sessions, or a mix of both, what matters most is finding a format that helps you engage consistently in your own care.
Contact our team to schedule an appointment and learn more about telehealth therapy options.
References
American Psychological Association. (2023). Telehealth guidance for psychologists. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/practice/programs/dmhi/research-information/telehealth-guidance
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2024). Telehealth for the treatment of serious mental illness and substance use disorders. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov
Fernandez, E., Woldgabreal, Y., Day, A., Pham, T., Gleich, B., & Aboujaoude, E. (2021). Live psychotherapy by video versus in-person: A meta-analysis of efficacy and its relationship to types and targets of treatment. Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy, 28(6), 1535–1549. https://doi.org/10.1002/cpp.2594
Disclaimer
The content on this page is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, mental health advice, diagnosis, treatment recommendations, or a substitute for professional care. Reading this content, submitting a contact form, or communicating with Chicago Counseling Center does not establish a therapist-client relationship. If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, consult with a qualified healthcare provider or mental health professional. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or emergency, call 911, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Services available in-person in Chicago and via telehealth throughout Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
