The rise of telehealth has transformed mental health care, offering therapy sessions through video calls, messaging platforms, and even apps. While online therapy was already gaining momentum, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated its growth, and today, it’s more accessible than ever. In fact, more than half of mental health appointments are provided via telemedicine.
While convenient, is online therapy really effective, especially for something as complex as depression?
The short answer is: Yes. And the research backs it up.
At Spearhead Health, we believe in evidence-based care that meets people where they are. Let’s take a closer look at how virtual therapy compares to in-person treatment for depression and whether it might be the right fit for you.
The Research: What the Studies Show
Multiple peer-reviewed studies and meta-analyses have found that online therapy is just as effective as face-to-face therapy in treating mild to moderate depression.
A 2018 review published in JMIR Mental Health found that internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was comparable to in-person CBT in reducing symptoms of depression.
Similarly, a 2020 study in The Lancet Digital Health concluded that online psychological interventions significantly reduced depressive symptoms and even showed long-term benefits when paired with therapist support.
Because online therapy has been proven to work, it’s becoming more mainstream, and more insurance providers are covering it. In fact, Medicare has permanently expanded telehealth coverage for mental health services, while Medicaid coverage for telehealth varies by state.
Why Online Therapy Works
While face-to-face therapy is the preferred approach for some individuals, online therapy is more effective for others. Here’s why online therapy is generally just as effective for depression as in-person treatment.
Accessibility and Convenience
Online therapy removes many barriers, such as transportation, scheduling issues, or a lack of local providers. This is especially valuable for people living in rural areas or juggling busy lives.
Comfort of Home
Many people feel more at ease discussing sensitive topics from the privacy of their own space. This sense of comfort can increase openness and progress in therapy.
More Options for Communication
Virtual therapy often includes multiple ways to connect: video sessions, phone calls, text messaging, and app-based support. For those who struggle with social anxiety or find face-to-face interaction difficult, this flexibility can make treatment more approachable.
Consistency of Care
Because online therapy is easier to access, clients are more likely to stick with regular sessions, which is an essential part of treating depression effectively.
Are There Limitations?
While online therapy can be highly effective, it’s not the right fit for everyone. Individuals with severe depression, active suicidal thoughts, or co-occurring conditions like substance use disorders may need more intensive, in-person support.
Some people may also find it harder to connect emotionally through a screen or may lack privacy at home for meaningful sessions. For these individuals, in-person sessions may be more helpful and effective.
It’s important to speak with a mental health professional to determine the best level and type of care for your needs.
Tips for Making Online Therapy Work for You
Are you considering online therapy? Start by choosing a licensed therapist with experience treating depression virtually. Choose a quiet, private space for your sessions where you feel safe and free to speak openly.
The goal is to treat online therapy like in-person therapy: show up on time, stay engaged, and complete the recommended homework or exercises. Always communicate with your therapist if something isn’t working. They can help adapt the approach to better fit your needs.
Feeling Low? Online Therapy Might Be the Game-Changer You Need
Online therapy isn’t just a temporary substitute; it’s a valid, research-supported way to treat depression. For many people, it offers a lifeline to support, healing, and emotional resilience when traditional therapy isn’t practical or accessible.
At Spearhead Health, we believe that mental health treatment should be tailored to the individual’s needs. This doesn’t mean just offering different types of therapy, but also providing unique paths to care. For some individuals, this involves online telehealth sessions with recovery coaching and mentoring. To learn more about the various treatment services available, contact us today at (310) 561-1704.