Since the rise of Covid, online therapy has become more accessible than ever. Through government mandates that require telehealth therapy be covered by health insurance plans, people now have more options for receiving care, whether from the comfort of home or by meeting face-to-face in a therapist’s office.
Our online therapy across Illinois team at Bergen Counseling Collective, led by Jeremiah Bergen, MS, LCPC, helps clients navigate this. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to talk with a therapist.
At Bergen Counseling Collective, we’ve been in practice for 15 years and our office is in Chicago’s Ravenswood neighborhood, we understand that choosing between telehealth and in-person therapy can feel overwhelming. Each option offers its own kind of support, and the best choice often depends on what you need most right now. Let’s explore how each approach might support your well-being, and why working with a local practice that offers both options—like ours—can give you the flexibility and continuity of care you deserve.
Why Telehealth Therapy Works for Many People
Telehealth therapy offers a level of convenience that can make getting support more manageable for busy people, parents, or those juggling work and personal responsibilities. Without the need to commute, many clients find it easier to fit therapy into their week. Meeting with your therapist from home can also feel more comfortable for some, especially if you experience social anxiety. The privacy of your own space may help you feel safer opening up. For people living with physical limitations, transportation barriers, or those located further from mental health providers, telehealth has made therapy possible where it once wasn’t. It’s also a great option for those who prefer a quieter, more low-key experience.
Research from the American Psychological Association has shown that teletherapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many conditions, especially depression and anxiety. However, virtual therapy does have limitations. Sometimes technology can be unreliable—glitches or dropped calls can interrupt sessions. And while many therapists are skilled at connecting through a screen, some clients may miss the full presence that comes with being in the same physical space. Nonverbal cues like posture, gestures, or subtle shifts in energy can be harder to pick up through video.
For individuals in acute distress or facing more complex needs, in-person trauma therapy may offer more support, safety, and grounding.
The Value of In-Person Therapy
In-person sessions offer a unique sense of connection that’s hard to replicate virtually. Sitting in a room with your therapist allows for a deeper sense of presence and attunement. For some, this helps build trust and comfort more quickly. A dedicated therapy space also invites you to pause and focus in a way that can be harder to achieve from home. Coming into the office creates structure—it can mark a clear beginning and end to the emotional work you’re doing, which many clients find grounding and helpful.
Therapists are also better able to respond in real time to emotional shifts, body language, or signs of distress. This makes in-person therapy especially supportive for people navigating grief, trauma, or crisis situations. That said, attending in-person therapy does require travel time and scheduling coordination. For some, these logistical pieces can be barriers to consistent care. And for those who feel more comfortable in their own space, being in an unfamiliar office might feel like an added challenge at first. If you’re unsure which format suits your mental health needs, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers helpful guidance on the types of therapy and how they’re delivered.
Local Care That Adapts to You
At Bergen Counseling Collective, we believe the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of healing—whether we’re meeting on a screen or face-to-face. We offer both in-person therapy in Ravenswood and secure, HIPAA-compliant virtual sessions to give you the freedom to choose what feels right.
We’ve heard from many clients that what matters most isn’t just the format—it’s the trust, connection, and care they receive. As a local practice, we understand the nuances of life in Chicago and the needs of our community. When you work with us, you’re not being routed through a national startup platform—you’re building a relationship with a real person who’s part of your city and committed to your care.
Some of our clients begin therapy virtually and later choose to come into the office. Others start in person and shift to telehealth when life gets busy. We are here to help. We live and work in your community. We’ll work with you to find the approach that fits best—and continue to adjust as your needs evolve.
We Can Help You Decide
If you’re considering therapy and unsure whether telehealth or in-person sessions are a better fit, we’re here to talk it through with you.
You can learn more about our team and request an appointment directly. Whether you choose to meet online or in person, we’ll meet you with care, curiosity, and compassion.
Clinically reviewed by Jeremiah Bergen, MS, LCPC, founder of Bergen Counseling Collective.
