The Flame Within

As a counselor, one concern I hear often is whether virtual therapy is as effective as in person therapy.

Common Questions:

1. Are you able to thoroughly connect with a therapist through a virtual platform?

2. Do you lose personal connection through a screen?

3. Is virtual therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

I have been wanting to address this concern professionally for quite sometime. Here are my thoughts, with evidence based proof on the subject.

In our digital age, people question whether a true therapeutic connection can be established through the medium of a screen or telephone. This is a valid concern, as the “relationship” between client and therapist is the essential ingredient to healing outcomes. Every well trained and effective therapist’s primary concern should always be about building rapport, portraying authentic empathy, and establishing trust with clients. Can these essential aspects of therapy be established in a virtual setting?

I have been an in person therapist and a virtual therapist for nearly 10 years: What I have learned from providing both forms of therapy consistently is that it truly doesn’t make a difference in the quality of therapy or the outcomes of therapy. The most important aspect is whether the therapist can build rapport and establish trust with a client, an effective therapist will be able to do this regardless of the manner of connection. From a Christian perspective, healing is a holistic journey of the mind, body, and spirit. A compassionate and skilled therapist is as powerful in a virtual room as in the office. A Christ-like presence transcends physical boundaries and offers hope, understanding, and grace no matter the format. Many people insist on in-person therapy, which is totally understandable and completely up to the client to make the best decision for them. I will say, this often limits them to lower quality of care, less variety, and can be more costly due to the overhead costs for the clinician.

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1. Evidence from Empirically Proven Studies

• Studies have proven no measurable difference in therapeutic outcomes. A 2022 meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials (931 clients) across conditions—addictions, eating disorders, childhood mental health—found no significant differences between telehealth and face-to-face therapy in symptom reduction, overall improvement, functioning, client–therapist working alliance, or satisfaction—both immediately and in follow-up (Remnant Counselor Collective, NIH Study).

• Broad meta-analytic support. A larger meta-analysis including 20 trials reported no significant difference in treatment outcomes post‑treatment (g = –0.043) or at follow-up (g = –0.045), and attrition rates were virtually identical (RR ≈1.006) (ResearchGate).

• CBT efficacy holds firm. Studies confirm that therapist-guided remote Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—via phone or video—is as effective as traditional CBT for many disorders.

• Even audio-only therapy works. Research supports that telephone-based therapy for depression and anxiety is just as effective and builds strong therapeutic alliance.

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2. A Christ-Centered Connection, Even Online

For Christian’s, building rapport is not about physical presence; it’s about presence of heart; it’s about whether the therapist connects with the Holy Spirit and their ability to allow Christ to be an active participant in all therapy sessions. When a therapist listens with empathy and responds with wisdom and compassion, the love of Christ is made known—even through a screen. It is Christ in the center of the session, actively working within hearts, the therapist and the clients that aid in deep rooted healing.

Many clients feel more at ease in their own space, and therapists gain valuable context by glimpsing a client’s home environment. For many, virtual therapy feels less intimidating and more intimate.

2 Corinthians 13:11 “Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace be with you.”

Philippians 2:2 “then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being on in spirit and of one mind.”

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3. When Virtual May Not Be Ideal

While virtual therapy is highly effective for most people, there are a few potential exceptions:

• Young children and some teens may have difficulty staying focused in virtual sessions. They often benefit more from in-person engagement where play, movement are more easily achieved.

• Easily distracted clients—especially those with attention challenges or chaotic home environments—may struggle with consistent engagement online.

* Domestic violence situations where speaking freely is unsafe.

Steps For Setting Up an Environment for Effective Virtual Therapy

• Find a quiet, private space with minimal distractions.

• Silence notifications, close other tabs or devices, and treat the session with the same priority as an in-person visit.

• Avoid being preoccupied with work, multitasking, or checking your phone. Making space for therapy reflects your commitment to healing—and to honoring what God is doing in your life through this process.

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4. Practical and Spiritual Benefits of Virtual Therapy

• Accessibility: Virtual sessions break down barriers—geographic, financial, and physical—opening the door for more people to receive care.

• Comfort and control: Being in your own home often reduces anxiety, fosters safety, and encourages openness.

• Efficient stewardship: Time saved from commuting can be invested in prayer, rest, or further spiritual growth.

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Conclusion

The research regarding the effectiveness of virtual therapy is solid and shows that it is just as effective as in-person therapy for the majority of the population. With proper preparation and a heart open to God’s healing work, virtual therapy becomes more than just convenient—it becomes sacred space. In fact, in many ways I have seen it prove to be even more effective, as people feel more comfortable in their own settings.

As Christian therapists, we believe that the Holy Spirit is not bound by physical walls. He meets us in the counseling room, the car, or the corner of a quiet bedroom where someone logs into their session. Whether in the office, online or over telephone, what truly matters is the relationship—a space where trust is built, healing begins, and lives are transformed by grace. I am grateful for my clients who allow me the opportunity to do what I love everyday, being a part of God’s healing journey for their lives.

I am grateful for the amazing virtual therapists who have walked with me through some of life’s greatest struggles. I am grateful that I am not limited by a defined number of therapists located in a single town, but due to present day technology have access to a larger therapist network by having access to anyone licensed in the state where I reside.

I pray this article acts as a guide for those of you questioning the effectiveness of virtual therapy verses in-person. Regardless, of the choice you make it is important to pray and seek God for guidance to find a therapist who can help you healing by connecting with you and helping you to connect with the True Almighty Counselor.

Blessings, Crystal Ridlon, LPC