Accessing therapy in a way that fits your lifestyle is important. In some ways it’s as important as finding the right therapist, since both could impact your willingness to attend regular sessions.

While many people have traditionally done in-person therapy, online therapy, known in Australia as Telehealth therapy, has become a widely adopted and is an effective option that offers flexibility and accessibility.

If you’re considering therapy but are unsure whether speaking to a psychologist or couples counsellor online would suit you, let’s dive into how online therapy works and reasons why you might prefer it to seeing a therapist in person.

How does online therapy work?

Online therapy functions similarly to in-person therapy but takes place via a secure video platform. Sessions are scheduled in the same way, and therapy approach remains unchanged. To participate, you need a quiet space, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone.

If you’re new to therapy all together, check out our frequently asked questions about seeing a psychologist.

Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Research suggests that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship difficulties. The core of therapy – talking through your experiences, learning new coping strategies, and feeling supported – remains the same, whether it happens in a room together or via a screen. Some people even find it easier to express themselves in their own environment and may appreciate having a quiet, safe space to reflect on their session afterwards.

Is therapy better in person or online?

There isn’t a universal answer to this, as it depends on individual preferences and circumstances. In-person therapy can provide a sense of presence that some people value, while online therapy can reduce practical barriers like travel, time constraints, or geographical limitations. For those who struggle with accessibility, live in rural areas, or feel more comfortable at home, online therapy can be a meaningful and convenient alternative.

As of February 2025, at Inner Melbourne Clinical Psychology, approximately 40% of the therapy sessions we run in a given week are online/virtual.

Is online therapy more affordable than in person?

Generally, online therapy is the same cost as in-person therapy, as the expertise and qualifications of the therapist remain the same. However, you may find cost savings in terms of travel, parking, and time off work.

Can I access free online therapy?

While some community organisations and helplines provide free mental health support, therapy with a private clinic like Inner Melbourne Clinical Psychology involves fees. Medicare and private health insurance provide rebates for eligible individuals.

Does Medicare cover online therapy?

Yes, under the Medicare Better Access initiative, Australians can receive rebates for online therapy sessions with a registered psychologist or accredited mental health social worker if they have a Medicare referral. Unfortunately couples therapy is not covered by Medicare, regardless of whether sessions are conducted in person or online.

Additional benefits of online therapy

Beyond accessibility and flexibility, online therapy offers some unique advantages:

  • Greater anonymity and comfort: Some people feel more at ease discussing personal topics from the comfort of their own home, which can make it easier to engage in therapy.
  • Continuity of care: If you move house, travel frequently, or experience disruptions to your routine, online therapy allows you to maintain ongoing support without interruption.
  • Reduced stigma: For clients who feel hesitant about attending therapy in a traditional clinic setting, online therapy offers a more discreet option.
  • Increased therapist options: You are not limited to practitioners in your immediate area. Online therapy giving you access to a wider range of psychologists around Australia who may be better suited to your needs.
  • More flexible scheduling: Without the need for commuting, online therapy can more easily fit into your daily life, reducing the stress of trying to make appointments work around other commitments.
  • Enhanced accessibility for neurodivergent individuals: For those who experience sensory sensitivities or social anxiety, engaging in therapy from a familiar and controlled environment can improve comfort and participation.
  • Supports consistency during life transitions: Whether facing a career change, parenthood, or a period of travel, online therapy ensures continuity of care, helping clients stay engaged in their therapeutic journey.
  • Suitable for people with mobility or health concerns: For individuals with physical disabilities or chronic health conditions, speaking to a therapist online removes the need for travel and provides access to support without additional strain.

Three examples of how online therapy has worked well for our clients

*Names and details adjusted to protect confidentiality

Managing anxiety in a remote location

Emma, a teacher in her 30s, lived in a rural town where accessing in-person psychological support was difficult. She had experienced anxiety for years but struggled to find the time to attend therapy in person. Coming from such a small community, she was also concerned that she would know her therapist or be connected to them in some way through friends or family, which would make it tricky to open up. Through online therapy, she was able to connect with a psychologist who supported her in developing strategies to manage her anxiety and build confidence, without the added stress of long commutes or worrying about bumping into her therapist at the supermarket or in the community.

Online couples therapy with flexible access

James and Sarah, a couple in their late 40s, wanted to attend therapy together but had difficulty coordinating their schedules. Online couples therapy allowed them to engage in therapy after hours from the comfort of their home, rather than rushing home from work to get there. Over time, they worked on communication and trust, finding the process helpful for their relationship.

Overcoming eating disorder symptoms online

Carla, a university student, had been on several waiting lists to receive specialist support for eating disorder symptoms. She was reluctant at first to try online counselling because she wondered if she would be able to connect in the same way, but after a few sessions she was surprised to feel a strong bond with her therapist. Carla was even able to see her dietician and GP online, too, which made it much easier to find a convenient time each week to connect with each of the people in her treating team.

Final thoughts

Online therapy is not the right fit for everyone, but for some, it offers a practical and accessible way to receive support. If you’re uncertain, it may be worth considering whether the flexibility of online sessions could help you engage in therapy in a way that works for you.

If you’d like more information about Telehealth/online counselling options, feel free to explore our online therapy information page or reach out. There is no pressure to commit – sometimes just exploring the options available can help you make an informed decision about what’s best for you.