Large Study Finds Online Therapy Equates to In-Person Treatment Effectiveness

The rapid shift to virtual mental health services during the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that online therapy can be just as effective as traditional in-person sessions. A comprehensive study conducted in Sweden tracked over 2,300 patients across six years, encompassing three years before and during the pandemic, to compare treatment outcomes for conditions such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

During the pandemic, the proportion of online consultations surged from 4% to nearly half of all visits. Despite this drastic transformation in service delivery, the study found that treatment results remained stable, with recovery rates for various conditions remaining almost unchanged. For example, 38% of patients with depression and 56% with generalized anxiety disorder recovered, with similar percentages observed across the different time periods.

While the precise reasons for the success of remote therapy are not fully understood, many experts believe that key elements like building trust, evidence-based practices, and consistent follow-up can be effectively maintained online. For some patients, virtual meetings may even reduce barriers to participation, fostering comfort and engagement.

The findings underscore that effective mental health care hinges more on quality delivery than the physical setting. Online options offer additional benefits, including convenience for those living far away or with busy schedules, and continuity of care during crises. However, it is important to recognize limitations, such as the exclusion of children, individuals in severe psychiatric crises, and those lacking access to private, stable internet environments.

The study emphasizes that proper implementation—including proven treatment methods and regular monitoring—is crucial for remote therapy to succeed. As online mental health treatment becomes an integral part of the healthcare system, its effectiveness complements traditional care models, provided standards are maintained.

Ultimately, the location of care—online or in person—is less significant than the commitment to delivering effective, well-structured support. When quality is prioritized, virtual therapy can match the outcomes of face-to-face interactions, making mental health support more accessible and sustainable in a changing world.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-online-therapy-effective-person-large.html