Telehealth therapy (also called telepsychology) is when sessions are delivered remotely, most commonly by secure video call. For many people, it’s a practical way to access psychological support without needing to attend an in-person clinic.

Why someone might choose telehealth therapy

1. Access from anywhere in Australia
   Telehealth can make it easier to access care if you live rurally, travel often, have limited transport, or simply want support that isn’t tied to a location. The Australian Psychological Society (APS) notes telehealth has helped improve access to psychological services. (Australian Psychological Society)

2. Convenience that reduces barriers
   For many people, the hardest step is getting started. Telehealth can reduce “friction” points like commuting, parking, time off work, arranging childcare, or managing fatigue and pain.

3. Comfort and privacy
   Some clients feel more at ease speaking from a familiar space (home, office, or even a private parked car). Feeling physically comfortable can help people open up sooner. Privacy still matters, though — more on that below.

4. Consistency of care
   Telehealth can help you keep therapy consistent during busy seasons, travel, health flare-ups, or when life gets unpredictable.

5. Real-life practice (in the environment where life happens)
   Skills can be practised and discussed in context — at home, around work stressors, or in the environment where routines and triggers actually occur.

Is telehealth therapy effective?

Overall, research suggests that video-delivered therapy can be comparable to in-person therapy for many people and many common concerns, particularly when sessions are structured, collaborative, and delivered by a suitably qualified clinician.

• APS has stated there is strong evidence that psychological services delivered via videoconferencing can be as effective as face-to-face for a range of mental health problems, and that therapeutic alliance can be comparable. (Australian Psychological Society)

• Meta-analyses and reviews of videoconferencing psychotherapy have generally found symptom improvement and similar outcomes to in-person therapy, with results influenced by factors like client preference, context, and the type of intervention. (Wiley Online Library)

• For CBT delivered via video, systematic reviews/meta-analyses report beneficial outcomes across multiple conditions (the exact result depends on the population and study design). (JMIR)

Important caveat: “effective” doesn’t mean “best for everyone.” What matters most is fit — your needs, preferences, safety considerations, and the kind of support you’re looking for.

When telehealth may not be the right fit (or may need extra planning)

Telehealth can be unsuitable or need additional safeguards if:

• you don’t have a private space where you can speak freely

• there are immediate safety concerns, high risk, or frequent crisis situations (you may still receive telehealth, but it requires clear safety planning and local supports)

• you’re experiencing severe cognitive impairment, acute intoxication, or circumstances where video is unreliable

• you strongly prefer in-person connection and find video sessions increase distress

A psychologist can help you decide what’s appropriate and what supports you’d need either way.

How to make telehealth sessions work well

• Choose a private space and use headphones if possible

• Test your internet and device camera/mic before the session

• Have a backup plan (e.g., phone call) if video drops out

• Keep a notepad nearby for key points or between-session ideas

• If you’re discussing heavier topics, plan a gentle “after-session transition” (water, short walk, grounding exercise)

Privacy and technology considerations

Telehealth can be delivered securely, but privacy is also about your environment. Consider:

• who can overhear you

• whether notifications pop up on your screen

• using a stable, password-protected connection
  APS also recommends taking a client-centred approach when choosing videoconferencing technology. (Australian Psychological Society)

If you need urgent support

Telehealth therapy is not an emergency service. If you are in immediate danger or at risk, call 000. You can also contact Lifeline 13 11 14.

General information only. This article isn’t a substitute for personalised assessment, diagnosis, or treatment.