Is Online Therapy Right for My Child? What Parents Should Know

As a parent, you want the very best for your child’s emotional well-being—and when it comes to therapy, that includes making sure the setting is the right fit. With the rise of teletherapy (online therapy sessions via video), many families are discovering its convenience and effectiveness. But naturally, you might wonder: Will this work for my child?

The short answer is: Yes, teletherapy can be a great fit for many kids! However, like any form of therapy, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Let’s take a closer look at why teletherapy works well for some children, and what signs might suggest a child needs a different approach.

💻 Why Teletherapy Can Work Well for Kids

1. Comfort of Home: Kids often feel more relaxed in their own environment. Being at home can help reduce anxiety, making it easier for them to open up and engage during sessions.

2. Familiar Tools and Play: Therapists often use games, storytelling, drawing, or movement-based activities. Teletherapy allows kids to use their favorite toys or tools during sessions, which can enhance their participation and expression.

3. Flexibility and Accessibility: No commuting means less stress for families, more consistent attendance, and the opportunity to access support even in rural or underserved areas.

4. Tech-Savvy Generation: Many kids are already familiar with video calls and online learning. Using screens can feel natural to them—especially when therapy is interactive and tailored to their interests.

🚩 When Teletherapy Might Not Be the Best Fit

While many children thrive with teletherapy, others might find it challenging. Here are some signs a child might struggle with the online format:

• Difficulty Staying Engaged: If your child has a very short attention span or struggles to focus during screen time, it may be harder for them to benefit from online sessions.

• Limited Communication Skills: Younger children or those with speech/language delays may need more hands-on, in-person support to engage effectively.

• Sensory or Behavioral Challenges: Some children with sensory sensitivities or certain neurodivergent traits may find screen-based interaction overstimulating or frustrating.

• Lack of Privacy or Tech Access at Home: For therapy to work, kids need a quiet, safe space where they can speak freely—and reliable internet and devices. Without these, teletherapy may not be effective.

• Your Child's Age: In general I don't offer teletherapy to children younger than 7 years of age. Even then, some 7 year-olds are not able to focus for very long during an online session, and that is alright! Sometimes younger children just connect better with a therapist when therapy takes place in-person.

🧠 How to Tell If It’s Working

As a parent, you’ll want to keep an eye on how your child is responding. Signs that teletherapy is working well include:

• They look forward to sessions or feel good afterward

• They’re building a connection with the therapist

• You notice gradual changes in mood, behavior, or communication

• They can stay engaged for most of the session

If you’re not seeing progress—or if sessions feel like a struggle—it’s okay to reassess. Your child’s therapist can help explore alternatives, such as in-person therapy or parent coaching to support emotional development at home.

Teletherapy can be a powerful, flexible option for supporting your child’s mental health. For many families, it offers a gentle, convenient way to access care—especially when the therapist takes the time to connect in child-friendly, creative ways.

That said, every child is unique. If you're unsure whether teletherapy is the right fit, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to talk through your child’s needs and help you make an informed decision.

Regards,

Megan