When you begin looking for a therapist near you, you often face another important choice: should you attend in-person counseling or try video counseling? Both approaches offer unique advantages, and your decision may depend on comfort level, lifestyle, and the type of support you need. At Safe Harbor Behavioral Care, we provide both options to make mental health therapy as accessible and effective as possible.
Why In-Person Counseling Matters
For many clients, in-person therapy feels familiar and reassuring. Sitting across from a therapist in a private office can build a deeper sense of connection and safety.
Key benefits of in-person counseling:
- Personal connection: Subtle non-verbal cues, like eye contact and body language, often strengthen the bond between therapist and client.
- Structured space: The therapy office removes outside distractions, helping clients focus fully on their healing journey.
- Routine and accountability: Consistent in-person appointments create stability, which can be especially helpful during difficult seasons.
In-person counseling often works well for individuals experiencing significant depression, trauma, or anyone who feels more supported with face-to-face interaction.
Why Video Counseling Works
Video counseling—also known as teletherapy—has become an increasingly popular choice. Safe Harbor offers secure, HIPAA-compliant video sessions so clients across Maryland can connect with a therapist near you from home or work.
Key benefits of video counseling:
- Convenience: Video sessions fit easily into the schedules of busy parents, professionals, or students.
- Access to more providers: Video expands options, especially for clients in rural areas or places with fewer local therapists.
- Comfort at home: Many people feel more relaxed and willing to share when speaking from a familiar environment.
This format can be ideal for clients managing anxiety, navigating transitions, or those who want therapy that adjusts to their lifestyle.
How to Choose Between the Two
Selecting in-person or video counseling depends on several personal and practical factors.
Consider the following:
- Comfort level: Do you feel more at ease in a private office, or does home provide the right environment?
- Therapy needs: Some conditions may benefit from in-person support, while others respond well to video-based care.
- Daily demands: Transportation, childcare, and work schedules may influence your decision.
- Therapist availability: Video counseling increases your access to specialized therapists, even if they’re not in your immediate area.
Many Safe Harbor clients even use a hybrid model, combining in-person and video sessions to fit their needs. This flexibility ensures that therapy adapts to you, not the other way around.
Safe Harbor’s Approach
At Safe Harbor Behavioral Care, our team believes mental health therapy should remain both accessible and effective. Whether you sit with us in our Upper Marlboro office or connect through video across Maryland, you receive the same professional care and compassionate support.
Our therapists specialize in helping people work through grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, and other life challenges. We focus on providing the right tools and environment so clients feel understood, supported, and empowered to heal.
Final Thoughts
The best choice is the one that helps you feel supported and ready to take the next step in your journey. If you’re unsure which option fits, schedule an initial session and try it out.
Finding a therapist near you—whether in-person or online—can be the turning point toward greater resilience, healing, and peace. At Safe Harbor Behavioral Care, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
Next Steps
Safe Harbor Behavioral Care offers clinical counseling and psychiatry across Maryland, with locations in Bel Air, White Marsh, Towson, Baltimore, Ellicott City, Bowie, Waldorf, Upper Marlboro, and many other communities, we make it easy to access high-quality care. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to helping couples navigate their relationship challenges with proven therapeutic methods.
For more information about mental health counseling and medication management in Baltimore, contact Safe Harbor Behavioral Care today or call us at (410) 838-9500. Would you like to schedule online? We have booking available for a limited number of providers, here. If you can’t find what you need, please contact us directly.
