What Online Therapy Is Really Like (And How to Know If It’s Right for You)
Is Online Therapy Even… Real Therapy?
If you’ve ever wondered, “Does online therapy actually work?” or “Will it feel weird to talk to someone on a screen?” — you’re not alone.
Lots of people feel unsure before they start.
You might be thinking:
“What if it’s awkward?”
“What if I don’t feel connected?”
“How do I know if this is right for me?”
We get it. Online therapy might feel unfamiliar, especially if you've never done therapy before. But here’s the truth: online therapy is real, effective, and deeply supportive. And for many people, it’s even more accessible, personal, and comfortable than traditional therapy.
At Mindful Healing Counseling, we offer online therapy across Chicago and throughout Illinois. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or just trying to keep it together—you can get the care you deserve from wherever you are.
What Is Online Therapy, Really?
Online therapy (also called teletherapy or virtual counseling) is real therapy—just done over video instead of in person. You’ll meet with a licensed therapist using a secure, private video platform, and everything else stays the same:
Same safe space
Same emotional support
Same powerful healing
No commute required
You can do therapy from your couch, your car, your lunch break—wherever you feel most at ease.
What Online Therapy Feels Like
It feels like someone is finally listening.
It feels like you can take off the mask.
It feels like talking to someone who gets you—without the pressure to “have it all figured out.”
In session, you’ll sit with your therapist (virtually), talk about what’s on your mind, explore your emotions, and work on real-life tools to help you cope, grow, and heal. You’ll feel seen, heard, and supported—just like you would in person.
Is Online Therapy Right for Me?
Online therapy might be a good fit if:
You’re busy and want to save time
You live in a small town or can’t easily travel
You feel more comfortable opening up from home
You want to meet with someone who really understands you (even if they don’t live nearby)
You’re a college student, stay-at-home parent, or working professional with a tight schedule
You just feel overwhelmed and need support ASAP
The truth? Online therapy works for most people—and sometimes even better.
What We Help With in Online Therapy
At Mindful Healing Counseling, we support clients across Illinois with:
Anxiety – Constant overthinking, worry, and tension
Depression – Feeling low, disconnected, or hopeless
Trauma – Past pain that still affects your present
Relationship Stress – Family, partners, friends, or boundaries
Self-Esteem & Identity – Feeling “not good enough” or lost
Grief & Loss – Navigating heartbreak and healing
Life Transitions – College, parenting, moves, or major changes
We also offer therapy for:
BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients who want culturally affirming care
Women who are tired of carrying the emotional load
Teens and college students navigating stress, anxiety, and identity
What a Typical Online Therapy Session Looks Like
You’ll log into your secure client portal from your phone, tablet, or computer
You’ll join a private video session with your therapist at your scheduled time
You’ll check in, talk, explore, and reflect together—no judgment, no pressure
You’ll leave with more clarity, calm, and tools to carry into your week
You don’t have to dress up. You don’t have to be perfect.
You just have to show up—and we’ll take it from there.
But... Is It Awkward?
Here’s the truth: It might feel a little new at first. That’s totally normal.
But most of our clients say they feel more comfortable online—because they’re in their own space, wearing comfy clothes, maybe with tea in hand, and no stress of rushing through traffic.
After the first session or two, it feels just like sitting in a cozy therapy room—only it’s your living room instead.
Benefits of Online Therapy
More flexible scheduling (including evenings & weekends)
Less time off work
No commute or parking stress
More comfort and privacy
Access to the best therapist for you—not just who’s nearby
We Use a Secure, Confidential Platform
Your privacy matters. That’s why we use a HIPAA-compliant video platform. Your sessions are 100% confidential and secure—no one else can access them.
You don’t need to download anything. Just click the link we send, and you’re in.
Online Therapy Across Illinois
We proudly offer virtual therapy in:
Orland Park
Oak Lawn
Palos Heights
…and throughout the entire state of Illinois.
Dr. Steele also serves clients in over 30 additional states through PSYPACT!
Start Therapy from Wherever You Are
Online therapy is about meeting you where you are—emotionally and literally.
You deserve support that fits your life, your identity, and your healing journey. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
Let’s Get Started Together
Book a free consultation to see if online therapy feels right for you
🌿 **Start from your phone, your laptop, or wherever feels safe
Begin healing, one conversation at a time