Online Therapy – A Guide to Remote Therapy

Updated 30 August 2026 · Editorial principles and sources

Online therapy has grown significantly in popularity. Therapy conducted via video or phone allows treatment from the comfort of home, making mental health services more accessible.

Benefits of online therapy

No need to travel – join from home
More flexible scheduling
Same therapist regardless of location
Lower threshold to start

How does online therapy work in practice?

Online therapy usually takes place via a secure video connection. Sessions last 45–50 minutes, just like in-person. You need:

Computer, tablet, or phone with camera
Stable internet connection
A quiet, private space

Kela coverage for online therapy

Kela can reimburse rehabilitation psychotherapy delivered by video call when the therapist and client agree on it, the client can also have in-person sessions, and the connection is secure (Kela benefit guidelines, 11 Sep 2026). Individual therapy is reimbursed at €57.60 per session (kela.fi, 1 Oct 2026).

Frequently asked questions

Online therapy usually takes place via a secure video connection. You need a computer, tablet, or phone and a quiet, private space. Sessions typically last 45–50 minutes, the same as in-person appointments.

Research suggests that therapy delivered remotely can work well in many situations, for example in treating depression and anxiety. Assess suitability together with your therapist. In an acute crisis, in-person care or emergency services may be a better option.

Yes. Kela can reimburse rehabilitation psychotherapy delivered by video call when the therapist and client agree on it and the client can also have in-person sessions. Kela remote rehabilitation is delivered by video call, so phone-only therapy is not reimbursed as rehabilitation psychotherapy. Individual therapy is reimbursed at €57.60 per session (kela.fi, 1 Oct 2026).

Related terms

Psykoterapia

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