Abstract

In recent years, the use of telemedicine has grown exponentially, offering an alternative to traditional in-person mental health therapy, particularly for patients requiring intense treatment. This research article examines the effectiveness of telemedicine compared to in-person mental health therapy for patients with severe mental health conditions such as major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Through a review of recent studies, meta-analyses, and clinical trials, this paper evaluates therapeutic outcomes, patient satisfaction, accessibility, and the limitations associated with each modality. The findings suggest that while both telemedicine and in-person therapy have comparable outcomes in some areas, telemedicine is more accessible but may face limitations concerning therapeutic rapport and patient engagement. The research calls for further studies to address specific populations that may benefit more from one modality over the other.