Some people choose online counseling over face-to-face therapy because they're more comfortable with writing, and feel they can be more honest and open about their problems. Some people find online counseling gives them a way to talk about things that they might not have otherwise talked about.

Many people find email counseling preferable because it gives them time to think through what they need to say, and the opportunity to read and re-read their therapist's responses.

While others prefer online counseling in real-time (with instant messaging) because it combines the advantages of email counseling with the immediacy of the therapist's responses. And both mediums allow you to converse in the comfort of your own home.