I don't have any experience with online therapy. If it is expensive I would definitely agree that face to face therapy would be better. But if it was something that could be done cheaply I wouldn't necessarily rule it out.

I think it is a very positive factor that you want to seek therapy and understand the rollercoaster that you may be on. When one is very depressed it may be very difficult to seek therapy because of the fatigue and the hopelessness. Then when one is feeling more "up" and may have the energy, they often don't seek help because they feel they don't need it. Having the desire and the energy to seek treatment with the understanding that you want a lasting solution is a point that a lot of people find it difficult to reach. I hope you will keep trying to look for options.

Can you find some support groups in your area to attend? They are not a replacement for therapy but can often help a lot, both in giving a reason to go out and leave the house once or twice a week, and then having the support and understanding of people to talk to. Its like having a group like this one here were people can understand and share their ideas, but the face-to-face makes it deeper and more meaningful and helpful, with the added benefit of travel to another location.

Good luck.