Hi Artie,
Some people do use the Internet for the basis of their friendship circle for many reasons...
Perhaps loneliness is at the top of that list.

IRL, I am fortunate in having close friends; some I've known for years, others for a shorter time.
Internet-wise, it takes me longer to trust people enough that I consider them friends. It's most likely true that they do the same thing.

Therapy? Only you can make that decision.
Jmo, but not everyone needs it, or like you, wants it. I do believe, though, that it is beneficial when depression, among other things, are making life difficult.

Cap