Teletherapy for Midtown - San Diego, CA
![Photo of Dr. Eric van der Voort, PsyD, CST, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69ed747b-00ca-4b50-bdfa-d46cd6db03df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Eric van der Voort
Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
As a Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist, my passion is supporting individuals and couples to reignite their intimacy and reclaim their sex life.
Are distracting thoughts or insecurities making it difficult for you to get or sustain your erection during sex? Do you feel helpless as you and your partner continue to argue about sex despite having tried to work through the issue? Do your kinky fantasies or porn use leave you feeling confused, guilty, or ashamed? Let's talk. I specialize in working with kinky, non-monogamous, & LGBTQ+ individuals and couples to resolve sexual performance anxiety, communication difficulties, desire discrepancies, substance use, and sexual guilt & shame. I also help straight-identified men understand and appreciate their attraction to trans women.
As a Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist, my passion is supporting individuals and couples to reignite their intimacy and reclaim their sex life.
Are distracting thoughts or insecurities making it difficult for you to get or sustain your erection during sex? Do you feel helpless as you and your partner continue to argue about sex despite having tried to work through the issue? Do your kinky fantasies or porn use leave you feeling confused, guilty, or ashamed? Let's talk. I specialize in working with kinky, non-monogamous, & LGBTQ+ individuals and couples to resolve sexual performance anxiety, communication difficulties, desire discrepancies, substance use, and sexual guilt & shame. I also help straight-identified men understand and appreciate their attraction to trans women.
![Photo of Julie Kyker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af0d45cb-398d-453c-88f3-52fd5da651c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Kyker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
COUPLES: Are you struggling with feeling close and connected with your partner or other loved ones? Do you feel like you get caught in the same cycle over little (and big) topics? Do you want to become best friends and lovers again? INDIVIDUALS: Do you want to feel more free to be yourself? More confident in your choices? Perhaps there are some emotional wounds that need healing and/or you need to feel less alone with yourself and with those you love. ALL: Do you want to love and respect the opposite sex (or your own) better? Feel safer in relationships again? It's never too late to uncover your true self and to truly live.
COUPLES: Are you struggling with feeling close and connected with your partner or other loved ones? Do you feel like you get caught in the same cycle over little (and big) topics? Do you want to become best friends and lovers again? INDIVIDUALS: Do you want to feel more free to be yourself? More confident in your choices? Perhaps there are some emotional wounds that need healing and/or you need to feel less alone with yourself and with those you love. ALL: Do you want to love and respect the opposite sex (or your own) better? Feel safer in relationships again? It's never too late to uncover your true self and to truly live.
![Photo of Matt Bishop, LMFT, EdD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44cef805-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matt Bishop
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EdD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
I want our relationship to be one where you feel known & I also want you to feel like you genuinely know me as well.
I help people get unstuck, break free, find clarity, and move forward. When we work together, you will experience a space free of judgment and full of grace and understanding, you will also experience challenges to set aside behaviors that no longer serve you, and you'll be encouraged to identify with the bravest, kindest, most hopeful part of yourself. My clients often say to me with a smile, "you are harder on me than my previous therapist(s)" and my response is often the same, "It's because I believe in you." And I do! You've got a beautiful life to get on living.
I want our relationship to be one where you feel known & I also want you to feel like you genuinely know me as well.
I help people get unstuck, break free, find clarity, and move forward. When we work together, you will experience a space free of judgment and full of grace and understanding, you will also experience challenges to set aside behaviors that no longer serve you, and you'll be encouraged to identify with the bravest, kindest, most hopeful part of yourself. My clients often say to me with a smile, "you are harder on me than my previous therapist(s)" and my response is often the same, "It's because I believe in you." And I do! You've got a beautiful life to get on living.
![Photo of Shannon Little, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c54ec31-a9be-4478-8683-554a5dab4eda/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with women, men, young adults, and teens on a number of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, relationship issues, and grief & loss.
If you desire change and healing in areas of your life, I would love to walk alongside you in the counseling room to unpack your story and help you explore what that healing could look like. My aim is to provide a safe, compassionate, and authentic space for you to feel seen and known as you process your present and past. If you're hoping to address traumatic memories and PTSD symptoms, I also provide EMDR therapy as a specialized option for working through trauma and distressing experiences.
I work with women, men, young adults, and teens on a number of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, relationship issues, and grief & loss.
If you desire change and healing in areas of your life, I would love to walk alongside you in the counseling room to unpack your story and help you explore what that healing could look like. My aim is to provide a safe, compassionate, and authentic space for you to feel seen and known as you process your present and past. If you're hoping to address traumatic memories and PTSD symptoms, I also provide EMDR therapy as a specialized option for working through trauma and distressing experiences.
![Photo of Stacy Bonds, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcafbb06-d7b0-4f2a-a724-51cafb85f9f8/3/320x400.jpeg)
I value working with clients facing all kinds of difficulties, but specialize in working with PTSD, anxiety, OCD, depression, relationship difficulties, sexuality, and gender issues.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has a warm and compassionate approach to therapy, which encourages active collaboration. I have a passion for walking alongside others in the midst of struggle. When you come to therapy, it’s like you are trying to climb a mountain; I am not at the top of your mountain but, rather, on another mountain, offering a different perspective, pointing out potential dangers, and helping you find the most effective path along your journey.
I value working with clients facing all kinds of difficulties, but specialize in working with PTSD, anxiety, OCD, depression, relationship difficulties, sexuality, and gender issues.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has a warm and compassionate approach to therapy, which encourages active collaboration. I have a passion for walking alongside others in the midst of struggle. When you come to therapy, it’s like you are trying to climb a mountain; I am not at the top of your mountain but, rather, on another mountain, offering a different perspective, pointing out potential dangers, and helping you find the most effective path along your journey.
![Photo of Mona Klausing - NISD Counseling, AMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0db2e12-b80d-497c-a9ad-3ce6cb6826ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
NISD Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
NISD Counseling is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide access to affordable individual, couples, family, and group therapy services to clients of diverse abilities, cultures, genders, religions, sexual orientations and documentation statuses. Our clients come from all walks of life, some are new to therapy while many are familiar with therapy but want to try a different approach where their strengths and values will be centered. We provide a confidential space to discuss challenges as well as opportunities. Ask about our 5-session Relational Therapy package for $100 total with our MFT Graduate Student therapists.
NISD Counseling is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide access to affordable individual, couples, family, and group therapy services to clients of diverse abilities, cultures, genders, religions, sexual orientations and documentation statuses. Our clients come from all walks of life, some are new to therapy while many are familiar with therapy but want to try a different approach where their strengths and values will be centered. We provide a confidential space to discuss challenges as well as opportunities. Ask about our 5-session Relational Therapy package for $100 total with our MFT Graduate Student therapists.
![Photo of Em Mitchell, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/735cd052-237f-4c85-a207-8deea08d5c8c/1/320x400.png)
Em Mitchell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
Struggling in your relationship? Feeling like nothing you do turns out right or gets you what you want? I'm here to help you get unstuck from frustrating patterns and find a new way forward. We'll work to understand what's going wrong and make tangible changes towards connection and the relationship that fits you.
Struggling in your relationship? Feeling like nothing you do turns out right or gets you what you want? I'm here to help you get unstuck from frustrating patterns and find a new way forward. We'll work to understand what's going wrong and make tangible changes towards connection and the relationship that fits you.
![Photo of Scott Altamirano, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb975b8b-6f65-45c9-b4f2-5e86ac161218/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
Continuously evolving my practice, I provide services such as letter writing and partner consultations.
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
Continuously evolving my practice, I provide services such as letter writing and partner consultations.
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
![Photo of Scott Altamirano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d284d9f0-1a85-462b-8a74-629430467f0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving, acceptance, and peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples working through sobriety-recovery dynamics, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving, acceptance, and peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples working through sobriety-recovery dynamics, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
![Photo of Marisa K Padilla, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50334e21-0437-4f1b-9464-fa31326fa6b2/2/320x400.png)
Marisa K Padilla
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
Are you a Millennial or Gen Z individual struggling with relationship challenges? Do you feel overwhelmed with new connections, dating, relationship insecurity, or enduring relationship changes? Do you wonder how your relationships could be better? Now more than ever, individuals are feeling challenged in building and maintaining healthy connections, letting go of unhelpful relationship patterns, and navigating relationship insecurities & changes. Whether you are navigating divorce, people-pleasing behaviors, low self-esteem, or boundary setting, I'm here to guide you toward emotional security and confidence in your relationships.
Are you a Millennial or Gen Z individual struggling with relationship challenges? Do you feel overwhelmed with new connections, dating, relationship insecurity, or enduring relationship changes? Do you wonder how your relationships could be better? Now more than ever, individuals are feeling challenged in building and maintaining healthy connections, letting go of unhelpful relationship patterns, and navigating relationship insecurities & changes. Whether you are navigating divorce, people-pleasing behaviors, low self-esteem, or boundary setting, I'm here to guide you toward emotional security and confidence in your relationships.
![Photo of Scott D Altamirano, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/467433f5-6b22-4db2-9139-959f78a5365f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
Continuously evolving my practice, I provide services such as letter writing and partner consultations.
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
Continuously evolving my practice, I provide services such as letter writing and partner consultations.
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
![Photo of Scott D Altamirano, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9b16ce5-c9db-4feb-b26b-8daf8c428e1c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
Continuously evolving my practice, I provide services such as letter writing and partner consultations.
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
Continuously evolving my practice, I provide services such as letter writing and partner consultations.
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
![Photo of Genevieve Gonzales Lcsw Rapid Resolution Therapy, LCSW, MSW, PPS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a72dc9f-3fd4-45b2-9c0f-e73dccc18549/4/320x400.jpeg)
Genevieve Gonzales Lcsw Rapid Resolution Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, PPS
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
I facilitate meaningful transformations for individuals & couples who have been suffering from many various challenges such as sexual trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, & depression. Using Rapid Resolution Therapy created by Dr. Jon Connelly & Holistic nutritional practices I address issues at their root cause to generate results quickly & in each session. The techniques utilized during our session are painless, interesting & many people even say fun, so healing and beneficial shifts in your mind & body can occur effortlessly and automatically. I have been told that "it felt like a dark cloud lifted" after just 1 session.
I facilitate meaningful transformations for individuals & couples who have been suffering from many various challenges such as sexual trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, & depression. Using Rapid Resolution Therapy created by Dr. Jon Connelly & Holistic nutritional practices I address issues at their root cause to generate results quickly & in each session. The techniques utilized during our session are painless, interesting & many people even say fun, so healing and beneficial shifts in your mind & body can occur effortlessly and automatically. I have been told that "it felt like a dark cloud lifted" after just 1 session.
![Photo of Pilar M. Placone, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b31efa8-8730-4282-8b28-c0830c3734b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pilar M. Placone
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
I love to work with Couples, Teens, Individuals and Families who have been affected by addiction, abuse, betrayal, illness, financial stress, life trauma/suicide and relationship neglect.
The relationship between therapist and client is one of the most unique and confidential relationships there is. Studies show the alliance the therapist cultivates with his/her/them client is crucial to therapeutic-effectivity. Helping you review your life and identify the changes you want to make is a sacred and respectful process. I provide each client the best quality care and will support you in examining the underlying issues causing pain and discouraging patterns. I am honest, compassionate, directive, and I want you to see promising changes in the life you want and deserve as soon as possible.
I love to work with Couples, Teens, Individuals and Families who have been affected by addiction, abuse, betrayal, illness, financial stress, life trauma/suicide and relationship neglect.
The relationship between therapist and client is one of the most unique and confidential relationships there is. Studies show the alliance the therapist cultivates with his/her/them client is crucial to therapeutic-effectivity. Helping you review your life and identify the changes you want to make is a sacred and respectful process. I provide each client the best quality care and will support you in examining the underlying issues causing pain and discouraging patterns. I am honest, compassionate, directive, and I want you to see promising changes in the life you want and deserve as soon as possible.
![Photo of Nicole Logan, LPC, EMDR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7999186c-b76b-4910-9543-3f4662772868/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
![Photo of Shelley Davidescu, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f1f419-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shelley Davidescu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
**VIDEO & IN PERSON SESSIONS AVAILABLE**Tossing and turning, can't sleep, worried all the time and so much change feels uncertain. Though I've never met you, I imagine how uncertain it feels to have so much change happening at once and your relationships under stress. Whether you're in a relationship or just ended one, you probably find yourself overthinking and feeling lonely and disconnected. Sometimes you just need to talk things out in a safe place with zero judgment with a strategy and a direction towards a solution.
**VIDEO & IN PERSON SESSIONS AVAILABLE**Tossing and turning, can't sleep, worried all the time and so much change feels uncertain. Though I've never met you, I imagine how uncertain it feels to have so much change happening at once and your relationships under stress. Whether you're in a relationship or just ended one, you probably find yourself overthinking and feeling lonely and disconnected. Sometimes you just need to talk things out in a safe place with zero judgment with a strategy and a direction towards a solution.
![Photo of Eva Michelle Belanger, MA, MFT, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e7fe68b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Eva Michelle Belanger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, SEP
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
I'm specialized in trauma for individuals, couples and/or families.
Human beings have an innate capacity towards healing and are unconsciously driven to be better psychologically, even when we think we are at our worst. In other words, we already have all we need to get better, we just need to access it. Naturally, our bodies, minds, and hearts seek equilibrium, peace and ultimately joy; a fully embodied human coherence. Together, in a safe, compassionate, and non judgmental environment we can create positive change for you. My personal goal is to be a safe container for you to explore your internal self, while ultimately helping you reach the goals you aim to achieve in therapy. I truly believe in people and their ability to self actualize, heal, and to live life with happiness and satisfaction.
I'm specialized in trauma for individuals, couples and/or families.
Human beings have an innate capacity towards healing and are unconsciously driven to be better psychologically, even when we think we are at our worst. In other words, we already have all we need to get better, we just need to access it. Naturally, our bodies, minds, and hearts seek equilibrium, peace and ultimately joy; a fully embodied human coherence. Together, in a safe, compassionate, and non judgmental environment we can create positive change for you. My personal goal is to be a safe container for you to explore your internal self, while ultimately helping you reach the goals you aim to achieve in therapy. I truly believe in people and their ability to self actualize, heal, and to live life with happiness and satisfaction.
![Photo of Pete Mcclintock, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c16a80d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Pete Mcclintock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
Experience matters! I have been practicing for over 35 years. Finding the right therapist is not always an easy task. I possess a wealth of knowledge, and provide the comfort and confidence that can only come from a seasoned professional.. I specialize in treating children and adolescents but also work with adults, both individually and in couples therapy.
Experience matters! I have been practicing for over 35 years. Finding the right therapist is not always an easy task. I possess a wealth of knowledge, and provide the comfort and confidence that can only come from a seasoned professional.. I specialize in treating children and adolescents but also work with adults, both individually and in couples therapy.
![Photo of Jodi Staszak, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ead4a18-7302-465c-a638-621039f36a2c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jodi Staszak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Midtown, San Diego, CA 92103
Choosing a therapist can be a daunting task, and I believe that finding that right fit is an essential part of your therapeutic journey. I place great value on the therapeutic relationship and will strive to earn your trust while fostering a relaxed, empathetic and supportive environment. I take a collaborative approach and work at a pace that feels comfortable for you as I appreciate just how challenging this work can be. I have considerable experience in working with military, I specialize in couple therapy using EFT, I'm certified in the model of AEDP and I have experience facilitating DBT, EFT and Codependency groups.
Choosing a therapist can be a daunting task, and I believe that finding that right fit is an essential part of your therapeutic journey. I place great value on the therapeutic relationship and will strive to earn your trust while fostering a relaxed, empathetic and supportive environment. I take a collaborative approach and work at a pace that feels comfortable for you as I appreciate just how challenging this work can be. I have considerable experience in working with military, I specialize in couple therapy using EFT, I'm certified in the model of AEDP and I have experience facilitating DBT, EFT and Codependency groups.
![Photo of Leona Esmaeily, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1794dfe1-09c4-417b-b625-d2e56a48a16c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also specialize in working with couples.
Do you feel anxious due to your work, family issues, low self-esteem, and relationship issues? I can especially help those with anxiety/panic attacks. I make it a priority to help clients with buried feelings who have trouble speaking on their emotions. Communicating emotionally is extremely important to promote well-rounded and mature adults. I will help you enhance your self-awareness around unhelpful thought and behavior patterns and build skills necessary to handle life more effectively and develop actionable steps to reach your goals.
I also specialize in working with couples.
Do you feel anxious due to your work, family issues, low self-esteem, and relationship issues? I can especially help those with anxiety/panic attacks. I make it a priority to help clients with buried feelings who have trouble speaking on their emotions. Communicating emotionally is extremely important to promote well-rounded and mature adults. I will help you enhance your self-awareness around unhelpful thought and behavior patterns and build skills necessary to handle life more effectively and develop actionable steps to reach your goals.
See more therapy options for Midtown, San Diego
Nearby Online Therapists Searches for Midtown, San Diego
- Balboa Park
- Columbia
- Core
- Cortez Hill
- Downtown
- Hillcrest
- Little Italy
- Mission Hills
- Mission Valley
- Old Town
- Park West
- West University Heights
Online Therapists
Is online therapy as effective as in-person?
Numerous studies suggest that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy. However, further research is needed to determine if online therapy provides the same benefits across all client populations. Individuals with severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or those who may benefit from in-person check-ins, like those with eating disorders, may not experience the same level of benefit from online therapy. Nonetheless, the success of online therapy, much like in-person therapy, often hinges on the quality of the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client rather than the specific modality of therapy used.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of therapy conducted online?
One of the main advantages of online therapy is its convenience for both clients and therapists. It also allows clients who require specialized therapy to access a wider range of professionals than they could with only in-person sessions. Additionally, online therapy may be a more affordable option in some cases and often offers the same insurance benefits as in-person therapy. However, online therapy may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who value face-to-face interaction with a therapist. Therapists may find it more challenging to assess clients accurately in an online setting due to reduced nonverbal cues on camera. There is also the increased risk that disruptions caused by external factors, such as technology malfunctions, can hinder the therapy session. For these reasons, many therapists offer a "hybrid" therapeutic approach, alternating between seeing clients in-person and online.
Is online therapy suitable for children and adolescents?
Just like with adults, the accessibility and convenience of online therapy can greatly benefit children and adolescents. In fact, children and adolescents may be more accustomed to navigating online platforms than older adults, making online sessions feel more natural for them. Teens might also be interested in using additional online tools, such as therapist-recommended apps, as an adjunct to online therapy sessions. Apps for developing CBT skills, practicing mindfulness exercises, or tracking thoughts and moods can be helpful for teens receiving therapy. However, it's important to note that not all therapeutic modalities are well-suited to online therapy, especially those used with younger children. For example, play therapy, which helps younger children express their emotions, often requires in-person sessions to be fully effective.
Can I receive prescriptions and medication management with online therapy?
The ability for psychiatrists to prescribe medications through online therapy varies based on the medication and the states where the medical professional and client are located. While many prescribing regulations were relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic, some states still enforce rules, especially concerning controlled substances, which may mandate an in-person visit before prescribing. Generally, however, medical professionals can prescribe non-controlled substances through online therapy sessions just as they do during in-person sessions.