Teletherapy for California
![Photo of Jeffrey Young - Open Mind Health , Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db078fa7-e44c-4c1a-ad60-cff20f2cafb6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Open Mind Health
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. With ease-of-access to our advanced telehealth platform or in-person visits, our expert psychiatrists and therapists offer highly individualized care wherever you are and whenever you need it. Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today at 855-550-6063 to get started!
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. With ease-of-access to our advanced telehealth platform or in-person visits, our expert psychiatrists and therapists offer highly individualized care wherever you are and whenever you need it. Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today at 855-550-6063 to get started!
![Photo of Walter Patrick Martin, LMFT, EMDR-C, C-LENS, CATP, CCTP-II, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/526b2118-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Walter Patrick Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR-C, C-LENS, CATP, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
Began Practice in 1999 Walter begins treatment with a brief solution focus treatment plan for couples, adults, children, teens. His style is respectful, interactive and dynamic. Walter also has published a book titled "Heart and Soul Toward Intimacy: Couples Workbook." Certified in LENS treatment helps your brain heal with low energy feedback, utilizing EEG color brain mapping technology provides freedom of life long symptoms. BEGIN by Logging into website, 1st complete new patient paperwork, 2nd schedule your appointment online at orange banner. Refundable Deposit required.
Began Practice in 1999 Walter begins treatment with a brief solution focus treatment plan for couples, adults, children, teens. His style is respectful, interactive and dynamic. Walter also has published a book titled "Heart and Soul Toward Intimacy: Couples Workbook." Certified in LENS treatment helps your brain heal with low energy feedback, utilizing EEG color brain mapping technology provides freedom of life long symptoms. BEGIN by Logging into website, 1st complete new patient paperwork, 2nd schedule your appointment online at orange banner. Refundable Deposit required.
![Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b330cd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
![Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, PhD,, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b94306c2-50b1-4d12-9e90-7e958822722d/3/320x400.jpeg)
In regular sessions with the Client, I offer the opportunity to explore the life in a safe space, with a monitored, experienced guide who can help select the timing for viewing the life experiences at a rate that does not overwhelm or frighten, but rather reveals and enlightens the understanding of the Client, as s/he views her/his life events.
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
In regular sessions with the Client, I offer the opportunity to explore the life in a safe space, with a monitored, experienced guide who can help select the timing for viewing the life experiences at a rate that does not overwhelm or frighten, but rather reveals and enlightens the understanding of the Client, as s/he views her/his life events.
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
![Photo of Carla Gwen Wilson - Carla G Wilson & Company, PPSC, MHRS, MA, CMHRS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66706b0d-353b-4a08-8984-44ecc6224d37/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked with families of all types, people who are experiencing anxiety, trauma, everyday life struggles, newly in recovery, incarcerated, just released, all types of parents I will work with you on setting goals for your future.
I love watching people become themselves and believe in themselves. I love seeing families heal and the look of love and happiness in someone's eyes when they realize it will be ok. I will work with you on setting goals for your future; college, a new job, better health, relationships, whatever is important to you.
I have worked with families of all types, people who are experiencing anxiety, trauma, everyday life struggles, newly in recovery, incarcerated, just released, all types of parents I will work with you on setting goals for your future.
I love watching people become themselves and believe in themselves. I love seeing families heal and the look of love and happiness in someone's eyes when they realize it will be ok. I will work with you on setting goals for your future; college, a new job, better health, relationships, whatever is important to you.
![Photo of Lucia C Cargill, PhD, MSN, MA, PHN, FNP-C](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4603db20-7942-4d8c-926f-e43832ae92ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Greetings! Welcome to our multidisciplinary, holistic, integrative mental health coaching practice. We are open to new ideas from Integrative/Functional Medicine, supportive care for your psychiatric needs, drug free care, and nutritional support. We believe whole body health is the best way to good brain health. Good brain health impacts mental health. We invite you to a different approach to brain health and mental health through coaching and support for referrals to the best functional medicine providers sourcing balance, resolution of inflammation & for all your whole body-mind-spirit healing. We invite you to join us for care.
Greetings! Welcome to our multidisciplinary, holistic, integrative mental health coaching practice. We are open to new ideas from Integrative/Functional Medicine, supportive care for your psychiatric needs, drug free care, and nutritional support. We believe whole body health is the best way to good brain health. Good brain health impacts mental health. We invite you to a different approach to brain health and mental health through coaching and support for referrals to the best functional medicine providers sourcing balance, resolution of inflammation & for all your whole body-mind-spirit healing. We invite you to join us for care.
![Photo of Counseling Services Inc. - Counseling Services, Inc., LMFT, PhD, MFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4611a2a0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling Services, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD, MFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230
At Counseling Services/LA Peace of Mind.com, we guide people to the light and empower themselves to heal. We help people who seek trust and freedom to be expressive, address life challenges, and barriers that interfere with growth and achieving life's goals.
At Counseling Services/LA Peace of Mind.com, we guide people to the light and empower themselves to heal. We help people who seek trust and freedom to be expressive, address life challenges, and barriers that interfere with growth and achieving life's goals.
![Photo of Robert Sack - Elevate Mental Health - Accepting New Clients, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68373aae-bdae-4083-8c7b-636a370003d6/1/320x400.png)
Elevate Mental Health - Accepting New Clients
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Camarillo, CA 93010
Our team of mental health providers are trained in individual, couples and family therapy, along with psychological assessments, life coaching and short-term solution focused therapy.
Elevate Mental Health is now accepting new clients both in person and telehealth! Call or email today. People struggle to live their true potential and get stuck in long standing behavior patterns and negative perceptions that hold them back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. We are here to help you break the cycle and begin to create change in your relationships, finances, career, education, athletic endeavors, and daily living. We want to help you with your anxiety, depression, marriage, addiction, trauma, stress or other life events. Call today so we can match you with the provider that can meet your needs.
Our team of mental health providers are trained in individual, couples and family therapy, along with psychological assessments, life coaching and short-term solution focused therapy.
Elevate Mental Health is now accepting new clients both in person and telehealth! Call or email today. People struggle to live their true potential and get stuck in long standing behavior patterns and negative perceptions that hold them back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. We are here to help you break the cycle and begin to create change in your relationships, finances, career, education, athletic endeavors, and daily living. We want to help you with your anxiety, depression, marriage, addiction, trauma, stress or other life events. Call today so we can match you with the provider that can meet your needs.
I love the work I do, although it involves dealing with people's painful life events and dynamics. I strongly believe in change. I am privileged because daily I witness our human capacity for healing and growth. My ideal client is the one ready to face truth, find hope and strength to change his or her life circumstances. My style, training, and professional experience emphasize understanding culture, working in the context of family and community, completing treatment goals, developing prevention plans and understanding our individual and family histories (short and long term treatment according to family or individual's needs).
I love the work I do, although it involves dealing with people's painful life events and dynamics. I strongly believe in change. I am privileged because daily I witness our human capacity for healing and growth. My ideal client is the one ready to face truth, find hope and strength to change his or her life circumstances. My style, training, and professional experience emphasize understanding culture, working in the context of family and community, completing treatment goals, developing prevention plans and understanding our individual and family histories (short and long term treatment according to family or individual's needs).
![Photo of Dr. Cassidy Blair, MA, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c94a38c9-1f7c-49d5-ac44-58cf0103b4b1/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
![Photo of Christina Marie Balistreri, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f7ba732-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Marie Balistreri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044 (Online Only)
I am passionate about giving others a place to explore life's challenges, build on their skills and strengths, and work from a place of resilience.
I have worked with a wide variety of clients dealing with a range of symptoms. I enjoy working with different clients from adults to kids and individual, families, couples and groups and I believe we can all learn from each other. I enjoy offering my experiences and skills to help others better understand themselves and their relationships. I understand that life challenges, both big and small, can affect people's mood and productivity. I am caring, compassionate, understanding and a great listener. I provide a very non-judgmental and caring space for clients to explore the challenges they are faced with.
I am passionate about giving others a place to explore life's challenges, build on their skills and strengths, and work from a place of resilience.
I have worked with a wide variety of clients dealing with a range of symptoms. I enjoy working with different clients from adults to kids and individual, families, couples and groups and I believe we can all learn from each other. I enjoy offering my experiences and skills to help others better understand themselves and their relationships. I understand that life challenges, both big and small, can affect people's mood and productivity. I am caring, compassionate, understanding and a great listener. I provide a very non-judgmental and caring space for clients to explore the challenges they are faced with.
![Photo of Jayn Rajandran - Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org, PsyD, PCC, LMFT, IO, CGE, DTS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/464c987a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, PCC, LMFT, IO, CGE, DTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
![Photo of Carol A Dela Torre, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/396f6289-163f-472c-9853-a2f613bb1667/1/320x400.jpeg)
I treat depression, anxiety, chronic mental illness, personality disorders, chronic illness, end of life issues, LGBTQ, sexual addictions, immigration, adolescents, internet addiction, men, multi-cultural clients and survivors of sexual abuse.
Thank you for taking a moment to view my profile. I am currently accepting new clients and I will return all calls promptly. I offer a grounded and authentic approach to therapy. I'm a therapist that supports and engages you instead of sitting back analzying you. My specialities include over 25 years working with couples, child and adult survivors of sexual trauma, domestic violence, adolescents, young adults and parenting teens and all issues around adoption and foster care. I have experience working with individuals who have problems with pornography addiction, sexual addiction and Alpha Males. I work with PTSD and trauma from the military. .
I treat depression, anxiety, chronic mental illness, personality disorders, chronic illness, end of life issues, LGBTQ, sexual addictions, immigration, adolescents, internet addiction, men, multi-cultural clients and survivors of sexual abuse.
Thank you for taking a moment to view my profile. I am currently accepting new clients and I will return all calls promptly. I offer a grounded and authentic approach to therapy. I'm a therapist that supports and engages you instead of sitting back analzying you. My specialities include over 25 years working with couples, child and adult survivors of sexual trauma, domestic violence, adolescents, young adults and parenting teens and all issues around adoption and foster care. I have experience working with individuals who have problems with pornography addiction, sexual addiction and Alpha Males. I work with PTSD and trauma from the military. .
![Photo of David Daleo, MA, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd01e78-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
"I am a seasoned clinical psychologist, with years of clinical experience treating individuals and couples. Please review my website, you will see my pre and post doctoral fellowships were each at the highest possible accreditation levels; The American Psychological Association. When selecting a clinical psychologist, please ask them about their training and clinical experience. Financial consideration is important, however, this is your treatment, your life, and your potential. I suggest you treat your selection of a psychologist as you would a highly trained orthopedic surgeon." MPPA awarded Top 10 Therapists in LA for 2021.
"I am a seasoned clinical psychologist, with years of clinical experience treating individuals and couples. Please review my website, you will see my pre and post doctoral fellowships were each at the highest possible accreditation levels; The American Psychological Association. When selecting a clinical psychologist, please ask them about their training and clinical experience. Financial consideration is important, however, this is your treatment, your life, and your potential. I suggest you treat your selection of a psychologist as you would a highly trained orthopedic surgeon." MPPA awarded Top 10 Therapists in LA for 2021.
![Photo of Dr. Tristan C. Buzzini, PsyD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97ce3509-e859-4a31-a670-159c523cfaf4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I sincerely believe in whole-person wellness and that mind, body, and spirit need to be nurtured for overall mental health and well-being to be stabilized. It is my hope to support you in taking the steps you believe need to be taken to live a healthy, fulfilling, peaceful, and empowered life. As an expert in mindfulness and meditation, I work with adults and teens to effectively manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, impulsivity, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am also skilled in working with individuals who struggle with substance use, conduct disorders, and academic challenges.
I sincerely believe in whole-person wellness and that mind, body, and spirit need to be nurtured for overall mental health and well-being to be stabilized. It is my hope to support you in taking the steps you believe need to be taken to live a healthy, fulfilling, peaceful, and empowered life. As an expert in mindfulness and meditation, I work with adults and teens to effectively manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, impulsivity, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am also skilled in working with individuals who struggle with substance use, conduct disorders, and academic challenges.
![Photo of Felicia Santiago, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa23fb8f-e88d-4469-8a19-fb5819bf3699/2/320x400.jpeg)
As your therapist, I understand that people experience different struggles in life.
First off, I want to commend anyone who is taking the initiative to search and scour the Internet for extra support. I know how daunting the process can be, but you are here and this is the first step. Life can be stressful and scary at times. We all come from different walks of life, and sometimes we can not take on the world alone. My name is Felicia Santiago, and I hope to be a support to you by creating a safe space for you to express yourself. I am versatile in my approach and use a variety of therapeutic approaches based on individual clients and their presenting concerns. - email preferred and full monday availability!
As your therapist, I understand that people experience different struggles in life.
First off, I want to commend anyone who is taking the initiative to search and scour the Internet for extra support. I know how daunting the process can be, but you are here and this is the first step. Life can be stressful and scary at times. We all come from different walks of life, and sometimes we can not take on the world alone. My name is Felicia Santiago, and I hope to be a support to you by creating a safe space for you to express yourself. I am versatile in my approach and use a variety of therapeutic approaches based on individual clients and their presenting concerns. - email preferred and full monday availability!
![Photo of Jayn Rajandran - Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org, PsyD, LMFT, IO, Psych, CGE, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/464c9630-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, IO, Psych, CGE
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, sexual abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
![Photo of Eva Gonzales - Gonzales Family Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a3786d7-aec3-4ba1-af33-7775a83e0579/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gonzales Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
At Gonzales Family Counseling, it is our honor to develop a client centered relationship in order to promote hope, healing, and accessing one's best self. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, parents, and families.
At Gonzales Family Counseling, it is our honor to develop a client centered relationship in order to promote hope, healing, and accessing one's best self. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, parents, and families.
![Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49234749-8ec9-4913-9023-7d94ac418a1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
![Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bdebdc5-d41c-4fea-8161-ee3e0a2bebd3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
See more therapy options for California
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.