Teletherapy for Columbus, OH
![Photo of Velecia Luckette - Victory Mental Health Services of Columbus, LLC, LPCC-S, MEd](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39ccc644-67f4-40b8-92dc-1ecfff6c31a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Victory Mental Health Services of Columbus, LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43206
Waitlist for new clients
How many times in life do you put off doing what you want or need? Sometimes your own fears might get in the way. Other times, you might fear what your friends, family or community will think or say. When it comes to your health, you are what matters. If you are experiencing mood changes, feelings of sadness, isolation, fear or anger and want to find the source of these emotions, schedule an appointment today. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not a weakness. Confidential services are available for children and adults.
How many times in life do you put off doing what you want or need? Sometimes your own fears might get in the way. Other times, you might fear what your friends, family or community will think or say. When it comes to your health, you are what matters. If you are experiencing mood changes, feelings of sadness, isolation, fear or anger and want to find the source of these emotions, schedule an appointment today. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not a weakness. Confidential services are available for children and adults.
![Photo of Acacia Cook-Quaintance - Free Spirit Counseling, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcfb7f7e-9024-40d5-9b67-67932518458c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Free Spirit Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215 (Online Only)
Your story matters. Do you feel like you're stuck dealing with life stress, maybe crippling effects from a trauma that is making daily life harder to cope with? It can feel scary to reach out for help but finding the right therapist can make that journey feel less scary. At Free Spirit Counseling we work to make clients feel connected during therapy which helps them to make the most progress. Our therapists specialize in many areas of mental health and life transitions and can help in all areas of life.
Your story matters. Do you feel like you're stuck dealing with life stress, maybe crippling effects from a trauma that is making daily life harder to cope with? It can feel scary to reach out for help but finding the right therapist can make that journey feel less scary. At Free Spirit Counseling we work to make clients feel connected during therapy which helps them to make the most progress. Our therapists specialize in many areas of mental health and life transitions and can help in all areas of life.
![Photo of Kelley Kramer Sieger, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0180f5e-d01a-4f80-a463-2dcb8554c43c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelley Kramer Sieger
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
Licensed in Ohio (in-person and online) and Michigan (online only). Are you feeling overwhelmed, burdened, or weighed down by past resentments and future worries? These feelings can lead to emotional and physical pain that impacts significant aspects of your life. I specialize in helping individuals (ages 18-65+) and families navigate these challenges and find relief. With a deep passion for supporting clients through various major life transitions, my practice focuses on improving the relationships that matter, healing from the destructive ones, and lessening or alleviating emotional and physical pain.
Licensed in Ohio (in-person and online) and Michigan (online only). Are you feeling overwhelmed, burdened, or weighed down by past resentments and future worries? These feelings can lead to emotional and physical pain that impacts significant aspects of your life. I specialize in helping individuals (ages 18-65+) and families navigate these challenges and find relief. With a deep passion for supporting clients through various major life transitions, my practice focuses on improving the relationships that matter, healing from the destructive ones, and lessening or alleviating emotional and physical pain.
![Photo of Edward A. Perin, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/163a234d-6ea9-4af8-ab0a-e864643dae43/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I work online with adults around anxiety, work stress, relationship concerns, self-esteem, and trauma. My specialization is in depth psychotherapy, which is focused on getting to the bottom of our emotional issues, like how our experiences influenced our personality, and delves into the unconscious to explore the roots of our desires and pain. While this can be done short-term and solution-focused, the people who are the best fit for this approach are looking for a long-term commitment to understand themselves and relate to their pain more skillfully. I do not promise quick-fixes, my focus is on deep and meaningful change.
Welcome! I work online with adults around anxiety, work stress, relationship concerns, self-esteem, and trauma. My specialization is in depth psychotherapy, which is focused on getting to the bottom of our emotional issues, like how our experiences influenced our personality, and delves into the unconscious to explore the roots of our desires and pain. While this can be done short-term and solution-focused, the people who are the best fit for this approach are looking for a long-term commitment to understand themselves and relate to their pain more skillfully. I do not promise quick-fixes, my focus is on deep and meaningful change.
![Photo of Brandy L Brown, MA, LPCC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49ead45e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
It’s amazing how different life can look when we shift our focus. A fresh perspective and a change of perception can go a long way for old habits and patterns of thinking. Renewing our minds is transformative! Whether this a tough season for you or you feel like you’ve been in the wilderness all of your life, change can happen. Truth be told, counseling is hard work. Showing up for yourself is hard and confronting areas you need to change is hard. Staying the same is hard…to all of that, we do our best to "choose our hard"! You don't have to do this alone! Relationship concerns? Anxiety? Depression? Divorce, etc? All of the above?
It’s amazing how different life can look when we shift our focus. A fresh perspective and a change of perception can go a long way for old habits and patterns of thinking. Renewing our minds is transformative! Whether this a tough season for you or you feel like you’ve been in the wilderness all of your life, change can happen. Truth be told, counseling is hard work. Showing up for yourself is hard and confronting areas you need to change is hard. Staying the same is hard…to all of that, we do our best to "choose our hard"! You don't have to do this alone! Relationship concerns? Anxiety? Depression? Divorce, etc? All of the above?
![Photo of Shelby Cook - Cook Counseling and Consulting Inc., MSW, LISW-S, LCSW-QS, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff2f8d0e-5a92-4035-8c6e-b4fa48f41dea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cook Counseling and Consulting Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW-QS, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
Hi there! We are Cook Counseling and Consulting Inc., a group of psychotherapists with diverse experiences and specialties. We work with clients with various concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, BPD, and trauma. We use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Cognitive Processing (CPT), Dialectical (DBT), Couples Therapy, and Trauma Focused therapies. We believe in treating everyone with respect and working with clients and couples to identify strengths and develop the skills to navigate life's challenges. We also offer supervision for LSWs seeking independent licensure.
Hi there! We are Cook Counseling and Consulting Inc., a group of psychotherapists with diverse experiences and specialties. We work with clients with various concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, BPD, and trauma. We use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Cognitive Processing (CPT), Dialectical (DBT), Couples Therapy, and Trauma Focused therapies. We believe in treating everyone with respect and working with clients and couples to identify strengths and develop the skills to navigate life's challenges. We also offer supervision for LSWs seeking independent licensure.
![Photo of Vaya Fraley - I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/579d40f7-543a-40c6-b28b-9b5c18a9bffc/2/320x400.jpeg)
I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215 (Online Only)
Are you haunted by your past? Experiencing feelings of anxiety, too many sleepless nights, or torturing yourself with guilt? Stop suffering in silence. It's time to heal! I am Vaya Fraley, aka "The Well-Abled Therapist", Co-founder of I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services, and Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) in Ohio and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia. I specialize in serving Black women with visible disabilities/chronic illness who struggle with emotional trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Are you haunted by your past? Experiencing feelings of anxiety, too many sleepless nights, or torturing yourself with guilt? Stop suffering in silence. It's time to heal! I am Vaya Fraley, aka "The Well-Abled Therapist", Co-founder of I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services, and Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) in Ohio and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia. I specialize in serving Black women with visible disabilities/chronic illness who struggle with emotional trauma, depression, and anxiety.
![Photo of Shira Alt, MS, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d54a916-f5dd-4356-981c-08d3ffe312fb/4/320x400.jpeg)
Shira Alt
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43209 (Online Only)
Relationships can be the source of our deepest joy or most profound pain. It is my passion to accompany couples and support them in the life-changing work of growing their relationship. Perhaps your life has gotten so busy that you’ve grown distant and feel like roommates? Maybe things have happened that have eroded your trust? Does your relationship lack the spark and intimacy you want? You don’t need to continue living with loneliness, frustration, and disconnection. I can help you learn new ways to communicate, understand, and bond with your partner to discover a new version of your relationship.
Relationships can be the source of our deepest joy or most profound pain. It is my passion to accompany couples and support them in the life-changing work of growing their relationship. Perhaps your life has gotten so busy that you’ve grown distant and feel like roommates? Maybe things have happened that have eroded your trust? Does your relationship lack the spark and intimacy you want? You don’t need to continue living with loneliness, frustration, and disconnection. I can help you learn new ways to communicate, understand, and bond with your partner to discover a new version of your relationship.
![Photo of Caitlin Faas, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d02032e2-6394-46cc-afb2-f2e06bc1fa70/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help experts get out of the hamster wheel. They overcome the self-sabotages of procrastination, overeating, overdrinking, and more. My clients want a clear result, but feel stuck on doing it themselves. They've tried all the regular tips and tricks. I help them achieve the result and cheer them along on each step.
I help experts get out of the hamster wheel. They overcome the self-sabotages of procrastination, overeating, overdrinking, and more. My clients want a clear result, but feel stuck on doing it themselves. They've tried all the regular tips and tricks. I help them achieve the result and cheer them along on each step.
![Photo of Molly M Heit, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84e29219-14c2-4fb5-9c17-49517da67b86/1/320x400.png)
Molly M Heit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Congratulations for taking the first step in thinking about entering therapy. Life can throw many curve balls and can be very challenging to even get through the day. My goal is to provide a non-judgmental, empathetic, trauma informed and sex-positive experience for all my clients as they navigate their own personal, relationship, gender or sexuality related concerns. I will work along with you to new pathways to healing and happiness. Additionally, I am fluent in American Sign Language as 2nd language with significant knowledge in Deaf Culture and can work with individuals/couples who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
Congratulations for taking the first step in thinking about entering therapy. Life can throw many curve balls and can be very challenging to even get through the day. My goal is to provide a non-judgmental, empathetic, trauma informed and sex-positive experience for all my clients as they navigate their own personal, relationship, gender or sexuality related concerns. I will work along with you to new pathways to healing and happiness. Additionally, I am fluent in American Sign Language as 2nd language with significant knowledge in Deaf Culture and can work with individuals/couples who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
![Photo of Mitch And Lisa - Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops, PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa2ae599-5a64-45e0-9f0b-4421c53e2bc1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
![Photo of Brianna Gooden, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54528600-5bcb-43cb-a0f5-0a1b4a9318cd/1/320x400.png)
Are you facing difficulties communicating with your spouse or partner? Do you feel trapped in your relationship or struggling with issues such as financial stress, infidelity, or other relationship challenges? Are you yearning for a more meaningful and fulfilling life? My primary objective is to establish a genuine connection with you, understanding your circumstances and aspirations. During our initial sessions, we will collaboratively craft a comprehensive plan for change, outlining specific steps to initiate progress promptly.
Are you facing difficulties communicating with your spouse or partner? Do you feel trapped in your relationship or struggling with issues such as financial stress, infidelity, or other relationship challenges? Are you yearning for a more meaningful and fulfilling life? My primary objective is to establish a genuine connection with you, understanding your circumstances and aspirations. During our initial sessions, we will collaboratively craft a comprehensive plan for change, outlining specific steps to initiate progress promptly.
![Photo of Shanaye Carr, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7fb7405-3826-4b8e-9584-34e48ee45286/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shanaye Carr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230 (Online Only)
I received my Master of Education from The Ohio University, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Rehabilitation Counseling. I worked at a community mental health center, focusing on behavior modification, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, OCD, borderline personality disorder, trauma-related disorders, and dual diagnosis. I’m equally passionate about self-discovery, spiritual exploration, and working with marginalized groups. I emphasize the importance of multicultural competency in my professional and personal life.
I received my Master of Education from The Ohio University, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Rehabilitation Counseling. I worked at a community mental health center, focusing on behavior modification, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, OCD, borderline personality disorder, trauma-related disorders, and dual diagnosis. I’m equally passionate about self-discovery, spiritual exploration, and working with marginalized groups. I emphasize the importance of multicultural competency in my professional and personal life.
![Photo of James Foley - Sex Addiction Sexual Misbehavior Absolute Expert, LCSW-R, SOTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9012f045-1503-4cb6-a2c7-3e6621f7cfa1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sex Addiction Sexual Misbehavior Absolute Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SOTS
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215
I will help you protect the life you love from self destructive choices. Sexual addiction elite level expert 27 years + 45k hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, Together we will use evidence based research oriented methods on your Infidelity / Cheating /Affairs, Prostitution Use, Seeking Arrangements, Sugar Daddy, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs utilizing highly effective clinical models and now you and I will use the most up to date understandings to have you change your thinking, end these behaviors, and heal your relationships.
I will help you protect the life you love from self destructive choices. Sexual addiction elite level expert 27 years + 45k hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, Together we will use evidence based research oriented methods on your Infidelity / Cheating /Affairs, Prostitution Use, Seeking Arrangements, Sugar Daddy, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs utilizing highly effective clinical models and now you and I will use the most up to date understandings to have you change your thinking, end these behaviors, and heal your relationships.
![Photo of Mi' Kael L White-Davis, MS Ed, MS, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7975b748-e48a-4bda-8ad4-b6e49b5ad96f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mi' Kael L White-Davis
Counselor, MS Ed, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43204 (Online Only)
Grand Being! It is my hope to help you discover your pathway to success...however, you choose to define success. I am a staunch believer that, with the proper assistance, there is nothing that can not be overcome and conquered. I have proven this to myself and my clients time and time again through my work with incarcerates, SPMI, and children/adolescents. If you are seeking to become the best version of yourself and need someone who will help you to discover those elements, please contact me.
Grand Being! It is my hope to help you discover your pathway to success...however, you choose to define success. I am a staunch believer that, with the proper assistance, there is nothing that can not be overcome and conquered. I have proven this to myself and my clients time and time again through my work with incarcerates, SPMI, and children/adolescents. If you are seeking to become the best version of yourself and need someone who will help you to discover those elements, please contact me.
![Photo of Paige Velez, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dda2527c-04bd-41ff-bd39-8abe88bba413/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paige Velez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230 (Online Only)
I have an undergraduate degree from Charleston Southern University in Sociology and a Masters in Social Work from Wesleyan University. I have worked with adults, adolescents, children, and families for over 18 years. I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem issues, navigating conflict, boundary issues, and effective communication.
I have an undergraduate degree from Charleston Southern University in Sociology and a Masters in Social Work from Wesleyan University. I have worked with adults, adolescents, children, and families for over 18 years. I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem issues, navigating conflict, boundary issues, and effective communication.
![Photo of Paula Krivchenia, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a7939ca-58f3-447a-8925-1d6bd9a858c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paula Krivchenia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
I have been a clinical social worker since 1983, and hold a Bachelor's in Psychology from Ohio University and a Master's in Social Work from the The University of Cincinnati. I also completed post-graduate studies at the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland. My education and consequential training and experience has afforded me the opportunity to work with a diverse client population. I have worked and lived abroad, so I have extensive experience working with special populations.
I have been a clinical social worker since 1983, and hold a Bachelor's in Psychology from Ohio University and a Master's in Social Work from the The University of Cincinnati. I also completed post-graduate studies at the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland. My education and consequential training and experience has afforded me the opportunity to work with a diverse client population. I have worked and lived abroad, so I have extensive experience working with special populations.
![Photo of Jennifer A. Smith, MEd, LPCC-S, CIMHP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a9b5fdf-0c44-43e4-b90b-387a5ea88004/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer A. Smith
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S, CIMHP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085 (Online Only)
Are you a woman dealing with mid-life anxiety or depression? Do you lack motivation or knowledge to make healthier choices in your life? Do you get confused with all the information that is out there? Have you lost sight of who you are due to lack of sleep and increasing menopause symptoms? Is your doctor not helping much? There's hope! I help high achieving, perfectionistic and burnt-out women who have been hit with menopause achieve a slower lifestyle so they can sleep through the night, feel relaxed each day, have control over their emotions, and feel more confident at work and at home.
Are you a woman dealing with mid-life anxiety or depression? Do you lack motivation or knowledge to make healthier choices in your life? Do you get confused with all the information that is out there? Have you lost sight of who you are due to lack of sleep and increasing menopause symptoms? Is your doctor not helping much? There's hope! I help high achieving, perfectionistic and burnt-out women who have been hit with menopause achieve a slower lifestyle so they can sleep through the night, feel relaxed each day, have control over their emotions, and feel more confident at work and at home.
![Photo of Maggi D Colwell, MS, ATR-BC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/476efa3b-7215-42e1-99ec-3baf9d2249a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal therapy clients are caretakers, helping professionals, and people pleasers. Most of them are middle-aged women who have a history that followed them from childhood. They are thinkers, survivors. But they get to a point where they want to go further than just cope with symptoms like guilt, shame, perfectionism, and negative self-talk, so much criticism. They often also experience physical symptoms migraines, stomach aches, nausea, hives, and autoimmune disorders. The stuff that the doctor says, “you’re fine.” They hit an impossible wall and must make big changes, heal old wounds, and trust themselves.
My ideal therapy clients are caretakers, helping professionals, and people pleasers. Most of them are middle-aged women who have a history that followed them from childhood. They are thinkers, survivors. But they get to a point where they want to go further than just cope with symptoms like guilt, shame, perfectionism, and negative self-talk, so much criticism. They often also experience physical symptoms migraines, stomach aches, nausea, hives, and autoimmune disorders. The stuff that the doctor says, “you’re fine.” They hit an impossible wall and must make big changes, heal old wounds, and trust themselves.
![Photo of Allie Fridstein - Allie Fridstein - Capybara Counseling, LLC, MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba92aa25-0f14-453c-a0c0-6adf60f208d5/4/320x400.jpeg)
Allie Fridstein - Capybara Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Waitlist for new clients
They say the only constant in life is change. But change is hard! We as humans tend to feel comfort in predictability and routine, and change (especially when sudden, unexpected, and/or tragic) inherently challenges us to sit with discomfort. Even deliberate and "happy" changes like starting a new career, getting married, journeying through gender transition, or beginning a sober lifestyle can still cause a myriad of complicated emotions as you adjust to your new life. Finding meaning in those changes while learning skills to manage the added stress is an empowering, healing, and worthwhile endeavor.
They say the only constant in life is change. But change is hard! We as humans tend to feel comfort in predictability and routine, and change (especially when sudden, unexpected, and/or tragic) inherently challenges us to sit with discomfort. Even deliberate and "happy" changes like starting a new career, getting married, journeying through gender transition, or beginning a sober lifestyle can still cause a myriad of complicated emotions as you adjust to your new life. Finding meaning in those changes while learning skills to manage the added stress is an empowering, healing, and worthwhile endeavor.
See more therapy options for Columbus
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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.