Teletherapy for Pennsylvania
![Photo of Ryan O'Laughlin, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0ab35f4-5c0a-4d78-8f40-b86b746c7870/6/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan O'Laughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19145
Waitlist for new clients
I help those who are feeling stuck, trapped, confused & need help making sense of everything that is going on so that they can put it into words and grow. My therapy is a safe space for those who need support. My practice is trauma informed and non judgemental. My practice is also anti racist, sex positive, LGBTQIA+ competent, and gender affirming. I work with artists, college students, mothers, sex workers, nuerodivergent idividuals, queer and trans community, & people who struggle with anxiety & trauma. I also offer gender affirming surgery letters.
I help those who are feeling stuck, trapped, confused & need help making sense of everything that is going on so that they can put it into words and grow. My therapy is a safe space for those who need support. My practice is trauma informed and non judgemental. My practice is also anti racist, sex positive, LGBTQIA+ competent, and gender affirming. I work with artists, college students, mothers, sex workers, nuerodivergent idividuals, queer and trans community, & people who struggle with anxiety & trauma. I also offer gender affirming surgery letters.
![Photo of Raven Hoover, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdc96c72-f773-441c-97a9-89b21968a2ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Raven Hoover
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103 (Online Only)
Are you looking for someone who doesn’t judge a book by its cover? Do you yearn to be openly, unapologetically yourself without fearing rejection? I’m here to hold space for you- the whole you- not just the individual aspects of your identity. My client-centered, trauma-informed approach focuses on connection, compassion, & reclaiming your power. I see the parts that make you vibrant, interesting, & wholly unique as strengths to be celebrated. I want to help you recognize, cherish, & celebrate your worth.
Are you looking for someone who doesn’t judge a book by its cover? Do you yearn to be openly, unapologetically yourself without fearing rejection? I’m here to hold space for you- the whole you- not just the individual aspects of your identity. My client-centered, trauma-informed approach focuses on connection, compassion, & reclaiming your power. I see the parts that make you vibrant, interesting, & wholly unique as strengths to be celebrated. I want to help you recognize, cherish, & celebrate your worth.
![Photo of Kb Bonner - SW@L LLC, MA, MSS, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3004c40d-3283-4956-9527-a594b9ff3990/2/320x400.jpeg)
PTSD and the consequent symptoms are my specialties.
We move through institutions of power our entire lives. First, family, then we form friends at school, fall in love in college, maybe grow close to others in religious communities. Along the way, we encounter experiences that enable us to become more of our authentic selves. Sometimes, these experiences are less than ideal, other times, these experiences are more traumatizing than we originally thought. Depression, anxiety, insomnia, are a few things that manifest and these are the PTSD-related symptoms that I specialize in.
PTSD and the consequent symptoms are my specialties.
We move through institutions of power our entire lives. First, family, then we form friends at school, fall in love in college, maybe grow close to others in religious communities. Along the way, we encounter experiences that enable us to become more of our authentic selves. Sometimes, these experiences are less than ideal, other times, these experiences are more traumatizing than we originally thought. Depression, anxiety, insomnia, are a few things that manifest and these are the PTSD-related symptoms that I specialize in.
![Photo of Love Them - TheyLoveThem LLC, MS, MT-BC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9682a94-e18d-4b40-b276-89e32dfd7caa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! My name is Love! I practice with empathy, honor, and flexibility for someone's needs. I offer Expressive Music Journaling, voice training, trauma-informed person-centered psychotherapy with clients from all walks of life, and vocal music therapy/improvisation. I am also open to putting on favorite music and exploring memories that arise, and discussing them, meditation, or working in expressive arts! My prices are a sliding scale of $100-140 per session, but financial need (case by case basis) can bring prices as low as $60. Please reach out, and let's work together!
Hello there! My name is Love! I practice with empathy, honor, and flexibility for someone's needs. I offer Expressive Music Journaling, voice training, trauma-informed person-centered psychotherapy with clients from all walks of life, and vocal music therapy/improvisation. I am also open to putting on favorite music and exploring memories that arise, and discussing them, meditation, or working in expressive arts! My prices are a sliding scale of $100-140 per session, but financial need (case by case basis) can bring prices as low as $60. Please reach out, and let's work together!
![Photo of Grace Molloy, LCSW, ESFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c999155-40fb-4997-a4d3-d2531fa72964/2/320x400.jpeg)
Grace Molloy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ESFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19129
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing individual and family therapy services. I am LGBTQ-affirming and specialize in working with teens, young adults, and families around depression, suicidality, gender and sexuality, neurodiversity, and trauma. Therapy can be a vulnerable and formative process, and it is important to find a therapist that feels like a good fit for you! I practice from a relational, social-justice-oriented, trauma-informed, systemic lens. I believe that change comes from authentic connection between a client and a therapist, involvement of a supportive network, and a mutual collaboration around treatment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing individual and family therapy services. I am LGBTQ-affirming and specialize in working with teens, young adults, and families around depression, suicidality, gender and sexuality, neurodiversity, and trauma. Therapy can be a vulnerable and formative process, and it is important to find a therapist that feels like a good fit for you! I practice from a relational, social-justice-oriented, trauma-informed, systemic lens. I believe that change comes from authentic connection between a client and a therapist, involvement of a supportive network, and a mutual collaboration around treatment.
![Photo of Mav Atis-Valentine, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b58f4b40-ac5c-4c85-847c-94fc70f2c0ca/2/320x400.png)
Mav Atis-Valentine
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143
My work is trauma informed, taking into consideration the specific needs of each individual based on their past experiences. When you are aware of the ways you are influenced by your past programming, we can put the tools in your hands to help you take control of your life. I strive to provide you with an empathetic space for you to become your truest self.
My work is trauma informed, taking into consideration the specific needs of each individual based on their past experiences. When you are aware of the ways you are influenced by your past programming, we can put the tools in your hands to help you take control of your life. I strive to provide you with an empathetic space for you to become your truest self.
![Photo of Jesse Geguzis, LSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9af8387a-d7fc-4478-ad00-a851df40860a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jesse Geguzis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I have additional training in trauma therapy and take a trauma-informed approach, regardless of what brings you to therapy.
I believe mental health care is a right that should be afforded to everyone and aim to lessen the stigma of seeking mental health care. As a non-binary, transmasculine human, I’m excited to serve traditionally underserved minority communities. I consider it a privilege to play a role in your journey. I am fat-allied/HAES, sex/kink positive, and gender-affirming with a background in social justice. I use a strength-based approach, allowing space for discomfort, encouraging vulnerability, and building resiliency.
I have additional training in trauma therapy and take a trauma-informed approach, regardless of what brings you to therapy.
I believe mental health care is a right that should be afforded to everyone and aim to lessen the stigma of seeking mental health care. As a non-binary, transmasculine human, I’m excited to serve traditionally underserved minority communities. I consider it a privilege to play a role in your journey. I am fat-allied/HAES, sex/kink positive, and gender-affirming with a background in social justice. I use a strength-based approach, allowing space for discomfort, encouraging vulnerability, and building resiliency.
![Photo of Easin M Beck, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c98a895d-4d5f-4eba-9402-963177477e2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you're navigating past trauma or seeking to understand and improve your relationships, my goal is to create a safe and collaborative space where we can work through your challenges together and move a more fulfilling life.
Are you feeling anxious or lost, struggling with a sense of disconnection from your beliefs or your life's direction? If you grew up in a high-control religion and are now questioning or distancing yourself from those teachings, you're not alone. This transition can bring up challenging emotions, strained family relationships, and a sense of uncertainty about who you are and what you want. I specialize in supporting adults who have left high-control religious environments. My focus is on helping you process trauma, rebuild your sense of self, and find greater peace and confidence in your new path.
Whether you're navigating past trauma or seeking to understand and improve your relationships, my goal is to create a safe and collaborative space where we can work through your challenges together and move a more fulfilling life.
Are you feeling anxious or lost, struggling with a sense of disconnection from your beliefs or your life's direction? If you grew up in a high-control religion and are now questioning or distancing yourself from those teachings, you're not alone. This transition can bring up challenging emotions, strained family relationships, and a sense of uncertainty about who you are and what you want. I specialize in supporting adults who have left high-control religious environments. My focus is on helping you process trauma, rebuild your sense of self, and find greater peace and confidence in your new path.
![Photo of Amanda Woolston, MSS, LCSW, CT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fae880b9-b884-4376-9369-e291875cb1a7/2/320x400.png)
Amanda Woolston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CT
Verified Verified
Parkesburg, PA 19365
My work is client-led, adoption-competent, trauma-informed, client-centered, anti-racist, accepting of all bodies, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Therapist profiles can be overwhelming. You may feel like you have to know exactly what you need in order to find a therapist that addresses it. I want you to know that helping you learn what you need is part of therapy. Maybe all you know for sure is that you are emotionally suffering and would like help. My background is working with adoption (all forms), foster care, family loss, trauma, parenting, co-dependency, and more. However, I also help folks from all walks of life reduce their emotional suffering and achieve their goals. Whatever your needs are, I'm happy to see if I can help you suffer less and enjoy life more.
My work is client-led, adoption-competent, trauma-informed, client-centered, anti-racist, accepting of all bodies, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Therapist profiles can be overwhelming. You may feel like you have to know exactly what you need in order to find a therapist that addresses it. I want you to know that helping you learn what you need is part of therapy. Maybe all you know for sure is that you are emotionally suffering and would like help. My background is working with adoption (all forms), foster care, family loss, trauma, parenting, co-dependency, and more. However, I also help folks from all walks of life reduce their emotional suffering and achieve their goals. Whatever your needs are, I'm happy to see if I can help you suffer less and enjoy life more.
![Photo of Rachel Gerrity, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27411358-8d01-4977-a552-47ed6f3ff364/1/320x400.jpeg)
I take a culturally competent holistic approach to therapy, which may include humanistic and person-centered therapies, trauma-informed CBT, and mindfulness practices.
Counseling allows you to explore your life and discover who you are in the setting of a safe and caring relationship. In our work together, I will accept and honor you precisely as you are, recognizing your strengths and engaging in the difficult times of your life with empathy and hope. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment in which you may find yourself and go forward with courage and confidence. I work with individuals who are seeking help with anxiety, depression, life transitions, eating disorders, body image difficulties, gender/sexuality affirmation, and LGBTQIA+ populations.
I take a culturally competent holistic approach to therapy, which may include humanistic and person-centered therapies, trauma-informed CBT, and mindfulness practices.
Counseling allows you to explore your life and discover who you are in the setting of a safe and caring relationship. In our work together, I will accept and honor you precisely as you are, recognizing your strengths and engaging in the difficult times of your life with empathy and hope. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment in which you may find yourself and go forward with courage and confidence. I work with individuals who are seeking help with anxiety, depression, life transitions, eating disorders, body image difficulties, gender/sexuality affirmation, and LGBTQIA+ populations.
![Photo of Melinda A Korte, MS, MT-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4da6820-ca11-419d-88f0-478985e1692e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda A Korte
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MT-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106 (Online Only)
NOTE: Caseload currently full and not taking new clients at this time. My clients might struggle with depression or anxiety... perhaps struggle with life transitions... or maybe need help in balancing their daily life with the demands that their recovery requires. Eating disorders, personality disorders, addictions, and Complex PTSD require skilled support for true recovery to be achieved. I love working with clients who embrace their autonomy in this process and are ready to do the work! I operate under the understanding you already have everything within you that is required for you to thrive. I'm here to help you tap into it :-)
NOTE: Caseload currently full and not taking new clients at this time. My clients might struggle with depression or anxiety... perhaps struggle with life transitions... or maybe need help in balancing their daily life with the demands that their recovery requires. Eating disorders, personality disorders, addictions, and Complex PTSD require skilled support for true recovery to be achieved. I love working with clients who embrace their autonomy in this process and are ready to do the work! I operate under the understanding you already have everything within you that is required for you to thrive. I'm here to help you tap into it :-)
![Photo of Sage Stevens, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9390705e-5a9b-4956-a4ce-77619b1b6008/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sage Stevens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
State College, PA 16801 (Online Only)
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, chronic pain, kink/poly/sex workers, PTSD, self-harm, and suicidality.
I’m glad you found my page! My name is Sage (they/them). Have you ever felt outcast from those around you, or less than others based on the intersectionality of your identities and how you present yourself? You may feel that nobody will understand that coming out later in life is possible- you are not alone. As a non-binary, pan, ace, neurodivergent and disabled therapist, I have lived experience with where you are right now. When you come to see me, you will be met with non-judgment, empathy, understanding, and compassion. You are always welcome to come as you are. Outside the zoom room I love nature, dance, and fostering animals!
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, chronic pain, kink/poly/sex workers, PTSD, self-harm, and suicidality.
I’m glad you found my page! My name is Sage (they/them). Have you ever felt outcast from those around you, or less than others based on the intersectionality of your identities and how you present yourself? You may feel that nobody will understand that coming out later in life is possible- you are not alone. As a non-binary, pan, ace, neurodivergent and disabled therapist, I have lived experience with where you are right now. When you come to see me, you will be met with non-judgment, empathy, understanding, and compassion. You are always welcome to come as you are. Outside the zoom room I love nature, dance, and fostering animals!
![Photo of Lena Freed, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/579bb2ff-56ab-4367-87ba-6e7035b46a87/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Lee Freed and my pronouns are they/them/theirs. I am a licensed professional counselor and I specialize in working with youth, typically ages 11-20. I specialize in working with youth who have experienced grief/loss as well as youth exploring LGBTQAI+ identities. I have experience and competence in supporting folks with mood concerns, self-harm, self-esteem concerns, relationship concerns, and youth who are adjusting to changes in their lives or trauma. Please reach out if you are wondering if I can support you!
Hello! My name is Lee Freed and my pronouns are they/them/theirs. I am a licensed professional counselor and I specialize in working with youth, typically ages 11-20. I specialize in working with youth who have experienced grief/loss as well as youth exploring LGBTQAI+ identities. I have experience and competence in supporting folks with mood concerns, self-harm, self-esteem concerns, relationship concerns, and youth who are adjusting to changes in their lives or trauma. Please reach out if you are wondering if I can support you!
![Photo of Ginamarie Moure, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef47b9c-578c-4455-90a2-561ef855e890/1/320x400.png)
Ginamarie Moure
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102 (Online Only)
If you are looking for a new therapy experience that accepts who you are without judgment, I would be honored to work with you. I understand it is impossible to force people into boxes and label their life with stereotypical behaviors. We are all unique with our own combination of thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I strive to be a good listener and let you be in charge of our time together–you are the expert on your life. I will be your guide to help you uncover the driving forces in your life and explore whatever has caused or is causing you trauma.
If you are looking for a new therapy experience that accepts who you are without judgment, I would be honored to work with you. I understand it is impossible to force people into boxes and label their life with stereotypical behaviors. We are all unique with our own combination of thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I strive to be a good listener and let you be in charge of our time together–you are the expert on your life. I will be your guide to help you uncover the driving forces in your life and explore whatever has caused or is causing you trauma.
![Photo of Nik Evans Blake, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55121a66-5cee-471e-b33e-1bab4ae90279/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nik Evans Blake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for supporting teens and young adults on their journey to mental wellness. I have honed my expertise in addressing a range of challenges, including trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ issues, and high-functioning autism.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for supporting teens and young adults on their journey to mental wellness. I have honed my expertise in addressing a range of challenges, including trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ issues, and high-functioning autism.
![Photo of Daniel Gruner, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5244b70c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Many come to therapy to change patterns of relating to others and themselves that they feel no longer serve them. I believe that these patterns, hard as they may be now, likely played some important role for you in the past. Perhaps addictions, habits, or defenses met otherwise unmet needs in your life, but now have become limiting and compulsive. I see myself as your partner in a process of deep listening, a process which facilitates growth, healing, and new possibilities for relating to your self and others. Specialties and modalities include: Clinical Hypnosis, gender therapy, trauma, addictions. Also see my group therapy option.
Many come to therapy to change patterns of relating to others and themselves that they feel no longer serve them. I believe that these patterns, hard as they may be now, likely played some important role for you in the past. Perhaps addictions, habits, or defenses met otherwise unmet needs in your life, but now have become limiting and compulsive. I see myself as your partner in a process of deep listening, a process which facilitates growth, healing, and new possibilities for relating to your self and others. Specialties and modalities include: Clinical Hypnosis, gender therapy, trauma, addictions. Also see my group therapy option.
![Photo of Alena Kearney, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93d42d0d-d02d-4cc3-8802-677a0271a308/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alena Kearney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
I am trained to work with folx around a variety of sexuality- and relationship-focused issues, including communication styles/skills, infidelity, identity development (sexual orientation/gender), sexual trauma, and out-of-control sexual behavior.
Are you facing challenges in your relationships - romantic or otherwise? Do you want to better understand yourself and improve your interactions with others? I'll work with you to help you develop 1) an awareness of your current thought processes, and 2) a deeper knowledge of how your life experiences have influenced the way you think. I'll offer you concrete tools to help you modify ways of coping that no longer serve you. My goal is to empower you to make the meaningful, positive changes you're seeking. (I use HIPAA-compliant video only. I do not offer in-person sessions.)
I am trained to work with folx around a variety of sexuality- and relationship-focused issues, including communication styles/skills, infidelity, identity development (sexual orientation/gender), sexual trauma, and out-of-control sexual behavior.
Are you facing challenges in your relationships - romantic or otherwise? Do you want to better understand yourself and improve your interactions with others? I'll work with you to help you develop 1) an awareness of your current thought processes, and 2) a deeper knowledge of how your life experiences have influenced the way you think. I'll offer you concrete tools to help you modify ways of coping that no longer serve you. My goal is to empower you to make the meaningful, positive changes you're seeking. (I use HIPAA-compliant video only. I do not offer in-person sessions.)
![Photo of Del Thompson, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6ac9ae3-3eda-44b4-81d5-39d37ac5ba51/1/320x400.jpeg)
I strive for a culturally humble, client centered, and trauma informed practice.
Are you ready to become the person you know you are? To lean into compassion, heal your relationships, or feel affirmed in your identity and decisions? Therapy is about creating a sense of self that we feel connected to and at peace with, even against a world that is often uncomfortable and unaccepting of us. I want to help create a space where you feel comfortable and confident in exploring who you are whether that be in your relationships, gender, sexuality, or more. I am going to work to help you feel validated, explore the underlying issues, and find ways to support you when systems you are caught in feel overwhelming.
I strive for a culturally humble, client centered, and trauma informed practice.
Are you ready to become the person you know you are? To lean into compassion, heal your relationships, or feel affirmed in your identity and decisions? Therapy is about creating a sense of self that we feel connected to and at peace with, even against a world that is often uncomfortable and unaccepting of us. I want to help create a space where you feel comfortable and confident in exploring who you are whether that be in your relationships, gender, sexuality, or more. I am going to work to help you feel validated, explore the underlying issues, and find ways to support you when systems you are caught in feel overwhelming.
![Photo of Bea Mitchell-Rodriguez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e3626f9-5800-4ce0-93c1-13ee64042fd6/1/320x400.png)
Bea Mitchell-Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143 (Online Only)
I work with people to help them explore, understand, and heal from the ways life has left its imprints upon them— be that from trauma, oppression, or simply the complexity of our messy and beautiful interconnectedness with each other. My approach is creative, humorous and relational. It is rooted in values of anti-oppression, abolitionism + transformative justice, and harm reduction.
I work with people to help them explore, understand, and heal from the ways life has left its imprints upon them— be that from trauma, oppression, or simply the complexity of our messy and beautiful interconnectedness with each other. My approach is creative, humorous and relational. It is rooted in values of anti-oppression, abolitionism + transformative justice, and harm reduction.
![Photo of Rebecca (Rowan) Levy, MA, NCC, PC01569, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d295039c-71ae-46bb-823b-2c155a4a15ec/1/320x400.png)
Rebecca (Rowan) Levy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, PC01569
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19110 (Online Only)
I can help you by joining you in exploring your anxiety, your fear, your trauma, and your grief.
You want something different, but it’s hard to motivate and place what that really is. You are sensitive, creative, queer, thoughtful, and full of so many thoughts. You likely have a habit of overextending yourself in the hopes of finding where you feel you belong. You see patterns in your relationships that you want to examine and change, and some part of you knows that you deserve a more satisfying life. Therapy is a non-judgmental space in which you can overcome familiar patterns by being witnessed and heard, and acquire tools to improve your relationship with yourself and others.
I can help you by joining you in exploring your anxiety, your fear, your trauma, and your grief.
You want something different, but it’s hard to motivate and place what that really is. You are sensitive, creative, queer, thoughtful, and full of so many thoughts. You likely have a habit of overextending yourself in the hopes of finding where you feel you belong. You see patterns in your relationships that you want to examine and change, and some part of you knows that you deserve a more satisfying life. Therapy is a non-judgmental space in which you can overcome familiar patterns by being witnessed and heard, and acquire tools to improve your relationship with yourself and others.
See more therapy options for Pennsylvania
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.