Teletherapy for Pennsylvania
![Photo of 'aloe' Sarah Michelson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2de63e65-ad8c-4934-970a-f413776cf0d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
'aloe' Sarah Michelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
I strive to build genuine connections with my clients by understanding their personal motivators for acceptance and change, and building trust by reinforcing their goals rather than my own agenda.
Therapy is the fight for autonomy over our decisions and our strengths-based connections in the aftermath. The universal social work tradition is to build practice based on reciprocity, continuity of care, consent, and affirmation. Therapists build supportive networks through community-based knowledge, interrelationships and love. We labor for access to self determination over our own identities and communities at large. We take a holistic view of the self through a social context, and work to create open and dynamic spaces and roles for ourselves and each other. This must include confronting stigma, isolation and disconnection.
I strive to build genuine connections with my clients by understanding their personal motivators for acceptance and change, and building trust by reinforcing their goals rather than my own agenda.
Therapy is the fight for autonomy over our decisions and our strengths-based connections in the aftermath. The universal social work tradition is to build practice based on reciprocity, continuity of care, consent, and affirmation. Therapists build supportive networks through community-based knowledge, interrelationships and love. We labor for access to self determination over our own identities and communities at large. We take a holistic view of the self through a social context, and work to create open and dynamic spaces and roles for ourselves and each other. This must include confronting stigma, isolation and disconnection.
![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
One of the cornerstones of my practice is that the clients I work with are met with a level of radical love and acceptance, so they can go on to model that love and acceptance within themselves.
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.
One of the cornerstones of my practice is that the clients I work with are met with a level of radical love and acceptance, so they can go on to model that love and acceptance within themselves.
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 Alexander Nicolas, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e23559e1-5ca0-4ed6-8b2e-ef46f81eb0e5/1/320x400.png)
Alexander Nicolas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102 (Online Only)
Within my space, clients feel more self acceptance, confidence, and compassion.
I aim to create a nurturing, curious, and accepting space where you have the freedom to explore the different parts of your true self. Many of my clients are looking to understand and develop their identity or unpack their experiences with someone they can identify with. I help support clients through life transitions, toxic environments, and existential crises. Together, we will work to grow our capacity for nuance, experience clarity on our needs and desires, and find empowerment to change our circumstances.
Within my space, clients feel more self acceptance, confidence, and compassion.
I aim to create a nurturing, curious, and accepting space where you have the freedom to explore the different parts of your true self. Many of my clients are looking to understand and develop their identity or unpack their experiences with someone they can identify with. I help support clients through life transitions, toxic environments, and existential crises. Together, we will work to grow our capacity for nuance, experience clarity on our needs and desires, and find empowerment to change our circumstances.
![Photo of Meredith Clair Reid, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e44d280-7bf0-4e23-a4f2-0180c87502c2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Clair Reid
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I focus on self-compassion, mindfulness, and DBT skills as ways to tolerate discomfort in uncertain situations, and include some ACT and CBT skills in my work as well.
There are many things in life that we cannot control, but wellness lies in how we react to our emotions and the difficult situations we encounter. I work with clients to separate the uncontrollable from the controllable, and provide them with the tools to sit in the discomfort of challenging emotions. I aim to provide a safe space in which clients feel comfortable enough to make changes in their lives for the better. I have worked with clients of all ages, but have the most experience working with neurodivergent trans adolescents struggling with anxiety and mood disorders as well as navigating their gender expression and identity.
I focus on self-compassion, mindfulness, and DBT skills as ways to tolerate discomfort in uncertain situations, and include some ACT and CBT skills in my work as well.
There are many things in life that we cannot control, but wellness lies in how we react to our emotions and the difficult situations we encounter. I work with clients to separate the uncontrollable from the controllable, and provide them with the tools to sit in the discomfort of challenging emotions. I aim to provide a safe space in which clients feel comfortable enough to make changes in their lives for the better. I have worked with clients of all ages, but have the most experience working with neurodivergent trans adolescents struggling with anxiety and mood disorders as well as navigating their gender expression and identity.
![Photo of Alex Kapnek, LPC, EMDR, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b25a2329-980c-4daf-800b-b4ba79c0c85f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alex Kapnek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
In our 60 minute sessions you will find clarity, acceptance, and forgiveness.
I have a passion for working with those exploring gender and sexual identity, trauma, substance use, recovery, and those in the LGBTQ+ community. The therapy I provide is tailored to your individual needs and can help you facilitate personal growth and development. Therapy is most effective when you feel safe and respected. I would be honored to provide that space for you. I view my work with you as a collaborative process. I want to learn more about you and understand the problems you are facing from your perspective. I can provide letters for gender confirmation surgery.
In our 60 minute sessions you will find clarity, acceptance, and forgiveness.
I have a passion for working with those exploring gender and sexual identity, trauma, substance use, recovery, and those in the LGBTQ+ community. The therapy I provide is tailored to your individual needs and can help you facilitate personal growth and development. Therapy is most effective when you feel safe and respected. I would be honored to provide that space for you. I view my work with you as a collaborative process. I want to learn more about you and understand the problems you are facing from your perspective. I can provide letters for gender confirmation surgery.
![Photo of Dakota Barrow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2087a08d-0e1f-43a0-9b07-66118cfa909e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dakota Barrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102 (Online Only)
As a trans individual and member of the LGBTQ+ community, my ideal client is anyone who is looking for a non-judgemental, safe space to be themselves. I believe we thrive when we experience belonging acceptance. I came to this profession with the mission to connect the gap between LGBTQ+ persons who are interested in counseling and mental health professionals who can affirm their identity.
As a trans individual and member of the LGBTQ+ community, my ideal client is anyone who is looking for a non-judgemental, safe space to be themselves. I believe we thrive when we experience belonging acceptance. I came to this profession with the mission to connect the gap between LGBTQ+ persons who are interested in counseling and mental health professionals who can affirm their identity.
![Photo of Marcus Robinson, MSEd, MPhilEd, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ce62948-07d8-4f3b-9f78-aca3132177dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marcus Robinson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd, MPhilEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232 (Online Only)
I mainly pull from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), feminist therapy, liberation psychology, internal family systems (IFS), emotion focused therapy (EFT), and dialectic behavior therapy (DBT).
Hi! I’m marcus. I am a pre-licensed counselor who practices on the unceded land of the Lenape people, based in the city of Philadelphia. I am a queer, nonbinary, neurodistinct, Black, African American, Dominican, person. I am a recent graduate of the Counseling and Mental Health Services (M.S.Ed.) and Professional Counseling (M.Phil.Ed.) programs at the University of Pennsylvania; I also hold a BA in Psychology with a minor in Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies from the University of Pennsylvania.
I mainly pull from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), feminist therapy, liberation psychology, internal family systems (IFS), emotion focused therapy (EFT), and dialectic behavior therapy (DBT).
Hi! I’m marcus. I am a pre-licensed counselor who practices on the unceded land of the Lenape people, based in the city of Philadelphia. I am a queer, nonbinary, neurodistinct, Black, African American, Dominican, person. I am a recent graduate of the Counseling and Mental Health Services (M.S.Ed.) and Professional Counseling (M.Phil.Ed.) programs at the University of Pennsylvania; I also hold a BA in Psychology with a minor in Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies from the University of Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Mischa Patteson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f114b3b9-c885-4d05-b020-44554ba0d61b/1/320x400.png)
Mischa Patteson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102 (Online Only)
My first priority is for my clients to feel safe and heard, and I believe it is my job to create that space. As I’ve seen in my personal and professional life, therapy can save lives both figuratively and literally by developing acceptance, hope, and change. Some challenges I support clients through include relationship issues, communication, emotion and mood regulation, and trauma from childhood or adult abuse. My personal experiences allow me to better relate to and understand clients with whom I share similarities. My role is to walk alongside my clients, eliciting their self-knowledge, and offering tools along the way.
My first priority is for my clients to feel safe and heard, and I believe it is my job to create that space. As I’ve seen in my personal and professional life, therapy can save lives both figuratively and literally by developing acceptance, hope, and change. Some challenges I support clients through include relationship issues, communication, emotion and mood regulation, and trauma from childhood or adult abuse. My personal experiences allow me to better relate to and understand clients with whom I share similarities. My role is to walk alongside my clients, eliciting their self-knowledge, and offering tools along the way.
![Photo of Sable Arend, LAPC, NCC, RYT-200, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4176a5e-6f4e-4ef1-af09-6e602c04e868/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sable Arend
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC, NCC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
Waitlist for new clients
The most important relationship we have is the one with ourselves. Therapy provides space to reflect on the ways we think, feel, and act, empowering us to know ourselves more deeply, heal more fully, and become the person that we want to be. I believe that healing and growth must welcome and incorporate all facets of ourselves–even the parts with which we have a complicated relationship–and that self-compassion and curiosity are some of the most powerful tools of self-discovery. I welcome people to show up authentically, offering an environment that is supportive, nonjudgemental, and safe.
The most important relationship we have is the one with ourselves. Therapy provides space to reflect on the ways we think, feel, and act, empowering us to know ourselves more deeply, heal more fully, and become the person that we want to be. I believe that healing and growth must welcome and incorporate all facets of ourselves–even the parts with which we have a complicated relationship–and that self-compassion and curiosity are some of the most powerful tools of self-discovery. I welcome people to show up authentically, offering an environment that is supportive, nonjudgemental, and safe.
![Photo of Samantha Palmisano, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/157f3a15-8b5f-408c-af5f-274293c89135/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Palmisano
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yardley, PA 19067
As for my approach, I tend to gravitate towards Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
As a counselor, I remain true to myself in the sense that I am direct, warm, honest, compassionate, and expressive with my reactions. I tend to be casual in my approach, so if something is funny, I will laugh with you, and if something is sad or distressing, I will share those feelings with you as well. While it is important to me that I remain as objective as possible, I firmly believe that the therapist themself serves as a tool that contributes to your therapeutic process. For that reason, I believe our connection must be fostered collaboratively and authentically.
As for my approach, I tend to gravitate towards Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
As a counselor, I remain true to myself in the sense that I am direct, warm, honest, compassionate, and expressive with my reactions. I tend to be casual in my approach, so if something is funny, I will laugh with you, and if something is sad or distressing, I will share those feelings with you as well. While it is important to me that I remain as objective as possible, I firmly believe that the therapist themself serves as a tool that contributes to your therapeutic process. For that reason, I believe our connection must be fostered collaboratively and authentically.
![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 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 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)
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.
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 Rachel Gerrity, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27411358-8d01-4977-a552-47ed6f3ff364/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
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 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’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’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 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 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 Elis O'Marehen, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb66351f-7e29-4965-bf8b-f5765e224e94/1/320x400.png)
Currently accepting new clients! Being able to connect with a therapist is hard. Really hard. Especially if you are part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Am I right? Feeling "other" has become so normal that we often don't even realize we are merely surviving because we don't know there's another way to exist. Stress, shame, and all of the other emotions swirling around create a tornado that is hard to get out of. That's where I come in. I'm a LGBTQIA+, relationship (i.e. CNM), and culturally affirming therapist with lived experience as a queer woman with a trans partner, as well as assisted reproduction and gender-expansive parenting.
Currently accepting new clients! Being able to connect with a therapist is hard. Really hard. Especially if you are part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Am I right? Feeling "other" has become so normal that we often don't even realize we are merely surviving because we don't know there's another way to exist. Stress, shame, and all of the other emotions swirling around create a tornado that is hard to get out of. That's where I come in. I'm a LGBTQIA+, relationship (i.e. CNM), and culturally affirming therapist with lived experience as a queer woman with a trans partner, as well as assisted reproduction and gender-expansive parenting.
![Photo of Kenzi Lopez, LCSW-PA, LMSW-NY, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d59fd8e-2924-4141-8cd6-b109f1c95e38/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kenzi Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-PA, LMSW-NY, CCTP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147 (Online Only)
Here at Empower Transform Affirm Therapy, also known as ETA Therapy, you deserve to have every part of yourself be valued, honored, and felt in a way that acknowledges the complexities of life that centers YOUR truth and authenticity. As the founder of ETA Therapy and someone that identifies as a first-generation, Queer, Non-Binary, Black and spiritual being, I see the healing space as a transformative space where folx can step in and tap in to those parts of yourself that can really help to facilitate the connection between mind, body, and heart.
Here at Empower Transform Affirm Therapy, also known as ETA Therapy, you deserve to have every part of yourself be valued, honored, and felt in a way that acknowledges the complexities of life that centers YOUR truth and authenticity. As the founder of ETA Therapy and someone that identifies as a first-generation, Queer, Non-Binary, Black and spiritual being, I see the healing space as a transformative space where folx can step in and tap in to those parts of yourself that can really help to facilitate the connection between mind, body, and heart.
![Photo of Cora McElwain, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25140da7-8a1f-49c9-9428-5c3ef040d203/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cora McElwain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035 (Online Only)
We often have what we need within us to heal, but sometimes anxiety, depression, or internal conflict can get in our way from making the progress that we want to feel. Do you want to wake up on time but depression makes it difficult? Or, are you having difficulty starting or completing projects? Tele-therapy can help you cope with the stressful things in your life, so that you can move forward in how you want to. I can provide virtual therapy to anyone in Missouri, Pennsylvania, and Washington state. I have extensive experience and abundant joy working with folks in the LGBTQ+ & poly/nonmonogamous communities.
We often have what we need within us to heal, but sometimes anxiety, depression, or internal conflict can get in our way from making the progress that we want to feel. Do you want to wake up on time but depression makes it difficult? Or, are you having difficulty starting or completing projects? Tele-therapy can help you cope with the stressful things in your life, so that you can move forward in how you want to. I can provide virtual therapy to anyone in Missouri, Pennsylvania, and Washington state. I have extensive experience and abundant joy working with folks in the LGBTQ+ & poly/nonmonogamous communities.
![Photo of Meggan Hudspeth, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f557ee4f-b862-451e-80ab-3e42ad7f88ce/3/320x400.jpeg)
Meggan Hudspeth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
“Yoga means addition—addition of energy, strength, and beauty to body, mind, and soul.”—Amit Ray, Indian author and spiritualist In order to get to the root of what’s causing your discomfort we have to go towards and not away. This is painful but will cause change. I’m going to ask you to share your story with me. But you don’t have to do it alone. I see myself as both a support and a fierce advocate for clients to assist with their growth and navigation through the barriers. Through the addition of support and guidance I can help increase your energy strength and beauty of your self as a whole.
“Yoga means addition—addition of energy, strength, and beauty to body, mind, and soul.”—Amit Ray, Indian author and spiritualist In order to get to the root of what’s causing your discomfort we have to go towards and not away. This is painful but will cause change. I’m going to ask you to share your story with me. But you don’t have to do it alone. I see myself as both a support and a fierce advocate for clients to assist with their growth and navigation through the barriers. Through the addition of support and guidance I can help increase your energy strength and beauty of your self as a whole.
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.