Online Counselling for Alberta
Welcome! Thanks for visiting my profile. Are you finding yourself feeling stuck, frustrated, overwhelmed or unmotivated in this season of life? "Liminal Space" means the in-between or transitional moments or place between our current reality and our desired future. The reality is that this space may not always be enjoyable or pleasant, it can often feel uncomfortable, unfamiliar and uncertain. Let's talk about it! In addition to my professional role, I am also a wife and a mother, and I bring a wide range of experiences working with children, youth, parents/caregivers and adults with various needs from diverse backgrounds.
Welcome! Thanks for visiting my profile. Are you finding yourself feeling stuck, frustrated, overwhelmed or unmotivated in this season of life? "Liminal Space" means the in-between or transitional moments or place between our current reality and our desired future. The reality is that this space may not always be enjoyable or pleasant, it can often feel uncomfortable, unfamiliar and uncertain. Let's talk about it! In addition to my professional role, I am also a wife and a mother, and I bring a wide range of experiences working with children, youth, parents/caregivers and adults with various needs from diverse backgrounds.
Audra Potter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MACP, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2X
Everyone struggles with certain things at different times in their lives. Mental wellness is a journey, not a destination and we are all at different points along the path. Sometimes, we need help guiding our steps and knowing how best to keep going. My ideal client may be struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma or personality disorders. Generally, they realize that things in their life are just not working and they want to learn new ways of behaving, thinking and relating to themselves and others to make lasting changes. My practice with clients is collaborative and supportive.
Everyone struggles with certain things at different times in their lives. Mental wellness is a journey, not a destination and we are all at different points along the path. Sometimes, we need help guiding our steps and knowing how best to keep going. My ideal client may be struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma or personality disorders. Generally, they realize that things in their life are just not working and they want to learn new ways of behaving, thinking and relating to themselves and others to make lasting changes. My practice with clients is collaborative and supportive.
I have been passionate about psychology ever since going through my own struggle with depression as an adolescent. I care deeply about my clients and show this by creating a safe and empathetic counselling space. I am devoted to helping you increase hope, experience more happiness, and improve your relationships. If you would like to feel more love and acceptance for yourself or if you would like to feel more loved and accepted by your partner, we can work together to help you move towards your goals.
I have been passionate about psychology ever since going through my own struggle with depression as an adolescent. I care deeply about my clients and show this by creating a safe and empathetic counselling space. I am devoted to helping you increase hope, experience more happiness, and improve your relationships. If you would like to feel more love and acceptance for yourself or if you would like to feel more loved and accepted by your partner, we can work together to help you move towards your goals.
Are you feeling stuck? Are you frustrated with life but don’t know why or how to change it? Are you in conflict with your partner or spouse? Does it keep getting worse the more you try to fix it? Are you feeling depressed or down, or overly anxious and stressed? Are you looking for relief and don’t know where to start or what to do next? Whether your challenges are interpersonal, financial, emotional in nature, or related to life transitions, it is normal to sometimes feel that your toolbox could use a few more tools to help you when life gets overwhelming.
Are you feeling stuck? Are you frustrated with life but don’t know why or how to change it? Are you in conflict with your partner or spouse? Does it keep getting worse the more you try to fix it? Are you feeling depressed or down, or overly anxious and stressed? Are you looking for relief and don’t know where to start or what to do next? Whether your challenges are interpersonal, financial, emotional in nature, or related to life transitions, it is normal to sometimes feel that your toolbox could use a few more tools to help you when life gets overwhelming.
Book a free consult using my website! You have taken a courageous step to be here, and I am so glad you did! We all move through challenges in life, and we deserve a space to learn and discover healthier ways of coping and living. Therapy is about creating new strengths, as well as helping you rediscover the ones that already exist within you. My ideal client is looking for a therapist to help them regain wellness and stability by exploring and changing unhelpful behaviors, patterns, beliefs, and relationships. I am here to welcome you exactly as you are, as this will be the starting point for the change we create together!
Book a free consult using my website! You have taken a courageous step to be here, and I am so glad you did! We all move through challenges in life, and we deserve a space to learn and discover healthier ways of coping and living. Therapy is about creating new strengths, as well as helping you rediscover the ones that already exist within you. My ideal client is looking for a therapist to help them regain wellness and stability by exploring and changing unhelpful behaviors, patterns, beliefs, and relationships. I am here to welcome you exactly as you are, as this will be the starting point for the change we create together!
I work with children, youth, and adults offering varied counselling approaches based on the needs of my clients. My client's want to tell their story and be listened to with compassion and effective individualized counselling strategies by a professional mental health counsellor. I use the process of self-exploration, self-understanding, and self-initiative. Youth and children need engaged art and/or play therapy approaches to explore and express their thoughts and feelings. I have certifications in EFT (tapping) and kundalini yoga, which focuses on easing anxiety, depression, trauma and additions for children, teens, and adults.
I work with children, youth, and adults offering varied counselling approaches based on the needs of my clients. My client's want to tell their story and be listened to with compassion and effective individualized counselling strategies by a professional mental health counsellor. I use the process of self-exploration, self-understanding, and self-initiative. Youth and children need engaged art and/or play therapy approaches to explore and express their thoughts and feelings. I have certifications in EFT (tapping) and kundalini yoga, which focuses on easing anxiety, depression, trauma and additions for children, teens, and adults.
You're struggling. Perhaps you can't sleep anymore, or you are seeking comfort in all the wrong places. Maybe you're depressed, finding it difficult to get out of bed and come out from under a cloud of ever-present despair. Maybe you're anxious - heart pounding, sweaty, shortness of breath, obsessive over simple tasks. Perhaps you are drinking too much or using drugs. You might even just be tired, withdrawn, sure that there is more to life but not sure what to do about it.
You're struggling. Perhaps you can't sleep anymore, or you are seeking comfort in all the wrong places. Maybe you're depressed, finding it difficult to get out of bed and come out from under a cloud of ever-present despair. Maybe you're anxious - heart pounding, sweaty, shortness of breath, obsessive over simple tasks. Perhaps you are drinking too much or using drugs. You might even just be tired, withdrawn, sure that there is more to life but not sure what to do about it.
You want Positive Results and waking up every day and dealing with the challenges of life can be tough enough, let alone if your dealing with the challenging issues of past/current trauma, depression, relational struggles, separation, thoughts of divorce, dealing with grief and loss or just plain feeling stuck in life and not being able to move forward. Any one of those issues in life can prevent you from attaining your personal hopes and dreams. You, as an individual, or couple, living in Calgary, Cochrane, or Airdrie deserve the fighting chance to make changes in your personal life or marriage that will allow you walk in NEW LIFE.
You want Positive Results and waking up every day and dealing with the challenges of life can be tough enough, let alone if your dealing with the challenging issues of past/current trauma, depression, relational struggles, separation, thoughts of divorce, dealing with grief and loss or just plain feeling stuck in life and not being able to move forward. Any one of those issues in life can prevent you from attaining your personal hopes and dreams. You, as an individual, or couple, living in Calgary, Cochrane, or Airdrie deserve the fighting chance to make changes in your personal life or marriage that will allow you walk in NEW LIFE.
Life feels so disappointing. Despite trying, you can't seem to figure out how to make things better but you know you need them to change. Thinking of how things have been, you feel overwhelmed, upset, and at times detached from your current reality. You struggle to feel good enough and connect to joy in your life. You catch yourself wondering if things will ever feel ok. At some point your authentic self got lost and you can’t quite figure out how to get it back. You long to feel fulfilled and connected within your life. You are looking for a therapist who really gets you and has the tools to help.
Life feels so disappointing. Despite trying, you can't seem to figure out how to make things better but you know you need them to change. Thinking of how things have been, you feel overwhelmed, upset, and at times detached from your current reality. You struggle to feel good enough and connect to joy in your life. You catch yourself wondering if things will ever feel ok. At some point your authentic self got lost and you can’t quite figure out how to get it back. You long to feel fulfilled and connected within your life. You are looking for a therapist who really gets you and has the tools to help.
Resilient You Art Therapy
Art Therapist, PCAT, DVATI, MA Lead, BA Psyc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2H
You are on a beautiful journey. It is a courageous and vulnerable thing - - to look at your life, recognize the challenges, and reach out for support. I honour the strength in you, and the part of you that is hanging on to hope, keeps reaching towards health and wholeness, determined to find ways to get there. I’m glad you are here. It would be an honour to support you on this journey. Are you looking for insight and clarity? Need to work through grief, depression, anxiety or a transition? Art Therapy is an effective way to process all of these, and developing skills, tools and strengths along the way.
You are on a beautiful journey. It is a courageous and vulnerable thing - - to look at your life, recognize the challenges, and reach out for support. I honour the strength in you, and the part of you that is hanging on to hope, keeps reaching towards health and wholeness, determined to find ways to get there. I’m glad you are here. It would be an honour to support you on this journey. Are you looking for insight and clarity? Need to work through grief, depression, anxiety or a transition? Art Therapy is an effective way to process all of these, and developing skills, tools and strengths along the way.
Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists. She has her Masters degree in Applied Psychology with a specialization in Clinical Psychology and a pre-doctoral degree in Medical and Social Psychology with emphasis on Psychiatry, Neuropsychology and Clinical Psychology. She is currently pursuing her doctoral degree in Forensic Psychology. Deepa has worked in private, hospital, research, and educational settings in a few countries and has had the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse ethnicities, age groups and mental health challenges.
Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists. She has her Masters degree in Applied Psychology with a specialization in Clinical Psychology and a pre-doctoral degree in Medical and Social Psychology with emphasis on Psychiatry, Neuropsychology and Clinical Psychology. She is currently pursuing her doctoral degree in Forensic Psychology. Deepa has worked in private, hospital, research, and educational settings in a few countries and has had the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse ethnicities, age groups and mental health challenges.
I work with already-stable individuals who are looking for more in their lives: more peace, more freedom, more happiness, more fulfillment, more effectiveness, deeper relationships, more meaning. I work with them in any of their life contexts: home, work, family, relationships, friends, spirituality. My clients want to be even better human beings and live more fully aligned with their deepest values. They know there's a "next level" and are looking to build their capacity to get there. They want a trusted partner to assist them on this journey.
I work with already-stable individuals who are looking for more in their lives: more peace, more freedom, more happiness, more fulfillment, more effectiveness, deeper relationships, more meaning. I work with them in any of their life contexts: home, work, family, relationships, friends, spirituality. My clients want to be even better human beings and live more fully aligned with their deepest values. They know there's a "next level" and are looking to build their capacity to get there. They want a trusted partner to assist them on this journey.
Summit Counselling Services
Psychologist, BA, MC, CAATP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5N
Whatever your are hoping to work on - we are here to help. Our team is just as unique as you are. Each therapist at Summit works in their own unique way, each specializing in different areas. Our aim is to provide the most effective individualized service for each client we see. We all have skills and resources to work through life's challenges, our goal is to help you find those within yourself. Together we will develop a plan to strategically address your areas of concern and create lasting positive change. Our role is to provide a safe, nonjudgemental space where you can explore ways to create positive life change.
Whatever your are hoping to work on - we are here to help. Our team is just as unique as you are. Each therapist at Summit works in their own unique way, each specializing in different areas. Our aim is to provide the most effective individualized service for each client we see. We all have skills and resources to work through life's challenges, our goal is to help you find those within yourself. Together we will develop a plan to strategically address your areas of concern and create lasting positive change. Our role is to provide a safe, nonjudgemental space where you can explore ways to create positive life change.
I work predominantly with First Responders (e.g. EMS & 911), Veterans (VAC/Medavie), Frontline Workers (e.g. Nurses - RN, LPN, NP; Probation Officers; Peace Officers; Corrections) -You are all RADtastic! I specialize in Trauma: moral traumatic injury, PTSD, C-PTSD; Anxiety, Grief/Loss; Relationships; Identity & Life Transitions (marriage, divorce, poly-relationships etc); Infidelity; Return to Work & STD/LTD leaves; Queer & Trans-affirming. I offer sessions in person in Calgary or Virtually (phone/video - AB, NS, YK). I also offer Assessment Services (e.g. Psychoeducational, Mental Health, Personality, ADHD, MVA Personal Injury)
I work predominantly with First Responders (e.g. EMS & 911), Veterans (VAC/Medavie), Frontline Workers (e.g. Nurses - RN, LPN, NP; Probation Officers; Peace Officers; Corrections) -You are all RADtastic! I specialize in Trauma: moral traumatic injury, PTSD, C-PTSD; Anxiety, Grief/Loss; Relationships; Identity & Life Transitions (marriage, divorce, poly-relationships etc); Infidelity; Return to Work & STD/LTD leaves; Queer & Trans-affirming. I offer sessions in person in Calgary or Virtually (phone/video - AB, NS, YK). I also offer Assessment Services (e.g. Psychoeducational, Mental Health, Personality, ADHD, MVA Personal Injury)
Life has its many challenges, it can be messy, and complicated. Maybe you feel stuck, overwhelmed, angry, lost, and not sure what to do. Maybe you are not able to respond to people or situations in your life the way you would like to. You want more freedom, choice, control, and clarity. You want to feel less weighed down, and more relaxed in your body and life. You want a healthier more connected relationship with yourself and others. Curious if counselling would be helpful? A safe, collaborative therapeutic relationship where you feel comfortable sharing your story, being your authentic self, feeling heard, and seen can help.
Life has its many challenges, it can be messy, and complicated. Maybe you feel stuck, overwhelmed, angry, lost, and not sure what to do. Maybe you are not able to respond to people or situations in your life the way you would like to. You want more freedom, choice, control, and clarity. You want to feel less weighed down, and more relaxed in your body and life. You want a healthier more connected relationship with yourself and others. Curious if counselling would be helpful? A safe, collaborative therapeutic relationship where you feel comfortable sharing your story, being your authentic self, feeling heard, and seen can help.
Therapeutic Inter. Psyc. Service Inc. (TIPS)
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Fort McMurray, AB T9H
If you are having issues in your relationship, struggling with anger or addiction, overwhelmed with depression and anxiety, feeling consumed with trauma come see us. Our focus is you and what makes your life more meaningful and satisfying. The ideal client is one who is able to work collaboratively with their Counselor to identify realistic and achievable goals. Our mission is "to help every person take their life back." Come and see us today, the change you are looking for is just a call away. We also offer counseling for veterans with Medavie BlueCross plans. Come see us to discover tips that are life-changing and transformative.
If you are having issues in your relationship, struggling with anger or addiction, overwhelmed with depression and anxiety, feeling consumed with trauma come see us. Our focus is you and what makes your life more meaningful and satisfying. The ideal client is one who is able to work collaboratively with their Counselor to identify realistic and achievable goals. Our mission is "to help every person take their life back." Come and see us today, the change you are looking for is just a call away. We also offer counseling for veterans with Medavie BlueCross plans. Come see us to discover tips that are life-changing and transformative.
Tracey Black-Black Counselling Consulting Services Ltd.
Registered Social Worker, MACP, MA, CCC, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Red Deer, AB T4N
Hello, reaching out to a therapist can be hard but you should know is this is a safe place to talk about whatever is going on in your life. I believe in providing a space without judgment, a space to download your story and to provide you a place of support and guidance. Part of my practice is to reach out to you in between sessions because I believe in a person centered approach and support should be ongoing. My goal is to support, guide and advocate so that each person finds movement forward. Life can be challenging and sometimes you just need another person to work things through with. I believe I can help you.
Hello, reaching out to a therapist can be hard but you should know is this is a safe place to talk about whatever is going on in your life. I believe in providing a space without judgment, a space to download your story and to provide you a place of support and guidance. Part of my practice is to reach out to you in between sessions because I believe in a person centered approach and support should be ongoing. My goal is to support, guide and advocate so that each person finds movement forward. Life can be challenging and sometimes you just need another person to work things through with. I believe I can help you.
Imagine a space where you are fully listened to, a place where you can talk about the things you need to and not be judged for it. Each person struggles sometimes, that is normal. With therapy, those struggles may become smaller and easier. I listen carefully to spot and highlight the places that you are doing well. We work through where you want to go and the best way to get there. You then take these skills that you've learned so that you can solve future struggles that you may encounter.
Imagine a space where you are fully listened to, a place where you can talk about the things you need to and not be judged for it. Each person struggles sometimes, that is normal. With therapy, those struggles may become smaller and easier. I listen carefully to spot and highlight the places that you are doing well. We work through where you want to go and the best way to get there. You then take these skills that you've learned so that you can solve future struggles that you may encounter.
Allegra Taylor - Founder Of Kindred Roots Therapy Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Ready to embark on a transformative journey with a down-to-earth therapist? Seeking support to learn how to set and maintain boundaries, manage ADHD, overcome trauma, or discover true self-acceptance? My name is Allegra (pronounced Ah-lee-gra) and if you resonate with the above questions, I believe we are meant to work together! I provide a safe and non-judgmental space so you can explore your innermost challenges authentically. As a result of our work together you will regain a sense of control over your life, learn to set boundaries and cultivate resilience for the future. Book now to start your journey towards a fulfilling life!
Ready to embark on a transformative journey with a down-to-earth therapist? Seeking support to learn how to set and maintain boundaries, manage ADHD, overcome trauma, or discover true self-acceptance? My name is Allegra (pronounced Ah-lee-gra) and if you resonate with the above questions, I believe we are meant to work together! I provide a safe and non-judgmental space so you can explore your innermost challenges authentically. As a result of our work together you will regain a sense of control over your life, learn to set boundaries and cultivate resilience for the future. Book now to start your journey towards a fulfilling life!
Do you feel unheard, angry, or ashamed? Are you stuck in the past or stressed about the future? Maybe you struggle with overwhelming feelings at home or work. You want to feel at ease but your relationships aren't peaceful. It can be difficult to find a therapist who understands your emotions and thoughts. I have a passion for providing empathetic and culturally sensitive care to adults struggling with anxiety, depression, racial identity, trauma and PTSD. In our individual or marriage counselling sessions, I hope you will come to feel seen, heard, and understood as we explore your story and connect with your body.
Do you feel unheard, angry, or ashamed? Are you stuck in the past or stressed about the future? Maybe you struggle with overwhelming feelings at home or work. You want to feel at ease but your relationships aren't peaceful. It can be difficult to find a therapist who understands your emotions and thoughts. I have a passion for providing empathetic and culturally sensitive care to adults struggling with anxiety, depression, racial identity, trauma and PTSD. In our individual or marriage counselling sessions, I hope you will come to feel seen, heard, and understood as we explore your story and connect with your body.
Elizabeth Hides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, CT, CMMT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2X
Grief is a natural and unique experience. Hello! I am a holistic grief specialist. I am not your typical talk counsellor. I help adult Albertan’s connect to their mind, body, spirit and life again after a death, loss or life change. Grief is unique in how each person experiences it. Grief can be chaotic, overwhelming, isolating and sometimes leaving you feeling you have no control of your mind, body and life. Having both personal and professional experience with death, loss and unpredictable changes, allows me to be thoughtful about the importance of creating a safe space to share your raw emotions, thoughts and story of loss.
Grief is a natural and unique experience. Hello! I am a holistic grief specialist. I am not your typical talk counsellor. I help adult Albertan’s connect to their mind, body, spirit and life again after a death, loss or life change. Grief is unique in how each person experiences it. Grief can be chaotic, overwhelming, isolating and sometimes leaving you feeling you have no control of your mind, body and life. Having both personal and professional experience with death, loss and unpredictable changes, allows me to be thoughtful about the importance of creating a safe space to share your raw emotions, thoughts and story of loss.
“I am committed to your mental health and wellness.” Through building awareness in an unconditionally accepting therapeutic relationship, my clients are able to develop adaptive ways of coping, learn new ways of relating to others in their lives, and to experience deeper connection, acceptance and respect for themselves and their emotions. I take pride in being authentic and transparent throughout the therapy process and I am passionate about working with people to explore their challenges, strengths and opportunities for growth and change. My style has been described as: Compassionate, Warm, Engaging, Kind, and Committed.
“I am committed to your mental health and wellness.” Through building awareness in an unconditionally accepting therapeutic relationship, my clients are able to develop adaptive ways of coping, learn new ways of relating to others in their lives, and to experience deeper connection, acceptance and respect for themselves and their emotions. I take pride in being authentic and transparent throughout the therapy process and I am passionate about working with people to explore their challenges, strengths and opportunities for growth and change. My style has been described as: Compassionate, Warm, Engaging, Kind, and Committed.
Bonnie Kelly - Therapy Alberta
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Airdrie, AB T4B
It can be difficult trying to find your way in a world full of change and expectations. Are you struggling with anxiety, confusion, or overwhelm? Feeling misunderstood is exhausting. Have you been targeted and othered for how you dress, love, express or identify? You want to be seen and heard, just as you are, so you can find your unique path and be who you want to be. Going to therapy doesn't have to be hard. You can find a genuine, safe connection with a therapist that sees you for you. I specialize in helping ADHD, neurodiverse, gender diverse, transgender and LGBTQ+ teens and adults find their strengths, connect, and thrive.
It can be difficult trying to find your way in a world full of change and expectations. Are you struggling with anxiety, confusion, or overwhelm? Feeling misunderstood is exhausting. Have you been targeted and othered for how you dress, love, express or identify? You want to be seen and heard, just as you are, so you can find your unique path and be who you want to be. Going to therapy doesn't have to be hard. You can find a genuine, safe connection with a therapist that sees you for you. I specialize in helping ADHD, neurodiverse, gender diverse, transgender and LGBTQ+ teens and adults find their strengths, connect, and thrive.
I provide high-quality, psychoanalytic therapy and am currently accepting new clients for individual and couples treatment. At the beginning of treatment, we complete an assessment of your history, personality, skills, and relationships. Next we develop a customized treatment plan for your situation. Finally, we practice skills and follow-through with change. If you are open-minded, courageous and committed to learning, we can make positive, meaningful improvements to your life! Good therapy will likely decrease your symptoms AND also increase your confidence and skills, bring balance to relationships, and foster self-acceptance.
I provide high-quality, psychoanalytic therapy and am currently accepting new clients for individual and couples treatment. At the beginning of treatment, we complete an assessment of your history, personality, skills, and relationships. Next we develop a customized treatment plan for your situation. Finally, we practice skills and follow-through with change. If you are open-minded, courageous and committed to learning, we can make positive, meaningful improvements to your life! Good therapy will likely decrease your symptoms AND also increase your confidence and skills, bring balance to relationships, and foster self-acceptance.
Sarah Laughton
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BSc, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3A
How’s your relationship, marriage or intimate partnership? Is there conflict, disconnection or loneliness between you? Or are you on autopilot and you know you both deserve better? Is it affecting your parenting? Or maybe you’ve suffered from trauma in your past and it won’t let go. Anxiety or depression are taking over. You are not alone if you're feeling stuck in negative patterns. It happens to us all. You don't have to stay there. Counselling and coaching are ways out. I'm here for you. Let's build back your strength, resilience, and loving connection together.
How’s your relationship, marriage or intimate partnership? Is there conflict, disconnection or loneliness between you? Or are you on autopilot and you know you both deserve better? Is it affecting your parenting? Or maybe you’ve suffered from trauma in your past and it won’t let go. Anxiety or depression are taking over. You are not alone if you're feeling stuck in negative patterns. It happens to us all. You don't have to stay there. Counselling and coaching are ways out. I'm here for you. Let's build back your strength, resilience, and loving connection together.
See more therapy options for Alberta
Online Counsellors
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 specialised 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.