Is Online Therapy/Education as effective as being physically in-person? How does online therapy/education work?

Yes! Online therapy/education has been shown to be just as effective as in-person for a variety of issues.

The only difference is that instead of being physically face-to-face with your provider, you will use your device to connect through Google Meet using the link provided. Anywhere you feel safe and has a strong internet connection can be used for our sessions. We will be able to see and hear each other through the secure video platform.

Is Online therapy/education right for me?

Is your time valuable? Do you hate sitting in traffic or commuting to appointments? Do you feel awkward or uncomfortable sitting in a waiting room or talking to a professional in a clinical/office setting? Online therapy/education is right for you if you want to get the most bang for your buck, talk to a professional while in the comfort of your own home or while traveling, and have access to a wider range of providers than is available in your community. Online access to services provides faster entry, greater transparency in the kind of service you are provided, and fast relief for significant problems.

I’ve never talked to anyone about my problems. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who ask for help weak?

Not at all. People are at their strongest when they know they need help and reach out to an expert. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, but for whatever reason those aren’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again with what is happening now.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

I have helped hundreds of couples and individuals navigate all kinds of complex situations and problems. As a licensed professional for more than 13 years I have studied the best practices that couples and individuals use to transform their relationships for the better. There is much more to therapy than just listening or validating your feelings. I can help you learn and practice new skills, gain insight, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you break free from damaging patterns. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” As an educator I have developed a blueprint for teaching research proven methods that help build safe and secure attachment in relationships, manage anxious thoughts and feelings, and improve your quality of life.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication alone cannot solve all your issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals. Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy or education.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

For my work therapy sessions with couples I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which is an American Psychiatric Association approved model for helping improve intimate relationships. I am a strong believer in using proven approaches to counseling so that you are getting the best help and support. We will discuss this framework in detail and practice skills to help you and your partner have healthier communication and build trust. All you need to do is show up ready to work towards positive change.

For my work with individuals I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a heavy emphasis on brain science, attachment theory, trauma-informed practices and mindfulness. We will discuss in detail how the brain is wired, learns, forms attachments, and benefits from consistent practice to change the way we think and behave. All you need to do is come to sessions open to talking through things that you think and feel and want help and support in better understanding.

For my work as an educator I present the principles of these proven frameworks and talk through how to apply them in your life. Many of the benefits of learning these frameworks and practicing these skills can happen without digging into your individual history or entering into a client-therapist relationship.

How long will it take?

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy/education can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place. For couples and individuals I recommend planning for at least 6-8 sessions before expecting to see long-term and sustainable change.

I want to get the most out of therapy/education. What can I do?

I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication in sessions is crucial to your success. Work you do outside of our sessions will help you integrate things we have learned and practiced. Resources for practice and deeper learning in between sessions will be provided.

My partner and I are having problems. Should we be doing individual work or come together for sessions?

If you are concerned about your own emotional health and the health of the relationship then doing something to get started is the best first move. Talk to your partner first, if possible, and work with them to make a plan. If you aren’t ready to speak with them yet then doing your own individual work is a good plan to move towards positive change.