Photo of undefined -  Counseling God's Way LLC/Rev. Ruth Ceneus, MA, LPCTC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling God's Way LLC/Rev. Ruth Ceneus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCTC, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
I'm a Licensed Clinical Temperament and Licensed Pastoral Counselor, I can help you find the source of the emotional issues going on in your life: family, work, church, and your health through a Temperament Analysis.
Have you been cheated on? You're feeling depressed. Can't sleep and can't tell anyone. You want things to return to normal. Is this challenging world threatens your faith & your relationship? Have you brought it up to the Lord Jesus? Do you have disagreements often with your loved ones? Do you hoard stuff and you're sick & tired of them? Are you looking for direction? I am a listener, compassionate believer in Jesus Christ, fully committed to helping individuals, family, & heterosexual couples who want to live a happy & free life. I can help you & your spouse solve most issues you're facing. The emotional rollercoaster can end soon.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Temperament and Licensed Pastoral Counselor, I can help you find the source of the emotional issues going on in your life: family, work, church, and your health through a Temperament Analysis.
Have you been cheated on? You're feeling depressed. Can't sleep and can't tell anyone. You want things to return to normal. Is this challenging world threatens your faith & your relationship? Have you brought it up to the Lord Jesus? Do you have disagreements often with your loved ones? Do you hoard stuff and you're sick & tired of them? Are you looking for direction? I am a listener, compassionate believer in Jesus Christ, fully committed to helping individuals, family, & heterosexual couples who want to live a happy & free life. I can help you & your spouse solve most issues you're facing. The emotional rollercoaster can end soon.
(205) 224-0695 View (205) 224-0695
Photo of undefined - Mental Health Monarchs, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Monarchs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35207  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in addressing the profound impact of childhood family dysfunction, emotional neglect, and trauma on your life. I understand that despite being resilient and high-functioning in education/career pursuits, you may struggle with maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships, leading to potential risks of domestic/intimate partner issues. I am particularly interested in working with individuals who are committed to a journey of emotional self-mastery, which helps them adopt and develop essential self-regulation skills to support their emotional well-being.
I specialize in addressing the profound impact of childhood family dysfunction, emotional neglect, and trauma on your life. I understand that despite being resilient and high-functioning in education/career pursuits, you may struggle with maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships, leading to potential risks of domestic/intimate partner issues. I am particularly interested in working with individuals who are committed to a journey of emotional self-mastery, which helps them adopt and develop essential self-regulation skills to support their emotional well-being.
(205) 273-0270 View (205) 273-0270
Photo of undefined - Benjamin Counseling and Consulting, LLC, MA, LPC-S, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Benjamin Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
Are you where you would like to be in relation to your career, family, health (mental/physical), education, or spirituality? I welcome the opportunity to use the skills that I have attained to help others “take back their pen” for years to come.
I believe that people are born with enormous potential! That said, sometimes situations occur in our lives which directly or indirectly impact the pace at which we may reach that potential. When people are able to identify at what point they stopped being an author in their lives, they can go back, pick up the pen, and begin re-writing their story. I bring an eclectic approach in moving us forward (EFT, DBT, CBT, among others) in consideration of identified goals. I regularly serve therapists, bariatric clients, men/women with perinatal struggles, couples, and individuals struggling with anxiety/OCD and/or depression, among others.
Are you where you would like to be in relation to your career, family, health (mental/physical), education, or spirituality? I welcome the opportunity to use the skills that I have attained to help others “take back their pen” for years to come.
I believe that people are born with enormous potential! That said, sometimes situations occur in our lives which directly or indirectly impact the pace at which we may reach that potential. When people are able to identify at what point they stopped being an author in their lives, they can go back, pick up the pen, and begin re-writing their story. I bring an eclectic approach in moving us forward (EFT, DBT, CBT, among others) in consideration of identified goals. I regularly serve therapists, bariatric clients, men/women with perinatal struggles, couples, and individuals struggling with anxiety/OCD and/or depression, among others.
(205) 538-0244 View (205) 538-0244
Photo of Valerie Thompson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valerie Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35233
Now accepting BCBS Insurance. You’re on call 24/7, always needed, always giving. While caregiving is your passion and your calling- you're just exhausted. You want and need to be there for the important people in your life. You've dedicated yourself to helping clients, customers, family, friends, or patients in need. But somehow it's simultaneously fulfilling and draining. You need a vacation. But who needs those anyway? You'll be okay... right? Giving is a noble value. It is so important to leave this world better than you found it. But you can't pour from an empty cup.
Now accepting BCBS Insurance. You’re on call 24/7, always needed, always giving. While caregiving is your passion and your calling- you're just exhausted. You want and need to be there for the important people in your life. You've dedicated yourself to helping clients, customers, family, friends, or patients in need. But somehow it's simultaneously fulfilling and draining. You need a vacation. But who needs those anyway? You'll be okay... right? Giving is a noble value. It is so important to leave this world better than you found it. But you can't pour from an empty cup.
(205) 236-5046 View (205) 236-5046
Photo of Patrick Norton, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patrick Norton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
Apollo Counseling utilizes integrative and modern professional counseling approaches such as CBT, SFBT, Structured Family Therapy, Gottman Method for couples, PCIT, and REBT to work towards your goals and provide the individual support you or your family need.
Apollo Counseling is here to provide professional mental health and wellness support for individuals, couples, and families. We specialize in working with medical professionals, college students, adolescents, and young professionals in addressing anxiety, depression, burnout, relationship concerns, and other mental health issues. Apollo Counseling can provide the support you need to overcome challenging obstacles, improve your mental health and wellness, raise your self-esteem, navigate difficult relationships, and face the day with confidence.
Apollo Counseling utilizes integrative and modern professional counseling approaches such as CBT, SFBT, Structured Family Therapy, Gottman Method for couples, PCIT, and REBT to work towards your goals and provide the individual support you or your family need.
Apollo Counseling is here to provide professional mental health and wellness support for individuals, couples, and families. We specialize in working with medical professionals, college students, adolescents, and young professionals in addressing anxiety, depression, burnout, relationship concerns, and other mental health issues. Apollo Counseling can provide the support you need to overcome challenging obstacles, improve your mental health and wellness, raise your self-esteem, navigate difficult relationships, and face the day with confidence.
(205) 526-4074 View (205) 526-4074
Photo of undefined - Yellow Bird Counseling LLC, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yellow Bird Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
The focus of our practice, is to assist adults, children, and families with obtaining relatable therapy, to reach goals. We assess situations in your life which contribute to current emotions behaviors and thought patterns. With child and adolescent clients our focus is similar, with the addition of close communication with the family. Moreover, with child and adolescents, we will focus on depression, impulsive behavior, limited attention span, oppositional/defiant behaviors, dishonesty, and social issues in school/home. Family and/or friends are welcome in your sessions for support. We do offer 430p-630p, and weekend appointments.
The focus of our practice, is to assist adults, children, and families with obtaining relatable therapy, to reach goals. We assess situations in your life which contribute to current emotions behaviors and thought patterns. With child and adolescent clients our focus is similar, with the addition of close communication with the family. Moreover, with child and adolescents, we will focus on depression, impulsive behavior, limited attention span, oppositional/defiant behaviors, dishonesty, and social issues in school/home. Family and/or friends are welcome in your sessions for support. We do offer 430p-630p, and weekend appointments.
(205) 236-9136 View (205) 236-9136
Photo of undefined - Cultivating Minds Counseling Group, LLC, MS, ALC, Counselor
Cultivating Minds Counseling Group, LLC
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35205
Do you find it hard getting out of bed day by day? Are you stuck in bed all day? Do you find it hard leaving the house? Does it feel like you are sinking into a hole? Do you find yourself avoiding family and friends phone calls? Do you find yourself isolating ? Are you afraid of going into a store due to large crowds? If so, with a little work learning techniques in reconstructing your thought patterns, while building a set of skills that will enable you to identify how situations, & thoughts influence emotions. Under supervision Tiffany Gaines, LPC-S
Do you find it hard getting out of bed day by day? Are you stuck in bed all day? Do you find it hard leaving the house? Does it feel like you are sinking into a hole? Do you find yourself avoiding family and friends phone calls? Do you find yourself isolating ? Are you afraid of going into a store due to large crowds? If so, with a little work learning techniques in reconstructing your thought patterns, while building a set of skills that will enable you to identify how situations, & thoughts influence emotions. Under supervision Tiffany Gaines, LPC-S
(938) 222-4492 View (938) 222-4492
Photo of Crystal Crim M. Ed., LPC, LCPC, TF-CBT, BC-TMH, NCC, Counselor
Crystal Crim M. Ed.
Counselor, LPC, LCPC, TF-CBT, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
Feeling more depressed or anxious than usual? Dealing with trauma? How about that argument with your family or loved one? You have so much on your plate, between family, work, and attempting to have some kind of social life, that you have forgotten YOU.
Feeling more depressed or anxious than usual? Dealing with trauma? How about that argument with your family or loved one? You have so much on your plate, between family, work, and attempting to have some kind of social life, that you have forgotten YOU.
(205) 772-1578 View (205) 772-1578
Photo of Katelyn Pickett, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Katelyn Pickett
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
Taking the first step towards therapy can be challenging, but it is a courageous and fulfilling decision! As someone who has experienced therapy first-hand, I can vouch for its benefits! Life can be tough, whether it’s navigating a loss, breaking free from negative family patterns, or just needing a safe space to process your thoughts. Therapy provides that space. The weight of these experiences can leave us feeling isolated, lost, and overwhelmed, but you don't have to face them alone. Whether you're an individual, couple, or family, know that I'm here to support you through these tough times.
Taking the first step towards therapy can be challenging, but it is a courageous and fulfilling decision! As someone who has experienced therapy first-hand, I can vouch for its benefits! Life can be tough, whether it’s navigating a loss, breaking free from negative family patterns, or just needing a safe space to process your thoughts. Therapy provides that space. The weight of these experiences can leave us feeling isolated, lost, and overwhelmed, but you don't have to face them alone. Whether you're an individual, couple, or family, know that I'm here to support you through these tough times.
(205) 528-6258 View (205) 528-6258
Photo of undefined - Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services,LLC, M Ed, ALC, Counselor
Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services,LLC
Counselor, M Ed, ALC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
I am able to provide counseling for the following topics: ADHD, anxiety, behavioral issues, conflict resolution, couples counseling, emotional disturbance, family conflict, grief, goal setting, healthy communication, parenting, pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum depression, just to name a few.
Have you felt that waking up every morning has become difficult? The day to day tasks appear to be mountains that you must climb. You do not have to go through this alone. Our services are designed to meet the various mental health needs of adolescents, young adults, and women as you navigate the trials of life. Take the first step by taking care of you. Here at Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services, you will be with someone that will allow you to breathe and assist you by using therapeutic strategies to improve your mental health and who will be with you when those conversations become difficult but necessary.
I am able to provide counseling for the following topics: ADHD, anxiety, behavioral issues, conflict resolution, couples counseling, emotional disturbance, family conflict, grief, goal setting, healthy communication, parenting, pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum depression, just to name a few.
Have you felt that waking up every morning has become difficult? The day to day tasks appear to be mountains that you must climb. You do not have to go through this alone. Our services are designed to meet the various mental health needs of adolescents, young adults, and women as you navigate the trials of life. Take the first step by taking care of you. Here at Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services, you will be with someone that will allow you to breathe and assist you by using therapeutic strategies to improve your mental health and who will be with you when those conversations become difficult but necessary.
(205) 883-2466 View (205) 883-2466
Photo of Elizabeth Shahid, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Shahid
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35255  (Online Only)
You see yourself thriving at work and in relationships with family and friends.
You’ve been trying to hold it together and you’re not sure you can do it anymore. Sometimes you feel alone and confused about what to do next. You don’t feel like yourself or the person you want to be. Maybe you're tired and just want to catch a break. You feel frustrated and need something more. You're not alone! At some point in our lives, everyone experiences difficulties they need help with!
You see yourself thriving at work and in relationships with family and friends.
You’ve been trying to hold it together and you’re not sure you can do it anymore. Sometimes you feel alone and confused about what to do next. You don’t feel like yourself or the person you want to be. Maybe you're tired and just want to catch a break. You feel frustrated and need something more. You're not alone! At some point in our lives, everyone experiences difficulties they need help with!
(205) 272-6367 View (205) 272-6367
Photo of Paige M. Reynolds, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paige M. Reynolds
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I offer individual, family, and couples counseling to adults and play therapy to children and adolescents.
My ideal client is someone who is looking for support with taking the next step in their lives. They are looking for someone to help provide them the tools to take that step and support them in accomplishing their goals.
I offer individual, family, and couples counseling to adults and play therapy to children and adolescents.
My ideal client is someone who is looking for support with taking the next step in their lives. They are looking for someone to help provide them the tools to take that step and support them in accomplishing their goals.
(205) 238-7167 View (205) 238-7167
Photo of Margaret Byars, ALC, MA, NCC, Counselor
Margaret Byars
Counselor, ALC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
I utilize different approaches to help clients achieve self growth and to build better relationships. I provide a safe space for clients to explore their inner world to accomplish high self worth, competent boundaries, secure attachments, and individual purpose. I explore spiritual, mental, emotional and family dynamics with my clients to get to the root of any life stressors. I hope for my clients to experience inner peace and clarity after each session as they continue towards a journey of self-awareness. Practical and existential practices are utilized to bring about confidence and high self-esteem to achieve the client's goals.
I utilize different approaches to help clients achieve self growth and to build better relationships. I provide a safe space for clients to explore their inner world to accomplish high self worth, competent boundaries, secure attachments, and individual purpose. I explore spiritual, mental, emotional and family dynamics with my clients to get to the root of any life stressors. I hope for my clients to experience inner peace and clarity after each session as they continue towards a journey of self-awareness. Practical and existential practices are utilized to bring about confidence and high self-esteem to achieve the client's goals.
(251) 325-3181 View (251) 325-3181
Photo of Isabella Ashley, ALC, NCC, Counselor
Isabella Ashley
Counselor, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35235  (Online Only)
I specialize in couples and family therapy, anger management, life transitions for adults, and anxiety.
A famous quote says.... "Life is 10 percent of what happens and 90 percent of how you react to it". What does this mean to you? I believe it means that although some life experiences are out of our control, we hold the power to choose how we navigate through them. As a human being, I understand how life’s challenges can cause doubt, hopelessness, and feeling stuck. As a clinician, I understand the importance of mental wellness, and a safe space to equip you to better handle every aspect of daily living. With 5 years of experience, I've helped empower teens, adults, families and couples to manage and embrace life at its fullness.
I specialize in couples and family therapy, anger management, life transitions for adults, and anxiety.
A famous quote says.... "Life is 10 percent of what happens and 90 percent of how you react to it". What does this mean to you? I believe it means that although some life experiences are out of our control, we hold the power to choose how we navigate through them. As a human being, I understand how life’s challenges can cause doubt, hopelessness, and feeling stuck. As a clinician, I understand the importance of mental wellness, and a safe space to equip you to better handle every aspect of daily living. With 5 years of experience, I've helped empower teens, adults, families and couples to manage and embrace life at its fullness.
(205) 891-5072 View (205) 891-5072
Photo of Sharon Middleton McGinnis, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Middleton McGinnis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
Everyone has felt the pain of betrayal, guilt, shame, rejection, and discouragement. Life and family interactions present challenges. You and your family are unique; but the issues and challenges you face are shared by others. We're human. We need to feel loved and supported. We need to enjoy life! But sometimes, life gets in the way. I am here to help you and your family successfully manage and overcome life's challenges and seize life's opportunities. I believe that hope for the future, healing from the past and the ability to enjoy everyday life is possible and occurs in the context of healthy relationships.
Everyone has felt the pain of betrayal, guilt, shame, rejection, and discouragement. Life and family interactions present challenges. You and your family are unique; but the issues and challenges you face are shared by others. We're human. We need to feel loved and supported. We need to enjoy life! But sometimes, life gets in the way. I am here to help you and your family successfully manage and overcome life's challenges and seize life's opportunities. I believe that hope for the future, healing from the past and the ability to enjoy everyday life is possible and occurs in the context of healthy relationships.
(205) 583-2441 View (205) 583-2441
Photo of undefined - Joanna Ware Counseling, LLC, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joanna Ware Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
I believe that from the day we are born, to the day we die, we come to know ourselves in and through our most intimate relationships. Hopefully these relationships are life giving, whether they are with our parents, our siblings or our significant partners. However, when we have to struggle to find support and comfort from our loved ones, life can become frustrating and hopeless. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and a Certified PBSP Certified Therapist, I am trained to offer my clients the most comprehensive counseling practice available to help them improve their most intimate relationships.
I believe that from the day we are born, to the day we die, we come to know ourselves in and through our most intimate relationships. Hopefully these relationships are life giving, whether they are with our parents, our siblings or our significant partners. However, when we have to struggle to find support and comfort from our loved ones, life can become frustrating and hopeless. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and a Certified PBSP Certified Therapist, I am trained to offer my clients the most comprehensive counseling practice available to help them improve their most intimate relationships.
(205) 683-4074 View (205) 683-4074
Photo of Rebecca Welsh, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Welsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
I earned a Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health & Marriage and Family Counseling at the University of Montevallo in 2013.
It has been said that: "God uses our deepest pain as a launchpad for our highest calling". However, a lot of the times we become immobilized by the pains we have endured. My goal in counseling is to remind believers and non-believers that there is hope past the pain, shame, and doubt they are experiencing; through modalities of individual, couples, family and pre-marital counseling.Do not let shame and doubt rule over you any longer but instead gain insight and authenticity as you understand your Creator, your process and yourself more fully.
I earned a Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health & Marriage and Family Counseling at the University of Montevallo in 2013.
It has been said that: "God uses our deepest pain as a launchpad for our highest calling". However, a lot of the times we become immobilized by the pains we have endured. My goal in counseling is to remind believers and non-believers that there is hope past the pain, shame, and doubt they are experiencing; through modalities of individual, couples, family and pre-marital counseling.Do not let shame and doubt rule over you any longer but instead gain insight and authenticity as you understand your Creator, your process and yourself more fully.
(205) 858-9520 View (205) 858-9520
Photo of undefined - Insight Therapeutic Services, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Insight Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35243
Frazier is a certified Family Trauma Professional specializing in the areas of trauma and sexual abuse in children, adolescents and adults.
Insight Therapeutic Services, LLC is a group of 14 Licensed Professional Counselors and Licensed Clinical Social Workers, each with certifications in a variety of specialty areas serving children and adults. Our team strives to match the needs of your family with a therapist knowledgeable and skilled in your area of need. Our therapists are skilled in the areas of trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and addictions. Each therapist holds a certification in their area of expertise. We are currently accepting new clients for Alabaster and Birmingham locations. Telehealth offered as well.
Frazier is a certified Family Trauma Professional specializing in the areas of trauma and sexual abuse in children, adolescents and adults.
Insight Therapeutic Services, LLC is a group of 14 Licensed Professional Counselors and Licensed Clinical Social Workers, each with certifications in a variety of specialty areas serving children and adults. Our team strives to match the needs of your family with a therapist knowledgeable and skilled in your area of need. Our therapists are skilled in the areas of trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and addictions. Each therapist holds a certification in their area of expertise. We are currently accepting new clients for Alabaster and Birmingham locations. Telehealth offered as well.
(205) 374-9859 View (205) 374-9859
Photo of undefined - Harper's Heart Counseling, LPC, NCC, CATP, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Harper's Heart Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CATP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35211  (Online Only)
Do you want to feel heard and appreciated? If so, I specialize in helping others overcome daily life stressors such as depression and anxiety, family conflicts, and or general emotional distress. Allow me to assist with breaking down various psychological barriers.
Do you want to feel heard and appreciated? If so, I specialize in helping others overcome daily life stressors such as depression and anxiety, family conflicts, and or general emotional distress. Allow me to assist with breaking down various psychological barriers.
(205) 270-4091 View (205) 270-4091
Photo of Al Bevill, LPC-S, NCC, CCFC, CCSOTS, Counselor
Al Bevill
Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, CCFC, CCSOTS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
Al works with those individuals or couples who are at the end of their rope. Couples Focused Counseling: Have you tried and been unsuccessful with Traditional marital or couples counseling, Self-help books, Talking to friends or family for advice, or Doing nothing at all. Is your marriage on the brink? Couples arriving at the brink is a necessary stage in every marriage or long-term relationship. That’s right, it’s not IF you get to the Brink, but what you do WHEN you get there.
Al works with those individuals or couples who are at the end of their rope. Couples Focused Counseling: Have you tried and been unsuccessful with Traditional marital or couples counseling, Self-help books, Talking to friends or family for advice, or Doing nothing at all. Is your marriage on the brink? Couples arriving at the brink is a necessary stage in every marriage or long-term relationship. That’s right, it’s not IF you get to the Brink, but what you do WHEN you get there.
(205) 224-0063 View (205) 224-0063
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.