Photo of undefined - August West Wellness, MA, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
August West Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Turtle Creek, PA 15145
Thus I'm able to adapt and match my counseling style to serve a variety of clients, ranging from anxiety to depression to more complicated mood and behavioral disorders, such as bipolar and schizophrenia.
Welcome, welcome, WELCOME! All my life I have believed that a person needs to be the change they want to see in the world. Thus my practice is one where people are free to learn, to grow, to express themselves freely and without judgement about whatever ails them. This could be daily life struggles of riding public transportation, or more philosophical questions about the meaning of life, and everything in between. All it takes to start is the willingness to have a conversation. I take a trauma focused, client first approach which makes getting that conversation started even easier!
Thus I'm able to adapt and match my counseling style to serve a variety of clients, ranging from anxiety to depression to more complicated mood and behavioral disorders, such as bipolar and schizophrenia.
Welcome, welcome, WELCOME! All my life I have believed that a person needs to be the change they want to see in the world. Thus my practice is one where people are free to learn, to grow, to express themselves freely and without judgement about whatever ails them. This could be daily life struggles of riding public transportation, or more philosophical questions about the meaning of life, and everything in between. All it takes to start is the willingness to have a conversation. I take a trauma focused, client first approach which makes getting that conversation started even easier!
(878) 205-0542 View (878) 205-0542
Photo of Raphael Alfaro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Raphael Alfaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104  (Online Only)
Raphael Alfaro is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health and substance use field. He is passionate about wanting to help adults and couples address the challenges that they face on a daily basis to help them live a more balanced and fulfilled life. Raphael specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use concerns, self-esteem, schizophrenia, and other major life transitions.
Raphael Alfaro is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health and substance use field. He is passionate about wanting to help adults and couples address the challenges that they face on a daily basis to help them live a more balanced and fulfilled life. Raphael specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use concerns, self-esteem, schizophrenia, and other major life transitions.
(610) 904-9997 View (610) 904-9997
Photo of Bradley High, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bradley High
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pottstown, PA 19465  (Online Only)
I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy, as well as Mindfulness techniques, to help treat depression, anxiety, anger, stress relief, mood disorders, Bipolar, and OCD disorders.
I have twenty years of experience in counseling teens and adults in reaching their desired goals in their journey of mental health or substance abuse concerns. I am passionate in helping people recognize their inner strength and positivity to help improve their daily outlook through compassion and listening.
I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy, as well as Mindfulness techniques, to help treat depression, anxiety, anger, stress relief, mood disorders, Bipolar, and OCD disorders.
I have twenty years of experience in counseling teens and adults in reaching their desired goals in their journey of mental health or substance abuse concerns. I am passionate in helping people recognize their inner strength and positivity to help improve their daily outlook through compassion and listening.
(484) 457-5048 View (484) 457-5048
Photo of undefined - Arohi Counseling, LLC, PhD, LCSW, CCS, CAADC, CCDP-D, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arohi Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CCS, CAADC, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
Media, PA 19063  (Online Only)
We effectively work with individuals with addiction & mental health issues which include depression, anxiety, stress, anger, sexual abuse, low self-esteem, impulsivity, trauma, bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorder, schizophrenia, codependency, sex & relationship issues. They want us to assist them in recognizing their true potential & achieving their goals. They want us to guide, support, encourage, empower, & help them to recognize the error in their thinking. We partner with them to prioritize & assist them in resolving their issues. They want to learn coping skills, how to make better choices, and lead a healthy life.
We effectively work with individuals with addiction & mental health issues which include depression, anxiety, stress, anger, sexual abuse, low self-esteem, impulsivity, trauma, bipolar disorder, PTSD, personality disorder, schizophrenia, codependency, sex & relationship issues. They want us to assist them in recognizing their true potential & achieving their goals. They want us to guide, support, encourage, empower, & help them to recognize the error in their thinking. We partner with them to prioritize & assist them in resolving their issues. They want to learn coping skills, how to make better choices, and lead a healthy life.
(484) 214-2506 View (484) 214-2506
Photo of Theodore Meyer, MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theodore Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
My experience also includes therapy for bipolar disorder, autism spectrum, life transition, grief and loss, self-esteem, trauma, and peer relationships.
I view the mental health recovery process as similar to climbing a mountain: the first steps may feel overwhelming at times, however, therapy is a partnership where I can provide tools that help my clients get where they would like to go, while also building resiliency and strength for the future. Throughout the process, I will provide encouragement and at times, remind you to look back at how far you have come. Furthermore, I provide a non-judgmental and empathic space for this journey to occur.
My experience also includes therapy for bipolar disorder, autism spectrum, life transition, grief and loss, self-esteem, trauma, and peer relationships.
I view the mental health recovery process as similar to climbing a mountain: the first steps may feel overwhelming at times, however, therapy is a partnership where I can provide tools that help my clients get where they would like to go, while also building resiliency and strength for the future. Throughout the process, I will provide encouragement and at times, remind you to look back at how far you have come. Furthermore, I provide a non-judgmental and empathic space for this journey to occur.
(610) 890-7944 View (610) 890-7944
Photo of Patrick Smith, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patrick Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010  (Online Only)
In my experience, all of us will ultimately experience problems that seem to overwhelm our normal abilities to cope. Life is hard and we need outlets to process those difficult times. I’ve worked with a variety of clients that have experienced anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, codependency, PTSD, substance abuse/addiction, anger management, marital/relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma & abuse, stress management and OCD. All of my sessions are currently virtual.
In my experience, all of us will ultimately experience problems that seem to overwhelm our normal abilities to cope. Life is hard and we need outlets to process those difficult times. I’ve worked with a variety of clients that have experienced anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, codependency, PTSD, substance abuse/addiction, anger management, marital/relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma & abuse, stress management and OCD. All of my sessions are currently virtual.
(570) 623-1659 View (570) 623-1659
Photo of Brian D Barber, PsyD, LPC, MDiv, Psychologist
Brian D Barber
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
For 18 years, I have worked in diverse settings reflecting my varying passions: social justice, addiction, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, forensics, struggling youngsters, and spiritually identifying individuals.
You want more and deserve better. For many adults and youngsters, feelings of anxiety and depression leave you feeling like you are just getting by. Meeting in person, talking about your thoughts, feelings, and concerns within a safe therapeutic relationship, we can work together to help you become unstuck and rebuild a life with purpose and meaning. For some, this may include processing painful emotions, grieving losses, navigating difficult relationships, or changing self-defeating patterns. Therapy is hard work and by reading this page, you’ve already shown you’re curious to learn more about yourself and are motivated to change.
For 18 years, I have worked in diverse settings reflecting my varying passions: social justice, addiction, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, forensics, struggling youngsters, and spiritually identifying individuals.
You want more and deserve better. For many adults and youngsters, feelings of anxiety and depression leave you feeling like you are just getting by. Meeting in person, talking about your thoughts, feelings, and concerns within a safe therapeutic relationship, we can work together to help you become unstuck and rebuild a life with purpose and meaning. For some, this may include processing painful emotions, grieving losses, navigating difficult relationships, or changing self-defeating patterns. Therapy is hard work and by reading this page, you’ve already shown you’re curious to learn more about yourself and are motivated to change.
(484) 214-2653 View (484) 214-2653
Photo of Benjamin Lasner, LPC, NBCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Benjamin Lasner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Specialties include anxiety, depression, anger management, stress, work issues, LGBTQIA+, intergenerational trauma, ADHD, bipolar, and motivation.
Benjamin (pronounced Ben-ya-meen) Lasner, LPC, NBCC, M.S.. He is compassionate, open, and committed to creating a therapeutic relationship where everyone feels safe and respected. Benjamin understands and values the perspectives of both sides of the therapeutic relationship and firmly believes that two individuals sitting in a room, and having a conversation, is one of the most powerful, healing events that can occur. Benjamin strives to make the therapeutic environment welcoming, giving you his full focus and attention. It is important to meet each client where they are in order to help them achieve their goals.
Specialties include anxiety, depression, anger management, stress, work issues, LGBTQIA+, intergenerational trauma, ADHD, bipolar, and motivation.
Benjamin (pronounced Ben-ya-meen) Lasner, LPC, NBCC, M.S.. He is compassionate, open, and committed to creating a therapeutic relationship where everyone feels safe and respected. Benjamin understands and values the perspectives of both sides of the therapeutic relationship and firmly believes that two individuals sitting in a room, and having a conversation, is one of the most powerful, healing events that can occur. Benjamin strives to make the therapeutic environment welcoming, giving you his full focus and attention. It is important to meet each client where they are in order to help them achieve their goals.
(610) 686-7502 View (610) 686-7502
Photo of Stephen Britchkow, Psychologist
Stephen Britchkow
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Southampton, PA 18966
Clients often come to see me seeking help for their Relationships, to overcome Depression, Anxiety, Loss, Trauma, PTSD , Anger, ADHD, Addictions, Bipolar Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Pain Management, Career Guidance and Executive Coaching.
I am a Therapist Resource for the Dr. Phil television series. I creatively integrate positive psychology with a holistic spiritual approach to enhance healing and growth for individuals, couples and families. My holistic approach includes an in-depth evaluation to uncover and treat conditions that standard medical practice often overlooks. This includes psychological, social, physical, medical conditions, nutrition, lifestyle changes, vitamins and supplements that are researched and found to safely improve wellness.
Clients often come to see me seeking help for their Relationships, to overcome Depression, Anxiety, Loss, Trauma, PTSD , Anger, ADHD, Addictions, Bipolar Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Pain Management, Career Guidance and Executive Coaching.
I am a Therapist Resource for the Dr. Phil television series. I creatively integrate positive psychology with a holistic spiritual approach to enhance healing and growth for individuals, couples and families. My holistic approach includes an in-depth evaluation to uncover and treat conditions that standard medical practice often overlooks. This includes psychological, social, physical, medical conditions, nutrition, lifestyle changes, vitamins and supplements that are researched and found to safely improve wellness.
(267) 263-7243 x1 View (267) 263-7243 x1
Photo of Lifeline Medical Center- Agency Has Immediate Openings!, MS, MBA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lifeline Medical Center- Agency Has Immediate Openings!
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MBA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Johnstown, PA 15904
The world can be a tough place, and almost all of us require support, a listening ear, and an open mind; especially for those who do not feel heard and understood. This is even harder for those who suffer from predispositions to mental health issues such as: depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, Autism, and etc. People require empathy, patience, understanding, and acceptance to grow. People want to be heard and understood; others want to feel accepted and valued; while there are those who may feel loss and don't know what it is that they need. This is where therapy becomes essential. To find someone who cares can be life changing.
The world can be a tough place, and almost all of us require support, a listening ear, and an open mind; especially for those who do not feel heard and understood. This is even harder for those who suffer from predispositions to mental health issues such as: depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, Autism, and etc. People require empathy, patience, understanding, and acceptance to grow. People want to be heard and understood; others want to feel accepted and valued; while there are those who may feel loss and don't know what it is that they need. This is where therapy becomes essential. To find someone who cares can be life changing.
(971) 314-4936 View (971) 314-4936
Photo of Paul Duncan Gushurst, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Duncan Gushurst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Paul Gushurst graduated Phi Betta Kappa from the University of Mary Washington with a BS in Psychology and from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Master’s degree in Social Work. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist with over 14 years of experience working with emotionally and behaviorally challenged children and their families. He also has over 8 years of experience working with adults and seniors who are dealing with many of the common mental health issues including: anxiety, mood disorders (depression and bipolar); trauma, and anger. Paul is also skilled in working with couples.
Paul Gushurst graduated Phi Betta Kappa from the University of Mary Washington with a BS in Psychology and from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Master’s degree in Social Work. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist with over 14 years of experience working with emotionally and behaviorally challenged children and their families. He also has over 8 years of experience working with adults and seniors who are dealing with many of the common mental health issues including: anxiety, mood disorders (depression and bipolar); trauma, and anger. Paul is also skilled in working with couples.
(484) 255-8292 View (484) 255-8292
Photo of Ben Goldstein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
I have supported people who struggle with many different forms of mental distress, including bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression and anxiety, as well as difficulties navigating life transitions and relationship issues.
Therapy is a place to get curious about areas in your life where you might feel stuck, depressed, or isolated. In our work together, I strive to create a space that builds capacity for you to change by exploring your relationships, both past and present. I hope to support you in arriving at a deeper sense of connection to the world around you and the people in it.
I have supported people who struggle with many different forms of mental distress, including bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression and anxiety, as well as difficulties navigating life transitions and relationship issues.
Therapy is a place to get curious about areas in your life where you might feel stuck, depressed, or isolated. In our work together, I strive to create a space that builds capacity for you to change by exploring your relationships, both past and present. I hope to support you in arriving at a deeper sense of connection to the world around you and the people in it.
(267) 263-7336 View (267) 263-7336
Photo of E. Christopher Payne, PhD, Psychologist
E. Christopher Payne
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Breinigsville, PA 18031
As a licensed psychologist working in private practice, I offer highly individualized services to my clients, including treatments for depression, anxiety, addictions, attention deficit disorder (ADHD), and bipolar disorder.
My goal as a therapist is to support and empower my clients to successfully navigate life's challenges and find solutions to their problems. I believe that establishing a positive therapeutic relationship, grounded in respect for diversity of experience, is the most critical factor in helping my clients change and feel better about themselves.
As a licensed psychologist working in private practice, I offer highly individualized services to my clients, including treatments for depression, anxiety, addictions, attention deficit disorder (ADHD), and bipolar disorder.
My goal as a therapist is to support and empower my clients to successfully navigate life's challenges and find solutions to their problems. I believe that establishing a positive therapeutic relationship, grounded in respect for diversity of experience, is the most critical factor in helping my clients change and feel better about themselves.
(610) 915-8826 View (610) 915-8826
Photo of Paul Basenfelder, LCSW, CMDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Basenfelder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMDP
Verified Verified
Aston, PA 19014  (Online Only)
I work with a range of issues for individual therapy clients, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, gambling disorder, substance use/abuse, chronic illness, career issues, existential issues, relationship issues, etc.
I love being a therapist, and I have several beliefs about therapy that embody my therapeutic philosophy. First, I believe that the therapist-client relationship is sacred, and that only meaningful therapeutic work can occur through a strong alliance built on trust and free of shame and judgment. Secondly, I believe that therapy is a portal to healing wounds that loneliness and isolation worsen. Thirdly, I believe it is important to support and guide clients in living lives that are true to their own values and reflective of their authentic selves.
I work with a range of issues for individual therapy clients, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, gambling disorder, substance use/abuse, chronic illness, career issues, existential issues, relationship issues, etc.
I love being a therapist, and I have several beliefs about therapy that embody my therapeutic philosophy. First, I believe that the therapist-client relationship is sacred, and that only meaningful therapeutic work can occur through a strong alliance built on trust and free of shame and judgment. Secondly, I believe that therapy is a portal to healing wounds that loneliness and isolation worsen. Thirdly, I believe it is important to support and guide clients in living lives that are true to their own values and reflective of their authentic selves.
(267) 329-0149 View (267) 329-0149
Photo of John Markey, PsyD, CADC, Psychologist
John Markey
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Pennsylvania with 14 years of experience. Prior to opening my practice, I held the position of Director of Mental Health Services at the Bucks County Correctional Facility. During that time, I became an expert in treating mentally illness, which involved the complex forensic component. Most notably, I am known for competent and successful treatment of Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, PTSD and Bipolar Disorder. I also provided treatment to military veterans, who were in combat during the most recent war.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Pennsylvania with 14 years of experience. Prior to opening my practice, I held the position of Director of Mental Health Services at the Bucks County Correctional Facility. During that time, I became an expert in treating mentally illness, which involved the complex forensic component. Most notably, I am known for competent and successful treatment of Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, PTSD and Bipolar Disorder. I also provided treatment to military veterans, who were in combat during the most recent war.
(215) 867-6541 View (215) 867-6541
Photo of John K. Cook, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John K. Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
I also treat depression, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions, grief, and relationship issues.
People often come to therapy when they're feeling distressed, stuck, or hopeless. My goal is to assist them in finding the way beyond these feelings.
I also treat depression, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions, grief, and relationship issues.
People often come to therapy when they're feeling distressed, stuck, or hopeless. My goal is to assist them in finding the way beyond these feelings.
(484) 851-9285 View (484) 851-9285
Photo of Derek Pendleton, LCSW, ACSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derek Pendleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (All Types), Anger Management, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I believe that the relationship and trust built in therapy are the most important and necessary agents for meaningful, lasting change, and that compassionate care is essential to your feeling validated and empowered throughout the process. Without these connections, even the most qualified and well-intentioned therapist may fail in attempting to help. As such, I devote much time and energy in my sessions towards developing and enhancing therapeutic relationships, making sure to always listen carefully and empathically, so as to fully understand the sensitive issues discussed from your perspective and at your pace.
My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (All Types), Anger Management, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I believe that the relationship and trust built in therapy are the most important and necessary agents for meaningful, lasting change, and that compassionate care is essential to your feeling validated and empowered throughout the process. Without these connections, even the most qualified and well-intentioned therapist may fail in attempting to help. As such, I devote much time and energy in my sessions towards developing and enhancing therapeutic relationships, making sure to always listen carefully and empathically, so as to fully understand the sensitive issues discussed from your perspective and at your pace.
(267) 627-3089 View (267) 627-3089
Photo of undefined - PGC Counseling, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
PGC Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chambersburg, PA 17201
PGC Counseling is a private practice offering licensed, board certified services to adolescents and adults for the treatment of depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders as well as stress, PTSD, substance use or other mental health issues. Individual, family and couples counseling is available Monday through Saturday. We accept most major insurances as well as local and national EAP programs through your workplace. We treat all sexual orientations and religious beliefs.
PGC Counseling is a private practice offering licensed, board certified services to adolescents and adults for the treatment of depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders as well as stress, PTSD, substance use or other mental health issues. Individual, family and couples counseling is available Monday through Saturday. We accept most major insurances as well as local and national EAP programs through your workplace. We treat all sexual orientations and religious beliefs.
(717) 297-1560 View (717) 297-1560
Photo of Matthew J Yatsko, LPC, NCC, CMDP, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew J Yatsko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CMDP, CCTP
Verified Verified
I have over twenty years of experience and specialize in depression, bipolar, and trauma.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldnʼt be so hard to live a better life.
I have over twenty years of experience and specialize in depression, bipolar, and trauma.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldnʼt be so hard to live a better life.
(878) 645-3770 View (878) 645-3770
Photo of undefined - New Directions Mental Health - Wexford, PsyD, Psychologist
New Directions Mental Health - Wexford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with challenges including: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from traumatic experiences; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with challenges including: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from traumatic experiences; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
(724) 436-1948 View (724) 436-1948
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.