Mary Walston, LCMHC

How evidence-based approaches translate to online care

Attachment-Based Therapy looks at how early relationship patterns shape current connections and helps people understand emotional responses in close relationships. It can be useful for intimacy issues, commitment concerns, and family-of-origin struggles. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and testing small behavior changes to reduce anxiety, depression, and anger. It often includes concrete exercises and short experiments between sessions. Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) helps people name and shift strong emotions within relationships so they can communicate needs more clearly and resolve recurring conflicts.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will talk with the client about goals, try methods that fit their style, and adjust as progress is made. This is a collaborative process where feedback guides which techniques are emphasized.

Online therapy is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging to increase flexibility. Video works well for in-depth conversations and when visual cues matter. Phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth is limited or when a shorter check-in is needed. Live chat and text messaging suit quick check-ins, brief coaching, or people who prefer writing over talking. These options make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules and to keep momentum between meetings.