Derri Canning, BACP

Therapeutic approaches and online care

Some evidence-based techniques focus on changing unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour. These approaches usually involve noticing thoughts and testing whether they are useful, then trying small behavioural experiments to see what helps. They are often used for anxiety, depression, obsessions and mood difficulties. Other approaches concentrate on building coping skills and routines. This includes practical strategies for sleep, managing cravings or process-related behaviours, and pacing when someone is fatigued or overwhelmed. The work tends to be hands-on and centred on habits the person can practise between sessions. Finding the right way of working is part of the process. The therapist will discuss different options and choose methods together with each person, based on their needs, goals and preferences. This collaborative approach helps ensure sessions feel relevant and doable. Online therapy offers practical benefits for many people. Video calls allow face-to-face conversation without travel, phone sessions can fit into a short break, live chat lets someone check in quickly, and text messaging supports ongoing reflection between appointments. These formats make it easier to get support around work, family life and other commitments, while keeping therapy flexible and accessible.