Kim McCloskey, BACP, NCPS

Therapeutic approaches that suit online work

Client-Centred Therapy focuses on listening and building a trusting relationship. The therapist follows the person's lead, reflecting feelings and priorities so people feel heard and understood. This approach helps when someone needs a steady, supportive space to talk through things.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, looks at how thoughts, feelings and actions interact. It uses practical exercises and small at-home tasks to break unhelpful cycles. CBT is often used for anxiety, depression and stress because it offers clear steps to try between sessions.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, DBT, teaches skills for managing strong emotions and improving coping. It includes techniques for grounding, distress tolerance and better communication when feelings run high.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will talk through options and decide together what fits best with a person's goals and preferences. That collaborative process can involve trying tools from different methods and adjusting as progress is made.

Online sessions use video calls, phone, live chat or text messaging to provide flexibility. Video is good for face-to-face conversation and visual cues, phone works when bandwidth is limited, and messaging suits brief check-ins or people who prefer writing. These formats make it easier to fit therapy around work, caregiving or travel while keeping continuity of care with registered or accredited professionals.