Marc Dalal, BACP

How therapeutic approaches translate to online sessions

Client-centred therapy puts the person's experience at the heart of the work. In practice this means the counsellor listens closely, follows the client's pace and helps people set their own goals. It is useful for stress, anxiety, grief and relationship concerns where a compassionate listener helps clarify what matters.

Narrative therapy looks at the stories people tell about themselves. The counsellor helps separate problems from the person and find alternative storylines. This approach can help with identity concerns, family of origin issues, attachment questions and feelings of emptiness.

Solution-focused therapy concentrates on practical steps and small changes. Sessions often identify what is already working and build from there with clear, achievable goals. This suits people who want faster, action-oriented progress for issues like career decisions, communication problems and coping strategies.

Choosing the right approach is part of the process. The therapist will work collaboratively to figure out which methods fit the client's needs, goals and preferences. That might mean combining approaches or changing direction as progress is made.

Online therapy with Marc uses video calls, phone sessions, live chat or text-based messaging to make counselling flexible. Video is good when face-to-face interaction helps, phone can be useful when bandwidth is limited, live chat and messaging work well for short check-ins or when typing feels easier. These options let people fit support around work, family and other commitments.