Mark Bullock, BACP

How attachment and CBT work in online therapy

Attachment-Based Therapy looks at how our early and current relationships shape feelings and reactions. It helps when worries are rooted in how people relate to others, such as anxiety about closeness or fear of abandonment. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) focuses on the links between thoughts, feelings and behaviours and gives simple strategies to change unhelpful patterns. It is useful for stress, anxiety, low mood and many everyday problems. Emotionally-Focused Therapy helps people identify and name their emotions and use that awareness to change difficult interaction patterns in relationships.

Deciding which approach to use is part of the work. The therapist will talk with the client about their goals, preferences and what feels most helpful. Together they will try methods and adjust the plan as understanding grows, so the approach stays practical and relevant.

Online sessions offer practical flexibility. Video calls recreate a face-to-face conversation and are good for deeper work. Phone sessions need less bandwidth and can be easier when someone prefers not to be on camera. Live chat or text-based messaging can suit quick check-ins, short reflections between sessions or people who find typing easier than talking. These options help people fit therapy around work, family and daily life.