Michelle Copley, BACP

Approaches that translate well to online therapy

Client-centred therapy focuses on listening, empathy and understanding. The therapist offers a non-judgemental space and follows the person’s pace to help them feel heard and to clarify what matters to them. This approach helps with a broad range of concerns including low mood, relationship questions and self-esteem issues.

Cognitive behavioural therapy, or CBT, looks at the link between thoughts, feelings and behaviours. It teaches practical techniques to challenge unhelpful thinking and to build different habits. CBT is often used for anxiety, depression, sleep problems and stress management.

Dialectical behaviour therapy, DBT, provides skills for managing intense emotions and improving emotional regulation. It includes practical tools for distress tolerance, mindfulness and interpersonal effectiveness, which can be useful for strong mood swings and high stress.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapy process. The therapist works collaboratively to explore the person’s goals, preferences and the issues they bring, then agrees on methods to try. Plans are reviewed regularly so techniques can be adjusted if needed.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to meet. Video calls allow face-to-face conversation; phone sessions can be a simple check-in without video; live chat and text-based messaging suit shorter updates or those who prefer writing. These options make it easier to fit therapy around work, family and travel, and to use different formats as needs change.