Natasha Cunningham, BACP

Using familiar approaches in online counselling

Client-centred therapy focuses on the person’s experience and on being listened to without judgement. It helps people who need a space to talk through feelings and make choices about change. Cognitive behavioural therapy, or CBT, looks at thoughts, feelings and behaviours and teaches practical skills to reduce anxiety or low mood. It is often used for stress, sleep problems, worry and patterns that get in the way of daily life. Dialectical behaviour therapy, DBT, offers techniques for managing strong emotions and improving relationships. It includes skills for distress tolerance, emotion regulation and clear communication. Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will discuss goals, needs and preferences and choose methods together. That collaborative planning helps tailor sessions to what a person wants to achieve. Online therapy gives practical flexibility. Video calls let people meet face to face when travel is difficult. Phone sessions work well when bandwidth is limited or for a quick check-in. Live chat and text-based messaging can suit shorter reflections, brief check-ins or people who prefer writing. These options make it easier to fit therapy around work, study and family life.