Online Therapy
Can't make it to an in-person therapy session? Don't want to deal with traffic and parking? Want to squeeze in therapy during your lunch hour? Attending therapy sessions should not add additional stress to your life!
For your convenience, we offer online therapy (aka teletherapy, skype therapy, or internet therapy). We can connect for a session while you're in the comfort of your own home or office. All you need is internet connection, a webcam, and a private space to chat. Online sessions are conducted using secure and easy-to- use video conferencing technology through Simple Practice.
How does it work?
- First, we will have a brief phone consult to determine if online video therapy is appropriate for your specific situation. If we decide to work together in this way, we will schedule an appointment.
- Most people find that after a few minutes of getting used to it, they forget that we aren't in the same room together!
Is it effective?
- Yes! There is an extensive body of research that demonstrates the value of video and teletherapy for a wide range of mental health concerns.
- Some people worry that meeting virtually will impact the therapeutic relationship; however, both empirical research and personal experience have shown this is not the case.
- In several studies, online therapy was more effective than in-person therapy.
Who can benefit from online therapy?
- Most people who can benefit from traditional talk therapy can also
benefit from video-based therapy. - Online therapy reduces common barriers to seeking mental health services. It's a convenient option for those who:
- Have hectic work schedules and don't have the extra time it requires to commute to therapy sessions
- Travel often for work, but still want to attend weekly therapy sessions
- Parents who want to attend therapy during their child's naptime - no need to arrange childcare or leave the house
- Have an illness or disability that makes it difficult or uncomfortable to leave the house
- Have limited access to transportation (e.g. college students)
- Live outside of Orange County and have trouble finding a local therapist to meet their needs
- Public figures who prefer not to be seen in a therapist's waiting room
- Anyone living in California who prefers the convenience, simplicity, and privacy that teletherapy offers
Note: Our clinician's license to practice is regulated by the California Board of Psychology, California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and Board of Behavioral Sciences. Therefore, we can only see individuals who currently reside in California.
Any limitations?
- Teletherapy is not appropriate for individuals who have a serious mental illness, severe depression, or suicidality and impulse control difficulties. These issues are best treated in face-to- face therapy sessions. We will discuss your specific situation and whether online video therapy is appropriate during our initial phone consultation.
- Teletherapy is not appropriate for emergency situations. If you are experiencing an emergency, please call 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or call a crisis hotline.