Ryan Forbes

Practical approaches that adapt well to online therapy

Client-centered therapy focuses on listening and respect. The therapist follows the person’s lead, helping them name priorities and decide what matters most in therapy. This approach helps when someone needs a supportive space to talk through parenting stress, grief, or identity concerns.

Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches ways to notice and change unhelpful thoughts and routines. It is often used for anxiety, depression, and mood-related tensions because it creates clear exercises and homework to practice between sessions. Dialectical behavior therapy, or DBT, adds skills for managing intense emotions and improving communication; it can be useful when impulsivity, anger, or strong emotional swings get in the way of daily life.

Finding the right mix is a collaborative process. The therapist will talk with each person about their goals, try approaches that fit their situation, and adjust plans based on what helps. Clients are invited to give feedback so therapy stays practical and focused on real-world changes.

Online formats - video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text messaging - make it easier to work therapy into a busy life. They allow flexible scheduling and repeated short check-ins when needed. For many people, these options increase access and make consistent progress more feasible.