Tania Garcia, LCSW

How therapeutic approaches translate to online care

Client-centered therapy focuses on listening and building a supportive relationship. The therapist follows the client’s lead, reflects feelings, and helps people name what matters most so they can make changes that feel right. Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, looks at the links between thoughts, feelings, and actions. It uses practical exercises and small experiments to reduce anxiety, manage mood, and change unhelpful habits. Emotionally-focused therapy helps people understand and express core emotions and improves how they connect with important others, which is useful for relationship distress and communication problems.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will work with each client to mix methods based on goals and preferences. Together they will try techniques, check what helps, and adjust the plan as progress is made.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to meet. Video calls let people use visual cues and mirror an in-person session. Phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth is limited or when a shorter check-in fits a break at work. Live chat and text-based messaging work well for quick updates, day-to-day coaching, or when someone prefers writing instead of speaking. These options make it easier to attend regularly and to use therapy in practical, real-world ways.