Online Counseling in Virginia

Through online counseling you can hold your counseling session in a relaxing and comfortable environment that fits in with your life and schedule. You don’t have to worry about commute time, traffic, or any of the other hassles involved with travel to and from an office.

Is online counseling effective?

Many people wonder, naturally, whether online counseling is “as good as” in-person counseling While online therapy has only recently reached the mainstream , it has been a well-regarded treatment model for decades. A large research study of online cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) conducted by the University of Amsterdam and dating back to 1996 has found online counseling outcomes to be comparable to in-person counseling outcomes. The University of Zurich in Switzerland has also found online counseling to be comparable in outcomes to in-person counseling. A multi-year study beginning in 2006 by the United States Veteran’s Affairs has supported the efficacy of online counseling.

How it works:

Some people view technological issues as a barrier to online counseling, and it is true that some providers use software that requires download, installation, and setup. However, this is not needed. I use a fully confidential/HIPPA-compliant platform that requires no downloads, installation, or setup. It simply connects, in a fully secure and confidential manner, to the software already present in the overwhelming majority of computers/laptops, and smart phones.

Here’s a quick rundown of how it works:

1. For new clients, we will schedule an appointment time and I will email you a link to some introductory paperwork, that you will fill out and upload online through a secure portal prior to our meeting.
2. When your appointment begins, I will email you a link.
3. Click the link, and the video chat feed will open in your default web browser on your device. You will be taken to a private “waiting room”.
   If you are using your cell phone, the link may direct you to install a google app called “Hangouts Meet”. The first time you use this app, it may ask permission to use your camera and microphone. Once you give permission, you will see your video feed.
4. Click “Join Now” and I will invite you into the video chat.
5. When the session is over, simply close the browser or app.

It is a very intuitive process, and you will probably be surprised at how easily we can get started. Please don’t let technological concerns be a barrier to getting the help you want!

Like anything, online counseling has its pros and cons, and it’s worth being honest about them as you’re considering your options.

When online counseling may not be the best treatment option

While online counseling has some real advantages and has similar outcomes to in-person treatment, there are some instances in which online therapy may not be best suited for your needs. Here are a few of them.

• Online counseling is not well-suited for crisis work or managing suicidal behaviors.
• Online counseling may not be best suited for managing for severe mental health issues such as schizophrenia.
• Online counseling may not be as effective in areas where internet connection is poor.

If you have any questions about online counseling, feel free to reach out and let me know. You can also read through some frequently asked questions about counseling.

I have been providing counseling for adults, young adults and teens in Virginia since 2009. My greatest passion for the work is in connecting with each unique person I work with. I want to help you start feeling better. It’s what I love to do. You can learn more about me here.