Elisa Dorrough-Ewing, LCSW

How therapy approaches translate to online care

Emotionally-Focused Therapy helps people notice and name important emotions and the interaction patterns that follow. Online sessions can use this work to address intimacy worries, grief, and attachment needs by practicing new emotional responses in real time. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes listening, empathy, and the client’s own goals; online formats let a therapist follow a person’s lead while still offering consistent presence and support. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and testing new behaviors; it works well in remote sessions because homework and skill practice can be assigned and reviewed between meetings.

Finding the right blend of approaches is part of the work. The therapist collaborates with each person to decide whether Emotionally-Focused, Client-Centered, CBT, or mindfulness strategies suit their goals. That plan can shift as progress and preferences become clearer, so clients remain involved in shaping their care.

Online therapy formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video is useful when visual cues matter and for deeper emotional focus. Phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth is limited or a shorter check-in fits the day. Text or live chat works well for quick reflections, tracking homework, or when someone prefers written exchange. These options make it easier to fit therapy around work, caregiving, or travel while keeping continuity of care with a licensed professional.