Stephen Murphy, LICSW, MD, LCSW-C

How emotion-focused and evidence-based approaches work online

Emotionally-Focused Therapy helps people understand and shift patterns in how they respond to strong feelings. In brief sessions this often means naming emotions, tracking how feelings show up in relationships, and practicing new ways of responding to reduce reactivity and shame.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on clarifying values and committing to actions that matter. It uses simple exercises to notice thoughts without getting stuck and to build behavior that aligns with what a person cares about. Attachment-Based Therapy looks at early connection patterns and how they affect current relationships; it helps people notice recurring interaction habits and try new ways of relating that feel safer and more connected.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will discuss goals and preferences and then recommend methods that fit those needs. This is a collaborative process where adjustments are made as therapy progresses.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video is useful for fuller conversation and exercises, phone calls work when bandwidth is limited, live chat and messaging suit quick check-ins or people who prefer not to be on camera. These options make scheduling easier and help therapy fit into busy lives.