Alan Cox, BACP

Approaches that suit online therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify what matters to them and take small actions that align with those values. It is useful for anxiety, stress and when people feel stuck and unsure what matters most. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) looks at how thoughts, feelings and behaviours interact and teaches practical ways to change unhelpful patterns. It is often used for anxiety, panic and low mood. Client-Centred Therapy focuses on empathic listening and creating a non-judgemental space so people can explore feelings and find their own solutions; it supports many kinds of concerns including grief and relationship strain.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will discuss what feels most helpful and try different techniques together. Decisions about focus and method are made collaboratively, guided by the person’s goals and what works in early sessions.

Online sessions offer practical flexibility. Video calls mirror in-person sessions when face-to-face contact matters. Phone sessions use less bandwidth and can be easier on days when being on camera is tiring. Live chat and text-based messaging suit short check-ins, quick reflections between meetings or when a written approach feels more comfortable. These options make it easier to fit therapy around work, parenting and busy lives.