Carrie Ross, LCSW

Approaches that guide online sessions

Client-centered therapy focuses on listening and understanding each person's experience. The therapist follows the client's lead, reflects concerns, and helps people name what matters so goals can be set clearly. This approach works well for people who want an empathetic, accepting space to talk about difficult feelings.

Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, looks at how thoughts and behaviors keep problems going. It uses practical steps like testing unhelpful thoughts and trying small behavioral changes to reduce anxiety or depression. CBT is useful when someone wants clear tools they can practice between sessions.

Motivational interviewing helps people find their own reasons to change. It uses open questions and reflective listening to build motivation and resolve mixed feelings about taking steps forward. This is helpful for decisions about routines, health behavior, or moving through a difficult transition.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will talk with the client about goals, preferences, and past experiences to choose or combine methods that fit. That collaborative planning can change over time as needs evolve.

Online therapy offers flexibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video is close to an in-person feel and lets people use visual cues. Phone sessions require less bandwidth and can be easier during a commute or a short break. Live chat and text messaging are useful for quick check-ins or when writing feels more comfortable. These options make it easier to keep therapy regular around work, caregiving, and other routines.