Jennifer Rochel, LCSW, LICSW

Approaches that translate well to online care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps people clarify their values and take small steps toward them, even when feelings are painful. It is useful for stress, anxiety, grief, and life changes. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and changing behaviors through practical exercises and homework tasks. It often helps with anxiety, depression, and mood regulation. Client-Centered Therapy centers on a supportive relationship where the therapist listens without judgment and follows the person’s pace, which can ease trust and openness during difficult moments.

Deciding which approach to use is a joint process. The therapist will talk with the person about goals, what has helped in the past, and what feels comfortable. Together they try methods, check what works, and adjust the plan as needed so the approach fits the person’s needs and preferences.

Online formats offer flexibility for different needs. Video calls allow face-to-face conversation and visual cues. Phone sessions work well when bandwidth is limited or a shorter check-in fits the schedule. Live chat and text-based messaging let people write out thoughts between sessions, try brief problem-solving, and stay connected when a full session isn’t possible. These options make it easier to keep therapy consistent around parenting, work, and daily life.