Sarah Johnston, LCSW

Approaches that translate well to online therapy

Client-centered work puts the client's goals and priorities first and involves active listening, reflection, and collaboration to help people feel heard and choose their next steps. This approach helps when parenting stress or relationship worries make it hard to see a clear path forward.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on identifying and changing thought and behavior patterns that reinforce anxiety or low self-esteem. It often includes simple, practical exercises that can be done between sessions to test new ways of responding at home or in relationships.

Motivational Interviewing helps people strengthen their own motivation to make changes, especially when they feel stuck or unsure. It pairs well with solution-focused techniques to set small, achievable goals and build momentum.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will collaborate with each person to choose methods that match their goals, needs, and preferences. Sessions may shift over time as priorities change and progress is made.

Online sessions are offered by video calls, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging to increase flexibility. Video lets people read nonverbal cues and do longer conversations. Phone sessions can be a simpler option when bandwidth or visual focus is limited. Live chat or text is useful for brief check-ins, homework discussion, or quick problem-solving between longer sessions. These options make it easier to fit therapy into a busy family or work schedule.