If you’re exploring different types of online therapy, it’s helpful to know that virtual therapy options are much the same as in-person therapy options. Here are some of the most common types of therapy available online and how and when they’re used.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that helps people identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors. This approach is used to treat various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and phobias.
CBT can help people improve their emotional responses and behavior by employing the following techniques:
- Cognitive restructuring: Challenging and replacing irrational or unhelpful thoughts.
- Exposure therapy: Gradually facing feared situations to reduce anxiety over time.
- Behavioral activation: Engaging in positive activities to combat depressive symptoms.
- Mindfulness practices: Developing awareness of present thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of talk therapy that combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to help people manage intense emotions, build resilience, and improve interpersonal relationships. This approach has been proven effective for addressing conditions involving emotional dysregulation, such as depression, eating disorders, substance use, and PTSD.
DBT focuses on four core skills:
- Mindfulness: Developing awareness and acceptance of the present moment.
- Distress tolerance: Building coping skills to handle painful emotions without impulsive actions.
- Emotion regulation: Learning to manage and reduce intense emotions effectively.
- Interpersonal effectiveness: Enhancing communication and relationship skills, including setting boundaries and asserting personal needs.
Family Therapy
Family therapy is a form of talk therapy that addresses the behaviors, communication patterns, and dynamics within a family unit. Unlike individual therapy, family therapy views issues within the context of family interactions, recognizing that each member plays a role in the family’s well-being. It is often used to help families navigate major life changes, improve communication, and support individual members with mental health challenges.
Couples Therapy
Couples therapy, also known as couples counseling or relationship therapy, is a type of talk therapy that helps romantic partners address relationship issues, improve communication skills, and strengthen their bond. This therapy provides a structured, supportive environment where partners can discuss problems, explore each other’s viewpoints, and develop skills to enhance their relationship.
Whether partners are navigating a specific crisis, preparing for future commitments, or simply seeking greater harmony, couples therapy can help them foster a healthier, more resilient partnership by building empathy and mutual respect.
Specialized Therapies
There are many additional therapies available online that care for specific needs, conditions, and life situations, such as trauma-focused therapy, grief counseling, substance abuse and addiction counseling, and others.
At AllOne Therapy, we offer a variety of online counseling options. You and your online therapist can explore these options to determine which option is best for you based on your goals for therapy and the challenges you’re facing.