Dr. Maria Clapp, LMHC

Approaches that guide online sessions and what they do

Client-centered work means the conversation follows the client’s concerns and values. The therapist listens closely and adapts the pace and focus to what matters most to the person seeking help.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) identifies patterns of thinking and behavior that maintain problems and teaches practical skills to change them. CBT is often used for anxiety, depression, stress, and habit changes.

Motivational interviewing helps people weigh their options and find personal reasons to make changes. It is useful when ambivalence or uncertainty blocks progress, including with substance use and lifestyle shifts.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will discuss options and tailor methods to a client’s goals, preferences, and the challenges they bring. That makes sessions feel collaborative rather than prescriptive.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video sessions let people use visual cues and longer conversation. Phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth is limited or when someone prefers not to be on camera. Live chat and text-based messaging work well for brief check-ins, quick problem-solving, or when a written record of the conversation is helpful. These options make it easier to fit therapy around work, caregiving, and other responsibilities while keeping the therapeutic focus intact.