Online Therapy for Residents of California and Florida
Sometimes in-person therapy isn’t possible due to scheduling conflicts, mobility challenges, distance, or other life circumstances. I believe therapy should be accessible to everyone. In addition to in-office sessions at my Los Angeles location, I offer video sessions as a convenient way to receive support from wherever you are. Whether you are located in Southern California, the Bay Area, Sacramento, San Diego, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, or anywhere in between, online sessions are a convenient way to get the help you need.
What Is Telehealth?
Telehealth (also known as online therapy, video therapy, or teletherapy) uses secure video conferencing technology to connect you with a therapist in real time. I hold my sessions on Simple Practice, a HIPAA-compliant platform that is easy to use and designed to protect your privacy.
Who Is Telehealth For?
Telehealth is a flexible option that may be especially helpful if:
You live in an area with bad or unpredictable traffic (hello, Los Angeles!) and prefer not to commute
You live in a smaller town or rural area with few options available
You are a busy professional with an unpredictable schedule (film and production work, concerts and touring, performing, event planning, on call and shift work, frequent business travel)
You are parent with limited child care and time in your schedule
You simply feel more comfortable and secure meeting from home (and many people love having their pets close by during therapy!)
You have health, mobility, or transportation concerns and telehealth is a safer and more accessible option
Online therapy can be an effective and supportive option tailored to your needs.
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I hold my sessions on Simple Practice, which is a secure, HIPAA compliant platform that functions similarly to Zoom. At the time of your scheduled session, you will simply click the link I’ve provided you and enter the virtual therapy room.
For the most effective sessions, you’ll want to find a quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted. You’ll need a strong wifi connection and a device that has a camera and microphone (a laptop, desktop computer, or smartphone will all work). Many people find that they prefer to use headphones for a more focused and attuned experience.
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Yes, both online and in-person therapy are effective. How you choose to receive therapy sessions is a personal preference. Most individuals find that what is most important is the best “fit” between the therapist and the client, whether the sessions are offered online or in person.
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Yes, EMDR is easily adapted for online sessions.
Some clients prefer to do EMDR at home so that they can process traumatic memories or strong feelings in a safe and familiar space and can have their “creature comforts” at home, such as blankets, pillow, and fidget toys. Many people find that their pets can offer a tremendous sense of comfort and peace during sessions.
Together, we can find the best way adapt the bilateral stimulation (the eye movements or other sensory input) to the virtual format.
This can include:
Following a visual cue on the screen or finding specific visual points in your environment
Listening to alternating sounds through headphones
Self tapping
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Please reach out for a free 15-20 minute phone consultation so that we can discuss your needs and your goals for therapy and see if it feel like a match.
Contact me here.
Email: lauren@laurenmaher.com
Phone: (323) 438-9972
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Online therapy is not the best fit for everyone. Telehealth is most appropriate for clients whose symptoms are not high-risk in nature. If you need extensive support or frequent between-session contact, in-person therapy may be a better option.
Please feel free to reach out to discuss your needs and see if online therapy is a fit for you.