"At first I thought online therapy would feel strange or be less effective. But right away, you put me at ease. I'm amazed that you can track me so well, even some dissociation, on our Zoom calls. I also love the convenience and flexibility of not having to be any specific place for our sessions. I wouldn't go back." -Client
Online therapy for our new normal
I offer weekly and biweekly online psychotherapy sessions. Online therapy can be a great way to make time for self care when you have busy schedule or simply prefer meeting from the comfort of your own home or office. People typically see me online for issues related to relationship challenges, difficulty managing intense emotions including anxiety and depression, and to address long buried issues related to childhood abuse and neglect (physical, psychological, and emotional).
All sessions are currently held via Zoom. I have yet to set a date to resume in-office sessions.
For more information about my practice policies and rates, go here.
For information about individual therapy, go here.
If you’re curious about relational and complex trauma, go here.
All sessions are currently held via Zoom. I have yet to set a date to resume in-office sessions.
For more information about my practice policies and rates, go here.
For information about individual therapy, go here.
If you’re curious about relational and complex trauma, go here.
What is online therapy?
Online therapy is basically a just having Zoom calls with your therapist instead of meeting in my office. We'll meet virtually and on a regular basis from wherever you are (within California). It'll look and feel just like any other Zoom call, but I use Zoom for healthcare so it's secure and encrypted. You can join sessions from any device or browser, even from your cell phone. Online therapy is not text-based or app-based "therapy," but rather real, old-fashioned psychotherapy held in a modern way via synchronous video calls instead of in an office.
What are the advantages of online therapy?
Online therapy is an extremely convenient way of accessing therapy. Making time to see an office-based therapist can be logistically challenging. Sometimes prohibitively so. With online therapy you don’t have to worry about driving to therapy and finding parking, which in the San Francisco Bay Area can be an hours-long commitment. This means lower stress levels and a smaller time commitment for you.
Online therapy is unique to your needs
With online therapy, you’re not limited to a small pool of therapists within a 20 mile radius. Local therapists also may not be specialized to manage your unique personal challenges, and if they are, finding a fit requires extensive research and consultation to make sure the relationship will be productive for you both. I specialize in healing relational and complex trauma (C-PTSD), and offer my services virtually in the San Francisco Bay Area and throughout California.
More reasons why online therapy is so great
- You have a busy schedule and limited time but you're ready to invest in your personal growth
- You have children or other dependents and arranging for their care is difficult but you need to take time for yourself
- You feel more comfortable opening up in your own space
- You have physical or other limitations that make leaving your home challenging
- You live in a remote area or simply another part of California but you'd really like to work together
What you'll need for seamless online therapy experience
- A private space where you can speak freely without concern about being overheard
- An internet connection that is fast enough to stream video
- A computer, cell phone, or other device with a webcam
- Headphones are optional
- Tissues, a glass of water, maybe a comfy blanket, or your pet (all optional)
Is online therapy just as effective?
Video-based synchronous online therapy is backed by research and closely mimics an in-office appointment, unlike text-based therapy services and apps. We'll use HIPAA secure Zoom for telehealth. It has an easy-to-use interface that you're probably already familiar with, and it's available through any browser or device. All you have to do is click the link in your appointment reminders to join your sessions.
Experienced & Certified Online Therapist
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Online therapy is my primary mode of conducting therapy for all clients, both new and existing. I began offering online therapy in 2014 as an option to make my services and specialty more accessible to clients throughout California. I sought additional training and certification in telehealth around that time. During the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown I transitioned to full-time telehealth. I continue to see all clients remotely. Most of my clients tell me they prefer the convenience of online therapy.
Online therapy is a secure and convenient way to access mental health services, but that doesn't mean it's right for everyone. It may not be a good fit for people with psychiatric emergencies or crisis situations. And if you just have a preference for in-office therapy, I understand, and we're probably not a good fit. I strive toward cultural sensitivity and invite feedback about your particular experience in the world, and with me as your therapist. For information about my education and training, go here. For my practice policies and frequently asked questions, go here. And if you’re curious about relational and complex trauma, go here. |
Smadar Salzman, LMFT, (she/her) Relational & Complex Trauma Specialist
Diverse populations are always welcome in my practice, including all cultures, sexual orientations, genders, and relationship structures.
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