Online Counseling
Holistic Coaching and Counseling Services
What is Online Therapy?
Online therapy refers to coaching and counseling support that is done online or over the telephone. All you need is a telephone, computer, tablet or secure internet connection.
Online Therapy has been a true lifeline of support during times filled with uncertainty and disconnection. The ability to connect, deal with unsettling emotions, reduce stress and trauma, manage anxiety and worry, get grounded and gain perspective is imperative.
Types of Therapy Offered
Holistic coaching and counseling is a unique alternative to traditional talk therapy. You will be supported with a combination of strategies that bring about powerful changes. We use techniques such as mindful breathing, brainspotting, and guided meditation to connect the mind and body to heal from past traumas, improve your self-esteem and self-confidence, and transform unhealthy habits.
Brainspotting is an advanced brain-body therapy that focuses on identifying, processing, and releasing imbalances, trauma, and residual emotional stress.
The enneagram is a personality system designed to access infinite health and happiness.
We can help you figure it out!
Benefits of Online Therapy
There are times in life where we all need support. An expert guide and compassionate presence who can help us navigate life’s challenges is an invaluable resource. The observations of another can help us gain new perspective and get in touch with our strengths. This is particularly important in times of trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, high stress, grief/loss and relationship conflicts where we have lost touch with our grounding and direction. It has been said, ‘It is not what happens to us, it is how it lives in us.’ Having a good coach or counselor to turn to at times like these can make all of the difference.
- Convenience
- Privacy
- Save time and energy on travel
- Stay safe and healthy in the comfort of your own space
- Put on your comfy clothes or take a break from your work schedule
- Walk, move or stretch your body
- Go outside and relax in a private nature setting
- If you are not feeling your best, you can still keep your appointment and get support
- If you live in a remote area, online therapy may be just the solution to get the support you need
- Work with a therapist who specializes in a type of therapy you might not have in your area or have a chance to work with someone who comes highly referred
Our Certifications
- Set aside uninterrupted intentional time for your session.
- Locate a safe space to express yourself.
- Get comfortable, grab a cup of tea, a warm blanket, call in your loving pet and cozy up in a comfortable spot.
- Headphones or earbuds are a great way to cut down on noise and keep your sessions as private as possible.
- Allow yourself time to get used to the newness and possible awkwardness. We have found it tends to lessen once things get started.
- Be willing to share your experience, needs or any issues. The newness of online therapy may mean some hiccups along the way. You are not alone in this process, share your concerns with your coach/counselor.
Online Therapy FAQs
Is online therapy effective?
Yes, online therapy is very effective. In fact, studies show it can be equally as effective as in person therapy.
Can I expect the same level of care from an online counselor as in person sessions?
Definitely. We offer the same level of compassionate care, mindful presence and attuned insight as we do in person. We are also able to do all of the same mind body practices online as we do in person.
How does online counselling work?
It is as simple as accessing the internet or using your phone. We will connect via phone or email prior to our first session and decide your preference for our sessions to be over the phone or on video. We will also discuss how this works and make sure you are all set. We will send you a link to connect with us for our video sessions or give you our phone number for phone sessions. Once the session starts it is virtually the same as in person sessions.
What can online therapists help with?
During online therapy and coaching we offer the same support to our clients as we do in person. This may include supporting individuals dealing with high stress, self esteem issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, changing unhealthy habits and addictions.
What techniques can online therapists utilize?
We use the same techniques online as we do in person. Online therapy and coaching works well with mind body strategies such as mindfulness meditation, Brainspotting, EMDR, somatic therapy, couples counseling, stress management, relaxation practices, emotional regulation, energy psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Can I receive Brainspotting and EMDR therapy through online counseling? Is it effective?
We offer both Brainspotting and EMDR online. We have been trained in the use of these therapies online and find the results are just as powerful as in person.
Do you offer couples therapy or marriage counseling online?
Couples and family therapy are easily offered online. It is often actually easier for couples to attend online counseling given schedules, taking care of household and parenting duties as well as commuting from work.
Can teens receive online therapy?
Yes ,we work with teens online and in fact find in the familiarity of their home, room or with their pets they often feel even more comfortable to open up.
What will I need in order to receive therapy online?
All you need is a phone, computer, tablet or device to access the internet. Most modern devices have cameras already accessible making it easy and user friendly.
How will my privacy be protected during online sessions?
We understand the importance of privacy during your sessions especially if you are in close proximity to others. We have found these tips useful to help you feel more private.
Schedule your session at a time where fewer people are around when possible
Take a drive and park in a private spot, sit in your car or go outside and sit in nature. Many of our clients enjoy being outside or in their car for total privacy.
Use headphones or a headset. Headphones can allow you to feel like you are in your own world and able to have your own experience.
Use whitenoise or find a spot that is more sound proof. There are many free options for whitenoise that can be found on youtube, Alexa, and most music apps.
Send us an email, text or give us a call and we will answer any questions you have. We have forms online at our website to complete before your first session. You can find these under our ‘About’ menu tab.
We accept credit cards, PayPal or Venmo.
Ask us about using your insurance for out of network mental health benefits.
We have been using online therapy in our coaching and counseling for many years, whether working with clients locally who prefer the convenience and privacy or supporting people in other cities, states and countries. Our entire practice is currently online and we are more appreciative than ever that we can stay connected to helping people. We have found online counseling to be equally effective and helpful. Modern day technology has made it undeniably less intimidating and pretty darn user friendly.
About the Authors
Hilary Stokes Phd
Dr. Hilary Stokes is a licensed psychotherapist in private practice in San Diego, California. Dr. Hilary received her PhD in psychology with a specialty in transpersonal psychology from San Diego University for Integrative Studies, a master’s degree in social work from San Diego State University and a master’s degree in Sport Psychology from San Jose State University. She is a certified brainspotting therapist.
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In addition to her private practice, she has experience working in integrative medical facilities such as the world-renowned healthcare facility Sanoviv Medical Institute, treatment centers for addictions and PTSD including Casa Palmera Treatment Center, psychiatric hospitals, schools and universities, correctional facilities, and business organizations.
Dr. Hilary specializes in a mind-body approach to healing trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, coping skills, self-esteem, addictions, eating disorders, relationship challenges, life transitions, purpose in life, and performance anxiety.
She has published several articles and co-authored two books, The Happy Map: Your roadmap to the habit of happiness and Manifesting Mindset: The 6-step formula for attracting your goals and dreams. She is currently furthering her knowledge and expertise in attachment focused EMDR and somatic therapy. In addition to a love of learning about neuroscience and mind body healing, Hilary can be found meditating, hiking, surfing, scuba diving, and spending time with her pets, family, and friends.
Companies and organizations we have worked with:
Presentations, Doris Howell Foundation, Institute of Functional Medicine, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, Nissan, Compass Real Estate Sharp Health Institute, Mattel, Usana Health Sciences, Youth and Family Assistance, MLK Family, Decorus, Odessy, Ariix, Casa Palmera Treatment Center, EVCI, Interboro, DEMA, GSDBA, LGBTQ Center San Diego
Websites and social featuring our publications:
- Mind Body Green
- Psych Central
- Cure Joy
- SD voyager
Kim Ward Phd
Dr. Kim Ward received her PhD in psychology with a specialty in transpersonal psychology from San Diego University for Integrative Studies. She also holds a master’s degree in transpersonal psychology from John F. Kennedy University in Orinda, California. Dr. Kim is a certified trauma-informed coach and life coach in private practice in San Diego, California. She is a certified brainspotting therapist.
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In addition to her private practice, she has experience working in integrative medical facilities such as the world-renowned healthcare facility Sanoviv Medical Institute, treatment centers for addictions and PTSD including Casa Palmera Treatment Center, psychiatric hospitals, schools and universities, correctional facilities, and business organizations. Dr. Kim specializes in an integrative approach to dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression, making peace with the past, transforming stress, healing relationships, living with purpose, and rewiring your brain for happiness.
She has been featured in several articles and co-authored two books, The Happy Map: Your roadmap to the habit of happiness and Manifesting Mindset: The 6-step formula for attracting your goals and dreams. Given the powerful healing experiences she witnesses with Brainspotting, she is presently advancing and deepening her skills in both Brainspotting and somatic therapy. Outside of her love for helping people, Kim has a passion for exercise, all animals, spending time in nature, meditating, and connecting with her family and friends.
Companies and organizations we have worked with:
Presentations, Doris Howell Foundation, Institute of Functional Medicine, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, Nissan, Compass Real Estate Sharp Health Institute, Mattel, Usana Health Sciences, Youth and Family Assistance, MLK Family, Decorus, Odessy, Ariix, Casa Palmera Treatment Center, EVCI, Interboro, DEMA, GSDBA, LGBTQ Center San Diego
Websites and social featuring our publications:
- Mind Body Green
- Psych Central
- Cure Joy
- SD voyager
Phone/Fax: (619) 819-6841
Email: contact@authenticityassociates.com
Our office is located in Carlsbad, CA 92009
We also do nationwide sessions via Zoom and FaceTime.
Please contact us for an appointment.