Here’s Why Online Therapy is so Great for Many California Women
Transparency is a core value of mine as a feminist therapist. So I’ll be honest here - I've always been slow to try new things.
Whether it's new technology or a new fashion trend, I typically take note and wait in the wings. I observe for a good amount of time before deciding to give something new a try. And that was where I stood with incorporating video therapy (aka teletherapy, telehealth or online therapy) into my therapy practice prior to the pandemic.
From In-Person to Online Therapy
But then March 2020 arrived and the pandemic forced my hand. So many of us were pushed to adapt and adjust. I moved my practice online in one seamless swoop – thankfully. And folks were still able to access support while sheltering-in-place. Still, I assumed that after quarantine ended, I would want to go back to my physical office in Berkeley to see clients in person. But, surprise, now here we are three years later and I’ve kept my practice for women and teen girls completely online.
Accessible, Effective Therapy from the Comfort of Your Space
I’ve learned that not only is online therapy comparable to in-person therapy in terms of efficacy, but in many cases online feminist therapy is optimal for the women and girls I work with. While my clients navigate anxiety, stress and trauma symptoms they also lead rich, full lives and struggle to make time to care for themselves.
Online therapy offers accessibility and comfort for clients who are able to receive support while cozied up from their homes. Better yet, with a blanket and cup of tea in their hands!
Therapy for Women and Girls … without Borders
With online therapy, clients save time on travel and are able to schedule their sessions during time when they might not have been able to before. And they are able to access the right support even if they live in a different city.
My clients are women and teen girls living in cities across California including Berkeley, Oakland, Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego.
But Wait, You’re Still Not sure …
I know, I know. You might be skeptical if you’ve never tried online therapy. Believe me, I get it. You may also be skeptical if you have tried video therapy with a therapist that wasn’t a great match for you anyway.
Whether in-person or online, therapy requires a solid match between a therapist and a client. Period. The end.
Here’s What Online Feminist Therapy with Me Looks Like
On my end, I bring the same warmth, authenticity and creativity that I always did to sessions. And my clients continue to bring their concerns, vulnerabilities and wins ... but from the comfort of their homes.
When clients reach out to schedule their first session, I provide them with tips on how to make the most of their therapy time including:
Securing a comfortable and confidential space to talk
Communicating with me about concerns about privacy
Shutting down other electronics and notifications
Checking internet connection
Using the audio function, instead of video, if you are tired of looking at screens
Bringing a journal or notepad to jot down important insights
Bringing materials if we're engaging in art therapy or spiritually-integrated therapy
Then, each week, my clients receive a session reminder with a private link for their session via email or text. They click the link and it brings them to a secure and HIPAA compliant "room" ... I'm there waiting for them just as I would be in my office.
Personal Experience: A therapist in (Online) Therapy
I'll share that just as I began providing video therapy for clients, I also began working with my own new therapist online. I am proud to be a therapist in therapy! While I was hesitant because it was new and different, I am so glad I did. The growth opportunity has been invaluable and the relationship we’ve cultivated feels no different than it would have been in person.
Closing Thoughts from a Feminist Therapist for Women
If you've wanted to reach out for support and have been hesitant because of the video platform, I want to encourage you to contact me here. If you’re ready to schedule an initial consultation, you can reach out here.
Wishing you all health and ease,
Jessika
Online Art Therapy for Women in California - the Support You’ve Been Seeking.
My approach is holistic and tailored to each client’s needs. Whatever your struggles, whatever your goals, we work as a team. I'm in this with you - warm, direct, and transparent in the process. And I love the work I do. Let’s get started!
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Other services offered by Jessika Fruchter, LMFT- Therapy for Women and Girls
In addition to providing art therapy for women in Los Angeles and beyond, I also offer online therapy for women, therapy for teen girls, and spiritual psychotherapy for women and in California.
Other Services Include:
Groups and Workshops for Women: Magic happens when women come together! I offer new groups and workshops quarterly, both online and in-person. Topics and themes have included:
Therapeutic Writing
Mask Making
Tarot Practice for Developing Intuition
Women’s Circles
Clinical Consultation for Therapists:
I specialize in collaborating with clinicians who want to integrate expressive arts therapy or psychospiritual practices such as tarot therapy, dreamwork, altar making, and ritual, into their practices. I also offer training on these topics. To learn more about my offerings for clinicians visit: www.mycreativepractice.com.
Training for Psychotherapists:
I have a passion for providing creative and useful training to teams on the front line of community mental health. Past training has focused on trauma-informed expressive arts therapy interventions and burnout prevention. Training may also be developed/tailored based on the unique need of the team. Contact me here.
Books and Blogs:
Check out my first book project for teens published in September 2021. For articles and essays about women’s mental health and wellness, check out my blog, Say More and you can also subscribe to receive the latest updates.
