What is virtual psychotherapy?

Virtual psychotherapy is licensed mental health treatment delivered through secure video sessions. It follows the same ethical, legal, and clinical standards as in-person psychotherapy.

What issues do you work with in psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy may address concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, identity questions, relationship challenges, and major life transitions, within the scope of licensed clinical social work.

How is psychotherapy different from coaching or wellbeing services?

Psychotherapy is a regulated clinical service provided under professional licensure. It is distinct from coaching, mentoring, or wellbeing services, which are non-clinical and not psychotherapy.

What are the fees and scheduling policies?

Fees, scheduling, and cancellation policies are discussed during the initial consultation. Psychotherapy sessions are private-pay and offered virtually.

How is privacy and confidentiality handled?

Psychotherapy services follow strict confidentiality standards and applicable privacy laws. Information is protected except where disclosure is required by law.

How do I get started with psychotherapy?

To begin, prospective clients may request a free 15-minute consultation to determine fit and eligibility for psychotherapy services.

Psychotherapy FAQ (Missouri) | Virtual Therapy with Kathryn G. O’Brien, PhD, LCSW

FAQs

What is psychotherapy?

1

Psychotherapy is a clinical mental health service focused on assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of emotional, psychological, and relational concerns. It is provided within a licensed professional framework and follows established clinical and ethical standards.

Who can receive psychotherapy services?

2

Dr. O’Brien provides virtual psychotherapy to Missouri-based clients ages 18 and older only, in accordance with state licensure requirements.

Is psychotherapy the same as coaching or insight sessions?

3

No. Psychotherapy is a licensed clinical service and differs from coaching, consultation, or Insight & Wellbeing sessions. Psychotherapy may include diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, while non-clinical services do not.

What kinds of concerns are appropriate for psychotherapy?

4

Psychotherapy may be helpful for individuals experiencing concerns such as anxiety or depression, grief and loss, life transitions or crises, relationship or family challenges, recovery from traumatic experiences, identity development, and stress related to work, caregiving, or systemic oppression. Treatment is individualized based on each client’s needs.

What approaches do you use in psychotherapy?

5

Dr. O’Brien works from a strengths-based, solution-focused framework, integrating additional evidence-based psychotherapy approaches as appropriate. Her clinical work draws from multiple established therapeutic models and is tailored to each client.

Are sessions covered by insurance?

6

Psychotherapy services may be covered by insurance, depending on your plan and provider. Self-pay options may also be available. Clients are encouraged to verify coverage directly with their insurance carrier.

Are psychotherapy sessions confidential?

7

Yes. Psychotherapy sessions are confidential and governed by professional ethics and legal standards, including privacy and confidentiality requirements. Limited exceptions apply in situations involving safety concerns or legal obligations, which are discussed during intake.

Are psychotherapy sessions appropriate for crisis situations?

8

Psychotherapy can support individuals experiencing acute distress within clinical scope. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please go to the nearest Emergency Room, or contact local emergency services or a crisis hotline immediately.

How often do psychotherapy sessions occur?

9

Session frequency varies based on individual needs and goals. Some clients meet weekly, while others meet less frequently. This is discussed collaboratively during the initial phase of treatment.

How do I know if psychotherapy is right for me?

10

Psychotherapy may be appropriate if you are seeking mental health assessment or treatment for emotional or psychological concerns. If you are unsure, you are welcome to review the service information or reach out with questions before scheduling.

Clients can schedule an initial psychotherapy appointment by contacting Dr. O’Brien directly for an appointment, or for a free 15-minute consultation to meet her. Interested individuals may complete the Psychotherapy Contact form on this website, or may contact her through any of the three links on that same page. Intake forms and additional information are provided, and completion of the forms is required prior to the first session.

11 How do I get started?

Does Dr. O’Brien work with children in psychotherapy?

12

Dr. O’Brien’s work is limited to adults ages 18 and older.

Psychotherapy services are provided within the scope of Missouri licensure and professional standards.