Category: Don Laird

Is Online Therapy Effective for Anxiety?

by Don Laird, NCC, LPC

In the not-so-distant past, therapy usually meant commuting to an office, sitting in an uncomfortable waiting room, and talking face-to-face with a mental health professional. But today, more and more people are turning to virtual therapy—whether by video call or phone—to manage their mental health, especially anxiety. So the big question is: Does it actually work?

The Rise of Online Therapy and Telehealth

Virtual therapy, also known as teletherapy or online counseling, has seen a surge in popularity, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic made in-person appointments difficult (or impossible). Platforms like eTalkTherapy and others have made therapy more accessible, affordable, and flexible.

But convenience aside—what about results?

What the Research Says

Here’s the good news: Virtual therapy has been shown to be just as effective as in-person therapy for treating anxiety disorders.

A 2018 analysis published in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders found that internet-based therapy like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) had the same effectiveness as face-to-face CBT.Other studies have found that even more traditional forms of talk therapy are equally effective when delivered online.

In other words, seeing a therapist through a screen doesn’t water down the impact of the therapy itself.

Why It Works

There are several reasons why virtual therapy can be particularly effective for anxiety:

Comfort of home: Being in your own environment can help reduce the stress of attending therapy, especially for those with social anxiety.
Greater access: You can connect with a licensed therapist no matter where you live—even in rural or remote areas.
Flexible scheduling: It’s easier to fit therapy into your day without taking time off work or traveling.

But It’s Not for Everyone

That said, virtual therapy isn’t a perfect fit for every person or situation.

Severe cases: Individuals with more complex, or severe mental health issues might need in-person or more intensive care.
Tech issues: Poor internet, lack of privacy at home, or discomfort with technology can make virtual sessions less effective.
Personal preference: Some people just feel more connected and comfortable in a traditional setting—and that’s totally valid.

A Few Final Thoughts

So, is virtual therapy effective for anxiety? Absolutely—if it fits your needs and lifestyle. With the right therapist and approach, online therapy can be a powerful tool in reducing anxiety and improving overall mental health. The key is finding what works best for you.

Whether it’s through a screen or in an office, what matters most is that you’re taking the step to care for your mental health and wellness. And that’s something to feel good about.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation or learn more about our services.

How to Find an Affordable Online Therapist in Pennsylvania

Brought to you by eTalkTherapy, LLC

Let’s be honest—mental health care is essential, but finding affordable and accessible therapy in Pennsylvania (or anywhere) can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, life stress, or just need someone to talk to, therapy can make a big difference. But where do you start? And how do you find a therapist who’s both qualified and budget-friendly?

At eTalkTherapy, we’re here to help make that process easier—and more affordable.

Why Online Therapy?

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the why.

Online therapy has become a go-to choice for many people across Pennsylvania—and for good reason:
No commute or waiting rooms: Just log in from your home or anywhere you feel comfortable.
Flexible scheduling: Evening and weekend options make therapy easier to fit into your life.
Greater access: Especially helpful if you live in rural or underserved parts of the state.

Plus, with licensed therapists providing high-quality care virtually, you’re not sacrificing professionalism or support.

5 Tips for Finding an Affordable Online Therapist in PA

  1. Know What You Need

Start by identifying your needs: Are you looking for individual counseling? Help with anxiety or grief? Couples therapy? Knowing what you’re looking for will help you narrow down your search and connect with someone who truly fits.

At eTalkTherapy, we offer services for individuals and couples—so wherever you are in your journey, we’re here for it.

2. Look for Licensed Pennsylvania Providers

In Pennsylvania, therapists must be licensed to provide mental health services. Be sure the provider you choose is credentialed in the state—whether they’re a licensed professional counselor (LPC), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), or another licensed clinician.

All therapists at eTalkTherapy are fully licensed in Pennsylvania and meet rigorous ethical and professional standards.

3. Explore Affordable Options

Affordability is key, and many therapists offer sliding scale fees based on income. This can reduce session costs significantly, making therapy accessible even without insurance.

At eTalkTherapy, we’re proud to offer affordable rates and we’ll work with you to find a plan that fits your budget—because cost shouldn’t be a barrier to mental wellness.

4. Ask About Insurance or Out-of-Pocket Costs

If you have insurance, find out if therapy is covered. If not, or if you’d rather not use insurance, ask about out-of-pocket rates. Sometimes paying directly is more cost-effective (and private) than high-deductible plans.

We keep our rates transparent and affordable—plus, no surprise bills. Rates are discussed and agreed on with your therapist before the first session.

5. Choose the Right Fit

Therapy is personal. Feeling comfortable with your therapist matters just as much as their qualifications. Look for someone who listens, understands, and helps you feel supported.

We make it easy to schedule a free phone consultation with one of our therapists—so you can get a feel for the relationship before committing.

Why Choose eTalkTherapy?

At eTalkTherapy, we’ve been providing trusted, affordable online therapy to Pennsylvanians since 2018. Whether you’re in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Erie, Scranton, or a town in between, we’re just a click away.

What sets us apart:

  • Affordable rates
  • Licensed, experienced therapists
  • Confidential and secure video sessions that are HIPAA compliant
  • Free consultations to get started

A Few Final Thoughts – Finding an affordable online therapist in Pennsylvania doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right tools—and the right team—you can take that first step toward better mental health today. We’re here to walk that path with you.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation or learn more about our services.

The Mind Body Connection. Women with outstretched arms in front of a waterfall.

5 Ways to Live a Life of Meaning, Authenticity, and Well-Being 

 by Don Laird, NCC, LPC

With all the chaos happening around us, the idea of living authentically and with meaning is more relevant than ever. Existentialism, a philosophical framework that encourages us to confront the raw reality of our existence, teaches us that meaning is not something handed to us but something we create through our choices, actions, and relationships. To live existentially and authentically is to embrace our freedom, take responsibility for our decisions, and shape a life that resonates with who we truly are. If you’re ready to dive deeper into this journey, here are five ways to start living authentically with meaning.

1. Embrace Your Freedom and Responsibility

At the heart of existentialism is the idea of radical freedom — the notion that we are free to make choices in our lives, but with this freedom comes responsibility. You are not bound by a fixed fate or script handed to you by society, family, or history. You have the power to choose how to live your life.

However, this freedom comes with an essential responsibility: you must own your choices. This means acknowledging that you are the one who is responsible for the direction of your life. Whether it’s your career, your relationships, or your passions, take ownership of your decisions. Recognize that while life can sometimes seem uncertain or unpredictable, you have the power to shape it. Start by making small, conscious choices in your daily life, whether that’s how you spend your time, who you surround yourself with, or how you respond to challenges. Accepting responsibility for these choices fosters a sense of empowerment and authenticity.

2. Be Honest About Your Own Existence

Authenticity begins with self-awareness. To live authentically, you need to be brutally honest with yourself about who you are and what you desire. This means stripping away the roles or labels that society or others have imposed upon you and connecting with your true self.

Existentialism encourages us to examine our lives deeply — to question the things we take for granted, like cultural norms, social expectations, and inherited beliefs. Are you living a life based on your true values, or are you simply following a path laid out by someone else? Take time to reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Ask yourself deep questions like: What do I truly want from life? What re my fears? What would I do if I knew I had no limitations? This kind of introspection will help you discover your authentic desires and aspirations.

3. Live in the Present Moment

Existentialists believe that life is fleeting, and the present moment is all we truly have. By focusing on the now, we liberate ourselves from the endless cycle of past regrets and future anxieties. Embracing the present allows us to find meaning in the simple, everyday experiences.

To live existentially, practice mindfulness. Engage with the world around you in a full, direct way. Savor the moments, whether it’s enjoying a cup of coffee, taking a walk, or having a conversation with a friend. Life’s meaning isn’t something you find in the distant future; it’s created right now, in each passing moment. Start incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine. This could be as simple as focusing on your breath for a few minutes each day or giving your full attention (presence) to the tasks you’re doing or the people you engage with.

4. Pursue What Brings You Passion and Purpose

One of the most essential components of living authentically is aligning your life with your passions. Existentialism is not about passively waiting for meaning to arrive; it’s about actively creating meaning through our actions. To do this, we must identify what excites us, what sparks our curiosity, and what makes us feel alive. Where and what is your true north?

The key is to pursue activities that align with your deeper sense of purpose — those that feel meaningful and fulfilling on a profound level. This doesn’t necessarily mean a grand career change; it could be investing more time in hobbies, exploring new interests, or taking up projects that align with your values. Make a list of the things you are passionate about. Then, take at least one small step toward incorporating one of these passions into your life every week. Whether it’s joining a creative group, traveling to new places, or dedicating time to personal growth, these actions will help you lead a life filled with purpose.

5. Cultivate Deep and Meaningful Relationships

Our connections with others can provide a profound source of meaning, growth, and authenticity. However, it’s crucial that these relationships are based on honesty and mutual respect, rather than societal expectations or superficial connections. Cultivating relationships that challenge, inspire, and nurture you is a vital part of living authentically. Invest time in relationships that bring you joy and growth. Have open, honest conversations with the people you care about. Practice vulnerability and authenticity in your interactions, and seek out others who share similar values and a desire for deeper connection.

The Journey to Existential Well-Being and Authenticity

Living authentically and existentially isn’t a destination, but a continuous journey. It requires conscious effort, self-awareness, and a willingness to face the complexities of existence head-on. By embracing your freedom, being honest with yourself, living in the present, pursuing what lights you up, and cultivating meaningful relationships, you can begin to shape a life filled with authenticity and purpose.

Remember, authenticity isn’t about fitting into a mold; it’s about embracing your uniqueness, your freedom, and your ability to create meaning in a world that is, at its core, uncertain. Start small, but start today — your authentic life is waiting for you. Contact me today (LINK) about my existential therapy or coaching services.

eTalkTherapy - talk with a counselor online

Existential Couples Therapy: Finding Meaning Together

by Don Laird, NCC, LPC

It’s one thing to go through life with someone, but it’s another to do it with a shared sense of meaning. As a couple, you might be working side by side, but are you working together toward something bigger than yourselves? Existential couples therapy pushes couples to ask, “What is the deeper meaning and purpose of our relationship? How does it contribute to our individual lives—and to the world?”

In the chaos of everyday life, it’s easy to forget why we’re in a relationship in the first place. Existential couples therapy helps you reconnect with your shared vision, whether it’s building a family, making an impact in your community, or simply growing and evolving as people together. By identifying a sense of shared meaning, couples can transcend mere survival and move toward living intentionally, with a shared meaning that gives both individuals and the partnership itself a sense of direction.

How Existential Couples Therapy Can Help You Grow 

  1. Exploring Individual and Shared Meaning
    In existential therapy, couples aren’t just looking at what is going wrong or right in their relationship, but they’re diving into the why behind it all. What does each person value in life? What do they want to contribute to the world? Then, as a couple, you ask, “How can we create something meaningful together?” This isn’t about having the same goals in life—it’s about finding a way to align your individual meaning in a way that elevates your relationship.
  2. Facing Life’s Uncertainties 
    One of the core themes of existential therapy is learning to live with uncertainty. Life is unpredictable and, at times, painful, and relationships aren’t immune to challenges, pain, or change. Existentialism helps couples embrace the fact that life will often throw curveballs, and the future is unclear. By facing this uncertainty together, you develop a stronger bond, learning to trust each other in the face of the unknown. It’s not about having all the answers but about finding peace in the questions.
  3. Building Authenticity 
    Existential couples therapy encourages deep, honest conversations about your relationship and your individual experiences. It invites you to ask the tough questions, like: What do I really want from this relationship? What is the meaning of this relationship? What am I afraid of? What am I willing to commit to? These conversations foster vulnerability, which leads to greater emotional intimacy. When you can be truly honest with each other about your existential fears, hopes, and dreams, your connection becomes more authentic, and your bond deepens.
  4. Taking Responsibility for Your Relationship
    In existential thought, one of the most powerful concepts is personal responsibility. Existential couples therapy teaches couples that the relationship they have isn’t something that just “happens” to them—it’s something they create together. Both partners take responsibility for their actions, choices, and the energy they bring to the relationship. This doesn’t mean blaming each other when things go wrong, but rather understanding that both people have the power to shape the relationship. You choose how you show up for each other and what kind of life you build together.
  5. Leaving a Legacy Together
    One of the most profound aspects of existential therapy is its invitation to think beyond the present moment. It encourages couples to ask: What kind of legacy do we want to leave behind? What is our “life after us” project? It’s not just about day-to-day tasks or surviving the next few years—it’s about what your relationship stands for in the grand scheme of life. Whether it’s the values you pass on to your children or the contributions you make to your community, thinking about legacy helps couples stay focused on what really matters and helps them build a meaningful life together.

Why It Works

Existential couples therapy works because it taps into something that’s fundamental to all of us: the need for meaning. We’re not just looking for a partner to share the mundane moments of life with—we’re looking for someone who helps us make sense of our existence, someone who walks with us through the uncertainty, and someone who gives us a sense of purpose.

When couples share a deeper understanding of life’s big questions and their own individual purposes, they’re able to build a stronger, more fulfilling partnership. This isn’t about fixing problems in a superficial way; it’s about creating a relationship that feels rich and meaningful at its core.

If you’re looking to strengthen your relationship in a deeper, more fulfilling way, consider taking the existential route. Existential couples therapy can help you and your partner reconnect with each other and with the bigger picture of life. It’s about building a relationship that’s not just about getting by, but about growing, facing challenges together, and living a life that feels full of purpose.

Out of eight billion people on the planet, you and your partner found each other. When you and your partner can find meaning together, everything else just seems to fall into place.

How Existential Therapy Can Transform Your Life Starting Today  

by Don Laird, NCC, LPC

Life can be full of uncertainty, challenges, and moments of doubt. At times, these struggles can lead to feelings of isolation, confusion, or a lack of purpose. Existential therapy offers a unique way to approach these feelings, focusing on understanding the deeper questions of life, such as meaning, mortality, loneliness, and personal responsibility. If you’re grappling with a sense of dissatisfaction or are unsure about where you’re headed, existential therapy could be the key to finding clarity and purpose.

What Is Existential Therapy?

Rooted in existential philosophy, this therapeutic approach emphasizes the human experience and the importance of confronting life’s uncertainties rather than avoiding them. Unlike traditional therapies that may focus on diagnosing or treating specific mental health conditions, existential therapy encourages self-exploration and reflection on fundamental aspects of existence, such as identity, isolation, freedom, and mortality. In short, it looks beyond the symptoms and sees the client as a whole person, helping individuals examine their personal values, desires, and the choices they make. Instead of offering clear-cut solutions, existential therapy invites you to find your own answers to life’s most pressing questions, empowering you to live more authentically.

Finding Meaning in Life

One of the key elements of existential therapy is the exploration of meaning. People often experience a sense of meaninglessness, especially when faced with major life transitions, loss, or difficult situations. Existential therapy provides a space to reflect on your life’s purpose, your values, and what truly matters to you. By addressing the bigger questions about your existence, you gain the opportunity to make more purposeful choices, moving away from simply going through the motions.

The therapist’s role in existential therapy is not to give advice, but to guide you through these reflections, helping you become more aware of your own desires and aspirations. It can also be liberating, as it shifts the focus from external expectations and pressures to your own internal compass and your true north. As you understand what is truly meaningful to you, you can begin to align your actions with your authentic self.

Personal Responsibility and Freedom

Existential therapy highlights the idea that we all have the freedom to make choices and take responsibility for our lives. While this can be empowering, it can also feel overwhelming. The realization that we are responsible for our decisions, our actions, and our reactions can bring up feelings of anxiety. Existential therapy encourages you to embrace this freedom and recognize that, despite life’s challenges, you have the power to shape your future.

In addressing issues like fear of the unknown or anxiety about making the wrong choices, existential therapy fosters a deeper sense of self-awareness. It helps you confront the reality that life is uncertain, but it also teaches you how to find peace with that uncertainty. By learning to accept responsibility for your choices, you can move forward with greater confidence, knowing that your actions are aligned with your values.

Embracing Mortality

Another central theme in existential therapy is the awareness of mortality. While acknowledging death can seem uncomfortable and create anxiety, it can also bring clarity to life. By confronting the inevitable reality of mortality, existential therapy encourages you to live more fully in the present, making the most of your time and relationships. It can inspire a sense of urgency to pursue your passions and invest in what truly matters.

How Existential Therapy Helps You Create a Life Worth Living

At its core, existential therapy helps you live an authentic life by encouraging you to examine your values, question societal norms, and take ownership of your choices. It is not about escaping discomfort or finding quick fixes; it is about developing a deeper understanding of yourself and your place in the world. If you’re struggling with feelings of emptiness, confusion, or the weight of life’s challenges, existential therapy offers a transformative path toward a more meaningful and fulfilling existence.

By confronting your fears, recognizing your agency, and living authentically, you can build a life that aligns with who you truly are.

Man video calling his psychologist to have a virtual session while in quarantine during the coronavirus

Looking for Help – the mental healthcare shortage

Join Don Laird, therapist and founder of eTalkTherapy, as he and others discuss the mental health crisis in the United States. This short-form documentary explores the barriers many face in mental health care and searches for solutions to the growing shortage of providers.

https://www.wqed.org/watch/wqed-digital-docs/looking-for-help-the-mental-health-care-shortage-goct4z

Contact etalktherapy.com today to schedule a consultation or appointment.

eTalkTherapy - talk with a counselor online

Existential Therapy: Is it for Me?

by Don Laird, NCC, LPC

In an era where uncertainty seems to be our constant companion, most find themselves grappling with questions of meaning, purpose, isolation, and the unpredictability of life. Existential therapy offers a powerful and relational approach to coping with these challenges by focusing on basic human experiences such as responsibility, isolation, death, and meaning.

At its core, existential therapy encourages individuals to confront the anxiety that naturally arises from the human condition. Rather than avoiding discomfort, this therapy method invites clients to explore the inherent unpredictability of life, partner with their anxiety, and find personal meaning within it. By acknowledging that suffering is an unavoidable part of existence, individuals can develop a deeper sense of agency, rather than feeling overwhelmed by it.

Therapists using this approach help clients explore their values, beliefs, and fears, fostering self-awareness and empowering them to make conscious choices, even in the face of ambiguity or chaos. Through this process, clients often learn to embrace the “here and now,” and shift their focus from trying to control the future to engaging more fully with life as it unfolds.

In uncertain times, existential therapy provides a grounding force, reminding us that while we can’t always control what happens around us, we have the power to shape how we respond. It encourages a life lived with purpose, authenticity, and agency, despite the unpredictability of the world.

Does Existential Therapy Work for Anxiety?

by Don Laird, NCC, LPC

Anxiety is common, but its roots are often complex and elusive. While traditional therapies focus on managing symptoms, existential therapy offers a unique approach to understanding and addressing the deeper existential and life concerns that fuel anxiety symptoms. Here’s why existential therapy can be effective in helping you navigate and manage your anxiety:

1. Confronting Life’s Uncertainties

Existential therapy delves into the universal and unique human experience of uncertainty. Anxiety often arises when we face the unknown—whether it’s fear, a sense of purposelessness, or the inevitability of change. Existential therapy helps you confront these uncertainties head-on, not by eliminating them, but by learning to live with them in a more meaningful and mindful way. Through this process, you can reduce the power that uncertainty and fear hold over your emotions, embracing life’s inherent unpredictability with confidence and agency.

2. Focusing on Personal Responsibility

A core principle of existential therapy is the emphasis on personal responsibility. Anxiety is overwhelming because we perceive ourselves as powerless in the face of external forces and situations. Existential therapy shifts this perspective by encouraging you to take ownership of your choices and actions. By recognizing that you have the power to make meaningful decisions, you can reduce feelings of helplessness, and gain a greater sense of agency over your life.

3. Exploring Meaning and Purpose

Anxiety stems from feeling disconnected, fearful, or lacking purpose. Existential therapy encourages deep reflection on the meaning of your life, helping you understand what truly matters to you – finding your true north. By examining your values, passions, dreams, and beliefs, existential therapy can help you develop a clearer sense of purpose. When you feel aligned with your authentic self and your values, anxiety can decrease as you move toward a life that feels more intentional and fulfilling.

4. Facing Mortality

Death and the awareness of life’s finite nature can trigger anxiety. Existential therapy teaches you to face mortality not as something to avoid, but as a natural part of life. By acknowledging the inevitable, finding balance between life and death, you can begin to live more fully in the present moment, making choices that reflect what you truly value rather than being driven by your fears.

5. Cultivating Authenticity

Existential therapy encourages you to embrace your authentic self — free from external expectations and pressures. Anxiety often arises when we feel disconnected from who we truly are or trapped in roles that don’t align with our true identity. By fostering authenticity, existential therapy helps you reduce the internal conflict that fuels your anxiety and allows you to live in a way that feels true to you.

6. Building Resilience

Rather than attempting to eliminate anxiety, existential therapy focuses on building resilience in the face of it. Through exploration of your fears, desires, and inner conflict, you learn to accept anxiety as a natural part of the human experience. This acceptance, coupled with a deeper understanding of yourself, can make you more resilient when faced with life’s challenges, reducing the overall impact anxiety has on your life.

Conclusion

Existential therapy offers a unique approach to managing anxiety by encouraging you to confront life’s uncertainties, take responsibility for your choices, and find meaning in your experiences. Rather than seeking to escape anxiety, this therapeutic approach helps you transform your relationship with it —t urning anxiety into a guide for personal growth and a more meaningful life. 

If you’re struggling with anxiety and seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, contact etalktherapy.com today for a free consultation or to schedule an appointment.

How Do I Find the Right Therapist?

by Don Laird, NCC, LPC

Choosing the right therapist is an important step in your mental health journey. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or simply need someone to talk to, the connection you have with your therapist can significantly influence the outcome of your therapy. Here’s why it’s crucial to find the right fit:

Building Trust and Comfort
A strong therapeutic relationship is built on trust. If you don’t feel comfortable with your therapist, it can be hard to open up and explore deep emotions. Finding someone you feel safe with is essential for effective therapy.

Tailored Approach
Not all therapists work the same way. Some use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), while others prefer humanistic or existential approaches. It’s important to find a therapist whose techniques resonate with you and align with your goals.

Cultural Competence and Understanding
Your background, culture, identity, and life experiences shape how you see the world. A therapist who understands and respects your unique perspective can make the process more meaningful and relevant.

Improved Outcomes
When you’re matched with the right therapist, you’re more likely to feel heard, understood, and supported. This connection will accelerate progress, helping you develop new coping strategies, gain insight and create a life worth living.

Remember, therapy is a personal journey, and it’s okay to take your time finding the right professional for your needs. The effort you put into choosing the right therapist will pay off in the long run, offering you the support and care you need to flourish.

Can Therapy Help You Find Meaning?

by Don Laird, NCC, LPC

Life can often feel overwhelming or disconnected, leaving you with existential questions and no direction. Therapy can be a powerful tool to help you uncover deeper meaning in your life. Here’s how:

  1. Self-Exploration
    Therapy offers a safe space for you to reflect on your experiences, values, ideas, and beliefs. By exploring your past, present, and future aspirations, you can uncover patterns or insights that will help you better understand who you truly are and what matters most to you.
  2. Clarify Your Values
    Through mindful discussions, a therapist can help you clarify your core values and true north. Knowing what you care about at your core can guide your decisions and actions, leading to a more meaningful life that aligns with your authentic self.
  3. Cope with Challenges
    Life’s struggles often leave us feeling lost. Therapy provides the tools to navigate these challenges and reframe difficult experiences. By learning new perspectives, you can find meaning even in adversity and suffering, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth.
  4. Improve Relationships
    Meaning often arises from our connections with others. Therapy can help you improve your relationships, whether through better communication, conflict resolution, or healing from past wounds. Strong, supportive relationships contribute to a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment.
  5. Personal Growth
    Therapy isn’t just about addressing issues; it’s about growing into the person you want to be and creating a life worth living.  As you gain insight, develop coping skills, and break free from limiting beliefs and self-sabotaging behaviors, you begin to see a clearer path forward — one that is ripe with meaning and possibilities.

Ultimately, therapy can help you rediscover your purpose, find clarity in uncertainty, and embrace a life that feels deeply fulfilling.

Contact etalktherapy.com today to schedule a consultation or appointment.