Danika Girdner, MD, LCSW-C

How therapy approaches fit into online care

Danika uses the Gottman Method to focus directly on relationship patterns and communication skills. This approach uses practical exercises and structured conversations to reduce conflict, rebuild trust, and improve how partners talk to each other. It can help with intimacy problems, infidelity, and ongoing communication issues.

She also draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which helps people clarify their values and take steps that match those values even when emotions are strong. ACT can be useful for managing anger, anxiety, and commitment worries. Client-Centered Therapy is another influence; it prioritizes listening, empathy, and the client’s own goals to guide the pace and focus of work.

Finding the right approach is collaborative. Danika will help clients decide which ideas to try based on their goals, needs, and preferences. Sessions often combine techniques so people get tools that fit their situation rather than a single fixed method.

Online formats offered include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video works well for longer sessions and role-play exercises, phone calls are useful when bandwidth is limited, live chat can be a shorter check-in, and text messaging supports ongoing coaching between appointments. These options make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules and to keep momentum between sessions.