Depression Psychiatrists in Berwyn, PA

Photo of Terri Geiger Leone, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Terri Geiger Leone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Berwyn, PA 19312
In addition to treating clients struggling with anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances and ADHD, she has a special interest in complex trauma.
Terri Leone, CRNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is accepting new clients at the office of Jeffrey Naser, MD and Associates (voted one of Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctors in 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021), a group practice in Berwyn, PA. Ms. Leone is trained in all areas of psychiatry, including Attention Deficit Disorders, Major Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety Disorders and Trauma-Related Disorders.
In addition to treating clients struggling with anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances and ADHD, she has a special interest in complex trauma.
Terri Leone, CRNP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is accepting new clients at the office of Jeffrey Naser, MD and Associates (voted one of Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctors in 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021), a group practice in Berwyn, PA. Ms. Leone is trained in all areas of psychiatry, including Attention Deficit Disorders, Major Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety Disorders and Trauma-Related Disorders.
(484) 285-4473 View (484) 285-4473
Photo of David Danish, MD, Psychiatrist
David Danish
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berwyn, PA 19312
I treat Mood Disorders (Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Dysthymia), symptoms related to Autism Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety Disorders (OCD, Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, among others), Intermittent Explosive Disorder, ADHD, Oppositional Defiance, DMDD, Substance Abuse, and PTSD.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages and from all walks of life. Clients typically seek me out when they are looking for help with various psychiatric conditions. My training at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, work in area crisis centers and emergency rooms, years of inpatient work at the University of Pennsylvania followed by The Horsham Clinic, and starting ketamine infusion for treatment resistant depression, have all shaped me into the psychiatrist I am today.
I treat Mood Disorders (Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Dysthymia), symptoms related to Autism Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety Disorders (OCD, Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, among others), Intermittent Explosive Disorder, ADHD, Oppositional Defiance, DMDD, Substance Abuse, and PTSD.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages and from all walks of life. Clients typically seek me out when they are looking for help with various psychiatric conditions. My training at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, work in area crisis centers and emergency rooms, years of inpatient work at the University of Pennsylvania followed by The Horsham Clinic, and starting ketamine infusion for treatment resistant depression, have all shaped me into the psychiatrist I am today.
(610) 999-6414 View (610) 999-6414
Photo of Jeffrey Allen Naser - Jeffrey Naser MD, LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeffrey Naser MD, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Berwyn, PA 19312
Jeffrey Naser MD, LLC is a private, fee-for service psychiatric practice in Berwyn PA. Dr. Naser's team includes Ms. Maria Capriotti and Ms. Terri Leone, both Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. We provide psychiatric assessment, second opinions and medication management for children, teens and adults. We have significant experience working with a range of psychiatric challenges including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, OCD, PTSD, and others. Our initial evalations are done in-person. We offer a choice for follow up visits, either remote or in-person. We work hard to provide a trusting and collaborative relationship.
Jeffrey Naser MD, LLC is a private, fee-for service psychiatric practice in Berwyn PA. Dr. Naser's team includes Ms. Maria Capriotti and Ms. Terri Leone, both Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. We provide psychiatric assessment, second opinions and medication management for children, teens and adults. We have significant experience working with a range of psychiatric challenges including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, OCD, PTSD, and others. Our initial evalations are done in-person. We offer a choice for follow up visits, either remote or in-person. We work hard to provide a trusting and collaborative relationship.
(484) 623-5966 View (484) 623-5966
Photo of Brian Rogers - North Star Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
North Star Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Berwyn, PA 19312
WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! North Star Psychiatry offers medication management and psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and young adults. We accept new patients between ages 4 and 25 years. Patients outside of this age range may be accepted on a case-by-case basis. We offer a hybrid treatment model with in-person visits at our physical location in Malvern, PA and telepsychiatry visits anywhere in the state of Pennsylvania. We have extensive experience working with young people who are living with mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, ODD, PTSD, OCD, and eating disorders.
WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! North Star Psychiatry offers medication management and psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and young adults. We accept new patients between ages 4 and 25 years. Patients outside of this age range may be accepted on a case-by-case basis. We offer a hybrid treatment model with in-person visits at our physical location in Malvern, PA and telepsychiatry visits anywhere in the state of Pennsylvania. We have extensive experience working with young people who are living with mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, ODD, PTSD, OCD, and eating disorders.
(484) 214-2971 View (484) 214-2971
Photo of Dena Caplan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dena Caplan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Berwyn, PA 19312
Dena Caplan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2023. She earned a PMHNP from Wilkes University and a CPNP-PC from Thomas Jefferson University. Dena has been practicing as a Pediatric Nurse. Outside of work, Dena enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and children.
Dena Caplan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2023. She earned a PMHNP from Wilkes University and a CPNP-PC from Thomas Jefferson University. Dena has been practicing as a Pediatric Nurse. Outside of work, Dena enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and children.
(267) 662-2840 View (267) 662-2840

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Elizabeth Wray, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Wray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paoli, PA 19301
Provider within Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a network of over 20 Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Psychotherapists offering in-office psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy in Philadelphia and on The Main Line, and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatric Appointments to patients in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD. Call to see which providers are licensed in your location.
Provider within Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a network of over 20 Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Psychotherapists offering in-office psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy in Philadelphia and on The Main Line, and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatric Appointments to patients in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD. Call to see which providers are licensed in your location.
(267) 358-6099 View (267) 358-6099
Photo of Thomas Scary, MD, Psychiatrist
Thomas Scary
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paoli, PA 19301
I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management for anxiety, depression, bipolar/mood disorders, OCD, and ADHD.
I am currently scheduling patients for both in-person (Philadelphia and Paoli) and telehealth appointments. I welcome patients who are looking for medication management, therapy, a second opinion, or any combination of the above. My interests include diagnostic clarification of mood/anxiety/attention disorders, evaluation of young adults who may be seeking help for the first time, and treatment of substance use disorders that often present with other common diagnoses.
I offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management for anxiety, depression, bipolar/mood disorders, OCD, and ADHD.
I am currently scheduling patients for both in-person (Philadelphia and Paoli) and telehealth appointments. I welcome patients who are looking for medication management, therapy, a second opinion, or any combination of the above. My interests include diagnostic clarification of mood/anxiety/attention disorders, evaluation of young adults who may be seeking help for the first time, and treatment of substance use disorders that often present with other common diagnoses.
(856) 672-7720 View (856) 672-7720
Photo of Dr. Mo Dattu - Mo Dattu, MD Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist
Mo Dattu, MD Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wayne, PA 19087
Mental health challenges have peaked since the pandemic and rates of depression, anxiety, work related stress and burnout are rising amongst most professions.
My aim is to understand you, not just medicate you. My work is in depth, encompassing current and past treatments, relationship and professional history, family history and other important areas of your life. I see patients from age 18 to 60, primarily treat depression and anxiety. My sessions are very interactive utilizing strength based approaches, cognitive therapy, behavioral modification and other modalities. Goals are identified as are obstacles to achieving them. Validated rating scales are used to further explore areas of concern and genetic testing is used when considering best medications.
Mental health challenges have peaked since the pandemic and rates of depression, anxiety, work related stress and burnout are rising amongst most professions.
My aim is to understand you, not just medicate you. My work is in depth, encompassing current and past treatments, relationship and professional history, family history and other important areas of your life. I see patients from age 18 to 60, primarily treat depression and anxiety. My sessions are very interactive utilizing strength based approaches, cognitive therapy, behavioral modification and other modalities. Goals are identified as are obstacles to achieving them. Validated rating scales are used to further explore areas of concern and genetic testing is used when considering best medications.
(717) 775-6189 View (717) 775-6189
Photo of Karen (Yang) Chen, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen (Yang) Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paoli, PA 19301
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a network of over 20 psychiatric providers including Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychotherapists. We offer in-office and Virtual Telehealth appointments in Philadelphia, The Main Line of Philadelphia and Virtually to NJ, NY and FL. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a variety of mental health conditions in adults ages 18+, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, PMDD, bipolar disorder, and more.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a network of over 20 psychiatric providers including Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychotherapists. We offer in-office and Virtual Telehealth appointments in Philadelphia, The Main Line of Philadelphia and Virtually to NJ, NY and FL. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a variety of mental health conditions in adults ages 18+, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, PMDD, bipolar disorder, and more.
(267) 358-6099 View (267) 358-6099
Photo of Thomas Wind - TMS Integrative Brain Institute, DO, Psychiatrist
TMS Integrative Brain Institute
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Paoli, PA 19301
Is depression robbing you of joy? Have you tried medication and/or therapy without consistent success? Don’t despair! TMS Integrative Brain Institute has another way to treat depression that is non-invasive, non-systemic, has minimal side effects and risks, is Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for major, treatment-resistant depression and is covered by most insurance including Medicare. With our integrative approach to TMS therapy, we can help you change the way you feel about your life.
Is depression robbing you of joy? Have you tried medication and/or therapy without consistent success? Don’t despair! TMS Integrative Brain Institute has another way to treat depression that is non-invasive, non-systemic, has minimal side effects and risks, is Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for major, treatment-resistant depression and is covered by most insurance including Medicare. With our integrative approach to TMS therapy, we can help you change the way you feel about your life.
(484) 214-2962 View (484) 214-2962
Photo of Marina Makous, MD, Psychiatrist
Marina Makous
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Paoli, PA 19301
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Makous a Fellowship in Neuropsychiatry-trained, Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician with extensive experience in Psychiatry and Counseling. In the past she established mental health clinics around the world, treating individuals from different cultures for a variety of mental illnesses. After a 2-year Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Neuropsychiatry at Columbia University's Department of Psychiatry, she stayed on as an Assistant Professor. She recently relocated to Exton, PA, where she treats adults with depression, anxiety, neuropsychiatric complications of Lyme, etc. Dr. Marina Makous is astute, warm, and collaborative: she listens to her patients and follows them to ensure the best treatment outcome possible.
Dr. Makous a Fellowship in Neuropsychiatry-trained, Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician with extensive experience in Psychiatry and Counseling. In the past she established mental health clinics around the world, treating individuals from different cultures for a variety of mental illnesses. After a 2-year Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Neuropsychiatry at Columbia University's Department of Psychiatry, she stayed on as an Assistant Professor. She recently relocated to Exton, PA, where she treats adults with depression, anxiety, neuropsychiatric complications of Lyme, etc. Dr. Marina Makous is astute, warm, and collaborative: she listens to her patients and follows them to ensure the best treatment outcome possible.
(484) 997-7075 View (484) 997-7075
Photo of Charles Chip Altman, MD, Psychiatrist
Charles Chip Altman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087
Casual, relaxed setting to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, unstable mood (bipolar), insomnia, and issues with focus/concentration. I specialize in working with older adolescents, college/graduate students, and young adults launching careers and building relationships. Of course I work with adults of all ages.
Casual, relaxed setting to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, unstable mood (bipolar), insomnia, and issues with focus/concentration. I specialize in working with older adolescents, college/graduate students, and young adults launching careers and building relationships. Of course I work with adults of all ages.
(484) 372-3820 View (484) 372-3820
Photo of Chris Pagnani - Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, Psychiatrist
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Paoli, PA 19301
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of Psychiatry, comprised of Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania and similarly trained Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and therapists who treat Children, Adolescents & Adults for Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD and Panic) and psychotherapy. We offer in-office and virtual Telehealth Psychiatric appointments for patients in the Philadelphia and Main Line areas, and Telehealth for patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Evidence based medicine from academically oriented providers, many of whom teach or have taught at academic centers
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of Psychiatry, comprised of Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania and similarly trained Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and therapists who treat Children, Adolescents & Adults for Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD and Panic) and psychotherapy. We offer in-office and virtual Telehealth Psychiatric appointments for patients in the Philadelphia and Main Line areas, and Telehealth for patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Evidence based medicine from academically oriented providers, many of whom teach or have taught at academic centers
(267) 358-6099 View (267) 358-6099
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Radnor, PA 19087
If you have been suffering with anxiety or depression, unable to get a restful nights sleep, or just feel like you are not reaching your full potential, contact me.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
If you have been suffering with anxiety or depression, unable to get a restful nights sleep, or just feel like you are not reaching your full potential, contact me.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(484) 240-7224 View (484) 240-7224
Photo of Raena Khorram, MD, Psychiatrist
Raena Khorram
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087
I treat patients 16 years old and up with a range of disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD and addiction as well as other mental health issues such as low self-esteem, bullying, trauma, job/school related stress, work/life balance and relationship problems.
I am a board certified, Harvard trained psychiatrist with a private practice in the Mainline seeing patients both in the office and online using a leading telepsychiatry platform. I work with patients to identify, understand, and solve problems. Together we transform that understanding into positive action. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and in a safe and confidential environment. It is a collaboration between the patient and the physician that allows for the greatest results. Together we will determine the best treatment for you whether that is therapy or medication or a combination of both.
I treat patients 16 years old and up with a range of disorders including depression, anxiety, ADHD and addiction as well as other mental health issues such as low self-esteem, bullying, trauma, job/school related stress, work/life balance and relationship problems.
I am a board certified, Harvard trained psychiatrist with a private practice in the Mainline seeing patients both in the office and online using a leading telepsychiatry platform. I work with patients to identify, understand, and solve problems. Together we transform that understanding into positive action. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and in a safe and confidential environment. It is a collaboration between the patient and the physician that allows for the greatest results. Together we will determine the best treatment for you whether that is therapy or medication or a combination of both.
(484) 813-4864 View (484) 813-4864
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Radnor, PA 19087
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(484) 662-4040 View (484) 662-4040
Photo of Nichelle Jones, DNP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Radnor, PA 19087
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
(484) 642-9442 View (484) 642-9442
Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Radnor, PA 19087
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay Wellness is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(484) 348-4405 View (484) 348-4405
Photo of Heather Bisca, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Bisca
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
Heather is experienced in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.
Heather uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with other healthcare providers. She is known for her compassionate care, always advocating for and listening to her patients with respect and empathy. Her approach integrates her personal values of kindness, acceptance, and understanding.
Heather is experienced in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.
Heather uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with other healthcare providers. She is known for her compassionate care, always advocating for and listening to her patients with respect and empathy. Her approach integrates her personal values of kindness, acceptance, and understanding.
(484) 383-5007 View (484) 383-5007
Photo of Fatima Sattar, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fatima Sattar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wayne, PA 19087
My philosophy is that YOU must be at the center of care. While I may guide you in identifying your strengths it is my hope that your goals be created by you rather than assigned. Whether you have endured trauma, struggle with depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, gender identity, ADHD, or another issue my goal is to help you be the best version of you so you may live your best life. Sometimes that means medication, sometimes therapy, sometimes both. We will work together to develop an evidence-based and comprehensive treatment plan. It is my honor to walk beside you in the next phase of your mental health wellness journey!
My philosophy is that YOU must be at the center of care. While I may guide you in identifying your strengths it is my hope that your goals be created by you rather than assigned. Whether you have endured trauma, struggle with depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, gender identity, ADHD, or another issue my goal is to help you be the best version of you so you may live your best life. Sometimes that means medication, sometimes therapy, sometimes both. We will work together to develop an evidence-based and comprehensive treatment plan. It is my honor to walk beside you in the next phase of your mental health wellness journey!
(610) 686-8707 View (610) 686-8707
Depression Psychiatrists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.