Photo of Grace Mendoza - Grace for the Journey Counseling, MSc, LAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grace for the Journey Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374
Waitlist for new clients
We are all on a journey of some sort, whether it is one of healing, new beginnings, pleasure, or life transition. Sometimes we encounter storms and obstacles that shake us and may make us feel as if we are lost or maybe incapable of overcoming the storm. These storms may be recognized as anxiety, depression, loss of a loved one, job or home. Creating therapeutic trust and emotional safety are two of my greatest strengths in my practice. We will work with you to create an environment in which you can discover your own truth and authentic self, and increase your capacity to make healthy life choices and find fulfilling relationships.
We are all on a journey of some sort, whether it is one of healing, new beginnings, pleasure, or life transition. Sometimes we encounter storms and obstacles that shake us and may make us feel as if we are lost or maybe incapable of overcoming the storm. These storms may be recognized as anxiety, depression, loss of a loved one, job or home. Creating therapeutic trust and emotional safety are two of my greatest strengths in my practice. We will work with you to create an environment in which you can discover your own truth and authentic self, and increase your capacity to make healthy life choices and find fulfilling relationships.
(520) 231-8398 View (520) 231-8398
Photo of Wendy J Pauluk, PsyD, Psychologist
Wendy J Pauluk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85379  (Online Only)
As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD), I've helped thousands of clients of every age, gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation recapture their lives from bipolar & mood disorders, TBI, anxiety and depression, struggles with domestic & sexual abuse, PTSD, fears, trauma, and coping with situations surrounding death & dying. Having the highest level of medical credential in Psychology and Psychotherapy, you can rely on getting a treatment regime customized for you, whether it's using psychoeducation, gestalt principles, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The force that is derailing your life can be tamed or banished altogether.
As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD), I've helped thousands of clients of every age, gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation recapture their lives from bipolar & mood disorders, TBI, anxiety and depression, struggles with domestic & sexual abuse, PTSD, fears, trauma, and coping with situations surrounding death & dying. Having the highest level of medical credential in Psychology and Psychotherapy, you can rely on getting a treatment regime customized for you, whether it's using psychoeducation, gestalt principles, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The force that is derailing your life can be tamed or banished altogether.
(928) 267-6122 View (928) 267-6122
Photo of Michael Keegan, MC, LPC, SEP, Counselor
Michael Keegan
Counselor, MC, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85374  (Online Only)
You work hard. You do your best. Yet you are still struggling to find happiness, peace, and meaning in your life. It's not your fault (really, it's not), but there are somethings you can do to make it better. There are ways to reduce your anxiety and depression, and to feel happy again. You can have meaningful relationships, an enjoyable worklife, and have fun again. You can be the person you want to be.
You work hard. You do your best. Yet you are still struggling to find happiness, peace, and meaning in your life. It's not your fault (really, it's not), but there are somethings you can do to make it better. There are ways to reduce your anxiety and depression, and to feel happy again. You can have meaningful relationships, an enjoyable worklife, and have fun again. You can be the person you want to be.
(623) 326-4681 View (623) 326-4681
Photo of Kaitlyn Johnson, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlyn Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85379
As a counselor at Lifeline Professional Counseling, my goal is to equip you to reach yours. I provide a variety of services for all ages, and I enjoy working with individuals and families. I specialize in relationship issues and emotional disturbance. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of family conflicts, couples concerns, relationship issues and personality corrections. I help clients through issues of domestic violence, anger management, anxiety, depression and trauma.
As a counselor at Lifeline Professional Counseling, my goal is to equip you to reach yours. I provide a variety of services for all ages, and I enjoy working with individuals and families. I specialize in relationship issues and emotional disturbance. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of family conflicts, couples concerns, relationship issues and personality corrections. I help clients through issues of domestic violence, anger management, anxiety, depression and trauma.
(480) 725-0722 View (480) 725-0722
Christopher L Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85378
I provide individual counseling services for those affected by gambling addiction. I focus on assisting the gambler to decrease or eliminate gambling activities. I have developed multiple interventions over the past 15 years counseling gamblers. Many of those services can be covered by the Arizona Department of Gaming Office of Problem Gambling, Treatment Assistance Program if certain criteria is met. Additionally, provide counseling for Veterans and narcissistic abuse recovery. Most major insurance is accepted.
I provide individual counseling services for those affected by gambling addiction. I focus on assisting the gambler to decrease or eliminate gambling activities. I have developed multiple interventions over the past 15 years counseling gamblers. Many of those services can be covered by the Arizona Department of Gaming Office of Problem Gambling, Treatment Assistance Program if certain criteria is met. Additionally, provide counseling for Veterans and narcissistic abuse recovery. Most major insurance is accepted.
(602) 900-9685 View (602) 900-9685
Photo of Christina Van Arsdale - Wolfpack Counseling, LLC, CCFC, NCC, LAC
Wolfpack Counseling, LLC
CCFC, NCC, LAC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374
Accepting new clients. All clients deserve a safe, supportive space that encourages acceptance, understanding, and emotional growth. My approach to your therapy is one where we work as a collaborative unit to identify and enact solutions to work through the issues brought to treatment. I have training to assist with your goals and with work you can accomplish your path. This united spirit allows you to make meaningful breakthroughs to improve your life and relationships. Was there trauma in your past that maybe affecting you currently? I use EMDR to assist with your experience. I also use play therapy with children and adolescents.
Accepting new clients. All clients deserve a safe, supportive space that encourages acceptance, understanding, and emotional growth. My approach to your therapy is one where we work as a collaborative unit to identify and enact solutions to work through the issues brought to treatment. I have training to assist with your goals and with work you can accomplish your path. This united spirit allows you to make meaningful breakthroughs to improve your life and relationships. Was there trauma in your past that maybe affecting you currently? I use EMDR to assist with your experience. I also use play therapy with children and adolescents.
(623) 526-8510 View (623) 526-8510
Photo of Ryan Shelby Butler, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryan Shelby Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85374
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), working under the private agency: Becoming Transformed, LLC. I come from a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry, where I was able to apply my unique counseling skills in a diverse community of teaching, accounting/finance, analytics, and guidance for students and school leadership. I spend much of my spare time with family, serving in church leadership, reading/writing, and enjoying the great outdoors.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), working under the private agency: Becoming Transformed, LLC. I come from a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry, where I was able to apply my unique counseling skills in a diverse community of teaching, accounting/finance, analytics, and guidance for students and school leadership. I spend much of my spare time with family, serving in church leadership, reading/writing, and enjoying the great outdoors.
(623) 526-4743 View (623) 526-4743
Photo of Izabela Weber, MA, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Izabela Weber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374
A key question is: are you new to counseling or did previous therapy not fulfill your expectations? I am a seasoned counselor focused on achieving CONCRETE GOALS that we establish together at the beginning of the therapy process. I frequently assess whether you have been making significant progress. If not, we work together on applying alternative methods in order to get where you want and need to be. In my cozy private practice office, you will be receiving my complete attention. This is a place where you find acceptance, peace of mind, and solutions to questions that have been troubling you for a long time.
A key question is: are you new to counseling or did previous therapy not fulfill your expectations? I am a seasoned counselor focused on achieving CONCRETE GOALS that we establish together at the beginning of the therapy process. I frequently assess whether you have been making significant progress. If not, we work together on applying alternative methods in order to get where you want and need to be. In my cozy private practice office, you will be receiving my complete attention. This is a place where you find acceptance, peace of mind, and solutions to questions that have been troubling you for a long time.
(480) 520-1381 View (480) 520-1381

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of David W Clegg - Alliance Counseling, LLC, EdD, MEd, LPC, LMHC, NBCC, Counselor
Alliance Counseling, LLC
Counselor, EdD, MEd, LPC, LMHC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85383
I counsel adults, couples, teens,& children to address a wide range of challenges: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and parenting.
I invite you to interview me at No Charge by phone. As a WA licensed mental health counselor/AZ licensed professional counselor (master's degree in counseling) I respect clients regardless of their life challenges and recognize them as the one in charge of the counseling. All individuals will have emotional issues at one time or another. I believe those who seek counseling exemplify traits of personal courage & strength. I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques from the cognitive-behavioral & psychoanalytic approaches & address codependency & addiction.
I counsel adults, couples, teens,& children to address a wide range of challenges: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and parenting.
I invite you to interview me at No Charge by phone. As a WA licensed mental health counselor/AZ licensed professional counselor (master's degree in counseling) I respect clients regardless of their life challenges and recognize them as the one in charge of the counseling. All individuals will have emotional issues at one time or another. I believe those who seek counseling exemplify traits of personal courage & strength. I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques from the cognitive-behavioral & psychoanalytic approaches & address codependency & addiction.
(360) 215-5143 View (360) 215-5143
Photo of Trudy Marie Soncrant, MSW, LCSW, LISAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trudy Marie Soncrant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISAC
Not Verified Not Verified
Sun City, AZ 85351
I'm Trudy Soncrant, owner of Broken Chains Christian Counseling, Inc. in Sun City AZ. I have over 30 years experience as a Master's Level Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LCSW, LISAC) whose passion is Faith-Based Counseling, specializing in addictions, trauma and Dissociative Disorders. In believing that "Life is a Spiritual Battle between good and evil", I use my expertise with a non-judgmental Christian approach, My favorite song is " The Comeback" by David Gokey. So call our office for your own personal "Comeback"
I'm Trudy Soncrant, owner of Broken Chains Christian Counseling, Inc. in Sun City AZ. I have over 30 years experience as a Master's Level Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LCSW, LISAC) whose passion is Faith-Based Counseling, specializing in addictions, trauma and Dissociative Disorders. In believing that "Life is a Spiritual Battle between good and evil", I use my expertise with a non-judgmental Christian approach, My favorite song is " The Comeback" by David Gokey. So call our office for your own personal "Comeback"
(623) 233-0947 View (623) 233-0947
Photo of Adam Vellturo, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam Vellturo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sun City, AZ 85351
I am available for Teletherapy sessions throughout the state of Arizona. I use a variety of techniques & experiential methods to help my clients change their self-defeating patterns and access & process underlying emotional blocks. I tailor my work to meet individual needs drawing primarily from the theories of Mindfullness-Based Cognitive Therapy as well as Gestalt, Adlerian & Jungian Therapy, My work is guided by the premise that each individual holds within them the capacity to understand and heal themselves. My role is to facilitate a connection to this capacity which allows my clients to feel more fulfilled & connected in life.
I am available for Teletherapy sessions throughout the state of Arizona. I use a variety of techniques & experiential methods to help my clients change their self-defeating patterns and access & process underlying emotional blocks. I tailor my work to meet individual needs drawing primarily from the theories of Mindfullness-Based Cognitive Therapy as well as Gestalt, Adlerian & Jungian Therapy, My work is guided by the premise that each individual holds within them the capacity to understand and heal themselves. My role is to facilitate a connection to this capacity which allows my clients to feel more fulfilled & connected in life.
(928) 237-5947 View (928) 237-5947

Online Therapists

Photo of Robbie Griffin, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robbie Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Thank you for taking the time to look over my profile and remain open to the idea of therapy helping to improve your circumstances. If you or a loved one is struggling then I'd like to help. I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, compulsive behavior, sexual issues, depression and grief/loss concerns. However, above all else, my biggest focus in the therapeutic process is on building a genuine, healing and supportive human connection with you. If you allow me the opportunity to walk with you in this chapter of your journey then in return you will have someone who is deeply committed to supporting you in and out of the office.
Thank you for taking the time to look over my profile and remain open to the idea of therapy helping to improve your circumstances. If you or a loved one is struggling then I'd like to help. I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, compulsive behavior, sexual issues, depression and grief/loss concerns. However, above all else, my biggest focus in the therapeutic process is on building a genuine, healing and supportive human connection with you. If you allow me the opportunity to walk with you in this chapter of your journey then in return you will have someone who is deeply committed to supporting you in and out of the office.
(480) 630-9467 View (480) 630-9467
Photo of Garron P Griffitts, LCSW, CPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Garron P Griffitts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85204
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of addiction, marriage and relationship problems, depression, anxiety, life skills, low self-esteem and other mental health issues. I have worked extensively with the following addictions: drugs and alcohol, sex and pornography, and compulsive gambling. I also have in-depth experience working with teenage boys and girls ages 12-17 as a Clinical Director of an adolescent residential treatment center. I also have taught master level classes at Arizona State University in addiction, individual, family and group counseling.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of addiction, marriage and relationship problems, depression, anxiety, life skills, low self-esteem and other mental health issues. I have worked extensively with the following addictions: drugs and alcohol, sex and pornography, and compulsive gambling. I also have in-depth experience working with teenage boys and girls ages 12-17 as a Clinical Director of an adolescent residential treatment center. I also have taught master level classes at Arizona State University in addiction, individual, family and group counseling.
(520) 357-0695 View (520) 357-0695
Photo of Lincoln Sperry, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lincoln Sperry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86303
I specialize in working with compulsive sexual behaviors, addictions, trauma, depression and anxiety.
We are all whole and more resilient than we believe, but we can forget this at times. Effective therapy demands deep compassion, understanding, and strong guidance. Most of us need performance-based, solutions-focused therapy. Most of us benefit from increased personal accountability. Trauma reactions, anxiety, compulsions, depression and addictions are all forms of communication. You deserve help in decoding these problematic responses and learning better, more adaptive solutions to life's challenges. I'm prepared to help.
I specialize in working with compulsive sexual behaviors, addictions, trauma, depression and anxiety.
We are all whole and more resilient than we believe, but we can forget this at times. Effective therapy demands deep compassion, understanding, and strong guidance. Most of us need performance-based, solutions-focused therapy. Most of us benefit from increased personal accountability. Trauma reactions, anxiety, compulsions, depression and addictions are all forms of communication. You deserve help in decoding these problematic responses and learning better, more adaptive solutions to life's challenges. I'm prepared to help.
(928) 212-8626 View (928) 212-8626
Photo of David Abrams - Life Works AZ, PLLC, MAPC, LPC, CAGS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Life Works AZ, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC, CAGS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I assist you with tools to cope with anger and mood regulation,( DEPRESSION) and (ANXIETY) as well as negative thinking.
I work with CHILDREN,TEENS, FAMILIES, ADULTS to create change in these areas: depression, anxiety, unhealthy- behaviors, self-esteem, ,anger, motivation in school, and more. I am passionate about my work. I love working with: adults, adolescents, couples,and families .I am able to connect with tots to teens to adults. Kids quickly feel safe and comfortable and parents feel encouraged with great results. I work with ADULTS: to effectively alleviate depressive and anxious moods, and learn to cope with grief, loss, and difficult and painful life situations. I work teaching skills to manage stress, create health and happiness in your life.
I assist you with tools to cope with anger and mood regulation,( DEPRESSION) and (ANXIETY) as well as negative thinking.
I work with CHILDREN,TEENS, FAMILIES, ADULTS to create change in these areas: depression, anxiety, unhealthy- behaviors, self-esteem, ,anger, motivation in school, and more. I am passionate about my work. I love working with: adults, adolescents, couples,and families .I am able to connect with tots to teens to adults. Kids quickly feel safe and comfortable and parents feel encouraged with great results. I work with ADULTS: to effectively alleviate depressive and anxious moods, and learn to cope with grief, loss, and difficult and painful life situations. I work teaching skills to manage stress, create health and happiness in your life.
(480) 409-2459 View (480) 409-2459
Photo of Laura Olivieri Wood, LPC-S, PsyT, EMDR-T, MSc, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Olivieri Wood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, PsyT, EMDR-T, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
I have experience working with all age groups, primarily with trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, attachment, and adjustment issues.
You deserve support. That's my central focus in practice, many of us minimize our own distress by saying "other people have it worse" or "I should be grateful" without actually acknowledging that you are worth the time, energy, and investment. Trust me, even if you tell yourself it's not that bad, it won't change until you change it.
I have experience working with all age groups, primarily with trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, attachment, and adjustment issues.
You deserve support. That's my central focus in practice, many of us minimize our own distress by saying "other people have it worse" or "I should be grateful" without actually acknowledging that you are worth the time, energy, and investment. Trust me, even if you tell yourself it's not that bad, it won't change until you change it.
(480) 530-6587 View (480) 530-6587
Photo of Chelsey Pruett, MS, LAC, Counselor
Chelsey Pruett
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85255  (Online Only)
I have extensive knowledge & experience in treating substance use, eating disorders, codependency, marital issues, life transition, depression, anxiety, trauma with specialized training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and EMDR.
I will provide a safe place for you to heal and together we will go on a journey to create meaningful change in your life. I have a passion for helping & working with others by being intentional about listening & truly hearing you while providing a non-judgmental space to forge the best version of yourself. I prioritize intercultural competency and letting people frame their own experiences in the specific context they come from. I specialize in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), an effective treatment method which focuses on reprogramming the brain to feel and react differently to traumatic memories. Come as you are!
I have extensive knowledge & experience in treating substance use, eating disorders, codependency, marital issues, life transition, depression, anxiety, trauma with specialized training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and EMDR.
I will provide a safe place for you to heal and together we will go on a journey to create meaningful change in your life. I have a passion for helping & working with others by being intentional about listening & truly hearing you while providing a non-judgmental space to forge the best version of yourself. I prioritize intercultural competency and letting people frame their own experiences in the specific context they come from. I specialize in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), an effective treatment method which focuses on reprogramming the brain to feel and react differently to traumatic memories. Come as you are!
(602) 755-9757 View (602) 755-9757
Photo of Dave McElfresh, MA, LPC, LISAC, Counselor
Dave McElfresh
Counselor, MA, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Over the past 45 years, I've worked with hundreds of clients experiencing depression, anxiety, sexual issues, spiritual concerns, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, parenting issues, PTSD, anger problems, low self esteem, grief, guilt, jealousy and self doubt.
I have been a therapist since 1978. I taught undergraduate and graduate Psychology courses at Ottawa University (11 years) and Rio Salado College (17 years).I specialize in OCD and obsessive sexual behaviors but have treated nearly every type of client and diagnosis over the past four decades. I'm told I'm personable and that people feel comfortable with me immediately. I'm a good nonjudgmental listener and I believe that counseling should be a deep but intriguing investigation - not a painful one.
Over the past 45 years, I've worked with hundreds of clients experiencing depression, anxiety, sexual issues, spiritual concerns, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, parenting issues, PTSD, anger problems, low self esteem, grief, guilt, jealousy and self doubt.
I have been a therapist since 1978. I taught undergraduate and graduate Psychology courses at Ottawa University (11 years) and Rio Salado College (17 years).I specialize in OCD and obsessive sexual behaviors but have treated nearly every type of client and diagnosis over the past four decades. I'm told I'm personable and that people feel comfortable with me immediately. I'm a good nonjudgmental listener and I believe that counseling should be a deep but intriguing investigation - not a painful one.
(480) 525-9965 View (480) 525-9965
Photo of Nick Miller, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nick Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85212  (Online Only)
I'm well practiced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), including Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) as well as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which are highly effective in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and issues related to trauma.
For over 10 years I have worked to help teens and adults overcome painful past experiences, reverse self-limiting beliefs, improve healthy interpersonal connections and find greater fulfillment in life. I really look forward to getting to know you partnering with you on your path toward healing and personal growth!
I'm well practiced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), including Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) as well as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which are highly effective in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and issues related to trauma.
For over 10 years I have worked to help teens and adults overcome painful past experiences, reverse self-limiting beliefs, improve healthy interpersonal connections and find greater fulfillment in life. I really look forward to getting to know you partnering with you on your path toward healing and personal growth!
(928) 267-6175 View (928) 267-6175
Photo of Brian Bantel, PsyD, Psychologist
Brian Bantel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
He employs evidence-based techniques, such as Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, CBT, and Emotion Focused therapy, to address various issues, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and more.
Dr. Bantel's practice is dedicated to serving individuals from diverse backgrounds, with a particular focus on addressing the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and men. His therapeutic expertise spans a broad spectrum of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, behavioral issues, educational challenges, substance use, and relationship/family conflicts. Dr. Bantel is committed to tailoring his treatment approach to the specific needs of each individual, employing a diverse range of evidence-based interventions.
He employs evidence-based techniques, such as Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, CBT, and Emotion Focused therapy, to address various issues, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and more.
Dr. Bantel's practice is dedicated to serving individuals from diverse backgrounds, with a particular focus on addressing the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and men. His therapeutic expertise spans a broad spectrum of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, behavioral issues, educational challenges, substance use, and relationship/family conflicts. Dr. Bantel is committed to tailoring his treatment approach to the specific needs of each individual, employing a diverse range of evidence-based interventions.
(480) 771-1536 View (480) 771-1536
Depression Therapists

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.