Depression Therapists in Woodbridge, CT

Photo of Eric Anderson, LPC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eric Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525  (Online Only)
I am a client focused therapist who strives to assist in making your life better through supportive listening and empathy. I believe we all have the ability to make changes and improve ourselves with positive encouragement and direction. I have experience and comfort helping those individuals with alcohol and or other substance use issues, as well as mental health concerns, such as anxiety/ depression, PTSD, Bipolar, ADHD and others. I will work with you at your speed to help you reach your goals.
I am a client focused therapist who strives to assist in making your life better through supportive listening and empathy. I believe we all have the ability to make changes and improve ourselves with positive encouragement and direction. I have experience and comfort helping those individuals with alcohol and or other substance use issues, as well as mental health concerns, such as anxiety/ depression, PTSD, Bipolar, ADHD and others. I will work with you at your speed to help you reach your goals.
(959) 251-2777 View (959) 251-2777
Photo of Dr. Charmaine Samuda - Best Practice Psychotherapy, LLC, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Best Practice Psychotherapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525
If you are ready for a lasting change, I aim to help individuals address issues not limited to difficulties managing anxiety, depression, anger control, negative attitude, low self esteem or difficulty maintaining healthy relationships. Additionally, If you are struggling to move past the impact of trauma, and/or adjustment to life transitions, I will help you reach the goals that you want.
If you are ready for a lasting change, I aim to help individuals address issues not limited to difficulties managing anxiety, depression, anger control, negative attitude, low self esteem or difficulty maintaining healthy relationships. Additionally, If you are struggling to move past the impact of trauma, and/or adjustment to life transitions, I will help you reach the goals that you want.
(203) 904-2127 View (203) 904-2127
Photo of Deb Harris, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deb Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525
Welcome to The Session Space! A private practice located in Woodbridge, CT. We work with the following: anxiety, depression, life transitions, those looking to develop better boundaries and communication skills, mothers wanting to rediscover themselves, those struggling with work-life imbalances and more.
Welcome to The Session Space! A private practice located in Woodbridge, CT. We work with the following: anxiety, depression, life transitions, those looking to develop better boundaries and communication skills, mothers wanting to rediscover themselves, those struggling with work-life imbalances and more.
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Photo of Marianela Medrano, PhD, LPC, CPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marianela Medrano
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPT
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525
With an exploratory and compassionate approach, she helps individuals, couples, and families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, poor relationships, and self-esteem issues.
Marianela Medrano, Ph.D. LPC, is a bilingual (English/Spanish) psychotherapist in private practice, providing counseling and therapy services to individuals, families, and couples in Fairfield and New Haven Counties.
With an exploratory and compassionate approach, she helps individuals, couples, and families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, poor relationships, and self-esteem issues.
Marianela Medrano, Ph.D. LPC, is a bilingual (English/Spanish) psychotherapist in private practice, providing counseling and therapy services to individuals, families, and couples in Fairfield and New Haven Counties.
(475) 241-0997 View (475) 241-0997
Photo of Esther Duncan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Esther Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525
One of the great values of obtaining therapy is to experience for oneself the great value of positive support. I strongly believe in meeting my clients where they are, and providing a supportive and non-judgemental environment. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults who have been impacted by trauma, struggling to cope with negative and painful emotions, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and relationships.
One of the great values of obtaining therapy is to experience for oneself the great value of positive support. I strongly believe in meeting my clients where they are, and providing a supportive and non-judgemental environment. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults who have been impacted by trauma, struggling to cope with negative and painful emotions, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and relationships.
(203) 872-5791 View (203) 872-5791
Photo of Cynthia A Palmisano, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Cynthia A Palmisano
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525
These include behavioral issues, divorce, loss/grief, depression, anxiety and coping with changes in the family.
Congratulations on taking the first step! I am an experienced professional hoping to assist you in whatever challenges you may be experiencing. I believe the first step in treatment should be accurate diagonsis. I have worked extensively with adolescents & adults in practice and strive to offer individualized services that fit my clients' needs. My primary focus is psychological testing and evaluation to help clarify diagnosis and make targeted recommendations for treatment.
These include behavioral issues, divorce, loss/grief, depression, anxiety and coping with changes in the family.
Congratulations on taking the first step! I am an experienced professional hoping to assist you in whatever challenges you may be experiencing. I believe the first step in treatment should be accurate diagonsis. I have worked extensively with adolescents & adults in practice and strive to offer individualized services that fit my clients' needs. My primary focus is psychological testing and evaluation to help clarify diagnosis and make targeted recommendations for treatment.
(203) 312-7987 View (203) 312-7987
Photo of Yslande Vilsaint, LPC, Counselor
Yslande Vilsaint
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients who face various challenges concerning depression, anxiety, relationship conflict; self-esteem issues, and lack of coping skills.
Sometimes life puts us in tough situations that can often feel overwhelming. Facing these challenges alone can have a negative impact on a person. For some, it can feel burdensome sharing our feelings with friends and family. I approach my work with acceptance and compassion. Creating a safe place where you feel comfortable sharing your story. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of CT with 10 years of experience working as a clinician with clients from all walks of life. I have experience working with a diverse populations and people of different age groups.
I have worked with clients who face various challenges concerning depression, anxiety, relationship conflict; self-esteem issues, and lack of coping skills.
Sometimes life puts us in tough situations that can often feel overwhelming. Facing these challenges alone can have a negative impact on a person. For some, it can feel burdensome sharing our feelings with friends and family. I approach my work with acceptance and compassion. Creating a safe place where you feel comfortable sharing your story. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of CT with 10 years of experience working as a clinician with clients from all walks of life. I have experience working with a diverse populations and people of different age groups.
(475) 267-4151 View (475) 267-4151
Photo of Cynthia Palmisano - Apex Psychological Services LLC, PsyD
Apex Psychological Services LLC
PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525
Apex Psychological Services was founded in 2019 by Dr. Cynthia Palmisano. She and her colleagues believe strongly in making psychological services accessible, individualized and practically based. As a result Apex offers a variety of supportive services with various skilled professionals. Apex has a diverse range of treatment and evaluation interventions to meet your needs. We can assist you with concerns such as anxiety, depression, family issues and in dealing with life stressors.
Apex Psychological Services was founded in 2019 by Dr. Cynthia Palmisano. She and her colleagues believe strongly in making psychological services accessible, individualized and practically based. As a result Apex offers a variety of supportive services with various skilled professionals. Apex has a diverse range of treatment and evaluation interventions to meet your needs. We can assist you with concerns such as anxiety, depression, family issues and in dealing with life stressors.
(203) 298-4572 View (203) 298-4572
Photo of Nick Kopazna, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nick Kopazna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525
I specialize in working with young adults who are suffering from depression and/or anxiety.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have over 17 years of experience working in a variety of settings that include group programs, therapeutic foster care, residential programming, crisis management, therapeutic schooling, and private practice. My experience focuses on developing prosocial behavior, identifying adaptive coping skills, utilizing feeling identification, and implementing stress/anger management techniques. While working with clients, I take a collaborative approach that builds on strengths to help move toward goals and alleviate stress/strong negative emotions.
I specialize in working with young adults who are suffering from depression and/or anxiety.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have over 17 years of experience working in a variety of settings that include group programs, therapeutic foster care, residential programming, crisis management, therapeutic schooling, and private practice. My experience focuses on developing prosocial behavior, identifying adaptive coping skills, utilizing feeling identification, and implementing stress/anger management techniques. While working with clients, I take a collaborative approach that builds on strengths to help move toward goals and alleviate stress/strong negative emotions.
(203) 864-9070 View (203) 864-9070
Photo of Michelle Rebecca Connor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Rebecca Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525
We have a wide training and expertise in working with individuals experiencing the following: Anxiety disorders, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Developmental delays, Trauma related disorders and Psychotic disorders.
New Insight Counseling, LLC is a private counseling practice located in Bethany, CT. We are made up educated, experienced, therapists who specialize in children, adolescents, adults and families. We provide individual, family, couples and group therapy. We practice from a strengths based approach and understand finding the right therapist for you and your loved one is important. Our goal is to meet you where you are and help guide you through navigating some of life's difficulties. We want to help make you feel as comfortable and supported as possible, while taking the steps in your healing process.
We have a wide training and expertise in working with individuals experiencing the following: Anxiety disorders, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Developmental delays, Trauma related disorders and Psychotic disorders.
New Insight Counseling, LLC is a private counseling practice located in Bethany, CT. We are made up educated, experienced, therapists who specialize in children, adolescents, adults and families. We provide individual, family, couples and group therapy. We practice from a strengths based approach and understand finding the right therapist for you and your loved one is important. Our goal is to meet you where you are and help guide you through navigating some of life's difficulties. We want to help make you feel as comfortable and supported as possible, while taking the steps in your healing process.
(203) 590-5496 View (203) 590-5496
Photo of Angelica Kaner, PhD, Psychologist
Angelica Kaner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525  (Online Only)
I treat people with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions and loss.
At times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. With the COVID-19 virus we are living through such a time. Generally speaking, we may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone, and not know what to do. When someone listens to us carefully, we learn how to listen to ourselves, to our own inner life. Talking things out with someone in this special way can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways, so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction.
I treat people with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions and loss.
At times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. With the COVID-19 virus we are living through such a time. Generally speaking, we may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone, and not know what to do. When someone listens to us carefully, we learn how to listen to ourselves, to our own inner life. Talking things out with someone in this special way can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways, so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction.
(203) 318-4705 View (203) 318-4705
Photo of Jaak Rakfeldt, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaak Rakfeldt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525
In addition to my more than forty years of clinical experience in various contexts, I am also a professor/researcher. Thus, as a teacher/researcher, as well as a clinician, I will work with you with compassion to tailor-make the most appropriate evidence-based, best clinical practice strategies for you. Among other things, I work with people who have fears, anxiety, depression, life-stage issues, trauma and loss, etc. Collaboratively, we will develop action plans and change strategies that may help you live a more satisfying, productive, and worthwhile life.
In addition to my more than forty years of clinical experience in various contexts, I am also a professor/researcher. Thus, as a teacher/researcher, as well as a clinician, I will work with you with compassion to tailor-make the most appropriate evidence-based, best clinical practice strategies for you. Among other things, I work with people who have fears, anxiety, depression, life-stage issues, trauma and loss, etc. Collaboratively, we will develop action plans and change strategies that may help you live a more satisfying, productive, and worthwhile life.
(203) 309-2530 View (203) 309-2530
Photo of Somaia Mohamed, PhD, Psychologist
Somaia Mohamed
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525  (Online Only)
I also specialize in addressing depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
As an Associate Clinical Professor at Yale Department of psychiatry, I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 20 years. My therapeutic approach is to help individuals and couples better understand the conflicts in their life and find healthy ways to resolve or cope with them tapping into their strengths and their social support. In addition to my private practice, I have been working at the Department of Veterans Affairs for many years as a supervisory psychologist and I have published extensively in the field. I have also supervised and trained psychologists and psychiatrists in psychotherapy both in the US and abroad.
I also specialize in addressing depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
As an Associate Clinical Professor at Yale Department of psychiatry, I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 20 years. My therapeutic approach is to help individuals and couples better understand the conflicts in their life and find healthy ways to resolve or cope with them tapping into their strengths and their social support. In addition to my private practice, I have been working at the Department of Veterans Affairs for many years as a supervisory psychologist and I have published extensively in the field. I have also supervised and trained psychologists and psychiatrists in psychotherapy both in the US and abroad.
(203) 599-4199 View (203) 599-4199
Photo of Jordan Weiss, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordan Weiss
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525  (Online Only)
Hi! I am a compassionate and experienced therapist dedicated to supporting adolescents and adults through their unique challenges. With a focus on substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorder, and mood disorders. I employ an eclectic approach tailored to each individuals needs. Specializing in, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I empower clients with practical tools to navigate life’s complexities. Additionally, I am certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, a powerful modality for addressing trauma and promoting healing.
Hi! I am a compassionate and experienced therapist dedicated to supporting adolescents and adults through their unique challenges. With a focus on substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorder, and mood disorders. I employ an eclectic approach tailored to each individuals needs. Specializing in, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I empower clients with practical tools to navigate life’s complexities. Additionally, I am certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, a powerful modality for addressing trauma and promoting healing.
(203) 836-2059 View (203) 836-2059
Photo of Omally Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Omally Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide specialized therapy in Autism support (behavioral techniques), mood disorder help ( depression, anxiety, PTSD), LGBTQ+ support (self-acceptance, gender identity), family involvement and healing, and bilingual therapy (English/Spanish). My ideal client is those who are motivated to make positive changes in their lives, improve their mental health, and foster a sense of self-acceptance and well-being. They value a strengths-based, client-centered approach and are open to engaging in therapy with a focus on their unique needs and goals.
I provide specialized therapy in Autism support (behavioral techniques), mood disorder help ( depression, anxiety, PTSD), LGBTQ+ support (self-acceptance, gender identity), family involvement and healing, and bilingual therapy (English/Spanish). My ideal client is those who are motivated to make positive changes in their lives, improve their mental health, and foster a sense of self-acceptance and well-being. They value a strengths-based, client-centered approach and are open to engaging in therapy with a focus on their unique needs and goals.
(203) 793-6285 View (203) 793-6285
Photo of Thomas Reilly - TR Counseling & Wellness, LLC, LPC, LCSW, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
TR Counseling & Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525
Whether you're feeling stuck, lack motivation, feeling anxious, depressed, angry, or arguing with your partner/family, the counseling process can help you uncover the inner resources you possess to solve your problems and move forward to experience happiness and a better quality of life.
TR Counseling & Wellness is a small group practice with a culturally diverse team of Professional Therapists (LPC, LCSW) and Addiction Counselors (LADC). The therapists are considered generalists, treating most conditions, but also have sub-specialties including but not limited to: Addiction, Anger & Stress Management, Anxiety/Panic Disorder, Bipolar/Mood Disorders, Christian Counseling, Depression, Grief & Loss, OCD, PTSD/Trauma, Life Changes, Children & Couples/Family Problems. Whatever you may be going through, you can rest assured that we are here to help and can offer a choice of therapist that can best suit your needs and personality.
Whether you're feeling stuck, lack motivation, feeling anxious, depressed, angry, or arguing with your partner/family, the counseling process can help you uncover the inner resources you possess to solve your problems and move forward to experience happiness and a better quality of life.
TR Counseling & Wellness is a small group practice with a culturally diverse team of Professional Therapists (LPC, LCSW) and Addiction Counselors (LADC). The therapists are considered generalists, treating most conditions, but also have sub-specialties including but not limited to: Addiction, Anger & Stress Management, Anxiety/Panic Disorder, Bipolar/Mood Disorders, Christian Counseling, Depression, Grief & Loss, OCD, PTSD/Trauma, Life Changes, Children & Couples/Family Problems. Whatever you may be going through, you can rest assured that we are here to help and can offer a choice of therapist that can best suit your needs and personality.
(203) 819-7650 View (203) 819-7650
Photo of Jesse Miller, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jesse Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525  (Online Only)
Jesse Miller, LPC, is a compassionate, understanding individual who empathizes in a nonjudgmental manner through the therapy process. Jesse understands the importance of taking the first step of choosing counseling as a method to heal issues from the past, and present symptoms that are getting in the way of enjoying life. Whether you are experiencing family issues, anxiety, depression, lack of structure or direction, or just need an objective person to talk to, Jesse is here to help.
Jesse Miller, LPC, is a compassionate, understanding individual who empathizes in a nonjudgmental manner through the therapy process. Jesse understands the importance of taking the first step of choosing counseling as a method to heal issues from the past, and present symptoms that are getting in the way of enjoying life. Whether you are experiencing family issues, anxiety, depression, lack of structure or direction, or just need an objective person to talk to, Jesse is here to help.
(203) 806-9319 View (203) 806-9319
Photo of Thomas Reilly - TR Counseling & Wellness, LPC, LCSW, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
TR Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525
Whether you are feeling stuck, lack motivation, feeling anxious, depressed, angry, or arguing with your partner/family, the counseling process can help you uncover the inner resources you possess to solve your problems and move forward to experience happiness and a better quality of life.
TR Counseling & Wellness is a small group practice with a culturally diverse team of Professional Therapists (LPC, LCSW) and Addiction Counselors (LADC). The therapists are considered generalists, treating most conditions, but also have sub-specialties including but not limited to: Addiction, Anger & Stress Management, Anxiety/Panic Disorder, Bipolar/Mood Disorders, Christian Counseling, Depression, Grief & Loss, OCD, PTSD/Trauma, Life Changes, Children & Couples/Family Problems. Whatever you may be going through, you can rest assured that we are here to help and can offer a choice of therapist that can best suit your needs and personality.
Whether you are feeling stuck, lack motivation, feeling anxious, depressed, angry, or arguing with your partner/family, the counseling process can help you uncover the inner resources you possess to solve your problems and move forward to experience happiness and a better quality of life.
TR Counseling & Wellness is a small group practice with a culturally diverse team of Professional Therapists (LPC, LCSW) and Addiction Counselors (LADC). The therapists are considered generalists, treating most conditions, but also have sub-specialties including but not limited to: Addiction, Anger & Stress Management, Anxiety/Panic Disorder, Bipolar/Mood Disorders, Christian Counseling, Depression, Grief & Loss, OCD, PTSD/Trauma, Life Changes, Children & Couples/Family Problems. Whatever you may be going through, you can rest assured that we are here to help and can offer a choice of therapist that can best suit your needs and personality.
(203) 819-7650 View (203) 819-7650
Photo of Thomas J Reilly, MS, MPH, LPC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas J Reilly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MPH, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525
Counseling presents you with an opportunity to explore concerns in your life that are interfering with your overall health and wellness. My goal is to help you work through these challenges in a non-judgmental manner. Taking the first step is sometimes the hardest, but you can rest assured that I will work as hard as you to help you overcome the challenges you are facing. I have worked for over 20 years in the field of addiction and mental health with individuals, and families, addressing a range of problems in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse, and most issues people face.
Counseling presents you with an opportunity to explore concerns in your life that are interfering with your overall health and wellness. My goal is to help you work through these challenges in a non-judgmental manner. Taking the first step is sometimes the hardest, but you can rest assured that I will work as hard as you to help you overcome the challenges you are facing. I have worked for over 20 years in the field of addiction and mental health with individuals, and families, addressing a range of problems in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse, and most issues people face.
(203) 819-7650 View (203) 819-7650
Photo of Sarah Monteleone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Monteleone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525
With a focus on the convergence of contemplative traditions, psychology, and neuroscience, I offer compassionate guidance to adults navigating depression, anxiety, and life's challenges.
Our group practice has recently increased capacity and has openings for children, adults and families with Medicaid, Anthem, Cigna, Aetna Insurance. Please contact me via psychology today to be connected to one of our clinicians. I also provide supervision for pre-licensed clinicians and offer Autism Diagnostic Evaluations utilizing the ADOS-II. This service is reimbursable through Medicaid for members under 21.
With a focus on the convergence of contemplative traditions, psychology, and neuroscience, I offer compassionate guidance to adults navigating depression, anxiety, and life's challenges.
Our group practice has recently increased capacity and has openings for children, adults and families with Medicaid, Anthem, Cigna, Aetna Insurance. Please contact me via psychology today to be connected to one of our clinicians. I also provide supervision for pre-licensed clinicians and offer Autism Diagnostic Evaluations utilizing the ADOS-II. This service is reimbursable through Medicaid for members under 21.
(203) 635-5159 View (203) 635-5159
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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.