Photo of Gul Noreen Iqbal - Olive Branch Therapy Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olive Branch Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
We’re pleased you’ve made your first step towards healing. We understand that seeking help, whether for yourself or for your children isn’t always easy. Unfortunately, life doesn’t come with a user’s manual, and when times get tough, many of us are left feeling confused, angry, depressed and helpless. While we can’t provide you with a magical user’s manual to life, we can offer you an ancient symbol of peace, an olive branch. We want to help you extend that olive branch to not only the important relationships in your life but to yourself as well. Because at the end of the day, we all deserve inner peace.
We’re pleased you’ve made your first step towards healing. We understand that seeking help, whether for yourself or for your children isn’t always easy. Unfortunately, life doesn’t come with a user’s manual, and when times get tough, many of us are left feeling confused, angry, depressed and helpless. While we can’t provide you with a magical user’s manual to life, we can offer you an ancient symbol of peace, an olive branch. We want to help you extend that olive branch to not only the important relationships in your life but to yourself as well. Because at the end of the day, we all deserve inner peace.
(732) 943-1541 x500 View (732) 943-1541 x500
Photo of Nina Garland - Footprints to Feel Better, Licensed Professional Counselor
Footprints to Feel Better
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Saddle River, NJ 07458
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Mariam Rothfritz - Mariam Rothfritz, Ph.D. and Associates, PhD, Psychologist
Mariam Rothfritz, Ph.D. and Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clifton, NJ 07013
There are many situations that occur in a person’s life that push them to seek professional help. For many people, the realization of not being able to solve their troubles on their own and no longer wanting to suffer in silence drives them to find a therapist. At my practice, we have the tools along with supportive clinicians to ensure that this is where the hurting ends and the healing begins. My team of experts specialize in treating various mental health disorders including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, bereavement, trauma, ADHD.
There are many situations that occur in a person’s life that push them to seek professional help. For many people, the realization of not being able to solve their troubles on their own and no longer wanting to suffer in silence drives them to find a therapist. At my practice, we have the tools along with supportive clinicians to ensure that this is where the hurting ends and the healing begins. My team of experts specialize in treating various mental health disorders including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, bereavement, trauma, ADHD.
(973) 988-4241 View (973) 988-4241
Photo of Nadia Darbouze - Nadia Darbouze, LCSW, MSW, MS, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nadia Darbouze
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MS, ACS
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, NJ 07003  (Online Only)
We have experience working with adolescents, individuals, and families; working with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, adolescent emotional and academic issues, relationship issues, and family conflict.
**ACCEPTING NEW REFERRALS**Are you feeling emotional pain and don't know what to do? Are you tired of feeling that way? Are you struggling with negative self-talk that impacts your relationships at home and at work, as well as self-esteem? You don't have to go through this alone. We are here to help you see and claim your GREATNESS.
We have experience working with adolescents, individuals, and families; working with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, adolescent emotional and academic issues, relationship issues, and family conflict.
**ACCEPTING NEW REFERRALS**Are you feeling emotional pain and don't know what to do? Are you tired of feeling that way? Are you struggling with negative self-talk that impacts your relationships at home and at work, as well as self-esteem? You don't have to go through this alone. We are here to help you see and claim your GREATNESS.
(215) 234-1098 View (215) 234-1098
Photo of Tyisha Gaskin - Footprints to Feel Better, Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints to Feel Better
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Orange, NJ 07051
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Mi Cao, LPC, LMHC, LPCC, ACS, Counselor
Mi Cao
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, LPCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Edison, NJ 08817
Welcome! We provide psychotherapy to clients from NJ, MA, CT, and NY. Our clients come from diverse background with a wide range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, anger management, parenting problems, career challenges, self-esteem/confidence issues, intellectual/developmental disabilities, Asperger/autism spectrum disorder, attention deficient, Trauma/PTSD, oppositional behaviors, and immigration/acculturation/adjustment issues. Our Goal is to create a safe, open, and non-judgmental environmental for our clients to be heard, supported, and motivated. Our multi-cultural therapists speaks many different languages.
Welcome! We provide psychotherapy to clients from NJ, MA, CT, and NY. Our clients come from diverse background with a wide range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, anger management, parenting problems, career challenges, self-esteem/confidence issues, intellectual/developmental disabilities, Asperger/autism spectrum disorder, attention deficient, Trauma/PTSD, oppositional behaviors, and immigration/acculturation/adjustment issues. Our Goal is to create a safe, open, and non-judgmental environmental for our clients to be heard, supported, and motivated. Our multi-cultural therapists speaks many different languages.
(475) 231-4521 View (475) 231-4521
Photo of Danielle Matias, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Matias
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I am also a published author who has written about depression and anxiety.
The goal of my practice is to improve the quality of life of my clients and assist them reach their full potential and personal goals. Specializing in family and couple therapy. I also specialize in depression and anxiety. The ideal client will be dedicated to their own treatment and have a strong desire to feel better. Together with my client we work as a team to achieve the therapeutic goals and make life worth living and enjoying. I have been working in mental health for over a decade and it is my greatest passion in life.
I am also a published author who has written about depression and anxiety.
The goal of my practice is to improve the quality of life of my clients and assist them reach their full potential and personal goals. Specializing in family and couple therapy. I also specialize in depression and anxiety. The ideal client will be dedicated to their own treatment and have a strong desire to feel better. Together with my client we work as a team to achieve the therapeutic goals and make life worth living and enjoying. I have been working in mental health for over a decade and it is my greatest passion in life.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Lina Mendez - Footprints to Feel Better, LMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints to Feel Better
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
Leonia, NJ 07605
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Rize-Up Together was started by three women of The Bronx who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Rize-Up Together began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Rize-Up Together was started by three women of The Bronx who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Rize-Up Together began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(718) 550-8535 View (718) 550-8535
Photo of Noreen Taggart - Haven Behavioral Health, LCSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haven Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Forked River, NJ 08731
Haven Behavioral Health has over 30 years experience in many specialties including, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, ODD, OCD, post-partum depression, LGBTQ, parenting, marriage/couples therapy, trauma, sexual abuse, grief, divorce, child counseling, ADD, anger management.
Haven Behavioral Health is a private practice with over 30+ years experience and services children, adolescents, and adults. Telehealth services are available by phone or video.
Haven Behavioral Health has over 30 years experience in many specialties including, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, ODD, OCD, post-partum depression, LGBTQ, parenting, marriage/couples therapy, trauma, sexual abuse, grief, divorce, child counseling, ADD, anger management.
Haven Behavioral Health is a private practice with over 30+ years experience and services children, adolescents, and adults. Telehealth services are available by phone or video.
(609) 372-5985 View (609) 372-5985
Photo of Vanessa Marie Reiser - Vanessa Reiser Narcissistic Abuse/Cult Expert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Reiser Narcissistic Abuse/Cult Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leonardo, NJ 07737
Vanessa is a solution-focused psychotherapist licensed in NY, NJ, MA and FL specializing in Narcissistic Abuse and Cult Abuse, whose mission is to help individuals uncover their true potential and move forward toward all of their goals. Her team specializes in working with individuals and couples focusing on the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief/loss, eating disorders, marriage or interpersonal relationship problems, low self-esteem etc. Go to tellatherapist.net or Insta: vanessareiserlcsw TikTok:vanessareiser Visit hachettebookgroup to purchase my book Narcissistic Abuse A therapist's Guide
Vanessa is a solution-focused psychotherapist licensed in NY, NJ, MA and FL specializing in Narcissistic Abuse and Cult Abuse, whose mission is to help individuals uncover their true potential and move forward toward all of their goals. Her team specializes in working with individuals and couples focusing on the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief/loss, eating disorders, marriage or interpersonal relationship problems, low self-esteem etc. Go to tellatherapist.net or Insta: vanessareiserlcsw TikTok:vanessareiser Visit hachettebookgroup to purchase my book Narcissistic Abuse A therapist's Guide
(732) 307-9559 View (732) 307-9559
Photo of Lori O'Leary - O'Leary Counseling, LLC, LPC, LCADC, ACS, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
O'Leary Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS, SAC
Verified Verified
Barrington, NJ 08007
Groups include anxiety, depression, parenting, teen issues, addictions, eating disorders, family, couples, LGBTQ, etc.
Therapy assists in uncovering the true self. Learning how to recognize feelings enables people to understand themselves more effectively. During therapy individuals learn how to identify feelings and take control of their own lives. By learning how to pay attention to instincts and begin to challenge beliefs individuals can grow instead of stagnate. We promote personal growth and the establishment of healthy communication so our clients can achieve serenity within themselves.
Groups include anxiety, depression, parenting, teen issues, addictions, eating disorders, family, couples, LGBTQ, etc.
Therapy assists in uncovering the true self. Learning how to recognize feelings enables people to understand themselves more effectively. During therapy individuals learn how to identify feelings and take control of their own lives. By learning how to pay attention to instincts and begin to challenge beliefs individuals can grow instead of stagnate. We promote personal growth and the establishment of healthy communication so our clients can achieve serenity within themselves.
(856) 432-1097 View (856) 432-1097
Photo of Zev Berkowitz - Online Virtual Counselors, LCSW, MSEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Virtual Counselors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
Whether facing anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, we’re here to guide you toward a life filled with joy and empowerment.
Online Virtual Counselors offers online therapy for individuals, couples, families, and children, helping clients overcome mental, emotional, and interpersonal challenges. We provide support in English and Spanish across New York, New Jersey, Virginia, DC, Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts, and Maryland. Our dedicated team of therapists specializes in treating anxiety, trauma, addiction, infidelity, and childhood disorders.
Whether facing anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, we’re here to guide you toward a life filled with joy and empowerment.
Online Virtual Counselors offers online therapy for individuals, couples, families, and children, helping clients overcome mental, emotional, and interpersonal challenges. We provide support in English and Spanish across New York, New Jersey, Virginia, DC, Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts, and Maryland. Our dedicated team of therapists specializes in treating anxiety, trauma, addiction, infidelity, and childhood disorders.
(201) 809-3313 View (201) 809-3313
Photo of Frances Aquino, LCSW, BCD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Frances Aquino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, BCD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Highlands, NJ 07732  (Online Only)
Do you or a family member feel that life is so difficult and everything you try appears to be falling apart at the seam. Disappointment, hurt, grief and anger can morph into complicated unwanted behavior if left unresolved. Depression, anxiety, panic attacks, eating and sleep disorders can arise when life circumstances are overwhelmingly stressful. Over the years the feedback that I have received from clients is: that I am warm, caring, understanding, easy to talk to; willing to help you tell your story by asking the questions that bring out your inner voice and easily reached by phone or text.
Do you or a family member feel that life is so difficult and everything you try appears to be falling apart at the seam. Disappointment, hurt, grief and anger can morph into complicated unwanted behavior if left unresolved. Depression, anxiety, panic attacks, eating and sleep disorders can arise when life circumstances are overwhelmingly stressful. Over the years the feedback that I have received from clients is: that I am warm, caring, understanding, easy to talk to; willing to help you tell your story by asking the questions that bring out your inner voice and easily reached by phone or text.
(347) 334-5170 View (347) 334-5170
Photo of Mark L Amoroso - AGCC - Mark Amoroso-Indivdual therapy.       , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
AGCC - Mark Amoroso-Indivdual therapy.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colonia, NJ 07067
Have other therapists failed you? did you fail to make a connection? If you answered yes you are looking at the right profile. Life affects us all, we have good and bad experiences. At times our issues may affect our ability to get the most out of life. I provide a safe non-judgmental environment, allowing you to express yourself while offering feed-back. I am a firm believer that effective communication is essential to overcoming many challenges. I also work with clients struggling with anger management and am willing to work with people who are court-mandated. No offering virtual Video sessions online.
Have other therapists failed you? did you fail to make a connection? If you answered yes you are looking at the right profile. Life affects us all, we have good and bad experiences. At times our issues may affect our ability to get the most out of life. I provide a safe non-judgmental environment, allowing you to express yourself while offering feed-back. I am a firm believer that effective communication is essential to overcoming many challenges. I also work with clients struggling with anger management and am willing to work with people who are court-mandated. No offering virtual Video sessions online.
(908) 293-9410 View (908) 293-9410
Photo of Ahylzabeth Giannantonio, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ahylzabeth Giannantonio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Leonia, NJ 07605  (Online Only)
Whatever feelings or difficulty you are experiencing that that have brought you to your current standing position, I hope to help you to gain insight to the following: relationship dynamics, gain more effective communication tools, conflict identification/management, gain accountability, explore areas of vulnerability, clarify expectations, identify triggers, enhance decision making process and problem solving skills. The process will not be linear but the journey will provide you with skills, connections and inner growth.
Whatever feelings or difficulty you are experiencing that that have brought you to your current standing position, I hope to help you to gain insight to the following: relationship dynamics, gain more effective communication tools, conflict identification/management, gain accountability, explore areas of vulnerability, clarify expectations, identify triggers, enhance decision making process and problem solving skills. The process will not be linear but the journey will provide you with skills, connections and inner growth.
(201) 676-8636 View (201) 676-8636
Photo of Earl Lewis - Motivate Your Mental, DBH, EdS, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Motivate Your Mental
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, EdS, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lumberton, NJ 08048  (Online Only)
Feeling down? Feeling Anxious? Want to feel Motivated? Need to be better disciplined? Do you wish things could go back to the way they were? I know it takes some courage for you to enter therapy. I admire your courage and can help you identify the solutions to help you feel that motivation to get your life back on track. You want you to feel that excitement, energy and zest for life again. I can help. It's time to get to work and get the life you want. Let's finally accomplish the goals you want for yourself.
Feeling down? Feeling Anxious? Want to feel Motivated? Need to be better disciplined? Do you wish things could go back to the way they were? I know it takes some courage for you to enter therapy. I admire your courage and can help you identify the solutions to help you feel that motivation to get your life back on track. You want you to feel that excitement, energy and zest for life again. I can help. It's time to get to work and get the life you want. Let's finally accomplish the goals you want for yourself.
(856) 348-5613 View (856) 348-5613
Photo of Brian Legg - The Psych Center - Montclair, PsyD, Psychologist
The Psych Center - Montclair
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Welcome to the Psych Center. We are a private practice that aims to provide quality services to children, adults, and their families. We understand the sensitivity and compassion it takes to help our clients succeed. Furthermore, we strive to be collaborative and work with you on identifying and accomplishing the goals you set forth. Please explore our page which addresses our services, fees, and other important information. We look forward to hearing from you. For questions, comments, or to schedule an appointment, please call: 973-587-8040 or email us.
Welcome to the Psych Center. We are a private practice that aims to provide quality services to children, adults, and their families. We understand the sensitivity and compassion it takes to help our clients succeed. Furthermore, we strive to be collaborative and work with you on identifying and accomplishing the goals you set forth. Please explore our page which addresses our services, fees, and other important information. We look forward to hearing from you. For questions, comments, or to schedule an appointment, please call: 973-587-8040 or email us.
(862) 245-4238 View (862) 245-4238
Photo of Julio C Olivo II, PhD, Psychologist
Julio C Olivo II
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07105
Born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, I have witnessed a lot that has helped me as a psychologist. I am experienced with working with children who have trauma and/or behavioral issues and adults who have mental health issues ranging from minimal stress to schizophrenia. I have worked with families that are dealing with infertility, infidelity, and separation. I am also a certified school psychologist. Hence, I understand academic difficulties and its impact on both the child and parent.
Born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, I have witnessed a lot that has helped me as a psychologist. I am experienced with working with children who have trauma and/or behavioral issues and adults who have mental health issues ranging from minimal stress to schizophrenia. I have worked with families that are dealing with infertility, infidelity, and separation. I am also a certified school psychologist. Hence, I understand academic difficulties and its impact on both the child and parent.
(973) 832-0611 View (973) 832-0611
Photo of Brian Legg - The Psych Center, PsyD, Psychologist
The Psych Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Edgewater, NJ 07020
Welcome to the Psych Center. We are a private practice that aims to provide quality services to children, adults, and their families. We understand the sensitivity and compassion it takes to help our clients succeed. Furthermore, we strive to be collaborative and work with you on identifying and accomplishing the goals you set forth. Please explore our page which addresses our services, fees, and other important information. We look forward to hearing from you. For questions, comments, or to schedule an appointment, please call: 201-606-2592 or email us.
Welcome to the Psych Center. We are a private practice that aims to provide quality services to children, adults, and their families. We understand the sensitivity and compassion it takes to help our clients succeed. Furthermore, we strive to be collaborative and work with you on identifying and accomplishing the goals you set forth. Please explore our page which addresses our services, fees, and other important information. We look forward to hearing from you. For questions, comments, or to schedule an appointment, please call: 201-606-2592 or email us.
(201) 559-8797 View (201) 559-8797
Photo of Luciann Marie Cooke, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luciann Marie Cooke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Montville, NJ 07045
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the state of New Jersey treating a range of mental health disorders. (I have a bunch of stuff I specialize in, I'll get into that later). My unique style is what sets me apart from the rest. Clients have told me that I am so different than any other therapist they have ever seen. I will probably be in sweats and you will be greeted by Nelly, my therapy puppy.Food, Drinks, Massage Chair, Fountains, TV, Music, is all in the waiting room to make you feel comfy and more relaxed. I know the 1st time can be scary. We welcome you with open arms.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the state of New Jersey treating a range of mental health disorders. (I have a bunch of stuff I specialize in, I'll get into that later). My unique style is what sets me apart from the rest. Clients have told me that I am so different than any other therapist they have ever seen. I will probably be in sweats and you will be greeted by Nelly, my therapy puppy.Food, Drinks, Massage Chair, Fountains, TV, Music, is all in the waiting room to make you feel comfy and more relaxed. I know the 1st time can be scary. We welcome you with open arms.
(973) 434-4270 View (973) 434-4270
1
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.