Photo of Sheila Marie Nugent, LMHC , LPC, MAC, Counselor
Sheila Marie Nugent
Counselor, LMHC , LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33756
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression and substance abuse issues; I work with individuals and families seeking recovery; I help people who want to improve their relationships at home and at work; people who want their lives to change for the better.
What is keeping you from living the life you want? Therapy can be a powerful tool to identify goals and remove obstacles that may be preventing you from experiencing a more fulfilling life. Are you are experiencing depression, anxiety or abusing substances? The process of therapy can be a useful way to discover how to create change. By exploring current and historical patterns, you can develop an awareness and understanding of maladaptive coping mechanisms. You can change your life by changing yourself. I am here to help you accomplish your goals.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression and substance abuse issues; I work with individuals and families seeking recovery; I help people who want to improve their relationships at home and at work; people who want their lives to change for the better.
What is keeping you from living the life you want? Therapy can be a powerful tool to identify goals and remove obstacles that may be preventing you from experiencing a more fulfilling life. Are you are experiencing depression, anxiety or abusing substances? The process of therapy can be a useful way to discover how to create change. By exploring current and historical patterns, you can develop an awareness and understanding of maladaptive coping mechanisms. You can change your life by changing yourself. I am here to help you accomplish your goals.
(727) 240-3515 View (727) 240-3515
Photo of Michael Moreschi
Michael Moreschi
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33759
Everyone has their own challenges in their life. I also believe you are the person who knows how best to overcome those challenges. You are the expert of you. I will help you find your voice, your strength, and your motivation to make the changes you want by helping you discover what tools best work for you, you already have the strengths to do it!
Everyone has their own challenges in their life. I also believe you are the person who knows how best to overcome those challenges. You are the expert of you. I will help you find your voice, your strength, and your motivation to make the changes you want by helping you discover what tools best work for you, you already have the strengths to do it!
(727) 263-0296 View (727) 263-0296
Photo of Tyne Hurtado, LMHC, NCC, QS, Counselor
Tyne Hurtado
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, QS
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33761
Hurtado Counseling is dedicated to providing Quality Counseling, Clinical Supervision, Workplace Consultations, Internships, Education & Training, and much more. Hurtado Counseling is made up of a diverse group of counselors with various backgrounds, treatment methods, training, education, and more. However, ALL the Counselors with Hurtado Counseling share a common goal of providing personalized care for their client’s needs. We see all types of needs, offer services from ages 3+, are LGBTQIA+ advocates, utilize a variety of treatment modalities, etc. We aim to personalize your treatment to the best fit for you.
Hurtado Counseling is dedicated to providing Quality Counseling, Clinical Supervision, Workplace Consultations, Internships, Education & Training, and much more. Hurtado Counseling is made up of a diverse group of counselors with various backgrounds, treatment methods, training, education, and more. However, ALL the Counselors with Hurtado Counseling share a common goal of providing personalized care for their client’s needs. We see all types of needs, offer services from ages 3+, are LGBTQIA+ advocates, utilize a variety of treatment modalities, etc. We aim to personalize your treatment to the best fit for you.
(727) 478-2377 View (727) 478-2377

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Charisse Diaz - Tampa Bay Area Counseling, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor
Tampa Bay Area Counseling
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
We treat a wide range of issues and disorders but specialize in the following; Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling), Excoriation Disorder (Skin-Picking), Depression, PTSD, Behavioral Concerns, Anger Management.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. At our practice, our therapists have 50+ years of combined experience. We are experts in what we do and seek to serve our patients with the highest quality of care and the most advanced therapeutic techniques. We use a variety of approaches to treat a wide range of disorders and issues. We specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Based Interventions, Behavioral Activation, and have a Patient-Centered approach.
We treat a wide range of issues and disorders but specialize in the following; Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling), Excoriation Disorder (Skin-Picking), Depression, PTSD, Behavioral Concerns, Anger Management.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. At our practice, our therapists have 50+ years of combined experience. We are experts in what we do and seek to serve our patients with the highest quality of care and the most advanced therapeutic techniques. We use a variety of approaches to treat a wide range of disorders and issues. We specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness Based Interventions, Behavioral Activation, and have a Patient-Centered approach.
(727) 758-3948 View (727) 758-3948
Photo of Kada Stull, LMHC, MEd, Counselor
Kada Stull
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
Kada has experience in working with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Reactive Attachment Disorder, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Self Esteem, Adjustment Disorder and all the changes that life can throw at us from time to time.
Kada enjoys working with children, teenagers and adults. Kada graduated with her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from The University of Florida. She genuinely cares for her clients and puts a lot of time and effort into making sure they are getting the help that they need. She takes a trauma-informed approach and uses attachment-based theory in her practice. She also utilizes CBT, Person-Centered and Mindfulness Based Interventions. When working with children, she loves using Play Therapy Techniques as play is a child’s primary form of communication and processing.
Kada has experience in working with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Reactive Attachment Disorder, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Self Esteem, Adjustment Disorder and all the changes that life can throw at us from time to time.
Kada enjoys working with children, teenagers and adults. Kada graduated with her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from The University of Florida. She genuinely cares for her clients and puts a lot of time and effort into making sure they are getting the help that they need. She takes a trauma-informed approach and uses attachment-based theory in her practice. She also utilizes CBT, Person-Centered and Mindfulness Based Interventions. When working with children, she loves using Play Therapy Techniques as play is a child’s primary form of communication and processing.
(727) 205-8817 View (727) 205-8817
Photo of Timothy D Evans - Timothy D. Evans, Ph.D., PhD, AAMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Timothy D. Evans, Ph.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, AAMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
Ph. D., University of Georgia, APA-Counseling Psychology Internship University of Delaware, AAMFT Approved Supervisor. Individuals, couples, families. Developed the Marriage and Family Therapy Program (USF). Received Florida approved training in psychedelic assisted therapy (Costa Rica). Meaningful relationships are central to the "good life". Happiness is getting along with the important people in your life. We work to increase your ability to get along with significant others. We do this without cookie cutter diagnosis and medications. Realizing the tremendous power which we have, we know that we can make ourselves well and sick.
Ph. D., University of Georgia, APA-Counseling Psychology Internship University of Delaware, AAMFT Approved Supervisor. Individuals, couples, families. Developed the Marriage and Family Therapy Program (USF). Received Florida approved training in psychedelic assisted therapy (Costa Rica). Meaningful relationships are central to the "good life". Happiness is getting along with the important people in your life. We work to increase your ability to get along with significant others. We do this without cookie cutter diagnosis and medications. Realizing the tremendous power which we have, we know that we can make ourselves well and sick.
(813) 375-0171 View (813) 375-0171
Photo of Lucy Turek, PhD, LMHC, CRC, Counselor
Lucy Turek
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indian Rocks Beach, FL 33785
Imagine seeking balance amidst the chaos of a high-stakes career, managing personal and professional relationships while striving for physical and spiritual wellness. My ideal client is someone who craves accountability and support through major life transitions. Whether you're in military, finance, entertainment, or a high-energy profession like management or elite athletics, you're looking to enhance your relationships, reduce stress, and navigate life's complexities with grace. I specialize in guiding high-achievers—business owners, professionals, politicians, and international transplants—towards achieving their goals.
Imagine seeking balance amidst the chaos of a high-stakes career, managing personal and professional relationships while striving for physical and spiritual wellness. My ideal client is someone who craves accountability and support through major life transitions. Whether you're in military, finance, entertainment, or a high-energy profession like management or elite athletics, you're looking to enhance your relationships, reduce stress, and navigate life's complexities with grace. I specialize in guiding high-achievers—business owners, professionals, politicians, and international transplants—towards achieving their goals.
(727) 625-1744 View (727) 625-1744

Online Therapists

Photo of Ada Montalvo - Genesis Self Care Counseling LLC - , MHC
Genesis Self Care Counseling LLC -
Registered Mental Health Counselor Inter, MHC
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Anxiety, or Depression, can lead to Addiction leading to family conflict, codependency, financial challenges to severe mental health illnesses.
Mental health does not discriminate so, it’s important to seek support even though one thinks " I’m ok It will pass" or "I feel better today". Seeking mental health support and guidance is challenging no matter what culture beliefs systems exists. Mental health support is not just guidance but also someone to speak to when life becomes overwhelming or challenging providing evidence based mental health supportive services. Salud Mental es Importante no espere in buscar ayuda.
Anxiety, or Depression, can lead to Addiction leading to family conflict, codependency, financial challenges to severe mental health illnesses.
Mental health does not discriminate so, it’s important to seek support even though one thinks " I’m ok It will pass" or "I feel better today". Seeking mental health support and guidance is challenging no matter what culture beliefs systems exists. Mental health support is not just guidance but also someone to speak to when life becomes overwhelming or challenging providing evidence based mental health supportive services. Salud Mental es Importante no espere in buscar ayuda.
(813) 491-9649 View (813) 491-9649
Photo of James Dale Thompson - Dale Thompson, LMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Dale Thompson, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bradenton, FL 34202
Are you struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Stress or Addictions? Are you in the middle of a Crisis? If so I am here to help. I regularly treat CEO's, Professionals, Executives, Elite Athletes, Pastors and other Therapists in addressing issues that they face. I am Identified as a Licensure Supervisor and have trained thousands of therapists for professional development since 1993. I specialize in treating Couples, Men, Male Teens and Women that prefer a male therapist and I have 30 years of experience as a professional counselor.
Are you struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Stress or Addictions? Are you in the middle of a Crisis? If so I am here to help. I regularly treat CEO's, Professionals, Executives, Elite Athletes, Pastors and other Therapists in addressing issues that they face. I am Identified as a Licensure Supervisor and have trained thousands of therapists for professional development since 1993. I specialize in treating Couples, Men, Male Teens and Women that prefer a male therapist and I have 30 years of experience as a professional counselor.
(941) 845-6590 View (941) 845-6590
Photo of Rick Junge, LMHC, Counselor
Rick Junge
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dover, FL 33527
I work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, sexuality, trauma, and relational issues. I focus on teaching clients the skills needed to identify unhealthy patterns of living and interacting which include but are not limited to identifying negative and destructive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors present in their daily lives.
I work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, sexuality, trauma, and relational issues. I focus on teaching clients the skills needed to identify unhealthy patterns of living and interacting which include but are not limited to identifying negative and destructive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors present in their daily lives.
(813) 303-1166 View (813) 303-1166
Photo of Joshua L. Sarmiento - Ignite Community Counseling & Resource Center, LMHC, MCAP, SAP, CTT, NCC, Counselor
Ignite Community Counseling & Resource Center
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, SAP, CTT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
At Ignite, our clinical team uses state-of-the-art therapeutic approaches to help address issues such as Trauma, Depression, Anger, Personality Disorders, Addiction and much more.
Ignite Community Counseling and Resource Center provides a wide range of Outpatient and In-Home Psychotherapy services to help people of all ages and ethnicities, identify and modify behaviors, learn positive coping mechanisms and find healthy outlets for expressing feelings.
At Ignite, our clinical team uses state-of-the-art therapeutic approaches to help address issues such as Trauma, Depression, Anger, Personality Disorders, Addiction and much more.
Ignite Community Counseling and Resource Center provides a wide range of Outpatient and In-Home Psychotherapy services to help people of all ages and ethnicities, identify and modify behaviors, learn positive coping mechanisms and find healthy outlets for expressing feelings.
(352) 436-6012 View (352) 436-6012
Photo of Anny Gunadasa - ARCH Mental Health &Healing Center, LLC, CAS, ACS, CCTP, CAMS II, MS
ARCH Mental Health &Healing Center, LLC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, CAS, ACS, CCTP, CAMS II, MS
Verified Verified
New Port Richey, FL 34654
We are hoping to be a guide in your journey toward meaningful & lasting transformation! We are counselors who speak (English/Spanish). We strive to offer clients the best level of care by fostering a genuine & compassionate therapeutic alliance. Areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Parenting/Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Alcohol Use Disorder, Relationship Problems, Trauma, Attention Deficit Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Eating Disorders, Anger management, and Immigration Evaluation Assessments.
We are hoping to be a guide in your journey toward meaningful & lasting transformation! We are counselors who speak (English/Spanish). We strive to offer clients the best level of care by fostering a genuine & compassionate therapeutic alliance. Areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Parenting/Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Alcohol Use Disorder, Relationship Problems, Trauma, Attention Deficit Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Eating Disorders, Anger management, and Immigration Evaluation Assessments.
(727) 339-2938 View (727) 339-2938
Photo of Bette Rabbitt, LMHC , LPCC, Counselor
Bette Rabbitt
Counselor, LMHC , LPCC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34233
Time for a Mental Health Checkup? Life can be difficult with obstacles to overcome. Adverse experiences from childhood & adolescence affecting your current functioning? Unprocessed trauma & fear of the future and depression repressed? Relationship challenges in need of improvement? Family dynamics unhealthy! Have you invested in your Higher Self as a priority? Negative self talk? Self destructive behavior. Substance use disorders.? The Good News- You are capable of change! Use my personal & professional experience of overcoming numerous challenging & traumatic events to reach mental, emotional & behavior balance. Pick up the tools!
Time for a Mental Health Checkup? Life can be difficult with obstacles to overcome. Adverse experiences from childhood & adolescence affecting your current functioning? Unprocessed trauma & fear of the future and depression repressed? Relationship challenges in need of improvement? Family dynamics unhealthy! Have you invested in your Higher Self as a priority? Negative self talk? Self destructive behavior. Substance use disorders.? The Good News- You are capable of change! Use my personal & professional experience of overcoming numerous challenging & traumatic events to reach mental, emotional & behavior balance. Pick up the tools!
(941) 213-5279 View (941) 213-5279
Photo of Teresa Miller Therapist, LMHC, MCAP, Coach, Supervi, Counselor
Teresa Miller Therapist
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, Coach, Supervi
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clermont, FL 34711  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical therapist with over 29 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. My role as a therapist is to facilitate the healing process and to empower my clients to make the changes that they desire in their lives. I work with clients on a wide variety of issues including: Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Relationship Issues. Stress Management, Addiction and LGBTQ plus issues.
I am a licensed clinical therapist with over 29 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. My role as a therapist is to facilitate the healing process and to empower my clients to make the changes that they desire in their lives. I work with clients on a wide variety of issues including: Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Relationship Issues. Stress Management, Addiction and LGBTQ plus issues.
(954) 280-5306 View (954) 280-5306
Photo of Cj Varghese, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cj Varghese
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32805
My specialties include a variety of Marital & Relational Issues, Addictions (alcohol, drugs, pornography & sexual), Anxiety, Depression, Spiritual Issues, Sexual/Physical Abuse, Gender Identity, Financial & Codependency.
My approach to counseling is based on the integration of my professional psychological training and personal experience. I personally have overcome abuse and addictions in my own life. I believe we were created to live in healthy relationships and I love working with people to help them live closer to who they were designed to be. I believe that if we are able to experience healing within ourselves, we can live in relationship with others more freely and authentically.
My specialties include a variety of Marital & Relational Issues, Addictions (alcohol, drugs, pornography & sexual), Anxiety, Depression, Spiritual Issues, Sexual/Physical Abuse, Gender Identity, Financial & Codependency.
My approach to counseling is based on the integration of my professional psychological training and personal experience. I personally have overcome abuse and addictions in my own life. I believe we were created to live in healthy relationships and I love working with people to help them live closer to who they were designed to be. I believe that if we are able to experience healing within ourselves, we can live in relationship with others more freely and authentically.
(321) 351-4734 View (321) 351-4734
Photo of Dr. Todd Snyder, EdD, LMHC, Counselor
Dr. Todd Snyder
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depressed mood, addiction, lack of direction or motivation, or relationship issues, it’s important to know you don’t have to be alone in this journey.
Hello and welcome! Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed or worried in your life? Have you lost interest in doing things that used to be fulfilling? Are you struggling with the pain or anxiety of something that has happened in your life? Have you tried to solve these problems on your own and come to realize you need help from someone else? If your answer to any of these questions is “yes,” then you have made the right choice by being here! I know it’s difficult. You’ve quite likely been considering what to do for a very long time. I’m very pleased you’ve found me and taken the courageous step to be here.
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depressed mood, addiction, lack of direction or motivation, or relationship issues, it’s important to know you don’t have to be alone in this journey.
Hello and welcome! Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed or worried in your life? Have you lost interest in doing things that used to be fulfilling? Are you struggling with the pain or anxiety of something that has happened in your life? Have you tried to solve these problems on your own and come to realize you need help from someone else? If your answer to any of these questions is “yes,” then you have made the right choice by being here! I know it’s difficult. You’ve quite likely been considering what to do for a very long time. I’m very pleased you’ve found me and taken the courageous step to be here.
(941) 236-5078 View (941) 236-5078
Photo of Maria Kotsaftis, RMHCI, MA
Maria Kotsaftis
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windermere, FL 34786
I am passionate about helping couples with communication, connection and intimacy. I also specialize in helping clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and substance abuse. I excel at working with kids and teens, as well as parents trying to navigate these delicate challenges. Additionally, I provide a safe space for clients to express themselves while empowering growth and I work with clients in a collaborative manner to create achievable therapy goals.
I am passionate about helping couples with communication, connection and intimacy. I also specialize in helping clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and substance abuse. I excel at working with kids and teens, as well as parents trying to navigate these delicate challenges. Additionally, I provide a safe space for clients to express themselves while empowering growth and I work with clients in a collaborative manner to create achievable therapy goals.
(321) 701-0360 View (321) 701-0360
Photo of Joel Bernstein, LMHC, LPN, MA
Joel Bernstein
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LPN, MA
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34239
Waitlist for new clients
Many of us struggle with conflicting thoughts and emotions. Facing challenging decisions, navigating intimate relationships and family, and carrying too many responsibilities can be overwhelming and often too difficult to work though alone. Unresolved issues and traumas can lead to feeling "stuck" rather than taking steps towards finding solutions and healing. Many people resort to "quick fixes" when feeling lonely, anxious, or depressed, instead of addressing the root cause of the pain and discomfort. My experiences and training allow me to help you find tools within yourself to discover new perspectives and cultivate new skills.
Many of us struggle with conflicting thoughts and emotions. Facing challenging decisions, navigating intimate relationships and family, and carrying too many responsibilities can be overwhelming and often too difficult to work though alone. Unresolved issues and traumas can lead to feeling "stuck" rather than taking steps towards finding solutions and healing. Many people resort to "quick fixes" when feeling lonely, anxious, or depressed, instead of addressing the root cause of the pain and discomfort. My experiences and training allow me to help you find tools within yourself to discover new perspectives and cultivate new skills.
(941) 444-5688 View (941) 444-5688
Photo of Dr. Martin Cortez Wesley, PhD, LMHC, LPCC-S, BC-TMH, LCADC, Counselor
Dr. Martin Cortez Wesley
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPCC-S, BC-TMH, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apollo Beach, FL 33572
I work via Tele-Mental Health Therapy in Florida and Kentucky. I work with those struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Grief and Loss, or hundreds of other mental health issues. I believe you have the power to change and regain your life. I am just a fellow traveler on Life's journey who has many years of education and experience to help show you the way. I often work with my wife, Dawn, to help families and those struggling with their marriage or relationship. Sometimes couples prefer to talk with another couple. Dawn also helps with therapeutic support so you can get support during the week and between sessions.
I work via Tele-Mental Health Therapy in Florida and Kentucky. I work with those struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Grief and Loss, or hundreds of other mental health issues. I believe you have the power to change and regain your life. I am just a fellow traveler on Life's journey who has many years of education and experience to help show you the way. I often work with my wife, Dawn, to help families and those struggling with their marriage or relationship. Sometimes couples prefer to talk with another couple. Dawn also helps with therapeutic support so you can get support during the week and between sessions.
(813) 710-5433 View (813) 710-5433
Photo of Josselyn Dinnan, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Josselyn Dinnan
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32804
Finding satisfaction in life can be a difficult journey. Whether you feel that everything is going as planned, or if things have become chaotic, it can be overwhelming to feel unbalanced. I provide a safe and caring space where we can work together to find your specific treatment plan. Whether you are battling anxiety, depression, trauma, or anything that may be putting a strain on you and your relationships, you do not have to go through it alone. Finding professional help is courageous, and I am happy to meet you wherever you may be at in your own personal journey.
Finding satisfaction in life can be a difficult journey. Whether you feel that everything is going as planned, or if things have become chaotic, it can be overwhelming to feel unbalanced. I provide a safe and caring space where we can work together to find your specific treatment plan. Whether you are battling anxiety, depression, trauma, or anything that may be putting a strain on you and your relationships, you do not have to go through it alone. Finding professional help is courageous, and I am happy to meet you wherever you may be at in your own personal journey.
(321) 334-4200 View (321) 334-4200
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.