Therapists in Largo, FL
![Photo of Keith Mattson, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b59978b-bb0a-4bbb-ae2a-78afcdb5f89e/1/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Keith Mattson and I am a Licensed Mental Counselor in the state of Florida. I have provided therapy services in various settings for over 10 years. My specialties include life transitions and adjustment, trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use disorders, and PTSD. I utilize a mindfulness-based, solution focused, and person-centered approach, and incorporate several modalities including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, amongst others.
Hello, my name is Keith Mattson and I am a Licensed Mental Counselor in the state of Florida. I have provided therapy services in various settings for over 10 years. My specialties include life transitions and adjustment, trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use disorders, and PTSD. I utilize a mindfulness-based, solution focused, and person-centered approach, and incorporate several modalities including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, amongst others.
![Photo of Lisa Maddox - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Clearwater, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ace82ec-79c3-4217-8fae-cdbd5425d4cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
![Photo of Danielle Johnson, CRC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65a3fe8a-5202-42fe-aaa4-a293ee29447c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Johnson
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, CRC
Verified Verified
Largo, FL 33771 (Online Only)
Are you seeking understanding and relief from the tormenting grip of a mental illness or eating disorder. Are you grappling with emotional turmoil, relationship issues or daily functioning. I'm Danielle and I provide compassionate support, effective coping strategies, and a safe space for vulnerability. If you seek liberation from your struggles and dark places, striving for self-acceptance, improved mental health, or a nourishing relationship with food, I am here to lead you towards a life free from the constraints of your mental illness and address your desire to reclaim vitality and resiliency.
Are you seeking understanding and relief from the tormenting grip of a mental illness or eating disorder. Are you grappling with emotional turmoil, relationship issues or daily functioning. I'm Danielle and I provide compassionate support, effective coping strategies, and a safe space for vulnerability. If you seek liberation from your struggles and dark places, striving for self-acceptance, improved mental health, or a nourishing relationship with food, I am here to lead you towards a life free from the constraints of your mental illness and address your desire to reclaim vitality and resiliency.
![Photo of Haiam Aboelella - Haiam Aboelella: Harmony Haven Therapy Services, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20f8972c-12f5-4356-89bd-2f175d84010d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Haiam Aboelella: Harmony Haven Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Largo, FL 33771 (Online Only)
Therapy is an intense process and a big commitment. Whether it is for alleviating daily life stressors and anxieties, or overcoming personal hardships, I believe in your worth and will support your journey through self-discovery of inner self. I will help you explore your full potential, and life purpose. I am skilled in working with clients experiencing mental health struggles of varying degrees. I utilize my life experiences, professional experiences, evidence-based practices, clinical skills, and expertise when addressing broad-ranging and unique situations. My therapy approaches will be tailored to meet your individual needs.
Therapy is an intense process and a big commitment. Whether it is for alleviating daily life stressors and anxieties, or overcoming personal hardships, I believe in your worth and will support your journey through self-discovery of inner self. I will help you explore your full potential, and life purpose. I am skilled in working with clients experiencing mental health struggles of varying degrees. I utilize my life experiences, professional experiences, evidence-based practices, clinical skills, and expertise when addressing broad-ranging and unique situations. My therapy approaches will be tailored to meet your individual needs.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Demetrius D Williams, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/490ce443-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, tired, depressed, or find yourself needing support to move towards making new changes in your life? If so, I am here to assist you. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor providing services to all age groups with a focus on adolescents, teens, college students, and young adults who are looking for relief from difficulties such as depression, anxiety, working through past and recent traumas, or for those looking for support with stress, and coping through life transitions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, tired, depressed, or find yourself needing support to move towards making new changes in your life? If so, I am here to assist you. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor providing services to all age groups with a focus on adolescents, teens, college students, and young adults who are looking for relief from difficulties such as depression, anxiety, working through past and recent traumas, or for those looking for support with stress, and coping through life transitions.
![Photo of Erin Nicole Richard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37b98f0c-7d25-44a7-90d6-a319a98d6fea/3/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Nicole Richard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33765
As a LCSW and Qualified Supervisor, I focus on meeting with clients who suffer from trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and mood disorders. I also help those who just need someone to talk too about life stressors and life decisions. I utilize a multitude of therapeutic techniques such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Together we will reframe negative thoughts into positive ones,learn skills to overcome intrusive thoughts, and learn how to focus on your strengths. Healing Thoughts Counseling also now offers emotional support animal evaluations and letters.
As a LCSW and Qualified Supervisor, I focus on meeting with clients who suffer from trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and mood disorders. I also help those who just need someone to talk too about life stressors and life decisions. I utilize a multitude of therapeutic techniques such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Together we will reframe negative thoughts into positive ones,learn skills to overcome intrusive thoughts, and learn how to focus on your strengths. Healing Thoughts Counseling also now offers emotional support animal evaluations and letters.
![Photo of Lisa Srour, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/453e8402-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Srour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating issues related to anxiety, depression, chemical dependency, relationship issues, trauma and stress management. I utilize both a holistic and cognitive behavioral approach to therapy that is goal oriented and focuses on clients' strengths and overall well being. I offer free, 20 minute consultations. I treat older teens, young adults and adults and work with individuals, couples and families. I Look forward to working with you on your healing journey!
I specialize in treating issues related to anxiety, depression, chemical dependency, relationship issues, trauma and stress management. I utilize both a holistic and cognitive behavioral approach to therapy that is goal oriented and focuses on clients' strengths and overall well being. I offer free, 20 minute consultations. I treat older teens, young adults and adults and work with individuals, couples and families. I Look forward to working with you on your healing journey!
![Photo of Connie King, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e919daa0-1b45-4a51-93d1-ea8405353319/1/320x400.jpeg)
I like that I can provide therapy to those who would generally not seek help. The stigma attached can be a deterrent to good mental wellness as well as cultural conditioning, tradition, and limited access. It is important for the therapist to understand the cultural language being spoken even before a word is uttered. When you feel understood, you feel empowered. I offer a safe space without judgment. Welcome to my place! I am a trauma-focused therapist with extensive training and experience treating persons with PTSD, anxiety, depression, formerly incarcerated persons, women's issues, conflict resolution, and life coaching.
I like that I can provide therapy to those who would generally not seek help. The stigma attached can be a deterrent to good mental wellness as well as cultural conditioning, tradition, and limited access. It is important for the therapist to understand the cultural language being spoken even before a word is uttered. When you feel understood, you feel empowered. I offer a safe space without judgment. Welcome to my place! I am a trauma-focused therapist with extensive training and experience treating persons with PTSD, anxiety, depression, formerly incarcerated persons, women's issues, conflict resolution, and life coaching.
![Photo of Sunshine Wilder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4064de0-d6b5-4f11-83f7-26f83617551f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Sunshine Wilder and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. In 2004, I graduated with a master’s degree in social work and have been working for the past 19 years with children, teens, and adults in various settings such as child welfare, specialized therapeutic foster care, and outpatient therapy. I have experience working with individuals with a wide range of needs such as stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, depression, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attachment issues, and bipolar disorder.
Hello, my name is Sunshine Wilder and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. In 2004, I graduated with a master’s degree in social work and have been working for the past 19 years with children, teens, and adults in various settings such as child welfare, specialized therapeutic foster care, and outpatient therapy. I have experience working with individuals with a wide range of needs such as stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, depression, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attachment issues, and bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Darren D Moore, PhD, LMFT, AAMFT , Aprvd, Supv, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b47052f-c74b-41f3-a2b7-cda25ae2939e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Darren D Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AAMFT , Aprvd, Supv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Moore has worked with a variety of issues, including but not limited to stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Addiction, workplace conflict, family dysfunction, childhood trauma, parent/child relationships, teen delinquency, sibling issues, caregiver stress, children with disabilities, couples conflict, religious concerns, among other areas.
Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED., LMFT is a Clinical Professor, Associate Director for Clinical Training and Supervision in a Masters program in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia, Alabama, NY, IL, and credentialed for telehealth in Florida. Dr. Moore utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach when working with clients. Dr. Moore is direct and believes in addressing problems head on, to ensure optimal success, within a limited amount of time. He has degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, Virginia Tech University, Valdosta State University, and the University of Minnesota.
Moore has worked with a variety of issues, including but not limited to stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Addiction, workplace conflict, family dysfunction, childhood trauma, parent/child relationships, teen delinquency, sibling issues, caregiver stress, children with disabilities, couples conflict, religious concerns, among other areas.
Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED., LMFT is a Clinical Professor, Associate Director for Clinical Training and Supervision in a Masters program in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia, Alabama, NY, IL, and credentialed for telehealth in Florida. Dr. Moore utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach when working with clients. Dr. Moore is direct and believes in addressing problems head on, to ensure optimal success, within a limited amount of time. He has degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, Virginia Tech University, Valdosta State University, and the University of Minnesota.
![Photo of Regina Davis, LPC, MA, CAMS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/518018a9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Regina Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CAMS
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
Life can be quite challenging at times. You may find yourself feeling down, hopeless and without direction. The good news is that there is hope for any negative situation that you may find yourself in. You may be struggling with family issues, relationship problems. low self esteem, depression, anxiety or anything else that lessens your quality of life. It is my goal to see my clients prosper and thrive in every area of life. Your physical, mental and spiritual well-being is my top priority. Make your appointment today and let's work together to realize your dreams and your goals.
Life can be quite challenging at times. You may find yourself feeling down, hopeless and without direction. The good news is that there is hope for any negative situation that you may find yourself in. You may be struggling with family issues, relationship problems. low self esteem, depression, anxiety or anything else that lessens your quality of life. It is my goal to see my clients prosper and thrive in every area of life. Your physical, mental and spiritual well-being is my top priority. Make your appointment today and let's work together to realize your dreams and your goals.
![Photo of Mallory Deal, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91dd7eff-e939-43ea-a68c-24136c7de8a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and a variety of phase of life issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Do you feel as if you are struggling to keep up with work, life, or relationships? Most of us find ourselves feeling stressed at times and wondering how to move through challenges. I believe that support is crucial during stressful times, and working with a mental health professional can bring about positive change. My goal is to get to know you, highlight your unique gifts, and to help you find solutions that work in your life. My approach is non-judgmental, caring, and compassionate.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and a variety of phase of life issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Do you feel as if you are struggling to keep up with work, life, or relationships? Most of us find ourselves feeling stressed at times and wondering how to move through challenges. I believe that support is crucial during stressful times, and working with a mental health professional can bring about positive change. My goal is to get to know you, highlight your unique gifts, and to help you find solutions that work in your life. My approach is non-judgmental, caring, and compassionate.
![Photo of Lynda Gurvitz, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dab8fc1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a clinical psychologist with over forty years of experience, I work with adults and older adults experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, and relationship issues. My goal is to work with my patients to make develop the capacity to make significant and lasting changes that improve their quality of life.
As a clinical psychologist with over forty years of experience, I work with adults and older adults experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, and relationship issues. My goal is to work with my patients to make develop the capacity to make significant and lasting changes that improve their quality of life.
![Photo of Katie Colding, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/791f060a-9241-40b3-b647-bc5ca3d09214/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Colding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
I have successfully treated people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, sexual abuse, low self-esteem, stress management, mood disorders, and PTSD.
Are you facing something that seems so overwhelming you don’t know what’s next? Maybe you just lost someone you love or feel your emotions are getting the best of you. Perhaps you want to work towards being a better version of yourself. It takes courage to pursue healing, and you should be proud of yourself for taking this step. My ideal client will allow me to walk beside them on their journey to reaching their better self by tapping into their inner strengths, teaching appropriate tools, and discovering what balance looks like in their life. I'm delighted to help achieve creating a healthier mindset and finding inner peace.
I have successfully treated people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, sexual abuse, low self-esteem, stress management, mood disorders, and PTSD.
Are you facing something that seems so overwhelming you don’t know what’s next? Maybe you just lost someone you love or feel your emotions are getting the best of you. Perhaps you want to work towards being a better version of yourself. It takes courage to pursue healing, and you should be proud of yourself for taking this step. My ideal client will allow me to walk beside them on their journey to reaching their better self by tapping into their inner strengths, teaching appropriate tools, and discovering what balance looks like in their life. I'm delighted to help achieve creating a healthier mindset and finding inner peace.
![Photo of Alicia Orban, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc4adf91-1127-4650-a31f-1ba0594f02f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Alicia! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is committed to supporting all of my clients in achieving growth and overcoming life challenges. I am based in West Palm Beach, Florida, and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with all populations, but I specialize in working with adolescents, anxiety, stress, and relationship discord. I have worked with all ages, however, I most frequently work with adolescents who are typically experiencing life transitions that may lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Hello, I'm Alicia! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is committed to supporting all of my clients in achieving growth and overcoming life challenges. I am based in West Palm Beach, Florida, and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with all populations, but I specialize in working with adolescents, anxiety, stress, and relationship discord. I have worked with all ages, however, I most frequently work with adolescents who are typically experiencing life transitions that may lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
![Photo of Cynthia A Nuce - All Ways Mental Health Care, LLC, LCSWs, LMFTs, LMHCs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2287961c-88f1-4bac-86f6-f5748a49f780/1/320x400.jpeg)
All Ways Mental Health Care, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWs, LMFTs, LMHCs
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33757
Reaching out for help if you are sad, depressed, anxious, or you have experienced some horrible trauma does not make you weak! It means you are taking care of yourself.
Welcome to Florida's premier therapy group! We are a dedicated team of LCSWs, LMHCs, LMFTs who have been personally interviewed and background checked before ever seeing clients. We have male and female therapists available. We are available to all of Florida via Telehealth and in-person sessions in Crystal River (Citrus County) - nearby to Marion & Hernando counties. When you call, someone from our staff will do a brief interview and then match you with the perfect therapist. You can always read about each therapist on our website and decide for yourself; or perhaps someone has referred you to a particular person. It's All Ways!
Reaching out for help if you are sad, depressed, anxious, or you have experienced some horrible trauma does not make you weak! It means you are taking care of yourself.
Welcome to Florida's premier therapy group! We are a dedicated team of LCSWs, LMHCs, LMFTs who have been personally interviewed and background checked before ever seeing clients. We have male and female therapists available. We are available to all of Florida via Telehealth and in-person sessions in Crystal River (Citrus County) - nearby to Marion & Hernando counties. When you call, someone from our staff will do a brief interview and then match you with the perfect therapist. You can always read about each therapist on our website and decide for yourself; or perhaps someone has referred you to a particular person. It's All Ways!
![Photo of Crisha Thebeau, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be256ab8-d243-493c-9f9b-26ba8d058057/2/320x400.jpeg)
Crisha Thebeau
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33713 (Online Only)
Life can be challenging! I’m an inclusive counselor & have 30 years of experience working with diverse populations, including teen-agers and adults. I have worked with at-risk youth in rural Pennsylvania, juvenile offenders in Pinellas County, Florida and moms & their newborn babies. From day-to-day life struggles to self-harm and depression, I have a wide array of tools to help manage these concerns. I am down to earth and have a laid-back style. I welcome and appreciate a collaborative experience. Together we can improve coping skills and begin to enjoy life again.
Life can be challenging! I’m an inclusive counselor & have 30 years of experience working with diverse populations, including teen-agers and adults. I have worked with at-risk youth in rural Pennsylvania, juvenile offenders in Pinellas County, Florida and moms & their newborn babies. From day-to-day life struggles to self-harm and depression, I have a wide array of tools to help manage these concerns. I am down to earth and have a laid-back style. I welcome and appreciate a collaborative experience. Together we can improve coping skills and begin to enjoy life again.
![Photo of Keri Jakubowski, MS, LPC , LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bb59cd5-970b-441d-941e-fb9d60e3bb60/1/320x400.png)
Keri Jakubowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC , LMHC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33762
I have extensive knowledge and skills in working with individuals and families dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, relationship problems and addiction.
As a trained clinical therapist with years of practice and supervision, my approach has a Person Centered focus based on an individual‘s unique characteristics, goals and principles. I can help people effectively manage difficulties in life and most mental health issues. I firmly believe that everyone is able to change if they want to change. We all go through times during life when we feel stuck or not sure of what we want and that’s okay. With the proper guidance and support therapy can help you make many changes, face any challenges you have and empower you to make what you want for yourself and your life.
I have extensive knowledge and skills in working with individuals and families dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, relationship problems and addiction.
As a trained clinical therapist with years of practice and supervision, my approach has a Person Centered focus based on an individual‘s unique characteristics, goals and principles. I can help people effectively manage difficulties in life and most mental health issues. I firmly believe that everyone is able to change if they want to change. We all go through times during life when we feel stuck or not sure of what we want and that’s okay. With the proper guidance and support therapy can help you make many changes, face any challenges you have and empower you to make what you want for yourself and your life.
![Photo of Letha F Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d618133-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Letha F Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33711
People are often motivated to come to therapy to deal with problems that range from depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, grief, and loss. My work focuses on offering empowering support and tools that assist in searching to find meaning and purpose in these rough and unpredictable passages. I am a licensed clinical social worker and have provided counseling to individuals, and couples for the past twenty years. My work is informed by methods that are client-centered, respectful of the individual, and considered best practices.
People are often motivated to come to therapy to deal with problems that range from depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, grief, and loss. My work focuses on offering empowering support and tools that assist in searching to find meaning and purpose in these rough and unpredictable passages. I am a licensed clinical social worker and have provided counseling to individuals, and couples for the past twenty years. My work is informed by methods that are client-centered, respectful of the individual, and considered best practices.
![Photo of Emanuel Diaz, LMHC, ADC-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71220022-9219-46b6-a3cb-f23a162e4e3f/3/320x400.jpeg)
*I am currently accepting new clients*. Thank you for reaching out! I have several years of experience working with children and adults with a variety of issues and disorders. I have experience with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Trauma. I enjoy working with both adults and children and will work with you to tailor a treatment approach that will help you feel your best. I have a welcoming and strength-based approach that will help you or your child to feel at ease.
*I am currently accepting new clients*. Thank you for reaching out! I have several years of experience working with children and adults with a variety of issues and disorders. I have experience with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Trauma. I enjoy working with both adults and children and will work with you to tailor a treatment approach that will help you feel your best. I have a welcoming and strength-based approach that will help you or your child to feel at ease.
See more therapy options for Largo
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.