Depression Therapists in Lauderdale by the Sea, FL

Photo of Julia Fischetto, LMHC, Counselor
Julia Fischetto
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
In addition, I have worked with people presenting with a variety of issues and disorders, such as, Schizo affective Disorder, Midlife issues, Depression, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Grief, Genetic surprises, Anger Management, and general life issues.
Hello, I am an established psychotherapist who has been in private practice for over 25. No matter what your issue, my focus will be on evaluating and creating a plan to help you get resolution and move on to live your life fully. I am directive and active in your therapeutic journey, and believe our relationship and my cognitive therapy approach will allow you to be comfortable during this process. I believe it is possible for you to accomplish whatever you want in life. No matter what the problem is, seek help now. Please call me at 954-491-9040.
In addition, I have worked with people presenting with a variety of issues and disorders, such as, Schizo affective Disorder, Midlife issues, Depression, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Grief, Genetic surprises, Anger Management, and general life issues.
Hello, I am an established psychotherapist who has been in private practice for over 25. No matter what your issue, my focus will be on evaluating and creating a plan to help you get resolution and move on to live your life fully. I am directive and active in your therapeutic journey, and believe our relationship and my cognitive therapy approach will allow you to be comfortable during this process. I believe it is possible for you to accomplish whatever you want in life. No matter what the problem is, seek help now. Please call me at 954-491-9040.
(954) 283-7025 View (954) 283-7025
Photo of Osvail (Ozzie) Dias, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Osvail (Ozzie) Dias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
Hello, you can call me Ozzie. Thank you for your interest in my practice. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life changes and trauma. I believe everyone can benefit from a therapy process at some point in their lives. Therapy can help you to be more in touch with your feelings; it can be a healing process; and it can bring you emotional freedom. Therapy can help you to emphasize positive emotions and release negative ones, especially from your past. Embracing compassion, hope, love and your own power can be beneficial goals of therapy.
Hello, you can call me Ozzie. Thank you for your interest in my practice. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life changes and trauma. I believe everyone can benefit from a therapy process at some point in their lives. Therapy can help you to be more in touch with your feelings; it can be a healing process; and it can bring you emotional freedom. Therapy can help you to emphasize positive emotions and release negative ones, especially from your past. Embracing compassion, hope, love and your own power can be beneficial goals of therapy.
(617) 405-8130 View (617) 405-8130
Photo of Mari Villanueva - Gather Mental Health Counseling, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Gather Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
If you are experiencing suffering or relational difficulties, I can help. It could be you are currently paralyzed by anxiety, shame or depression. While we are most often harmed in relationship, it is also in relationship that we heal. Whether you are looking to work through trauma, create boundaries or change the dynamic of a current relationship, my role as your therapist is to be a companion on your healing journey, providing specific tools which will bring clarity out of confusion and pain. It is my hope that our time together will inform new ways of being that bring healing, wholeness, and greater happiness to your life.
If you are experiencing suffering or relational difficulties, I can help. It could be you are currently paralyzed by anxiety, shame or depression. While we are most often harmed in relationship, it is also in relationship that we heal. Whether you are looking to work through trauma, create boundaries or change the dynamic of a current relationship, my role as your therapist is to be a companion on your healing journey, providing specific tools which will bring clarity out of confusion and pain. It is my hope that our time together will inform new ways of being that bring healing, wholeness, and greater happiness to your life.
(954) 466-7367 View (954) 466-7367
Photo of Kelli Malkasian, PsyD, CEDS-C, Psychologist
Kelli Malkasian
Psychologist, PsyD, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
Would you like to change your relationship with food or your body? Is your life consumed with thoughts about body image, fears of weight gain, food avoidance or disordered eating behaviors? Do you want to work through your anxiety, depression and/or other roadblocks in your life? If yes, then I would love to work with you. I help clients to build resilience and cope with life's challenges. I embrace our mutual humanity, which allows for an open, collaborative and casual style to therapy. I use connection, metaphor, and humor in my work as catalysts for change.
Would you like to change your relationship with food or your body? Is your life consumed with thoughts about body image, fears of weight gain, food avoidance or disordered eating behaviors? Do you want to work through your anxiety, depression and/or other roadblocks in your life? If yes, then I would love to work with you. I help clients to build resilience and cope with life's challenges. I embrace our mutual humanity, which allows for an open, collaborative and casual style to therapy. I use connection, metaphor, and humor in my work as catalysts for change.
(954) 951-8577 View (954) 951-8577
Photo of Lisa Sharf - Lisa Sharf, ARNP, CS, P.A., MSN, APRN, CNS
Lisa Sharf, ARNP, CS, P.A.
MSN, APRN, CNS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308  (Online Only)
TELE-THERAPY FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME! Depression, anxiety, mood swings, and stress are some of the symptoms that can be the most troublesome. I will provide you with a complete evaluation, lab work if needed, and together we can decide your course of treatment. I believe that no one should ever suffer alone. Your symptoms can be treated effectively with psychotherapy and medications if you desire. Healing is a process, your questions will be answered, and solutions will be found.
TELE-THERAPY FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME! Depression, anxiety, mood swings, and stress are some of the symptoms that can be the most troublesome. I will provide you with a complete evaluation, lab work if needed, and together we can decide your course of treatment. I believe that no one should ever suffer alone. Your symptoms can be treated effectively with psychotherapy and medications if you desire. Healing is a process, your questions will be answered, and solutions will be found.
(786) 471-2423 View (786) 471-2423
Photo of Valeria Boca, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valeria Boca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
Valeria is a psychotherapist in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. With over 15 years of experience, she provides a holistic approach, including a mind/body/spirit connection. She works with high achieving individuals to help them identify subconscious limiting beliefs, emotions and negative thoughts. Whether dealing with, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ptsd, trauma, or substance abuse. Valeria can help you identify and heal the root cause of symptoms at the subconscious level of the mind.
Valeria is a psychotherapist in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. With over 15 years of experience, she provides a holistic approach, including a mind/body/spirit connection. She works with high achieving individuals to help them identify subconscious limiting beliefs, emotions and negative thoughts. Whether dealing with, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ptsd, trauma, or substance abuse. Valeria can help you identify and heal the root cause of symptoms at the subconscious level of the mind.
(954) 287-3546 View (954) 287-3546
Photo of Gary Miles Forrest, PhD, LMFT, SAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gary Miles Forrest
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
I work with individuals and couples on relationship and communication issues (which usually include anger, depression, and anxiety, and sometimes include domestic violence and substance abuse), alternative lifestyles, compulsions, and career counseling.
I work collaboratively with you to address the issues that are important to you. Together, we explore your concerns and develop a plan to achieve the success you desire. Although I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I am neither for nor against marriage. In fact, I believe all sorts of relationships bring people fulfillment and a sense of well-being. My fundamental orientation is one of systemic therapy. Psychological problems that afflict people are oftentimes related to the context of their lives and the quality of their interpersonal relationships.
I work with individuals and couples on relationship and communication issues (which usually include anger, depression, and anxiety, and sometimes include domestic violence and substance abuse), alternative lifestyles, compulsions, and career counseling.
I work collaboratively with you to address the issues that are important to you. Together, we explore your concerns and develop a plan to achieve the success you desire. Although I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I am neither for nor against marriage. In fact, I believe all sorts of relationships bring people fulfillment and a sense of well-being. My fundamental orientation is one of systemic therapy. Psychological problems that afflict people are oftentimes related to the context of their lives and the quality of their interpersonal relationships.
(954) 283-7500 View (954) 283-7500
Photo of Christine Michele Walter, PCC , CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Michele Walter
Marriage & Family Therapist, PCC , CHT
Verified Verified
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
I specialize in addressing the needs of high achieving clients & couples whom are grappling with ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and career issues. You are a business owner, athlete or highly ambitious individual wanting balance in your life. You want to feel understood, empowered and learn specific tools to help your specific challenges. Your busy schedule and difficulty in reaching out has kept you from seeking help until now. You are finally ready to get the help you deserve and achieve your meaningful goals. You desire to be a better partner, boss, friend, parent, and family member.
I specialize in addressing the needs of high achieving clients & couples whom are grappling with ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and career issues. You are a business owner, athlete or highly ambitious individual wanting balance in your life. You want to feel understood, empowered and learn specific tools to help your specific challenges. Your busy schedule and difficulty in reaching out has kept you from seeking help until now. You are finally ready to get the help you deserve and achieve your meaningful goals. You desire to be a better partner, boss, friend, parent, and family member.
(954) 737-3621 View (954) 737-3621
Photo of Pamela L Baker, PsyD, Psychologist
Pamela L Baker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
Dr. Pamela Baker, Licensed Psychologist, earned her Bachelors Degree (B.A.) from the University of Miami with a major in Psychology and double minor in Sociology and French. She went on to earn her Masters Degree (M.S) and Doctoral Degree (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Baker currently works with a diverse population of individuals including children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Baker’s main theoretical orientation is based on Carl Roger’s Humanistic Person-Centered counseling approach.
Dr. Pamela Baker, Licensed Psychologist, earned her Bachelors Degree (B.A.) from the University of Miami with a major in Psychology and double minor in Sociology and French. She went on to earn her Masters Degree (M.S) and Doctoral Degree (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Baker currently works with a diverse population of individuals including children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Baker’s main theoretical orientation is based on Carl Roger’s Humanistic Person-Centered counseling approach.
(561) 510-7827 View (561) 510-7827
Photo of Heather Nicolle Kuhl, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist
Heather Nicolle Kuhl
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
Does your child struggle at school socially, academically, or behaviorally? Does your child have difficulty focusing on schoolwork and finishing tasks in a timely manner? If you are a parent, is getting your child to do homework or chores a daily struggle and interfering with quality family time. Do you beat yourself up wondering, "What did I do wrong?" Or are you an adult who seems to forget important details or miss deadlines? Are time constraints at work or college overwhelming you and preventing you from doing your best? Do these difficulties affect your quality of life?
Does your child struggle at school socially, academically, or behaviorally? Does your child have difficulty focusing on schoolwork and finishing tasks in a timely manner? If you are a parent, is getting your child to do homework or chores a daily struggle and interfering with quality family time. Do you beat yourself up wondering, "What did I do wrong?" Or are you an adult who seems to forget important details or miss deadlines? Are time constraints at work or college overwhelming you and preventing you from doing your best? Do these difficulties affect your quality of life?
(954) 388-9392 View (954) 388-9392
Photo of Tanya Duffy Solomon, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Tanya Duffy Solomon
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
I recognize the utmost importance in helping parents identify and use a child's strengths to foster their future success, while targeting areas for growth. A child's strengths and areas for growth can be discovered through assessments/ testing, and/ or therapy. I take a collaborative approach to treatment utilizing various interventions (including, but not limited to, cognitive and behavioral interventions). "It's easier to find fault with what already is, than to have courage to create something new."
I recognize the utmost importance in helping parents identify and use a child's strengths to foster their future success, while targeting areas for growth. A child's strengths and areas for growth can be discovered through assessments/ testing, and/ or therapy. I take a collaborative approach to treatment utilizing various interventions (including, but not limited to, cognitive and behavioral interventions). "It's easier to find fault with what already is, than to have courage to create something new."
(754) 333-6886 View (754) 333-6886
Photo of Keny Felix, PhD, MDiv, LMHC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keny Felix
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MDiv, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
I welcome the opportunity to assist you with your present concerns through online therapy as we continue to face the Covid-19 pandemic. With more than 20 years of experience, I provide individual, couples, marital, and family counseling. My services are designed to help you gain greater insight, overcome present challenges and help you grow. For your safety, we can meet online through my counseling portal due to the current pandemic. While my preferred therapeutic orientation is person-centered, I take a holistic and integrative approach to mental health. I am licensed to provide services in Florida and Georgia.
I welcome the opportunity to assist you with your present concerns through online therapy as we continue to face the Covid-19 pandemic. With more than 20 years of experience, I provide individual, couples, marital, and family counseling. My services are designed to help you gain greater insight, overcome present challenges and help you grow. For your safety, we can meet online through my counseling portal due to the current pandemic. While my preferred therapeutic orientation is person-centered, I take a holistic and integrative approach to mental health. I am licensed to provide services in Florida and Georgia.
(754) 238-5737 View (754) 238-5737
Photo of Audra Mets, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Audra Mets
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308  (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I have always used a more integrative approach in order to fit the needs of my clients. At times therapy can be difficult, and it’s my job to help make the experience of introspection, self-discovery, and healing feel as comfortable as possible. I enjoy spending time getting to know you and the important people or things in your life, how you experience joy, and how you manage your troubles. I take a non-judgmental, holistic view of a person to better understand how different aspects of life interact and may contribute to stress.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I have always used a more integrative approach in order to fit the needs of my clients. At times therapy can be difficult, and it’s my job to help make the experience of introspection, self-discovery, and healing feel as comfortable as possible. I enjoy spending time getting to know you and the important people or things in your life, how you experience joy, and how you manage your troubles. I take a non-judgmental, holistic view of a person to better understand how different aspects of life interact and may contribute to stress.
(954) 947-8696 View (954) 947-8696
Photo of David Polinski Jr, MS, RMHCI
David Polinski Jr
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308
We are dynamic beings living in an ever-changing world that forces us to learn and grow along with it, and at times we might feel overwhelmed and uncertain of which action to take or which way to best approach a new development in our lives. My goal as a mental health counselor is to help you work through the process of growth and change so that you can live the best life possible. My goal is to help each client work to accomplish their goals, whether it’s trying to figure out if it’s time to change jobs, working through family or relationship issues, addiction, or just looking to decompress from the stresses of day-to-day life.
We are dynamic beings living in an ever-changing world that forces us to learn and grow along with it, and at times we might feel overwhelmed and uncertain of which action to take or which way to best approach a new development in our lives. My goal as a mental health counselor is to help you work through the process of growth and change so that you can live the best life possible. My goal is to help each client work to accomplish their goals, whether it’s trying to figure out if it’s time to change jobs, working through family or relationship issues, addiction, or just looking to decompress from the stresses of day-to-day life.
(954) 600-1576 View (954) 600-1576
Photo of Cher-Gabrielle Lamora Pomar, MA, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS
Cher-Gabrielle Lamora Pomar
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308  (Online Only)
Whether you are dealing with trauma, past experiences, grief, life transitions, poor relationships, conflict, communication difficulties, addiction, self-esteem, or identity, you can get the support and accountability you need. What would it take to be your most congruent authentic self? If you are motivated to set therapeutic goals, want to feel connected, deeply listened to, and learn ways to manage mental health symptoms, please take the time to invest in yourself. Immerse yourself in not only a safe space, but a brave space. It will be worth the outcome...being the best you.
Whether you are dealing with trauma, past experiences, grief, life transitions, poor relationships, conflict, communication difficulties, addiction, self-esteem, or identity, you can get the support and accountability you need. What would it take to be your most congruent authentic self? If you are motivated to set therapeutic goals, want to feel connected, deeply listened to, and learn ways to manage mental health symptoms, please take the time to invest in yourself. Immerse yourself in not only a safe space, but a brave space. It will be worth the outcome...being the best you.
(919) 415-0911 View (919) 415-0911

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nakita Ali - Love & Light Journey, MS, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Love & Light Journey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334  (Online Only)
Hi my name is Nakita Ali. I help men and women grow from the scars of their past relationships, so they can discover themselves and establish a sense of purpose in the present. I work collaboratively with you to get to the root of the problem, so you can feel happier and more satisfied in your life and relationships. I specialize in self-love, codependence, relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction & recovery. I offer individual therapy & couples therapy.
Hi my name is Nakita Ali. I help men and women grow from the scars of their past relationships, so they can discover themselves and establish a sense of purpose in the present. I work collaboratively with you to get to the root of the problem, so you can feel happier and more satisfied in your life and relationships. I specialize in self-love, codependence, relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction & recovery. I offer individual therapy & couples therapy.
(954) 289-0847 View (954) 289-0847
Photo of Christina Smith, LMHC, Counselor
Christina Smith
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or struggling with substance abuse and compulsive behaviors? Maybe you're dealing with trauma or facing pregnancy-related emotional challenges, and you need a safe space to express your feelings and be understood. You might be looking for someone to help you navigate these tough times and provide guidance towards healing. Your goal is to find hope, healing, and a renewed sense of purpose, and I'm here to help you achieve that. Everyone's journey is unique, and together, we can work on overcoming these challenges and building a healthier, happier future.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or struggling with substance abuse and compulsive behaviors? Maybe you're dealing with trauma or facing pregnancy-related emotional challenges, and you need a safe space to express your feelings and be understood. You might be looking for someone to help you navigate these tough times and provide guidance towards healing. Your goal is to find hope, healing, and a renewed sense of purpose, and I'm here to help you achieve that. Everyone's journey is unique, and together, we can work on overcoming these challenges and building a healthier, happier future.
(954) 807-1675 View (954) 807-1675
Photo of Amanda Strunin, PhD, Psychologist
Amanda Strunin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wilton Manors, FL 33334
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who enjoys helping individuals with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, eating problems, existential and grief issues, and difficulty in relationships. I also specialize in behavioral medicine and the treatment of sleep disorders, chronic pain, smoking cessation, trouble with behavior modification, and stressors related to managing a chronic illness. Having worked with individuals, couples and families in both hospital and private practice settings, I welcome the opportunity to help you find creative and innovative solutions to living a balanced life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who enjoys helping individuals with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, eating problems, existential and grief issues, and difficulty in relationships. I also specialize in behavioral medicine and the treatment of sleep disorders, chronic pain, smoking cessation, trouble with behavior modification, and stressors related to managing a chronic illness. Having worked with individuals, couples and families in both hospital and private practice settings, I welcome the opportunity to help you find creative and innovative solutions to living a balanced life.
(786) 565-4065 View (786) 565-4065
Photo of Rachel L Greenberg, LMHC, ACHT, MCAP, Counselor
Rachel L Greenberg
Counselor, LMHC, ACHT, MCAP
Verified Verified
Oakland Park, FL 33334
Rachel is proficient in CBT, DBT, Grief, Breaking Free of Victim Consciousness, Inner child work, Positive Psychology & Hypnotherapy which target the release of pain, stress, guilt/shame, physical/emotional weight, codependency, addictions, traumas, & depression.
BREATHE… Are you feeling stressed, stuck, or in conflict? Are you experiencing relationship problems or loss? Or are you being hijacked by rumination, anxiety, a past trauma, anger, and/or addictive behaviors? Rachel can help as she fosters a safe, nonjudgmental space to release your feelings as well as designs a plan with you to improve your life. You will feel a sense of belonging & develop the power to meet your goals. You can finally make the changes that have challenged you. You will know more happiness & peace if you are willing to practice the tools. Please call and leave your email in your message for an appointment.
Rachel is proficient in CBT, DBT, Grief, Breaking Free of Victim Consciousness, Inner child work, Positive Psychology & Hypnotherapy which target the release of pain, stress, guilt/shame, physical/emotional weight, codependency, addictions, traumas, & depression.
BREATHE… Are you feeling stressed, stuck, or in conflict? Are you experiencing relationship problems or loss? Or are you being hijacked by rumination, anxiety, a past trauma, anger, and/or addictive behaviors? Rachel can help as she fosters a safe, nonjudgmental space to release your feelings as well as designs a plan with you to improve your life. You will feel a sense of belonging & develop the power to meet your goals. You can finally make the changes that have challenged you. You will know more happiness & peace if you are willing to practice the tools. Please call and leave your email in your message for an appointment.
(954) 280-6593 View (954) 280-6593
Photo of Sigal Levy, PhD, Psychologist
Sigal Levy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306  (Online Only)
As human beings, we all face life challenges that can lead to dissatisfaction, depression, anxiety, grief, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, eating disorders, addiction, and a feeling of being "stuck" or like "life is passing by and I don't know where I belong." My passion is to help individuals unleash their own strengths, build or regain hope, and discover their inner potential to achieve their defined road of success. I am versatile in my therapeutic approaches, working collaboratively with individuals to assess and determine the best fit for their unique needs while utilizing an integral strength-based approach.
As human beings, we all face life challenges that can lead to dissatisfaction, depression, anxiety, grief, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, eating disorders, addiction, and a feeling of being "stuck" or like "life is passing by and I don't know where I belong." My passion is to help individuals unleash their own strengths, build or regain hope, and discover their inner potential to achieve their defined road of success. I am versatile in my therapeutic approaches, working collaboratively with individuals to assess and determine the best fit for their unique needs while utilizing an integral strength-based approach.
(754) 444-1950 View (754) 444-1950

See more therapy options for Lauderdale by the Sea

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.