Depression Therapists in Palm Springs, FL

Photo of Oscar R. Lora, MS, LMFT, CAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Oscar R. Lora
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33406
As a Marriage and Family therapist, my passion lies in helping individuals and families navigate their emotional challenges and empowering them to lead fulfilling lives. I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment where clients can openly express their thoughts and feelings, and together we can work towards achieving their mental health goals. Areas treated include: ADHD, anxiety, depression, complex/developmental trauma, family dynamics, relationship issues, sexual abuse, substance use, and grief/loss.
As a Marriage and Family therapist, my passion lies in helping individuals and families navigate their emotional challenges and empowering them to lead fulfilling lives. I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment where clients can openly express their thoughts and feelings, and together we can work towards achieving their mental health goals. Areas treated include: ADHD, anxiety, depression, complex/developmental trauma, family dynamics, relationship issues, sexual abuse, substance use, and grief/loss.
(561) 783-5968 View (561) 783-5968
Photo of Davia Knight, LCMHC, Counselor
Davia Knight
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Springs, FL 33461
The conditions I'm most comfortable treating are ADHD (adult and child), PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, spiritual abuse, and work-related stressors.
Hi, I'm Davia Knight, and I am a licensed mental health counselor who is also of Jamaican descent. I provide compassion and evidenced-based techniques to individuals to help in their healing journey. My focus areas are ADHD (adult and child), PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, spiritual abuse, and work-related stressors. I typically work with clients who struggle to set healthy boundaries with themselves and others, have experienced or are currently experiencing trauma or spiritual abuse, and are experiencing an inability to sustain attention or are experiencing inattention.
The conditions I'm most comfortable treating are ADHD (adult and child), PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, spiritual abuse, and work-related stressors.
Hi, I'm Davia Knight, and I am a licensed mental health counselor who is also of Jamaican descent. I provide compassion and evidenced-based techniques to individuals to help in their healing journey. My focus areas are ADHD (adult and child), PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, spiritual abuse, and work-related stressors. I typically work with clients who struggle to set healthy boundaries with themselves and others, have experienced or are currently experiencing trauma or spiritual abuse, and are experiencing an inability to sustain attention or are experiencing inattention.
(813) 922-3263 View (813) 922-3263
Photo of Rebecca Zellers, LMHC, Counselor
Rebecca Zellers
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33461
She has experience in working with those struggling with substance use, emotion avoidance, attachment issues, anxiety, depression, and low self-worth.
Rebecca Zellers specializes in working with adults and couples seeking secure and fulfilling relationships as well as supporting those struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, gender identity, and low self-worth. Rebecca collaboratively sets goals with her clients and ensures they feel seen as well as heard. Her goal with any client is to guide them through their healing process, offering validation, encouragement, and unconditional support. Her warm and compassionate personality create a safe space for her clients to openly express themselves without fear of judgement or dismissal.
She has experience in working with those struggling with substance use, emotion avoidance, attachment issues, anxiety, depression, and low self-worth.
Rebecca Zellers specializes in working with adults and couples seeking secure and fulfilling relationships as well as supporting those struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, gender identity, and low self-worth. Rebecca collaboratively sets goals with her clients and ensures they feel seen as well as heard. Her goal with any client is to guide them through their healing process, offering validation, encouragement, and unconditional support. Her warm and compassionate personality create a safe space for her clients to openly express themselves without fear of judgement or dismissal.
(561) 861-1301 View (561) 861-1301
Photo of Darleshia Bibbins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darleshia Bibbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Springs, FL 33406
Are you an adult seeking help? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem or relationship issues? Do you feel like things are out of control and you are stuck and unable to move forward? No one teaches you how to navigate through the adversity and challenges in life. It can make adjusting to change difficult and relationships stressful. I find joy working with teens and adults to build resiliency and manage stress. I provide a safe, judgement free zone to the individuals I serve.
Are you an adult seeking help? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem or relationship issues? Do you feel like things are out of control and you are stuck and unable to move forward? No one teaches you how to navigate through the adversity and challenges in life. It can make adjusting to change difficult and relationships stressful. I find joy working with teens and adults to build resiliency and manage stress. I provide a safe, judgement free zone to the individuals I serve.
(225) 269-5205 View (225) 269-5205
Photo of Marcia A Goncalves-Terlep, LMHC, Counselor
Marcia A Goncalves-Terlep
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Springs, FL 33406
I have been practicing for 8 years, and I am fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have successfully worked with young children, adolescents, adults, and families to resolve many issues; including anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment issues,disruptive behavior, phobias, and relationship difficulties. I have no doubt that by providing a safe compassionate space and effective tools, patients are able to solve problems and find answers. I frame my treatment approach to meet my client's individual needs.
I have been practicing for 8 years, and I am fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have successfully worked with young children, adolescents, adults, and families to resolve many issues; including anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment issues,disruptive behavior, phobias, and relationship difficulties. I have no doubt that by providing a safe compassionate space and effective tools, patients are able to solve problems and find answers. I frame my treatment approach to meet my client's individual needs.
(561) 475-2799 View (561) 475-2799
Photo of Aalysha Gonzalez @ Inspired Strength Counseling, MS, LMHC, QS
Aalysha Gonzalez @ Inspired Strength Counseling
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Palm Springs, FL 33406  (Online Only)
I offer 15 years of experience treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Have you experienced trauma in the past, and wonder how much this impacts your daily life, relationships, and goals now? If you are experiencing depression, low self-esteem, difficulty controlling anger, or sleep or concentration issues, trauma may be the root concern. Maybe the critic in your head beats you up over the smallest mistakes. You doubt yourself, procrastinate, and avoid facing the day. You want to imagine a day when you are able to think freely without worry; a day when you wake up feeling energized, pain-free, and fulfilled. I'd like to help you move into your potential and experience your passions full-throttle.
I offer 15 years of experience treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Have you experienced trauma in the past, and wonder how much this impacts your daily life, relationships, and goals now? If you are experiencing depression, low self-esteem, difficulty controlling anger, or sleep or concentration issues, trauma may be the root concern. Maybe the critic in your head beats you up over the smallest mistakes. You doubt yourself, procrastinate, and avoid facing the day. You want to imagine a day when you are able to think freely without worry; a day when you wake up feeling energized, pain-free, and fulfilled. I'd like to help you move into your potential and experience your passions full-throttle.
(561) 423-1844 View (561) 423-1844
Photo of Denny J Cecil-Van Den Heuvel, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, QS, Counselor
Denny J Cecil-Van Den Heuvel
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, QS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33406
In treating those in need of mental wellness, numerous approaches are utilized such as: Person-Centered Therapy, Family Systems, Emotional Focused Therapy, Neuroaffective Relational Therapy (NARM), EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Areas treated in the past include: anxiety, depression, addiction, depression, sexual abuse, shock/developmental trauma and grief/loss. Therapeutic interventions used include EMDR, Sand Tray Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy and NARM. As of November 2019, certified NeuroAffective Relational Model Therapy (NARM) that treats Developmental Trauma.
In treating those in need of mental wellness, numerous approaches are utilized such as: Person-Centered Therapy, Family Systems, Emotional Focused Therapy, Neuroaffective Relational Therapy (NARM), EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Areas treated in the past include: anxiety, depression, addiction, depression, sexual abuse, shock/developmental trauma and grief/loss. Therapeutic interventions used include EMDR, Sand Tray Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy and NARM. As of November 2019, certified NeuroAffective Relational Model Therapy (NARM) that treats Developmental Trauma.
(561) 532-1403 View (561) 532-1403
Photo of Claudia Rodrigues, LMHC, CCTP-II, Counselor
Claudia Rodrigues
Counselor, LMHC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33461
I have worked extensively with individuals struggling with a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction. I believe that each person possesses an internal system composed of different parts, each with its own unique thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. Through the gentle exploration of these parts, clients can begin to understand their inner dynamics and develop a compassionate relationship with themselves. I guide clients in identifying and healing wounded parts while fostering a connection with their core Self, which is inherently wise, compassionate, and resilient.
I have worked extensively with individuals struggling with a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction. I believe that each person possesses an internal system composed of different parts, each with its own unique thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. Through the gentle exploration of these parts, clients can begin to understand their inner dynamics and develop a compassionate relationship with themselves. I guide clients in identifying and healing wounded parts while fostering a connection with their core Self, which is inherently wise, compassionate, and resilient.
(561) 660-9080 View (561) 660-9080
Photo of Joseph LoCicero, LMHC, Counselor
Joseph LoCicero
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Springs, FL 33461
Hi, my name is Joe. I have nearly 30 years of counseling experience working with the developmentally disabled, the elderly, and students. My specific treatment areas include depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, anger control, and impulse control disorders. I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), applied behavioral analysis, grief therapy, family therapy, and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT). The care I provide is based on my experience and knowledge of providing these services for nearly 30 years. I believe that I can help you with my experience.
Hi, my name is Joe. I have nearly 30 years of counseling experience working with the developmentally disabled, the elderly, and students. My specific treatment areas include depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, anger control, and impulse control disorders. I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), applied behavioral analysis, grief therapy, family therapy, and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT). The care I provide is based on my experience and knowledge of providing these services for nearly 30 years. I believe that I can help you with my experience.
(786) 952-7926 View (786) 952-7926
Photo of Heidy Garcia, LMHC, IMH-E
Heidy Garcia
LMHC, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Palm Springs, FL 33406
You’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. Often you don’t feel good enough. You aren’t as confident as you’d like to be. You're struggling with your emotions and feel like you can’t cope with the stress in your life. It’s painful to not feel in control of your emotions. Negative thoughts make it hard to feel good about yourself, your relationships, and your outlook on life. Imagine how different it would be if you freed yourself from those feelings.
You’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. Often you don’t feel good enough. You aren’t as confident as you’d like to be. You're struggling with your emotions and feel like you can’t cope with the stress in your life. It’s painful to not feel in control of your emotions. Negative thoughts make it hard to feel good about yourself, your relationships, and your outlook on life. Imagine how different it would be if you freed yourself from those feelings.
(772) 218-7397 View (772) 218-7397
Photo of Jolisa Castell, LCSW, CCTP, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jolisa Castell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33461  (Online Only)
Your experiences and reactions are valid and real. You are worthy of care and the opportunity to heal. Congratulations on taking the next step in your journey of healing. This journey is challenging but most importantly, rewarding and life changing. I believe the therapeutic relationship is a partnership in which the client is the expert and will be expected to put in the effort for accountability and be present within the counseling alliance. Together, we will work to deepen your awareness and understanding of your needs, desires, and patterns of relating, so you may experience the authentic and fulfilling life you want.
Your experiences and reactions are valid and real. You are worthy of care and the opportunity to heal. Congratulations on taking the next step in your journey of healing. This journey is challenging but most importantly, rewarding and life changing. I believe the therapeutic relationship is a partnership in which the client is the expert and will be expected to put in the effort for accountability and be present within the counseling alliance. Together, we will work to deepen your awareness and understanding of your needs, desires, and patterns of relating, so you may experience the authentic and fulfilling life you want.
(561) 418-6573 View (561) 418-6573
Photo of Sandrina Seraphin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandrina Seraphin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33461  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is ready and willing to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. You may be facing a variety of challenges, such as navigating trauma, addiction, life transitions, or relationship issues. if you are seeking support and guidance to overcome these obstacles and create positive change in your life, i will create a safe and supportive space to freely express yourself without fear of judgment. Above all, I'd like to empower you to take control of your own journey and make the commitment to self discovery and improvement.
My ideal client is someone who is ready and willing to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. You may be facing a variety of challenges, such as navigating trauma, addiction, life transitions, or relationship issues. if you are seeking support and guidance to overcome these obstacles and create positive change in your life, i will create a safe and supportive space to freely express yourself without fear of judgment. Above all, I'd like to empower you to take control of your own journey and make the commitment to self discovery and improvement.
(786) 386-0789 View (786) 386-0789
Photo of Alivia Curl - IFS Telehealth Collective, LMFT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
IFS Telehealth Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33461  (Online Only)
We are experienced IFS Therapists providing quality online therapy to our clients in CA, FL, MA, MI, NY and OR. We trust the inherent wisdom inside all people to be accessible and essential for the well-being of the world. We’re committed to creating a therapeutic environment that empowers clients to transform and reclaim parts of themselves from a place of compassion and curiosity, allowing them to live meaningful and healthy lives. We are committed to delivering exceptional Internal Family Systems telehealth services to our clients by providing expert IFS consultation.
We are experienced IFS Therapists providing quality online therapy to our clients in CA, FL, MA, MI, NY and OR. We trust the inherent wisdom inside all people to be accessible and essential for the well-being of the world. We’re committed to creating a therapeutic environment that empowers clients to transform and reclaim parts of themselves from a place of compassion and curiosity, allowing them to live meaningful and healthy lives. We are committed to delivering exceptional Internal Family Systems telehealth services to our clients by providing expert IFS consultation.
(718) 841-0136 View (718) 841-0136
Photo of Terrini Woods - Terrini Woods Counseling, Inc., LMHC, Counselor
Terrini Woods Counseling, Inc.
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33406
Hey are you looking for a space that is judgement FREE, to get you on peaceful journey? My approach to mental wellness is grounded in my genuine care for helping others. Trouble communicating with your love ones, dealing with high levels of stress, overwhelmed by grief & loss, family/parent conflicts or just overwhelmed with past traumas that keep interrupting your peace. I strongly believe in the power of prayer, psycho-education, and mental health awareness to foster holistic healing and well-being. I aim to provide a nurturing and compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences,
Hey are you looking for a space that is judgement FREE, to get you on peaceful journey? My approach to mental wellness is grounded in my genuine care for helping others. Trouble communicating with your love ones, dealing with high levels of stress, overwhelmed by grief & loss, family/parent conflicts or just overwhelmed with past traumas that keep interrupting your peace. I strongly believe in the power of prayer, psycho-education, and mental health awareness to foster holistic healing and well-being. I aim to provide a nurturing and compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences,
(561) 783-2251 View (561) 783-2251
Photo of Michael Meagher, RCSWI, CAP
Michael Meagher
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI, CAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33461
Are you looking for a holistic approach to resolve difficult emotions or patterns? Have you ever thought there has to be more? Or does it feel like things will never change? Maybe you have thought to yourself, I wish I had handled that better. These things need special care and attention. Do the people around you tell you that you worry too much or that you need to just relax? They just do not understand what it is like having those thoughts and doing things you know that don't always make sense. You just wish for peace of mind, happiness, and harmony.
Are you looking for a holistic approach to resolve difficult emotions or patterns? Have you ever thought there has to be more? Or does it feel like things will never change? Maybe you have thought to yourself, I wish I had handled that better. These things need special care and attention. Do the people around you tell you that you worry too much or that you need to just relax? They just do not understand what it is like having those thoughts and doing things you know that don't always make sense. You just wish for peace of mind, happiness, and harmony.
(561) 770-6075 View (561) 770-6075
Photo of Dr. Lissette Leon-Iglesias - Evaluaciones psicológicas para inmigración , PsyD, Psychologist
Evaluaciones psicológicas para inmigración
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palm Springs, FL 33461  (Online Only)
Tu abogado te pidio un reporte psicologico para tu caso de inmigración? Somos un equipo de profesionales especializados en evaluaciones para casos de inmigracion y te podemos ayudar! Entendemos los desafíos únicos que enfrentan nuestros clientes durante este proceso y estamos aquí para brindarles el apoyo y la orientación necesaria. Nuestros profesionales altamente capacitados trabajan para proporcionar evaluaciones completas y rapida. La consulta es gratis! Llámenos hoy mismo para obtener más informacion para que puedas comenzar tu proceso.
Tu abogado te pidio un reporte psicologico para tu caso de inmigración? Somos un equipo de profesionales especializados en evaluaciones para casos de inmigracion y te podemos ayudar! Entendemos los desafíos únicos que enfrentan nuestros clientes durante este proceso y estamos aquí para brindarles el apoyo y la orientación necesaria. Nuestros profesionales altamente capacitados trabajan para proporcionar evaluaciones completas y rapida. La consulta es gratis! Llámenos hoy mismo para obtener más informacion para que puedas comenzar tu proceso.
(561) 771-0956 View (561) 771-0956
Photo of Annmarie Kilinski, LMHC, Counselor
Annmarie Kilinski
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Springs, FL 33406
“I​ ​look​ ​forward​ ​to​ ​meeting​ ​each​ ​client​ ​and​ ​working​ ​together​ ​to​ ​discover what​ ​issues​ ​may​ ​have​ ​brought​ ​them​ ​to​ ​decide​ ​that​ ​it​ ​was​ ​time​ ​to​ ​pursue counseling.​ ​I​ ​enjoy​ ​assisting​ ​my​ ​clients​ ​to​ ​live​ ​their​ ​lives​ ​to​ ​their​ ​fullest potential.​ ​God​ ​has​ ​a​ ​plan​ ​for​ ​each​ ​and​ ​everyone​ ​of​ ​us​ ​and​ ​has​ ​provided​ ​us with​ ​unique​ ​gifts​ ​and​ ​talents.​ ​I​ ​find​ ​it​ ​a​ ​privilege​ ​to​ ​help​ ​clients​ ​not​ ​only​ ​heal from​ ​their​ ​past​ ​or​ ​perhaps​ ​their​ ​current​ ​circumstances,​ ​however​ ​to​ ​rise above​ it and move forward.
“I​ ​look​ ​forward​ ​to​ ​meeting​ ​each​ ​client​ ​and​ ​working​ ​together​ ​to​ ​discover what​ ​issues​ ​may​ ​have​ ​brought​ ​them​ ​to​ ​decide​ ​that​ ​it​ ​was​ ​time​ ​to​ ​pursue counseling.​ ​I​ ​enjoy​ ​assisting​ ​my​ ​clients​ ​to​ ​live​ ​their​ ​lives​ ​to​ ​their​ ​fullest potential.​ ​God​ ​has​ ​a​ ​plan​ ​for​ ​each​ ​and​ ​everyone​ ​of​ ​us​ ​and​ ​has​ ​provided​ ​us with​ ​unique​ ​gifts​ ​and​ ​talents.​ ​I​ ​find​ ​it​ ​a​ ​privilege​ ​to​ ​help​ ​clients​ ​not​ ​only​ ​heal from​ ​their​ ​past​ ​or​ ​perhaps​ ​their​ ​current​ ​circumstances,​ ​however​ ​to​ ​rise above​ it and move forward.
(561) 220-8966 View (561) 220-8966

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caroline Cooper, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caroline Cooper
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake Worth, FL 33461
I am dedicated to supporting teens and adults facing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and low self-esteem. I am committed to offering compassionate care and fostering a comfortable, collaborative environment that encourages growth and healing.
I am dedicated to supporting teens and adults facing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and low self-esteem. I am committed to offering compassionate care and fostering a comfortable, collaborative environment that encourages growth and healing.
(561) 783-3777 View (561) 783-3777
Photo of Erin Morgan, Counselor
Erin Morgan
Counselor
Verified Verified
Lake Worth, FL 33461
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I have a masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern Connecticut State University and a bachelors degree in Psychology and Neuroscience from UConn. I utilize a goal-oriented, strengths-based approach to help clients cope with change, stress, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I am happy to meet with you to help problem solve and provide support. I aim to help you gain self-awareness and clarity and to provide you with strategies and techniques to build on your strengths to foster healing and inner growth.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I have a masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern Connecticut State University and a bachelors degree in Psychology and Neuroscience from UConn. I utilize a goal-oriented, strengths-based approach to help clients cope with change, stress, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I am happy to meet with you to help problem solve and provide support. I aim to help you gain self-awareness and clarity and to provide you with strategies and techniques to build on your strengths to foster healing and inner growth.
(561) 410-4994 View (561) 410-4994
Photo of Cynthia Lubin Nicolas, MA, LMHC, LPC, NCC, LMHC-QS, Counselor
Cynthia Lubin Nicolas
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, NCC, LMHC-QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Worth, FL 33461
I work with individuals, couples, children, and their families who are struggling with transitional life changes, anxiety, depression, anger, self-esteem, relationship issues, parenting, and trauma. I also work with clients dealing with abandonment and issues that they have due to childhood and recent traumas, including grief and loss issues and transition. I was born in Haiti and moved to the U.S when I was 12 years old, so I have a clear understanding of the struggles of transition and adaptation. In addition, I am a qualified supervisor for registered mental health interns.
I work with individuals, couples, children, and their families who are struggling with transitional life changes, anxiety, depression, anger, self-esteem, relationship issues, parenting, and trauma. I also work with clients dealing with abandonment and issues that they have due to childhood and recent traumas, including grief and loss issues and transition. I was born in Haiti and moved to the U.S when I was 12 years old, so I have a clear understanding of the struggles of transition and adaptation. In addition, I am a qualified supervisor for registered mental health interns.
(561) 448-6864 View (561) 448-6864

See more therapy options for Palm Springs

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.