Depression Therapists in Pompano Beach, FL

Photo of Elizabeth 'lisa' B Woolner, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth 'lisa' B Woolner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33062  (Online Only)
I've been utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy for over 10 years to help my clients manage feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, or any other negative feelings.
I'm so glad you're here! My name is Lisa Woolner and I'm an LCSW who has spent the past 13 years working with clients seeking treatment for substance use and mental health isues. This has given me an opportunity to develop a diverse background working with issues such as addiction, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, relationship issues, past trauma, and family of origin issues. I want you most of all to feel supported and safe in therapy. I believe that trust is vital in therapy. In our first session I want to hear your story and we will work together to create a treatment plan to work on in follow up sessions.
I've been utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy for over 10 years to help my clients manage feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, or any other negative feelings.
I'm so glad you're here! My name is Lisa Woolner and I'm an LCSW who has spent the past 13 years working with clients seeking treatment for substance use and mental health isues. This has given me an opportunity to develop a diverse background working with issues such as addiction, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, relationship issues, past trauma, and family of origin issues. I want you most of all to feel supported and safe in therapy. I believe that trust is vital in therapy. In our first session I want to hear your story and we will work together to create a treatment plan to work on in follow up sessions.
(754) 290-2695 View (754) 290-2695
Photo of Ashley Chiarielo, LMHC, Counselor
Ashley Chiarielo
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33064
I feel comfortable treating issues of grief and loss, anxiety, depression, as well as self-confidence and self-esteem.
My name is Ashley Chiariello and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (MH-7642) practicing in the State of Florida. I have 20 years of experience focused on individual therapy in the areas of grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and stress. My hope is to provide a warm and accepting environment where my clients can grow to understand themselves more deeply and improve their quality of life.
I feel comfortable treating issues of grief and loss, anxiety, depression, as well as self-confidence and self-esteem.
My name is Ashley Chiariello and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (MH-7642) practicing in the State of Florida. I have 20 years of experience focused on individual therapy in the areas of grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and stress. My hope is to provide a warm and accepting environment where my clients can grow to understand themselves more deeply and improve their quality of life.
(954) 248-1618 View (954) 248-1618
Photo of Ashley Chiarielo, LMHC, Counselor
Ashley Chiarielo
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33063
I feel comfortable treating issues of grief and loss, anxiety, depression, as well as self-confidence and self-esteem.
My name is Ashley Chiariello and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (MH-7642) practicing in the State of Florida. I have 20 years of experience focused on individual therapy in the areas of grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and stress. My hope is to provide a warm and accepting environment where my clients can grow to understand themselves more deeply and improve their quality of life.
I feel comfortable treating issues of grief and loss, anxiety, depression, as well as self-confidence and self-esteem.
My name is Ashley Chiariello and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (MH-7642) practicing in the State of Florida. I have 20 years of experience focused on individual therapy in the areas of grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and stress. My hope is to provide a warm and accepting environment where my clients can grow to understand themselves more deeply and improve their quality of life.
(954) 833-4789 View (954) 833-4789
Photo of Priya D'Singh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Priya D'Singh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33062  (Online Only)
Depression and anxiety can appear in short term bouts, or they can be present for a much longer period in our lives.
Depression, anxiety, trauma, and the changes that come with getting older can take on many forms. These challenges may lead to feeling overwhelmed, alone and defeated. Furthermore, struggling with difficult emotions can make it hard to see the forest for the trees. When you feel as though your world is spiraling out of control, counseling can help put you back on your feet. Also known as talk therapy, counseling can help build your self-esteem and repair any hurt or doubt that you may be feeling.
Depression and anxiety can appear in short term bouts, or they can be present for a much longer period in our lives.
Depression, anxiety, trauma, and the changes that come with getting older can take on many forms. These challenges may lead to feeling overwhelmed, alone and defeated. Furthermore, struggling with difficult emotions can make it hard to see the forest for the trees. When you feel as though your world is spiraling out of control, counseling can help put you back on your feet. Also known as talk therapy, counseling can help build your self-esteem and repair any hurt or doubt that you may be feeling.
(754) 205-3721 View (754) 205-3721
Photo of Alexandra Englert, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandra Englert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33063
Hi! I am Ali, a Licensed Mental Health, and Marriage and Family Therapist! I am extremely passionate about helping people work through challenges, meet goals and grow. I have worked with individuals, both adults and adolescents, couples, and families in areas such as eating disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and transitions.
Hi! I am Ali, a Licensed Mental Health, and Marriage and Family Therapist! I am extremely passionate about helping people work through challenges, meet goals and grow. I have worked with individuals, both adults and adolescents, couples, and families in areas such as eating disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and transitions.
(786) 981-9967 View (786) 981-9967
Photo of Christine Swiersz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Swiersz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33060
I treat adults of all ages who are experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression.
Hi! My name is Christine Swiersz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. I am a warm, supportive therapist who specializes in helping adults of all ages who are experiencing anxiety, stress, or depression. My professional goal is to help others find the peace they want and need in their daily lives. I will support you by helping you to address your feelings while assisting you in gaining the tools and skills to successfully overcome feelings of anxiety or depression. I am driven to do this work daily by the joy that I experience when I assist a client to make progress toward obtaining the peace that they are seeking.
I treat adults of all ages who are experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression.
Hi! My name is Christine Swiersz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. I am a warm, supportive therapist who specializes in helping adults of all ages who are experiencing anxiety, stress, or depression. My professional goal is to help others find the peace they want and need in their daily lives. I will support you by helping you to address your feelings while assisting you in gaining the tools and skills to successfully overcome feelings of anxiety or depression. I am driven to do this work daily by the joy that I experience when I assist a client to make progress toward obtaining the peace that they are seeking.
(786) 410-2991 View (786) 410-2991
Photo of Sarajane Cazares - Sarajane Cazares/Cazares Professional Therapy LLC, MSSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarajane Cazares/Cazares Professional Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33069
Sarajane has expertise in stress management, coping with life-altering health conditions, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, anger management, self esteem and relationship issues.
Is the stress in your life keeping you from achieving your goals or fulfilling your dreams? Are there painful moments from your past that are holding you back? Are you experiencing significant health challenges that others don't understand? Would you like to find balance in your life? Talking to a therapist can help.
Sarajane has expertise in stress management, coping with life-altering health conditions, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, anger management, self esteem and relationship issues.
Is the stress in your life keeping you from achieving your goals or fulfilling your dreams? Are there painful moments from your past that are holding you back? Are you experiencing significant health challenges that others don't understand? Would you like to find balance in your life? Talking to a therapist can help.
(954) 231-2134 View (954) 231-2134
Photo of Andres Lopez-Munoz, LMHC, MS, LNLP, LMHS, Counselor
Andres Lopez-Munoz
Counselor, LMHC, MS, LNLP, LMHS
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33062  (Online Only)
Andres is the founder and director of By The Sea Therapy, Inc. Andres is a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor (MH5470) in the state of Florida and has been practicing since 1999. His areas of expertise include stress management, post-traumatic stress disorders, crisis, grief/loss, trauma, interrelationship issues, depression and anxiety/phobias. He obtained his Masters in Science/Clinical Psychology and Doctors in Adult Education a.b.d. from Nova Southeastern University, and his Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Colorado. His approach to therapy is eclectic, incorporating whatever techniques works
Andres is the founder and director of By The Sea Therapy, Inc. Andres is a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor (MH5470) in the state of Florida and has been practicing since 1999. His areas of expertise include stress management, post-traumatic stress disorders, crisis, grief/loss, trauma, interrelationship issues, depression and anxiety/phobias. He obtained his Masters in Science/Clinical Psychology and Doctors in Adult Education a.b.d. from Nova Southeastern University, and his Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Colorado. His approach to therapy is eclectic, incorporating whatever techniques works
(954) 231-3826 View (954) 231-3826
Photo of Brenda Zalka, LMHC, Counselor
Brenda Zalka
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33062  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 29 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I am also a Registered Nurse. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, eating disorders, career challenges, and medical issues, for both patient and caregiver. I have also written a children’s book series on mental health called “Biz & Ben and Summer too.” My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 29 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I am also a Registered Nurse. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, eating disorders, career challenges, and medical issues, for both patient and caregiver. I have also written a children’s book series on mental health called “Biz & Ben and Summer too.” My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels.
(954) 280-4144 View (954) 280-4144
Photo of Janie Cooper Rhone, MS, LMHC, NCC, MCAP, EMDR, Counselor
Janie Cooper Rhone
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, MCAP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33069
I've been in the business of helping people in South Florida to achieve personal growth and life satisfaction for many years. My education, training and experience rests on a foundation of good common sense, genuine compassion and fundamental respect for the human journey. I'm comfortable working with a wide range of lifestyles, values and attitudes. You can count on me for guidance, insight, support, encouragement and understanding. Individuals come to me for help with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and the many general problems of daily living which get in the way of a happy, satisfying life.
I've been in the business of helping people in South Florida to achieve personal growth and life satisfaction for many years. My education, training and experience rests on a foundation of good common sense, genuine compassion and fundamental respect for the human journey. I'm comfortable working with a wide range of lifestyles, values and attitudes. You can count on me for guidance, insight, support, encouragement and understanding. Individuals come to me for help with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and the many general problems of daily living which get in the way of a happy, satisfying life.
(954) 289-5685 View (954) 289-5685
Photo of Jeffrey Bush, LMHC
Jeffrey Bush
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33064
Hello, my name is Jeffrey Bush. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of clinical experience with an extensive range of clients that suffer from various issues such as Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Men's Issues, and Panic Attacks. I believe that cultivating peace inside us allows us to see things as they are. I pledge to always do my best for you.
Hello, my name is Jeffrey Bush. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of clinical experience with an extensive range of clients that suffer from various issues such as Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Men's Issues, and Panic Attacks. I believe that cultivating peace inside us allows us to see things as they are. I pledge to always do my best for you.
(772) 773-6724 View (772) 773-6724
Photo of Paige L. Shiffman - Trauma Counseling of Florida Paige L. Shiffman , LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Trauma Counseling of Florida Paige L. Shiffman
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pompano Beach, FL 33065  (Online Only)
Do you struggle to cope with everyday issues? Do you experience high levels of anxiety and depression that doesn’t go away? When we've experienced trauma in our lives, everyday problems can seem too big and overwhelming to handle. Maybe you're experiencing flashbacks, nightmares, panic attacks or constantly finding yourself in toxic relationships. I have many years of experience in helping clients identify the root of their destructive patterns as well as overcome trauma and PTSD. I am also highly experienced in treating depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, adjustment challenges and loss/grief.
Do you struggle to cope with everyday issues? Do you experience high levels of anxiety and depression that doesn’t go away? When we've experienced trauma in our lives, everyday problems can seem too big and overwhelming to handle. Maybe you're experiencing flashbacks, nightmares, panic attacks or constantly finding yourself in toxic relationships. I have many years of experience in helping clients identify the root of their destructive patterns as well as overcome trauma and PTSD. I am also highly experienced in treating depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, adjustment challenges and loss/grief.
(305) 846-7911 View (305) 846-7911
Photo of Phylice Kessler, LMHC, Counselor
Phylice Kessler
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33069
Phylice Kessler MH 20602 Phylice has more than 25 years of experience and uses her expertise to help others heal and transform. She creates individualized treatment plans utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, EMDR, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, meditation, positive psychology, and yoga. Phylice has an integrative approach and uses her counseling education and life-coaching skills to help her patients reach attainable goals. I typically work with individuals struggling with anxiety and depression. Many are unhappy with their current lives.
Phylice Kessler MH 20602 Phylice has more than 25 years of experience and uses her expertise to help others heal and transform. She creates individualized treatment plans utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, EMDR, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, meditation, positive psychology, and yoga. Phylice has an integrative approach and uses her counseling education and life-coaching skills to help her patients reach attainable goals. I typically work with individuals struggling with anxiety and depression. Many are unhappy with their current lives.
(786) 882-6325 View (786) 882-6325
Photo of Monica Fey (Maiden Name Ramirez), LMHC, MH12867, Counselor
Monica Fey (Maiden Name Ramirez)
Counselor, LMHC, MH12867
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33066
I have a Holistic perspective to work with different psychological aspects and populations. With 28 years of experience along with a disciplined lifestyle, I have successfully treated patients with addictions, chronic mental illness, anxiety, depression, grief, and anger. I also specialize in conflict resolution due to family issues such as divorce, sexual identify, spiritual confusion, and yes - I also work with teenagers helping them to overcome all the difficulties they experience. With the proper understanding, perspective alignment and coaching, my patients lead a happier/healthier life.
I have a Holistic perspective to work with different psychological aspects and populations. With 28 years of experience along with a disciplined lifestyle, I have successfully treated patients with addictions, chronic mental illness, anxiety, depression, grief, and anger. I also specialize in conflict resolution due to family issues such as divorce, sexual identify, spiritual confusion, and yes - I also work with teenagers helping them to overcome all the difficulties they experience. With the proper understanding, perspective alignment and coaching, my patients lead a happier/healthier life.
(954) 388-7038 View (954) 388-7038
Photo of Valerie Jean Elsbree, MSW, LCSW, CAP, PA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Jean Elsbree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CAP, PA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pompano Beach, FL 33062
My specialties include; Individual, Relationship and Family Therapy, for Addictions,Eating Disorders (Bulimia, Anorexia, Compulsive Overeating, Bingeing/Purging), Co-Dependency (setting limits with people, unresolved family of origin issues, child-within work), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Domestic Violence, Trauma, and past Childhood Abuse.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addictions Professional, I have 30+ years of experience in the therapy field, providing therapy to adults and adolescents through individual, couples, family and group modalities. My culturally diverse Counseling Center provides therapeutic services to men, women and adolescents from all walks of life. One goals during the therapy process is to provide a confidential, safe and nurturing environment so my clients feel comfortable exploring areas of their lives that may be blocking them from living life to their full potential and/or is causing them emotional, mental, physical,spiritual social, or sexual pain or distress.
My specialties include; Individual, Relationship and Family Therapy, for Addictions,Eating Disorders (Bulimia, Anorexia, Compulsive Overeating, Bingeing/Purging), Co-Dependency (setting limits with people, unresolved family of origin issues, child-within work), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Domestic Violence, Trauma, and past Childhood Abuse.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addictions Professional, I have 30+ years of experience in the therapy field, providing therapy to adults and adolescents through individual, couples, family and group modalities. My culturally diverse Counseling Center provides therapeutic services to men, women and adolescents from all walks of life. One goals during the therapy process is to provide a confidential, safe and nurturing environment so my clients feel comfortable exploring areas of their lives that may be blocking them from living life to their full potential and/or is causing them emotional, mental, physical,spiritual social, or sexual pain or distress.
(954) 399-7912 View (954) 399-7912
Photo of Julia Fischetto, LMHC, Counselor
Julia Fischetto
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33060
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 Ainsley Kennard, PsyD, PA, Psychologist
Ainsley Kennard
Psychologist, PsyD, PA
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33061
Some want help with specific problems, like depression, anxiety, or a painful personal history.
Trained in psychoanalytic (psychodynamic) approach, I offer a form of therapy that fosters personal development and freedom from unsatisfying and painful patterns of living. During individual sessions, my patients and I work in close collaboration. We pay careful attention to interactions of personal and interpersonal experience, of past and present. Treatment is not one size fits all. This in-depth exploration sets in motion a process of transformation and fosters insight, healing, & growth. To learn more, visit www.DrAinsleyKennard.com or call (954) 999-9222 for a free brief consultation. I offer "sliding scale" discounts to many who inquire.
Some want help with specific problems, like depression, anxiety, or a painful personal history.
Trained in psychoanalytic (psychodynamic) approach, I offer a form of therapy that fosters personal development and freedom from unsatisfying and painful patterns of living. During individual sessions, my patients and I work in close collaboration. We pay careful attention to interactions of personal and interpersonal experience, of past and present. Treatment is not one size fits all. This in-depth exploration sets in motion a process of transformation and fosters insight, healing, & growth. To learn more, visit www.DrAinsleyKennard.com or call (954) 999-9222 for a free brief consultation. I offer "sliding scale" discounts to many who inquire.
(954) 280-2290 View (954) 280-2290
Photo of Osvail (Ozzie) Dias, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Osvail (Ozzie) Dias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33060
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 Sharon Marie Theroux, PhD, Psychologist
Sharon Marie Theroux
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pompano Beach, FL 33062
Welcome to my practice! I am a licensed psychologist, working in private practice since 1995 in the state of FLorida. As a therapist, I specialize in the treatment of individuals with depression, anxiety, chronic pain, eating disorders and addictive behaviors. I help individuals identify and express difficult emotions utilizing mindfulness, mindful self-compassion and Nonviolent Communication. I am certified to teach Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), trained to teach Mindful Self Compassion (MSC), and I am a registered Nonviolent Communication Trainer Candidate with the Center for Nonviolent Communication.
Welcome to my practice! I am a licensed psychologist, working in private practice since 1995 in the state of FLorida. As a therapist, I specialize in the treatment of individuals with depression, anxiety, chronic pain, eating disorders and addictive behaviors. I help individuals identify and express difficult emotions utilizing mindfulness, mindful self-compassion and Nonviolent Communication. I am certified to teach Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), trained to teach Mindful Self Compassion (MSC), and I am a registered Nonviolent Communication Trainer Candidate with the Center for Nonviolent Communication.
(561) 288-5020 View (561) 288-5020
Photo of Kelli Malkasian, PsyD, CEDS-C, Psychologist
Kelli Malkasian
Psychologist, PsyD, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Pompano Beach, FL 33060
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

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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.