Depression Therapists in Sturbridge, MA

Photo of Kathleen Moynagh, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Moynagh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sturbridge, MA 01566  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 17 years of experience. I have worked extensively with clients who present with various emotional and behavioral challenges and diagnoses, including: depression, anxiety, AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder/trauma reactivity, grief, substance use, mood instability, limited use of effective coping skills, impaired decision making, impulsivity, low self-esteem and relationship issues. I use a collaborative and strength based approach to assist clients in recognizing and building upon their strengths and overcoming their challenges.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 17 years of experience. I have worked extensively with clients who present with various emotional and behavioral challenges and diagnoses, including: depression, anxiety, AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder/trauma reactivity, grief, substance use, mood instability, limited use of effective coping skills, impaired decision making, impulsivity, low self-esteem and relationship issues. I use a collaborative and strength based approach to assist clients in recognizing and building upon their strengths and overcoming their challenges.
(508) 938-8329 View (508) 938-8329
Photo of Jack Tracey, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jack Tracey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Sometimes your anxiety is so bad it can just stop you in your tracks. The depression can knock you down and steal all the pleasure from your life. Relationships can become strained and instead of easing the pain they can seem to add to it. You're managing to cover all the basics most of the time but no one seems to understand just how difficult that can be. But I understand. I know the struggle. I understand that some to the problems of today are linked to pain from the past. And I know how to help people who are hurting to feel stronger, more confident, and to regain some of that pleasure, contentment and purpose in life.
Sometimes your anxiety is so bad it can just stop you in your tracks. The depression can knock you down and steal all the pleasure from your life. Relationships can become strained and instead of easing the pain they can seem to add to it. You're managing to cover all the basics most of the time but no one seems to understand just how difficult that can be. But I understand. I know the struggle. I understand that some to the problems of today are linked to pain from the past. And I know how to help people who are hurting to feel stronger, more confident, and to regain some of that pleasure, contentment and purpose in life.
(508) 418-6888 View (508) 418-6888
Photo of Joan P Maselli, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Joan P Maselli
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01566
In my blended practice of mental health counseling and art therapy, I work with families, adults, and children, supporting them in identifying resources and strengths to regain emotional health. In sessions, we work together using the approach that best suits my clients' needs--- art therapy using hands-on creative projects to gently encourage self-expression and gain insight; cognitive behavioral therapy to positively shift thoughts and feelings; and dialectical behavior therapy to enhance mindfulness and increase resilience. Through this therapeutic work, clients develop ways to resolve their issues--- relieving depression, managing anxiety, positively changing behavior, processing trauma, healing from abuse.
In my blended practice of mental health counseling and art therapy, I work with families, adults, and children, supporting them in identifying resources and strengths to regain emotional health. In sessions, we work together using the approach that best suits my clients' needs--- art therapy using hands-on creative projects to gently encourage self-expression and gain insight; cognitive behavioral therapy to positively shift thoughts and feelings; and dialectical behavior therapy to enhance mindfulness and increase resilience. Through this therapeutic work, clients develop ways to resolve their issues--- relieving depression, managing anxiety, positively changing behavior, processing trauma, healing from abuse.
(508) 434-4399 View (508) 434-4399
Photo of Paula M Courtney - Paula Courtney LMHC Counseling Services, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Paula Courtney LMHC Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01518
Specialties are focusing on trauma, all forms of depression, anxieties especially social phobia, worry and rumination, low self esteem, mood disorders, in both teens and adults for thirteen years.
"We can control our thoughts and emotions or they can control us. There is a world of difference." Therapy is educational and direct with focus on cognitive restructuring and skills building. Clients usually report ease of symptoms in the first few weeks. I'm a graduate of Assumption. I've completed the Aaron Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy known to be the most effective form of treatment today. Longer sessions are also available. Some people respond better to a 2 or 3 hour session. BCBS, Carelon or self pay only.
Specialties are focusing on trauma, all forms of depression, anxieties especially social phobia, worry and rumination, low self esteem, mood disorders, in both teens and adults for thirteen years.
"We can control our thoughts and emotions or they can control us. There is a world of difference." Therapy is educational and direct with focus on cognitive restructuring and skills building. Clients usually report ease of symptoms in the first few weeks. I'm a graduate of Assumption. I've completed the Aaron Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy known to be the most effective form of treatment today. Longer sessions are also available. Some people respond better to a 2 or 3 hour session. BCBS, Carelon or self pay only.
(508) 456-6202 View (508) 456-6202
Photo of Tiffani Simpson, LMHC, Counselor
Tiffani Simpson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01518  (Online Only)
I have been working with substance use disorders and mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression, since 2019. I take a collaborative approach by talking to you and ensuring that your goals and needs are heard and understood. I focus on ways to help improve your daily life by focusing on current stressors and providing goal setting for each week. By applying different skills and self-care practices into your daily routine, you will be able to see positive behavioral changes.
I have been working with substance use disorders and mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression, since 2019. I take a collaborative approach by talking to you and ensuring that your goals and needs are heard and understood. I focus on ways to help improve your daily life by focusing on current stressors and providing goal setting for each week. By applying different skills and self-care practices into your daily routine, you will be able to see positive behavioral changes.
(508) 684-5523 View (508) 684-5523
Photo of Leanne M Joeckel, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leanne M Joeckel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01566  (Online Only)
I am a professional, and empathic therapist, who is down to earth and real. I strive to help my clients utilizing the best therapeutic approach for the specific problem brought to me. Whether it is relationship problems, a divorce, anxiety, depression, or another mental health problem, I'm motivated to find a solution with you that meets your goals and needs.
I am a professional, and empathic therapist, who is down to earth and real. I strive to help my clients utilizing the best therapeutic approach for the specific problem brought to me. Whether it is relationship problems, a divorce, anxiety, depression, or another mental health problem, I'm motivated to find a solution with you that meets your goals and needs.
(508) 625-5383 View (508) 625-5383
Photo of Nicole Magni - Nicole Magni LMHC, LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Nicole Magni LMHC, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01518  (Online Only)
I work with people who are struggling with trauma, insomnia, anxiety and depression.
Life is full of seasons. Some seasons are more turbulent than others. Do you find that you’re losing sleep, or worrying more than usual? Maybe your usual hobbies have taken a backseat, or you’re spending more time alone. You may be struggling with other health issues, or have started ignoring them. Perhaps you've started using substances more often than you'd like to. Or you just don’t understand why no one “gets” you and you wish someone would just try!
I work with people who are struggling with trauma, insomnia, anxiety and depression.
Life is full of seasons. Some seasons are more turbulent than others. Do you find that you’re losing sleep, or worrying more than usual? Maybe your usual hobbies have taken a backseat, or you’re spending more time alone. You may be struggling with other health issues, or have started ignoring them. Perhaps you've started using substances more often than you'd like to. Or you just don’t understand why no one “gets” you and you wish someone would just try!
(774) 252-9941 View (774) 252-9941
Photo of Patricia Venegas, LMHC,  CAGS, MBA, Counselor
Patricia Venegas
Counselor, LMHC, CAGS, MBA
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01566
In combination, these techniques have been found to be effective treatments for a range of problems including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorder and bereavement.
Most of the times, to build a life worth living means to face and overcome struggles, life changes, losses, challenges, to name some. Many instances like these set the tone for depression, anxieties, personality issues, stress, etc. We get stuck in the journey of life and cannot achieve our goals of having a better life because it is difficult to deal with problems, we lack coping skills, self-esteem, etc. Therapy is a way to discover how we can become "unstuck", learn new skills, discover what we need to change or accept, or just talk with somebody who is non-judgmental in a confidential setting.
In combination, these techniques have been found to be effective treatments for a range of problems including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorder and bereavement.
Most of the times, to build a life worth living means to face and overcome struggles, life changes, losses, challenges, to name some. Many instances like these set the tone for depression, anxieties, personality issues, stress, etc. We get stuck in the journey of life and cannot achieve our goals of having a better life because it is difficult to deal with problems, we lack coping skills, self-esteem, etc. Therapy is a way to discover how we can become "unstuck", learn new skills, discover what we need to change or accept, or just talk with somebody who is non-judgmental in a confidential setting.
(774) 273-7790 View (774) 273-7790
Stephanie Mancini Judith Bergeron Counseling Connections
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01566  (Online Only)
Specialty areas include: Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Adoption/Foster Care, Divorce, Financial Stress, Job Loss, General Life Transitions, Trauma (including abuse and neglect), ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Behavior Problems, Parenting, Family Conflict, Peer Relationships, School Issues, Substance Abuse, Self-Esteem, and Anger Management.
As clinical social workers and experienced psychotherapists, we believe that people of all ages are able to grow and overcome the obstacles that life presents. We are dedicated to providing effective, strengths-based counseling to empower our clients on their journey to a healthier and brighter future. We have over twenty-five years experience providing counseling for children, adolescents, families, and adults. We work together with clients to achieve their personal goals in a safe environment.
Specialty areas include: Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Adoption/Foster Care, Divorce, Financial Stress, Job Loss, General Life Transitions, Trauma (including abuse and neglect), ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Behavior Problems, Parenting, Family Conflict, Peer Relationships, School Issues, Substance Abuse, Self-Esteem, and Anger Management.
As clinical social workers and experienced psychotherapists, we believe that people of all ages are able to grow and overcome the obstacles that life presents. We are dedicated to providing effective, strengths-based counseling to empower our clients on their journey to a healthier and brighter future. We have over twenty-five years experience providing counseling for children, adolescents, families, and adults. We work together with clients to achieve their personal goals in a safe environment.
(774) 272-5671 View (774) 272-5671
Photo of Bonnie C Severns-Gaumond - Green Valley/Palmer Counseling, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Green Valley/Palmer Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Specialties include substance abuse, anxiety, depression, grief, stressful life changes, anger management, self-esteem, co-dependency, behavioral addictions, stress management and life management skills.
Are you feeling, afraid, depressed, anxious, overwhelmed or just feel like life is to tough. Do you feel like bad things only happen to you. Well don't feel alone, bad things happen to many people. Therapy is a chance to put things back into perspective and help get your life back on track. I base therapy on the individual needs of the client. Offering the highest level of care for clients in a safe, comfortable private setting. Client's learn to develop effective coping and problem solving skills to address life's challenges and to attain personal growth. TELEMEDICINE IS AVAILABLE TO ALL CLIENTS AT THIS TIME.
Specialties include substance abuse, anxiety, depression, grief, stressful life changes, anger management, self-esteem, co-dependency, behavioral addictions, stress management and life management skills.
Are you feeling, afraid, depressed, anxious, overwhelmed or just feel like life is to tough. Do you feel like bad things only happen to you. Well don't feel alone, bad things happen to many people. Therapy is a chance to put things back into perspective and help get your life back on track. I base therapy on the individual needs of the client. Offering the highest level of care for clients in a safe, comfortable private setting. Client's learn to develop effective coping and problem solving skills to address life's challenges and to attain personal growth. TELEMEDICINE IS AVAILABLE TO ALL CLIENTS AT THIS TIME.
(508) 876-2379 View (508) 876-2379
Photo of Kate Mcgonagle, PsyD, Psychologist
Kate Mcgonagle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01566  (Online Only)
A private practice offering a help for adult women and men with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD support, as well as issues related to relationships and life transitions, such as divorce, new parenthood, the “empty nest” or aging. A specialty focus is available for women’s reproductive related issues such as post-partum depression, infertility, perimenopause/menopause and PMDD. For men, a specialty focus is available regarding relationship and communication issues.
A private practice offering a help for adult women and men with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD support, as well as issues related to relationships and life transitions, such as divorce, new parenthood, the “empty nest” or aging. A specialty focus is available for women’s reproductive related issues such as post-partum depression, infertility, perimenopause/menopause and PMDD. For men, a specialty focus is available regarding relationship and communication issues.
(508) 952-6376 View (508) 952-6376
Photo of Amaryllis Camas, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amaryllis Camas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sturbridge, MA 01518  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, addiction and many other areas.
I am a Bilingual (Spanish) Licensed independent clinical social worker who graduated from Westfield State University with over 5 years of experience. I strongly believe therapy should be tailored to the clients’ specific needs therefore my approach is using eclectic evidenced based treatments. I have received certification from Baystate Hospital on Trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT).
I have experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, addiction and many other areas.
I am a Bilingual (Spanish) Licensed independent clinical social worker who graduated from Westfield State University with over 5 years of experience. I strongly believe therapy should be tailored to the clients’ specific needs therefore my approach is using eclectic evidenced based treatments. I have received certification from Baystate Hospital on Trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT).
(508) 552-8339 View (508) 552-8339
Photo of Kristyn Bridges, MA, CRC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kristyn Bridges
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sturbridge, MA 01518  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience addressing other issues such as depression, women's issues, trauma, ADHD, grief and loss, stress management, and adjustment issues.
Are you finding that you have too much on your plate, resulting in you feeling overwhelmed and anxious about upcoming tasks that need to be completed? Are you struggling in your relationship with your spouse? You deserve to wake up feeling like you can achieve success, in all areas of your life? Let me help you get there!
I have extensive experience addressing other issues such as depression, women's issues, trauma, ADHD, grief and loss, stress management, and adjustment issues.
Are you finding that you have too much on your plate, resulting in you feeling overwhelmed and anxious about upcoming tasks that need to be completed? Are you struggling in your relationship with your spouse? You deserve to wake up feeling like you can achieve success, in all areas of your life? Let me help you get there!
(774) 352-5679 View (774) 352-5679
Photo of R. Maryam Maurer, DNP, PMHNP
R. Maryam Maurer
DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Accepting new clients. Holistic Psychiatry for women and men. When clients first seek care, they are often experiencing anxiety, despair, depression, mood swings, and feel like their life is falling apart. Despite attempts to move forward, many clients feel stuck. Traditional methods have simply not worked. The clients who come to Pura Vida Psychiatry want more. They want to move their lives in a better direction and have the determination it takes to find a better way.
Accepting new clients. Holistic Psychiatry for women and men. When clients first seek care, they are often experiencing anxiety, despair, depression, mood swings, and feel like their life is falling apart. Despite attempts to move forward, many clients feel stuck. Traditional methods have simply not worked. The clients who come to Pura Vida Psychiatry want more. They want to move their lives in a better direction and have the determination it takes to find a better way.
(413) 344-2759 View (413) 344-2759
Photo of Karen Ann Gemboski, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Ann Gemboski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Currently in my practice I use an evidenced based type of therapy that has been embraced for years. Compassion based therapy provides the client with a total acceptance and validation for their well being. People who experience them may struggle to feel relieved, reassured or safe. Research suggests that a specialized affect regulation system (or systems) underpins feelings of reassurance, safeness and well being. It is believed to have evolved with attachment and in particular, the ability to register and respond with calming and a sense of well being to being cared for.
Currently in my practice I use an evidenced based type of therapy that has been embraced for years. Compassion based therapy provides the client with a total acceptance and validation for their well being. People who experience them may struggle to feel relieved, reassured or safe. Research suggests that a specialized affect regulation system (or systems) underpins feelings of reassurance, safeness and well being. It is believed to have evolved with attachment and in particular, the ability to register and respond with calming and a sense of well being to being cared for.
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Photo of Lisa Galasso, PhD, CPC, Psychologist
Lisa Galasso
Psychologist, PhD, CPC
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01566
MY PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL. I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Massachusetts and I conduct all of my sessions online. All sessions are conducted over a secure, HIPAA-compliant tele-health platform. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families. I have worked with people across the developmental spectrum, from children to elder adults, for nearly 2 decades. My specialty is helping people address the challenges that get in the way of living a completely fulfilled life. Mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, as well as difficult life transitions are some of these challenges.
MY PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL. I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Massachusetts and I conduct all of my sessions online. All sessions are conducted over a secure, HIPAA-compliant tele-health platform. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families. I have worked with people across the developmental spectrum, from children to elder adults, for nearly 2 decades. My specialty is helping people address the challenges that get in the way of living a completely fulfilled life. Mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, as well as difficult life transitions are some of these challenges.
(833) 791-0260 View (833) 791-0260
Photo of Carol Mackiewicz Neely, LMHC, Counselor
Carol Mackiewicz Neely
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01566  (Online Only)
Saturdays Now Open! Carol's clients are creative and wise; which is every person. Her clients are ready to use their natural creativity to question the "what is" and want to implement what they desire in their life. Carol's clients want to feel confident in creating their life. When working with Carol, you will have an art transformative experience that also satisfies clinical counseling skills. You will create art during your session, while learning skills for self soothing, empowerment, and focusing on what calls to you. Carol facilitates the art making, holds the space, and verbally processes with you throughout the session.
Saturdays Now Open! Carol's clients are creative and wise; which is every person. Her clients are ready to use their natural creativity to question the "what is" and want to implement what they desire in their life. Carol's clients want to feel confident in creating their life. When working with Carol, you will have an art transformative experience that also satisfies clinical counseling skills. You will create art during your session, while learning skills for self soothing, empowerment, and focusing on what calls to you. Carol facilitates the art making, holds the space, and verbally processes with you throughout the session.
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Photo of Sherri Westbury - Collaborative EMDR with Sherri Westbury, LMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Collaborative EMDR with Sherri Westbury, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Waitlist for new clients
Working with trauma clients can be rewarding as well as difficult. Many of our clients reach a point where they can talk about their trauma but are still plagued by symptoms. Medication can help reduce symptoms. Skills building can further help. Unfortunately for some clients these interventions cannot stop the symptoms from recurring. It can leave you and your client feeling that progress has stalled. This is where Collaborative EMDR can help.
Working with trauma clients can be rewarding as well as difficult. Many of our clients reach a point where they can talk about their trauma but are still plagued by symptoms. Medication can help reduce symptoms. Skills building can further help. Unfortunately for some clients these interventions cannot stop the symptoms from recurring. It can leave you and your client feeling that progress has stalled. This is where Collaborative EMDR can help.
(508) 980-5250 View (508) 980-5250
Photo of Aaron A. Hoffman, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Aaron A. Hoffman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sturbridge, MA 01566
I provide comfortable, compenent, confidential counseling. My ideal client is willing to engage in a holistic process which creates an awareness of how their physical, emotional, and spiritual health impacts their well being and their relationships on a daily basis. I strive to help develop a sense of understanding which facilates an experience of acceptance and personal growth. Personal growth where individuals learn how to quiet negativity by cultivating hope and optimism.
I provide comfortable, compenent, confidential counseling. My ideal client is willing to engage in a holistic process which creates an awareness of how their physical, emotional, and spiritual health impacts their well being and their relationships on a daily basis. I strive to help develop a sense of understanding which facilates an experience of acceptance and personal growth. Personal growth where individuals learn how to quiet negativity by cultivating hope and optimism.
(508) 719-8433 View (508) 719-8433
Photo of Michael J McManus, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael J McManus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sturbridge, MA 01518
The ideal client who we work with therapeutically is motivated, and desires change. This client values the therapeutic relationship while also working toward success quickly. This client should be excited, even if a little bit anxious, about gaining valuable insight into themselves and their place in their life. As far as couples/marriage counseling is concerned, couples should be motivated to stay together and not simply stop off at therapy before divorce. Couples should be willing to work hard and look at themselves as individuals as well as a family.
The ideal client who we work with therapeutically is motivated, and desires change. This client values the therapeutic relationship while also working toward success quickly. This client should be excited, even if a little bit anxious, about gaining valuable insight into themselves and their place in their life. As far as couples/marriage counseling is concerned, couples should be motivated to stay together and not simply stop off at therapy before divorce. Couples should be willing to work hard and look at themselves as individuals as well as a family.
(508) 455-3496 View (508) 455-3496
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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.