Therapists in Bloomfield, MI
![Photo of Kristen Nicole Husted, PhD, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e4ae2f5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Nicole Husted
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, MI 48304
This research has allowed her scope of practice to broaden in the feild of TBI and trauma issues related to anxiety, paranoia and depression.
Dr. Husted has been working in the mental health field since 1995. She specializes in Traumatic Brain Injury, Neuropsychological Evaluations, Psychological Testing, substance abuse, PTSD and mental health disorders. She received her doctoral degree in 2008 in clinical psychology. She has hospital privileges at St. Joseph Mercy Oakland and private practice services at Oakland Psychiatric Association located in Pontiac, MI.
This research has allowed her scope of practice to broaden in the feild of TBI and trauma issues related to anxiety, paranoia and depression.
Dr. Husted has been working in the mental health field since 1995. She specializes in Traumatic Brain Injury, Neuropsychological Evaluations, Psychological Testing, substance abuse, PTSD and mental health disorders. She received her doctoral degree in 2008 in clinical psychology. She has hospital privileges at St. Joseph Mercy Oakland and private practice services at Oakland Psychiatric Association located in Pontiac, MI.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Brooke Colman, PsyD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7495a17-8256-4b8e-ad4d-634ea2099be8/2/320x400.jpeg)
My true aspirations as a therapist are represented by my enjoyment of working with people, listening and engaging in helping families, children, and adults. I have grown to understand the importance of forming a trusting therapeutic alliance and establishing a good rapport with each client. Throughout the progression of my career, I have recognized the importance of offering highly accessible support, empathy, and compassion in a collaborative environment. I provide psychotherapy for a wide range of disorders, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, and relationship concerns.
My true aspirations as a therapist are represented by my enjoyment of working with people, listening and engaging in helping families, children, and adults. I have grown to understand the importance of forming a trusting therapeutic alliance and establishing a good rapport with each client. Throughout the progression of my career, I have recognized the importance of offering highly accessible support, empathy, and compassion in a collaborative environment. I provide psychotherapy for a wide range of disorders, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, and relationship concerns.
![Photo of Marcie W Zoref, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac929ce4-9643-4db6-9a8d-edf68562a5fc/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide psychotherapy and treat individuals and families. We can work together to help you alleviate stress and distress, improve self esteem and relationships, strengthen academic and occupational dynamics and enhance your quality of life. Comprehensive experience with depression, anxiety (PTSD & OCD), sexual abuse, eating disorders, substance abuse, self-esteem, relationship issues and behavioral problems.
I also conduct psychological testing, including the need for school/ standardized testing accommodations, IQ, ADHD, learning disabilities, information processing, achievement/academic, and personality and emotional functioning.
Theoretical orientation is psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and family systems. I am in network with various insurance companies and will offer sliding scale if indicated.
I provide psychotherapy and treat individuals and families. We can work together to help you alleviate stress and distress, improve self esteem and relationships, strengthen academic and occupational dynamics and enhance your quality of life. Comprehensive experience with depression, anxiety (PTSD & OCD), sexual abuse, eating disorders, substance abuse, self-esteem, relationship issues and behavioral problems.
I also conduct psychological testing, including the need for school/ standardized testing accommodations, IQ, ADHD, learning disabilities, information processing, achievement/academic, and personality and emotional functioning.
Theoretical orientation is psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and family systems. I am in network with various insurance companies and will offer sliding scale if indicated.
![Photo of Jeffrey Degroat, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3beea151-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for visiting my page, I am a clinical psychologist providing various treatment and assessment services through private practice. I primarily work with children and adolescents, while also providing marital, family, and adult individual counseling as well. I am able to tailor therapeutic services specific to each patient to address many emotional and behavioral difficulties, including: ADHD, depression, panic attacks, generalized anxiety, obsessions and compulsions, grief, developmental disabilities, oppositionality and defiance, as well as marital stress.
Thank you for visiting my page, I am a clinical psychologist providing various treatment and assessment services through private practice. I primarily work with children and adolescents, while also providing marital, family, and adult individual counseling as well. I am able to tailor therapeutic services specific to each patient to address many emotional and behavioral difficulties, including: ADHD, depression, panic attacks, generalized anxiety, obsessions and compulsions, grief, developmental disabilities, oppositionality and defiance, as well as marital stress.
![Photo of Matthew Ventimiglia - Matthew Ventimiglia, Ph.D., PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53fd44b0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, trauma, and relationship difficulties.
I aim to provide a supportive environment in which lasting life changes are made with a greater sense of meaning, purpose, and overall well-being. I specialize in helping individuals overcome behavioral, emotional, and relationship patterns that often result in anxiety, depression, relationship problems, trauma, substance use, low self esteem etc. As a result of therapy, you will have increased self awareness, make better choices for yourself, and develop healthier, more balanced relationships.
I work with adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, trauma, and relationship difficulties.
I aim to provide a supportive environment in which lasting life changes are made with a greater sense of meaning, purpose, and overall well-being. I specialize in helping individuals overcome behavioral, emotional, and relationship patterns that often result in anxiety, depression, relationship problems, trauma, substance use, low self esteem etc. As a result of therapy, you will have increased self awareness, make better choices for yourself, and develop healthier, more balanced relationships.
![Photo of Keith Mosa-Basha, LCSW, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1271cd9b-6980-41c0-a8da-2756524bc3ba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Keith Mosa-Basha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301
Keith Mosa-Basha is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2018. He has a Bachelors in Psychology from Michigan State University, Post-Bachelor's Degree in Evolutionary Psychology from Oakland University, and a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work with a specialization in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Keith possesses extensive expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with specialized knowledge in addressing substance use and addiction, marriage and family counseling, anxiety and depression, ADHD, and a range of other mental health diagnoses.
Keith Mosa-Basha is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2018. He has a Bachelors in Psychology from Michigan State University, Post-Bachelor's Degree in Evolutionary Psychology from Oakland University, and a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work with a specialization in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Keith possesses extensive expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with specialized knowledge in addressing substance use and addiction, marriage and family counseling, anxiety and depression, ADHD, and a range of other mental health diagnoses.
![Photo of Judith E. Margerum, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cda0411-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with a wide range of clients including adults with problems ranging from sexual abuse, depression and anxiety, to marriage counseling, family problems or those who just need fine tuning or coaching.
I have been working as a licensed psychologist for over 25 years, working with individuals and families with a wide range of problems. I am always aware of the systemic context within which problems exist as people are impacted by their work, home and social environments as well as their internal conflicts. I focus on the individual's and family's strengths that can be harnessed to solve problems, improve life or reach goals. I believe that everyone has within themselves the power to solve their problems and find possibility, meaning and hope in their lives. My role is to help them find this power.
I work with a wide range of clients including adults with problems ranging from sexual abuse, depression and anxiety, to marriage counseling, family problems or those who just need fine tuning or coaching.
I have been working as a licensed psychologist for over 25 years, working with individuals and families with a wide range of problems. I am always aware of the systemic context within which problems exist as people are impacted by their work, home and social environments as well as their internal conflicts. I focus on the individual's and family's strengths that can be harnessed to solve problems, improve life or reach goals. I believe that everyone has within themselves the power to solve their problems and find possibility, meaning and hope in their lives. My role is to help them find this power.
![Photo of Diane M Cartwright, LMSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4429eef-5828-4901-9ae6-7a4edbacd23a/2/320x400.png)
Diane M Cartwright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CST
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience providing specialized counseling services to individuals or families who are experiencing depression, anxiety, sexual trauma, intimacy and women's health issues, relationship and parenting challenges, anger management, mild traumatic brain injury, and adolescents who have been diagnosed with ADHD, ODD, and Conduct Disorder.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS via Telehealth! I enjoy working with clients as they gain insight into their struggles so they can identify healthy tools to overcome those struggles. My clients will encounter a non-judgmental and caring environment that promotes growth, healing and empowerment. Because everyone comes to therapy with unique challenges and values, I use an individualized approach to meet clients' specific needs, incorporating research-based strategies that draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction approach.
I have extensive experience providing specialized counseling services to individuals or families who are experiencing depression, anxiety, sexual trauma, intimacy and women's health issues, relationship and parenting challenges, anger management, mild traumatic brain injury, and adolescents who have been diagnosed with ADHD, ODD, and Conduct Disorder.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS via Telehealth! I enjoy working with clients as they gain insight into their struggles so they can identify healthy tools to overcome those struggles. My clients will encounter a non-judgmental and caring environment that promotes growth, healing and empowerment. Because everyone comes to therapy with unique challenges and values, I use an individualized approach to meet clients' specific needs, incorporating research-based strategies that draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction approach.
![Photo of Dr. Kat Lewitzke - Bright Pine BH: Psychological Testing and Therapy, PsyD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b34cad91-bc01-4985-b00c-e66c3836fb7b/2/320x400.png)
Bright Pine BH: Psychological Testing and Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Bright Pine Behavioral Health: Psychological Testing and Therapy, with three convenient Oakland County locations in Clarkston, West Bloomfield, and Troy, offers expert psychological testing and counseling for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, anxiety, and depression. Led by clinic director and managing partner, Dr. Kat Lewitzke, a recognized Metro-Detroit Mom Approved Doc and OC 40 under 40 awardee, we cater to children, teens, and adults of all ages. Dr. Lewitzke also hosts the "Psych Confidential" podcast and has been featured on shows like "Adventures in Autism," "The Well Child," and "Autism Mom MD."
Bright Pine Behavioral Health: Psychological Testing and Therapy, with three convenient Oakland County locations in Clarkston, West Bloomfield, and Troy, offers expert psychological testing and counseling for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, anxiety, and depression. Led by clinic director and managing partner, Dr. Kat Lewitzke, a recognized Metro-Detroit Mom Approved Doc and OC 40 under 40 awardee, we cater to children, teens, and adults of all ages. Dr. Lewitzke also hosts the "Psych Confidential" podcast and has been featured on shows like "Adventures in Autism," "The Well Child," and "Autism Mom MD."
I specialize in independent and clinical neuropsychological evaluations with adults 18 years and older who have a traumatic brain injury from events such as car accidents, work accidents, slip and falls, and strokes; or who have cognitive impairments from dementia. I also perform psychological evaluations of emotions and personality issues, and treatment, with adults 18 years and older, for traumatic events as well as for anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, and physical disabilities and conditions such as chronic pain. I can perform psychological evaluations and psychotherapy via telehealth videoconferencing.
I specialize in independent and clinical neuropsychological evaluations with adults 18 years and older who have a traumatic brain injury from events such as car accidents, work accidents, slip and falls, and strokes; or who have cognitive impairments from dementia. I also perform psychological evaluations of emotions and personality issues, and treatment, with adults 18 years and older, for traumatic events as well as for anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, and physical disabilities and conditions such as chronic pain. I can perform psychological evaluations and psychotherapy via telehealth videoconferencing.
![Photo of Deb Hamilton - Crossroads Psychological Center, PsyD, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/441870dd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Crossroads Psychological Center
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304
At Crossroads Psychological Center, I'm here to help guide you as you continue your journey, providing you with the most current and effective treatments for a wide variety of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
At Crossroads Psychological Center, I'm here to help guide you as you continue your journey, providing you with the most current and effective treatments for a wide variety of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
![Photo of Yeirim Kim, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfcd5846-a0ae-4da9-abc3-f0d5a5baf787/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yeirim Kim
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
I am committed to working collaboratively with diverse populations, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. My practice is grounded in a person-centered approach, where I integrate multicultural perspectives, along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), & trauma-informed care. I believe in fostering an environment where vulnerability, authenticity, and self-understanding are encouraged. By addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, & identity conflict. I aim to empower my clients to build self-esteem & reach their full potential.
I am committed to working collaboratively with diverse populations, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. My practice is grounded in a person-centered approach, where I integrate multicultural perspectives, along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), & trauma-informed care. I believe in fostering an environment where vulnerability, authenticity, and self-understanding are encouraged. By addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, & identity conflict. I aim to empower my clients to build self-esteem & reach their full potential.
![Photo of Andrea Morrison, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ba5a22f-8e26-4ba4-81e4-f48b72a6ec54/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi my name is Dr. Andrea Morrison. I have over 20 years experience helping people with a multitude of concerns and worries. I have been a Licensed Psychologist for 17 years first with my masters then obtaining my Doctorate. When you are filling out a checkbox for what you are looking for in a therapist or a client it is ironic to me. I have always been person-centered with a solution-focused approach. My main approach is CBT but EACH person is unique in their needs. I meet them where they are, learn where they want to be and tailor the treatment goals in that manner. In that sense, I am eclectic and diverse in my approach.
Hi my name is Dr. Andrea Morrison. I have over 20 years experience helping people with a multitude of concerns and worries. I have been a Licensed Psychologist for 17 years first with my masters then obtaining my Doctorate. When you are filling out a checkbox for what you are looking for in a therapist or a client it is ironic to me. I have always been person-centered with a solution-focused approach. My main approach is CBT but EACH person is unique in their needs. I meet them where they are, learn where they want to be and tailor the treatment goals in that manner. In that sense, I am eclectic and diverse in my approach.
![Photo of Amanda Tashjian, PhD, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/326d4a20-0474-42c5-a139-ae588473fcc0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Tashjian
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301
Stressors are apart of everyday life, but sometimes we need someone to provide an objective lens and safe space to share our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. As a clinical professional counselor and counselor educator, I care most about my clients and how I can help support them in managing their stressors. With over 10 years of experience working with children, individuals, and couples with varying levels of mental health related concerns and disorders, I look forward to helping you in a supportive and productive way.
Stressors are apart of everyday life, but sometimes we need someone to provide an objective lens and safe space to share our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. As a clinical professional counselor and counselor educator, I care most about my clients and how I can help support them in managing their stressors. With over 10 years of experience working with children, individuals, and couples with varying levels of mental health related concerns and disorders, I look forward to helping you in a supportive and productive way.
![Photo of Leslie R Johnsen - Oakland Psychological Clinic, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/621eb316-a667-4a2e-8866-d4916946b082/2/320x400.jpeg)
Oakland Psychological Clinic
Limited Licensed Psychologist
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Oakland Psychological has been helping those struggling for more than 3 decades. We have over 90 therapists and multiple psychiatrists ready to help you in 8 convenient locations. You will feel comfortable sharing your life in our beautiful, private offices with exceptional trained, seasoned professionals specializing in a variety of mental health and substance use issues. In addition to individual and family services, we are a full service psychological center including psychological evaluations, group therapy opportunities, and an intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance abuse.
Oakland Psychological has been helping those struggling for more than 3 decades. We have over 90 therapists and multiple psychiatrists ready to help you in 8 convenient locations. You will feel comfortable sharing your life in our beautiful, private offices with exceptional trained, seasoned professionals specializing in a variety of mental health and substance use issues. In addition to individual and family services, we are a full service psychological center including psychological evaluations, group therapy opportunities, and an intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance abuse.
![Photo of Lewis Wilson Smith, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b592089-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed psychologist consulting neuropsychologist, hypnotherapist and licensed marriage counselor, Dr. Lewis Smith provides treatment for adults, adolescents and children. He performs neuropsychological assessments and specializes in clinical psychology, outpatient psychotherapy and hypnosis. He treats individuals with alcohol and substance abuse concerns. He has consulted to numerous schools, organizations and businesses and has taught graduate students in the field of child psychology and human development.
As a licensed psychologist consulting neuropsychologist, hypnotherapist and licensed marriage counselor, Dr. Lewis Smith provides treatment for adults, adolescents and children. He performs neuropsychological assessments and specializes in clinical psychology, outpatient psychotherapy and hypnosis. He treats individuals with alcohol and substance abuse concerns. He has consulted to numerous schools, organizations and businesses and has taught graduate students in the field of child psychology and human development.
![Photo of Bethany Helfman, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48837a18-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and relationship issues I provide compassionate, research-driven, innovative and individualized care. When appropriate I collaborate with exceptional providers in the area including physicians, dietitians and psychiatrists. In addition to individual, group and couples therapy, I provide assessment for individuals undergoing bariatric surgery. Treatment is provided in a warm, safe and confidential space in Bloomfield Hills, MI.
Specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and relationship issues I provide compassionate, research-driven, innovative and individualized care. When appropriate I collaborate with exceptional providers in the area including physicians, dietitians and psychiatrists. In addition to individual, group and couples therapy, I provide assessment for individuals undergoing bariatric surgery. Treatment is provided in a warm, safe and confidential space in Bloomfield Hills, MI.
![Photo of Richard B Traitel, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b91324b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a fully licensed psychologist with over 40 years of experience treating adolescents, adults, elderly, individuals, couples and families. My approach is eclectic, using whatever therapeutic techniques are appropriate to each individual's needs. I am an interactive therapist. Short term therapy is my preferred approach, in order to enable individuals to become healthier, more functional and to move on without interminable therapy. My practice also consists of forensic psychology and industrial/organizational psychological consultation. I coach employees, managers and corporate executives. Initial appointments are within at most within one week of client's contact.
I am a fully licensed psychologist with over 40 years of experience treating adolescents, adults, elderly, individuals, couples and families. My approach is eclectic, using whatever therapeutic techniques are appropriate to each individual's needs. I am an interactive therapist. Short term therapy is my preferred approach, in order to enable individuals to become healthier, more functional and to move on without interminable therapy. My practice also consists of forensic psychology and industrial/organizational psychological consultation. I coach employees, managers and corporate executives. Initial appointments are within at most within one week of client's contact.
![Photo of Franklin R Sollars - Sollars and Associates, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86ad3ee1-d0e0-4c18-980a-88b4b348796a/2/320x400.png)
Sollars and Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
I am a licensed psychologist and the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement, and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session. Our therapists possess a great deal of experience in evaluating and working with children, adolescents, and families dealing with a variety of issues.
I am a licensed psychologist and the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement, and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session. Our therapists possess a great deal of experience in evaluating and working with children, adolescents, and families dealing with a variety of issues.
![Photo of Dr. Sarah Murray - Murray Center for Behavioral Wellness, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8664c9d3-069a-42c0-98f6-0fd9944d3c84/2/320x400.jpeg)
Murray Center for Behavioral Wellness
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
We are a full service clinic offering neuropsychological testing, therapy, medication management, parent coaching & tutoring services. Our mission is to provide caring, in-depth treatment and assessment services, with each individual’s needs in mind. Our staff includes licensed psychologists, psychiatric providers, and certified teachers and tutors. We provide consultation & follow-up services, focusing on collaborative treatment in a warm and inviting atmosphere. We offer services to children and adults. The aim in treatment is to help identify & foster your strengths while working with you to manage distressing areas of your life.
We are a full service clinic offering neuropsychological testing, therapy, medication management, parent coaching & tutoring services. Our mission is to provide caring, in-depth treatment and assessment services, with each individual’s needs in mind. Our staff includes licensed psychologists, psychiatric providers, and certified teachers and tutors. We provide consultation & follow-up services, focusing on collaborative treatment in a warm and inviting atmosphere. We offer services to children and adults. The aim in treatment is to help identify & foster your strengths while working with you to manage distressing areas of your life.
See more therapy options for Bloomfield
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.