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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Donna Kay VanderKodde - Begin Anew Counseling, LLC & Kodde Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Counselor
Begin Anew Counseling, LLC & Kodde Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, MI 49341
I deal with ADHD, attachment problems, anxiety, depression, anger, conflict, grief, adoption adjustments, codependency, trauma, and infidelity.
Are you struggling, confused, depressed, or anxious about your circumstances and relationships? Life is complicated and I am committed to truly hear you in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am a skilled, caring, compassionate, counselor who will give you exceptional care, offer solution-based, holistic treatment that gives hope for change, and uses carefully selected therapy to best meet your unique needs.
I deal with ADHD, attachment problems, anxiety, depression, anger, conflict, grief, adoption adjustments, codependency, trauma, and infidelity.
Are you struggling, confused, depressed, or anxious about your circumstances and relationships? Life is complicated and I am committed to truly hear you in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am a skilled, caring, compassionate, counselor who will give you exceptional care, offer solution-based, holistic treatment that gives hope for change, and uses carefully selected therapy to best meet your unique needs.
(616) 426-6577 View (616) 426-6577
Photo of Margaret M Lebo, LMSW-MI, LCSW-NY, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret M Lebo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-MI, LCSW-NY
Verified Verified
Rockford, MI 49341
I believe it is a difficult decision to reach out for support from another person. In so doing, therapy not only needs to be a gentle guidance towards a happier lifestyle, but it also needs to incorporate challenges. In working with individuals, couples and families, I enjoy creating a balance of both of these concepts. Shifting our perceptions and changing our behaviors is not a simple process for anyone. I work with parents, teenagers and even our littlest people during stressful life situations including depression, anxiety, anger management, marital issues, women's issues, and processing traumatic events.
I believe it is a difficult decision to reach out for support from another person. In so doing, therapy not only needs to be a gentle guidance towards a happier lifestyle, but it also needs to incorporate challenges. In working with individuals, couples and families, I enjoy creating a balance of both of these concepts. Shifting our perceptions and changing our behaviors is not a simple process for anyone. I work with parents, teenagers and even our littlest people during stressful life situations including depression, anxiety, anger management, marital issues, women's issues, and processing traumatic events.
(616) 965-7988 View (616) 965-7988

Online Therapists

Photo of Cherie LaLone, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cherie LaLone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Clare, MI 48617
Extensive experience with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, childhood behaviors, suicidality, self-harm behaviors, family systems, adolescents, divorce, transitions, to name a few.
Clinically, I have worked in the Community Mental Health system and in a private practice prior to opening my own private practice. I am trained in 10+ evidenced-based practices like Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy, used in treating PTSD, the Nurturing Parent Program (NPP), and Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT). My passion is to help others to live life as the best version of themselves, regardless of their age or presenting issues. I believe that each of us is just one person away from reaching that goal of a happy life, and if I can be that for you then it is a win for us both.
Extensive experience with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, childhood behaviors, suicidality, self-harm behaviors, family systems, adolescents, divorce, transitions, to name a few.
Clinically, I have worked in the Community Mental Health system and in a private practice prior to opening my own private practice. I am trained in 10+ evidenced-based practices like Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy, used in treating PTSD, the Nurturing Parent Program (NPP), and Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT). My passion is to help others to live life as the best version of themselves, regardless of their age or presenting issues. I believe that each of us is just one person away from reaching that goal of a happy life, and if I can be that for you then it is a win for us both.
(989) 200-4671 View (989) 200-4671
Photo of Candee Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candee Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49516
I specialize in addressing concerns such as spiritual confusion, depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem issues.
In facing the realities of life, we often encounter challenges that can seem overwhelming, even relentless. During these moments of hardship, the weight of our struggles can feel particularly isolating. However, I want to assure you that you're not alone. With a Master's Degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University and a wealth of personal and professional experience, I am here to extend my hand in support. My background includes working with youth in foster care, adoption, those navigating neurodivergence, homelessness, self-esteem concerns, depression, and intergenerational trauma.
I specialize in addressing concerns such as spiritual confusion, depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem issues.
In facing the realities of life, we often encounter challenges that can seem overwhelming, even relentless. During these moments of hardship, the weight of our struggles can feel particularly isolating. However, I want to assure you that you're not alone. With a Master's Degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University and a wealth of personal and professional experience, I am here to extend my hand in support. My background includes working with youth in foster care, adoption, those navigating neurodivergence, homelessness, self-esteem concerns, depression, and intergenerational trauma.
(616) 201-3713 View (616) 201-3713
Colleen Maresh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Battle Creek, MI 49015
I specialize in all types of addictions, including eating disorders but also work with adult survivors of abuse, alcohol and drug abuse, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, domestic violence, grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship counseling, self-esteem, self-harm and many other issues.
I work with adults, adolescents, couples and children as young as 12. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches uniquely tailored to each client and based on the treatment goals we develop together. I believe that each person has a unique place in this world. I believe that therapy gives clients a safe and supportive place to realize their potential. It’s up to me to assist them in obtaining the tools to reach it!
I specialize in all types of addictions, including eating disorders but also work with adult survivors of abuse, alcohol and drug abuse, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, domestic violence, grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship counseling, self-esteem, self-harm and many other issues.
I work with adults, adolescents, couples and children as young as 12. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches uniquely tailored to each client and based on the treatment goals we develop together. I believe that each person has a unique place in this world. I believe that therapy gives clients a safe and supportive place to realize their potential. It’s up to me to assist them in obtaining the tools to reach it!
(517) 225-0265 View (517) 225-0265
Photo of Carol Harvey, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
Specialties: Adoption issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma, Adolescents, Adults, Families, and Marriages.
Helping people is my passion and I feel honored that God has placed me in a position to help those find hope and healing through the counsel I offer. I create a safe place for you to share your story and the challenges you face. My hope is that you feel compassion from me as I journey with you to healing and wholeness. It is a process and my commitment is to walk alongside you at your pace.
Specialties: Adoption issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma, Adolescents, Adults, Families, and Marriages.
Helping people is my passion and I feel honored that God has placed me in a position to help those find hope and healing through the counsel I offer. I create a safe place for you to share your story and the challenges you face. My hope is that you feel compassion from me as I journey with you to healing and wholeness. It is a process and my commitment is to walk alongside you at your pace.
(269) 280-4088 View (269) 280-4088
Photo of Joe Horak, PhD, Psychologist
Joe Horak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
My clinical practice includes many entrepreneurs and business owners struggling with depression, anxiety, or experiencing performance issues.
I like to the heart of the matter quickly and then work with my clients to co-creative solutions tailored to their specific needs. My clients describe being in therapy with me as being involved in 'deeper work.' The deeper work may be related to the past, but it also could be doing a deeper dive into your current life and finding healthier ways to cope. I am trained in leadership assessment and coaching and I consult with family-owned businesses. In addition, to my psychology license in Michigan, I also am approved to provide telehealth services in Florida
My clinical practice includes many entrepreneurs and business owners struggling with depression, anxiety, or experiencing performance issues.
I like to the heart of the matter quickly and then work with my clients to co-creative solutions tailored to their specific needs. My clients describe being in therapy with me as being involved in 'deeper work.' The deeper work may be related to the past, but it also could be doing a deeper dive into your current life and finding healthier ways to cope. I am trained in leadership assessment and coaching and I consult with family-owned businesses. In addition, to my psychology license in Michigan, I also am approved to provide telehealth services in Florida
(616) 523-3796 View (616) 523-3796
Photo of John R Cantu, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John R Cantu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823
I empower individuals, couples and families to overcome personal obstacles. Building cohesiveness and structure to move forward in relationships and in life. My experience in Corporate America gives me the edge to work with individuals who want to improve their careers or just need to get that next promotion. I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders and OTHER mental health concerns. Adolescents and children who struggle with bullies or just find school as difficult. I also work with adolescents and adults with substance abuse concerns, addiction, and I also perform crisis intervention.
I empower individuals, couples and families to overcome personal obstacles. Building cohesiveness and structure to move forward in relationships and in life. My experience in Corporate America gives me the edge to work with individuals who want to improve their careers or just need to get that next promotion. I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders and OTHER mental health concerns. Adolescents and children who struggle with bullies or just find school as difficult. I also work with adolescents and adults with substance abuse concerns, addiction, and I also perform crisis intervention.
(517) 940-8003 View (517) 940-8003
Photo of Kevin Todd DeKam - West Michigan Wellness Group, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
West Michigan Wellness Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Byron Center, MI 49315
At some point in life, everyone gets stuck. Stuck in a difficult relationship, in depression or anxiety, on an unfulfilling or stalled career path, or maybe stuck on a past wound or trauma. You may be wondering, “How do I get out of this mess?” You don’t need to struggle alone. That’s why at West Michigan Wellness Group, we make it simple to start moving forward. 1) Contact us today. 2) Start a conversation. 3) Move forward towards wellness. Our boutique counseling practice will help you tailor a plan for wellness and meet the individual needs of you and your family.
At some point in life, everyone gets stuck. Stuck in a difficult relationship, in depression or anxiety, on an unfulfilling or stalled career path, or maybe stuck on a past wound or trauma. You may be wondering, “How do I get out of this mess?” You don’t need to struggle alone. That’s why at West Michigan Wellness Group, we make it simple to start moving forward. 1) Contact us today. 2) Start a conversation. 3) Move forward towards wellness. Our boutique counseling practice will help you tailor a plan for wellness and meet the individual needs of you and your family.
(616) 345-2787 View (616) 345-2787
Photo of Susan Weaver, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
I also have many years of experience in treating behavioral and addictive disorders, like substance abuse and eating disorders; and affective disorders like anxiety and depression.
I'm currently accepting a very limited number of clients, depending on my availability. Please email me with an inquiry and I will get back to you. I'm a general practice psychotherapist with over 30 years' experience. I work best with the older adolescent-to-adult range. I work with a broad variety of issues, including anxiety, depression and panic attacks; couples and relationship issues; substance abuse and eating disorders; trauma and abuse; sexuality and gender issues; and questions of identity and personal development.
I also have many years of experience in treating behavioral and addictive disorders, like substance abuse and eating disorders; and affective disorders like anxiety and depression.
I'm currently accepting a very limited number of clients, depending on my availability. Please email me with an inquiry and I will get back to you. I'm a general practice psychotherapist with over 30 years' experience. I work best with the older adolescent-to-adult range. I work with a broad variety of issues, including anxiety, depression and panic attacks; couples and relationship issues; substance abuse and eating disorders; trauma and abuse; sexuality and gender issues; and questions of identity and personal development.
(269) 924-0131 View (269) 924-0131
Photo of Robert Parsons, M A, LLPC, CRC, CVRT, Counselor
Robert Parsons
Counselor, M A, LLPC, CRC, CVRT
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
The path to a quality world can be intimidating for people. I understand how it can feel like it is one that you are on alone. My work with diverse groups: adolescents, people that identify as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples, and people with disabilities (PWDs) informs me of some of these challenges. My experience supporting clients in their path to wellness through anxiety, depression, trauma, disability acceptance, adoption/reunification, incarceration, personality disorders and relationship/intimacy challenges makes me confident in the progress we can achieve in counseling together.
The path to a quality world can be intimidating for people. I understand how it can feel like it is one that you are on alone. My work with diverse groups: adolescents, people that identify as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples, and people with disabilities (PWDs) informs me of some of these challenges. My experience supporting clients in their path to wellness through anxiety, depression, trauma, disability acceptance, adoption/reunification, incarceration, personality disorders and relationship/intimacy challenges makes me confident in the progress we can achieve in counseling together.
(269) 775-4572 View (269) 775-4572
Photo of Melissa Muir, MA, MLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Melissa Muir
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, MLP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Together, we can work through trauma, rage, uncontrolled emotions, depression, anxiety, while learning new skills to go through the world in a healthier way, cope with strong emotions, and build stronger, better, relationships.
If you or your child are living with strong emotions, suicide attempts, self-harming, hospitalizations, chronic relationship/behavioral issues, or roller coaster emotions; life is very tough. You may feel like you are held hostage by these emotions and have a difficult time imagining that a 'normal' or healthy life is even possible. As a therapist trained in the specialty of DBT therapy, I believe that EVERYONE is capable of creating a life worth living.
Together, we can work through trauma, rage, uncontrolled emotions, depression, anxiety, while learning new skills to go through the world in a healthier way, cope with strong emotions, and build stronger, better, relationships.
If you or your child are living with strong emotions, suicide attempts, self-harming, hospitalizations, chronic relationship/behavioral issues, or roller coaster emotions; life is very tough. You may feel like you are held hostage by these emotions and have a difficult time imagining that a 'normal' or healthy life is even possible. As a therapist trained in the specialty of DBT therapy, I believe that EVERYONE is capable of creating a life worth living.
(616) 499-4174 View (616) 499-4174
Photo of Bridget Gottlieb, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Gottlieb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Even though transitions are a part of all of our lives, they sometimes stir up old pain or are just too overwhelming to navigate without some help. You deserve the time and support to work through it and counseling can provide that for you. I believe in a person centered, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral and strengths based counseling approach. I have over 18 years of experience using these approaches working with individuals of all ages dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic illnesses and transitions at all stages of life.
Even though transitions are a part of all of our lives, they sometimes stir up old pain or are just too overwhelming to navigate without some help. You deserve the time and support to work through it and counseling can provide that for you. I believe in a person centered, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral and strengths based counseling approach. I have over 18 years of experience using these approaches working with individuals of all ages dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic illnesses and transitions at all stages of life.
(616) 504-6856 View (616) 504-6856
Photo of Theresa Joan Anderson-Varney, PhD, Psychologist
Theresa Joan Anderson-Varney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I specialize in DID, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, sexual abuse, physical abuse, and emotional abuse.
The trials of life sometimes bring sadness and fear. I offer a place for healing and help in a safe environment, for children, adolescents, and adults. I will help you to find the answers to your conflicts and concerns. Whatever the problem we will work together to find the way out. I offer hope for the hopeless.
I specialize in DID, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, sexual abuse, physical abuse, and emotional abuse.
The trials of life sometimes bring sadness and fear. I offer a place for healing and help in a safe environment, for children, adolescents, and adults. I will help you to find the answers to your conflicts and concerns. Whatever the problem we will work together to find the way out. I offer hope for the hopeless.
(616) 414-4569 View (616) 414-4569
Photo of Amanda M Patterson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda M Patterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alma, MI 48801
A few of the services I provide are how to manage and cope with stress, anger, depression and anxiety.
I work with children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults. Using CBT as a foundation along with a variety of techniques I can help you face life's challenges. I will work to empower you in finding the path that can lead you to a more fulfilling life and engage you in your journey towards meaningful and lasting change.
A few of the services I provide are how to manage and cope with stress, anger, depression and anxiety.
I work with children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults. Using CBT as a foundation along with a variety of techniques I can help you face life's challenges. I will work to empower you in finding the path that can lead you to a more fulfilling life and engage you in your journey towards meaningful and lasting change.
(989) 796-4555 View (989) 796-4555
Photo of Gita Mahabir- Kohlsmith, LPC, LE, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gita Mahabir- Kohlsmith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LE, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haslett, MI 48840
Let’s focus on mental health to balance out guilt, anxiety, depression, career, relationships, children, home and more. We use the wellness wheel that covers emotional, physical, enviro and more to assist you in feeling secure in your decision-making skills, more confident, stronger and skilled to start living with more excitement in your life! Navigate choices together that you may need to make and get you living a better life with safety and peace! I can work with you alone or as a couple counselor! Resulting in strategy & building trust within yourself for a brighter life. We accept major insurance.
Let’s focus on mental health to balance out guilt, anxiety, depression, career, relationships, children, home and more. We use the wellness wheel that covers emotional, physical, enviro and more to assist you in feeling secure in your decision-making skills, more confident, stronger and skilled to start living with more excitement in your life! Navigate choices together that you may need to make and get you living a better life with safety and peace! I can work with you alone or as a couple counselor! Resulting in strategy & building trust within yourself for a brighter life. We accept major insurance.
(517) 325-9954 View (517) 325-9954
Photo of Jeffrey C Loucks, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey C Loucks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
Areas of interest include depression, anxiety, people in transition, relationship conflict, divorce/remarriage, blended families, trauma, PTSD, grief & loss.
Sometimes life can be challenging, to the point that you might feel overwhelmed with everything that is occurring and finding someone to talk to can be difficult at best. I use Integrative psychotherapy techniques in my work with adolescents, adults, & couples which allows me to consider the individual characteristics, preferences, needs, abilities, spiritual beliefs, & motivation level of each individual client and presenting concern. By combining elements drawn from different schools of psychological theory & research I aim to be more flexible & inclusive, making therapy something to look forward to.
Areas of interest include depression, anxiety, people in transition, relationship conflict, divorce/remarriage, blended families, trauma, PTSD, grief & loss.
Sometimes life can be challenging, to the point that you might feel overwhelmed with everything that is occurring and finding someone to talk to can be difficult at best. I use Integrative psychotherapy techniques in my work with adolescents, adults, & couples which allows me to consider the individual characteristics, preferences, needs, abilities, spiritual beliefs, & motivation level of each individual client and presenting concern. By combining elements drawn from different schools of psychological theory & research I aim to be more flexible & inclusive, making therapy something to look forward to.
(517) 826-1162 View (517) 826-1162
Photo of Lisa Schoettle Therapist, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Schoettle Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, MI 48875
Counseling-Therapy. Compassionate Counseling for Individual, Family, Marriage Counseling, and Groups. Specializing in Grief Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Anger Management, and Adjustment Disorders. Child/Adolescent Counseling for Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, and Delinquency. Substance Abuse Counseling and Education. Driver License Recovery. Suicide Survivor Support Group.
Counseling-Therapy. Compassionate Counseling for Individual, Family, Marriage Counseling, and Groups. Specializing in Grief Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Anger Management, and Adjustment Disorders. Child/Adolescent Counseling for Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, and Delinquency. Substance Abuse Counseling and Education. Driver License Recovery. Suicide Survivor Support Group.
(989) 315-8401 View (989) 315-8401
Photo of Tamara Brown, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49509
Waitlist for new clients
If life has become chaotic and overwhelming, or maybe you feel isolated with anxiety, stress, depression or grief, I’m available to help you sort through these challenges. Many struggle with parenting burnout, chronic illness, abuse, family dynamics, employment, transitions and relationships. As a licensed clinical social worker with over 20yrs of professional experience I've had the privilege to work with adults, kids and families, seeking emotional support and healing. Through the scope of a multicultural background, I offer a therapeutic approach emphasized by inclusion, awareness, compassion, advocacy, patience and cooperation.
If life has become chaotic and overwhelming, or maybe you feel isolated with anxiety, stress, depression or grief, I’m available to help you sort through these challenges. Many struggle with parenting burnout, chronic illness, abuse, family dynamics, employment, transitions and relationships. As a licensed clinical social worker with over 20yrs of professional experience I've had the privilege to work with adults, kids and families, seeking emotional support and healing. Through the scope of a multicultural background, I offer a therapeutic approach emphasized by inclusion, awareness, compassion, advocacy, patience and cooperation.
(833) 600-0929 View (833) 600-0929
Photo of Shiela L Owens - S.L.O.M. Project Inc., Mediator, Consultant, DBT, MHT, MA, LLPC, Coach, Clergy, Counselor
S.L.O.M. Project Inc., Mediator, Consultant
Counselor, DBT, MHT, MA, LLPC, Coach, Clergy
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48826  (Online Only)
I specialize in Mindfulness Skills, PTSD and Trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, depression, and grief counseling.
D.B.T.,Anxiety, PTSD, Trauma, Loss/Grief, Marriage &Family, Suicide Ideation, B.P, Mood Disorder, Group & Business Arbitration, I specialize in one-one, group, business, entertainment, substance, and incarcerated population. Through cognitive therapy and evidence based treatment and education, I will offer a full scope of services to all clients and consumers with treatment tools including testing instruments, play and role therapy, assessments, interventions, arbitration. You will also obtain a plethora of adapting behavioral coping mechanisms that will be dedicated to your treatment and successful recovery.
I specialize in Mindfulness Skills, PTSD and Trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, depression, and grief counseling.
D.B.T.,Anxiety, PTSD, Trauma, Loss/Grief, Marriage &Family, Suicide Ideation, B.P, Mood Disorder, Group & Business Arbitration, I specialize in one-one, group, business, entertainment, substance, and incarcerated population. Through cognitive therapy and evidence based treatment and education, I will offer a full scope of services to all clients and consumers with treatment tools including testing instruments, play and role therapy, assessments, interventions, arbitration. You will also obtain a plethora of adapting behavioral coping mechanisms that will be dedicated to your treatment and successful recovery.
(517) 781-8346 View (517) 781-8346

See more therapy options for Cedar Springs

Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.