Depression Therapists in Colts Neck, NJ

Photo of Elena Kochanek, PsyD, Psychologist
Elena Kochanek
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
I specialize in helping clients manage anxiety and depression, process past traumas, and improve social awareness and social skills.
I make sure you feel supported, remembered and important. Through an eclectic approach, I help you to see yourself as you are and as who you want to be. I provide teens and adults a safe space and tools to explore their emotions, experiences and identities and improve relationships; I support parents in doing the same with their children.
I specialize in helping clients manage anxiety and depression, process past traumas, and improve social awareness and social skills.
I make sure you feel supported, remembered and important. Through an eclectic approach, I help you to see yourself as you are and as who you want to be. I provide teens and adults a safe space and tools to explore their emotions, experiences and identities and improve relationships; I support parents in doing the same with their children.
(732) 538-8596 View (732) 538-8596
Photo of Karen Carbone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Carbone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
My professional experience includes working with individuals struggling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem issues, adjustment disorders and family conflict.
One of the hardest steps in the therapeutic process is this right here.. reaching out for help, for change. My role as a psychotherapist is to collectively work together to establish and meet personal goals in a safe, supportive environment that fosters healing and growth. I aim to provide clients the opportunity to explore and express their feelings to make life long changes that they ultimately feel good about. It is never too late to make a change or to begin the healing process.
My professional experience includes working with individuals struggling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem issues, adjustment disorders and family conflict.
One of the hardest steps in the therapeutic process is this right here.. reaching out for help, for change. My role as a psychotherapist is to collectively work together to establish and meet personal goals in a safe, supportive environment that fosters healing and growth. I aim to provide clients the opportunity to explore and express their feelings to make life long changes that they ultimately feel good about. It is never too late to make a change or to begin the healing process.
(732) 227-4196 View (732) 227-4196
Photo of Rosalind Pagliano, MSCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rosalind Pagliano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
I am proficient in EMDR therapy for trauma, anxiety, addiction and depression.
Are you troubled & stressed in a relationship, but don't know how to change things? Do you say "yes" when you want to say "no"? Are you covering up your pain with destructive behaviors? Do you judge yourself harshly & feel you are just never 'good enough'? Negative thoughts, anxiety & low self esteem can be an enormous burden, making it a crushing chore to just get through your day. They effect your relationships, your ability to work and can lead to substance abuse, over eating and other behaviors that can pull you in to a downward spiral that is hard to break free from.
I am proficient in EMDR therapy for trauma, anxiety, addiction and depression.
Are you troubled & stressed in a relationship, but don't know how to change things? Do you say "yes" when you want to say "no"? Are you covering up your pain with destructive behaviors? Do you judge yourself harshly & feel you are just never 'good enough'? Negative thoughts, anxiety & low self esteem can be an enormous burden, making it a crushing chore to just get through your day. They effect your relationships, your ability to work and can lead to substance abuse, over eating and other behaviors that can pull you in to a downward spiral that is hard to break free from.
(732) 564-5329 View (732) 564-5329
Photo of Robyn Reznik, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Reznik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
When people come to therapy they sometimes have a list of concerns and are not sure how to address them. I am an LCSW & LCADC who has been practicing for 25 years. I received my MSW from NYU and I have an interactive style. Some of the conditions I treat include bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, postpartum, & ADHD. I use CBT and was certified in DBT. I treat teenagers, adults, & families. I will diagnose conditions, provide therapeutic interventions appropriate for that diagnosis, and will provide education regarding additional referrals to additional supports if needed. I can also provide clinical supervision for LCSWs.
When people come to therapy they sometimes have a list of concerns and are not sure how to address them. I am an LCSW & LCADC who has been practicing for 25 years. I received my MSW from NYU and I have an interactive style. Some of the conditions I treat include bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, postpartum, & ADHD. I use CBT and was certified in DBT. I treat teenagers, adults, & families. I will diagnose conditions, provide therapeutic interventions appropriate for that diagnosis, and will provide education regarding additional referrals to additional supports if needed. I can also provide clinical supervision for LCSWs.
(732) 709-4296 View (732) 709-4296
Photo of Stephen L Feldman, PhD, Psychologist
Stephen L Feldman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
These include relationship problems, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and attentional disorders.
Most clients begin therapy after having engaged in their own soul-searching and independent efforts to change.They may be nervous about starting treatment, but they generally have a high level of motivation and a willingness to accept responsibility for making positive changes. My clients prefer their therapist to be quite active and, when necessary, quite willing to point out inconsistencies and unhealthy tendencies.
These include relationship problems, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and attentional disorders.
Most clients begin therapy after having engaged in their own soul-searching and independent efforts to change.They may be nervous about starting treatment, but they generally have a high level of motivation and a willingness to accept responsibility for making positive changes. My clients prefer their therapist to be quite active and, when necessary, quite willing to point out inconsistencies and unhealthy tendencies.
(732) 806-7208 View (732) 806-7208
Photo of Susan St Germaine - Susan St.Germaine, LCSW, LCADC, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan St.Germaine, LCSW, LCADC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
There is nothing more important than your mental and physical health. Talking IS the treatment AND the cure ! Humans have a fundamental need to be heard. There is enormous benefit to being heard in a non critical, accepting, and compassionate environment. No judgements. I can help you take a look at the patterns that hold you back and keep you stuck. I provide a straight forward approach to identifying problems and will give suggestions on how to cope. I have 20 years of experience helping people with anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
There is nothing more important than your mental and physical health. Talking IS the treatment AND the cure ! Humans have a fundamental need to be heard. There is enormous benefit to being heard in a non critical, accepting, and compassionate environment. No judgements. I can help you take a look at the patterns that hold you back and keep you stuck. I provide a straight forward approach to identifying problems and will give suggestions on how to cope. I have 20 years of experience helping people with anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
(732) 587-7932 View (732) 587-7932
Photo of George Asfendis, PsyD, Psychologist
George Asfendis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
I have special interests in treatment to reduce anxiety and depression, as well as the treatment of children for emotional and behavioral difficulties.
As a psychologist I am committed to guiding clients to making meaningful changes in their lives. I have been providing evidenced based treatment for children, adolescents, adults and families for the past 18 years. I employ a cognitive behavioral orientation in helping my clients examine thinking patterns that many times creates and maintain our "ruts". Challenging and changing these patterns promotes personal healing, improved relationships, and deeper satisfaction and happiness.
I have special interests in treatment to reduce anxiety and depression, as well as the treatment of children for emotional and behavioral difficulties.
As a psychologist I am committed to guiding clients to making meaningful changes in their lives. I have been providing evidenced based treatment for children, adolescents, adults and families for the past 18 years. I employ a cognitive behavioral orientation in helping my clients examine thinking patterns that many times creates and maintain our "ruts". Challenging and changing these patterns promotes personal healing, improved relationships, and deeper satisfaction and happiness.
(732) 649-6338 View (732) 649-6338
Photo of Dena Baldassarre, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dena Baldassarre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
I have experience working with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, low self-esteem, boundary setting, coping skills, and stress.
There are many reasons that people decide to come to therapy, and whatever that turning point is for you, I am here to help you along your journey! With over 10 years of experience in the field and holding dual licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), I am prepared to work with you to increase your happiness, fulfillment, and overall wellness. I believe in helping people live better lives by providing a positive, safe, nonjudgmental environment for people to share their personal stories.
I have experience working with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, low self-esteem, boundary setting, coping skills, and stress.
There are many reasons that people decide to come to therapy, and whatever that turning point is for you, I am here to help you along your journey! With over 10 years of experience in the field and holding dual licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), I am prepared to work with you to increase your happiness, fulfillment, and overall wellness. I believe in helping people live better lives by providing a positive, safe, nonjudgmental environment for people to share their personal stories.
(732) 313-3928 View (732) 313-3928
Photo of Michael M Gindi, PhD, Psychologist
Michael M Gindi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
A first therapy session is a little like a blind date; if the interpersonal chemistry isn't right, there shouldn't be a second date. At the end of our first session together, if you feel safe, secure, understood and supported, then, and only then, do we go forward. Otherwise I'll refer you elsewhere. If it feels to you like we can work well together, you can probably get beyond your struggles with depression, anxiety and/or relationship issues more quickly than you think. I look forward to meeting you
A first therapy session is a little like a blind date; if the interpersonal chemistry isn't right, there shouldn't be a second date. At the end of our first session together, if you feel safe, secure, understood and supported, then, and only then, do we go forward. Otherwise I'll refer you elsewhere. If it feels to you like we can work well together, you can probably get beyond your struggles with depression, anxiety and/or relationship issues more quickly than you think. I look forward to meeting you
(732) 243-8628 View (732) 243-8628
Photo of Mary Sznyter, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Sznyter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Mary Sznyter, MA, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been counseling for 24 years and is in private practice in Howell, NJ. She specializes in adults and families; individual and group therapies. She continued her post-graduate training in Psychodrama and Group Counseling, in addition to on-going training in specific interventions for anxiety, depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Mary Sznyter, MA, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been counseling for 24 years and is in private practice in Howell, NJ. She specializes in adults and families; individual and group therapies. She continued her post-graduate training in Psychodrama and Group Counseling, in addition to on-going training in specific interventions for anxiety, depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
(732) 722-5017 View (732) 722-5017
Photo of Dr. Margo Rappaport, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Margo Rappaport
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
I have over 25 years experience helping people cope with difficult life transitions and heal from loss, weight and self-image issues, anxiety, depression, chronic pain and sexual dysfunctions. I use an integrative functional approach by looking into a root cause of the problem and relate in a non-judgmental way. Together, I'll work with you to build coping strategies, strength and courage to move forward to in the presence of loss, pain and change. Whatever your circumstances, if you're struggling to cope and manage painful feelings, I'd like to help you find your way.
I have over 25 years experience helping people cope with difficult life transitions and heal from loss, weight and self-image issues, anxiety, depression, chronic pain and sexual dysfunctions. I use an integrative functional approach by looking into a root cause of the problem and relate in a non-judgmental way. Together, I'll work with you to build coping strategies, strength and courage to move forward to in the presence of loss, pain and change. Whatever your circumstances, if you're struggling to cope and manage painful feelings, I'd like to help you find your way.
(732) 658-4491 View (732) 658-4491
Photo of Thomas R DiMartini, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas R DiMartini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
I see adolescents and adults who suffer with various issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, relationship problems, as well as substance abuse and addiction. I believe in the good nature of most people and the need to grow and learn from our life experiences. At times in our life, it becomes important to stop and recognize our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that can interfere with who we want to be and hope to become. In my practice, I utilize an array of treatment modalities that will help you to make better decisions for yourself, your partner and/or your family.
I see adolescents and adults who suffer with various issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, relationship problems, as well as substance abuse and addiction. I believe in the good nature of most people and the need to grow and learn from our life experiences. At times in our life, it becomes important to stop and recognize our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that can interfere with who we want to be and hope to become. In my practice, I utilize an array of treatment modalities that will help you to make better decisions for yourself, your partner and/or your family.
(732) 759-9173 View (732) 759-9173
Photo of Patricia M Carroll, EdS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia M Carroll
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Areas of expertise include but are not limited to: Adolescent Issues and Therapy, Anger Management, Anxiety, Aspergers Syndrome, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Children's Issues and Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Communication Issues, Depression, Family Counseling, Grief and Loss Counseling, Mood Disorders, Parenting Skills, Stress & Stress Management.
Welcome! My name is Patricia Carroll. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. Let me tell you a little about myself. I hold an undergraduate degree in psychology & a Master of Arts in Counseling, both from Rider University. I continued my education post-graduate & earned an Education Specialist degree from Rider University. I have worked in a variety of environments, including partial hospitalization programs, crisis intervention centers, care management, utilization management & outpatient psychotherapy settings. I have 10+ years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I welcome you to contact me with any questions and concerns that you might have.
Areas of expertise include but are not limited to: Adolescent Issues and Therapy, Anger Management, Anxiety, Aspergers Syndrome, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Children's Issues and Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Communication Issues, Depression, Family Counseling, Grief and Loss Counseling, Mood Disorders, Parenting Skills, Stress & Stress Management.
Welcome! My name is Patricia Carroll. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. Let me tell you a little about myself. I hold an undergraduate degree in psychology & a Master of Arts in Counseling, both from Rider University. I continued my education post-graduate & earned an Education Specialist degree from Rider University. I have worked in a variety of environments, including partial hospitalization programs, crisis intervention centers, care management, utilization management & outpatient psychotherapy settings. I have 10+ years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I welcome you to contact me with any questions and concerns that you might have.
(732) 964-9669 View (732) 964-9669
Photo of J Victoria Laszlo - Laszlo Center 4 Hope Healing, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J Victoria Laszlo - Laszlo Center 4 Hope Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Although people come to see me for a variety of reasons, my specialties are in the treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, substance abuse, gaming addiction, ACOA, trauma & sexual abuse, affairs/betrayal, anger issues and variety of sexual concerns - for males, females & couples, families, teenagers.
Are you unhappy, hurt, anxious or angry? Is your life or relationship in a bad place? Everything you tried isn't working? I'm here to help! While on a life journey toward meaning & happiness, sometimes we need to sort through the issues that hold us back or are a heavy weight to carry. Therapy is a place to do that sorting: in a safe & trusting environment, we go through our traveler's bag, keep what's our strengths & passions, resolve the entangled conflicts, and maybe leave behind what no longer serves us within our hearts. I would love to be your guide in this journey.
Although people come to see me for a variety of reasons, my specialties are in the treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, substance abuse, gaming addiction, ACOA, trauma & sexual abuse, affairs/betrayal, anger issues and variety of sexual concerns - for males, females & couples, families, teenagers.
Are you unhappy, hurt, anxious or angry? Is your life or relationship in a bad place? Everything you tried isn't working? I'm here to help! While on a life journey toward meaning & happiness, sometimes we need to sort through the issues that hold us back or are a heavy weight to carry. Therapy is a place to do that sorting: in a safe & trusting environment, we go through our traveler's bag, keep what's our strengths & passions, resolve the entangled conflicts, and maybe leave behind what no longer serves us within our hearts. I would love to be your guide in this journey.
(732) 903-2388 View (732) 903-2388
Photo of Toni Teixeira, LCSW, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toni Teixeira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
32 Endorsed
Colts Neck, NJ 07722  (Online Only)
Tapping into your inner wisdom you will find clarity, calm, and freedom from rage, depression and anxiety.
Tension is building inside of you and lashing out or shutting down seem to be the only way to deal with this feeling. But this is not how you want to live your life. Acting in these ways is harming you and your relationships. You vow to stop this, to do things differently, but it keeps happening over and over again. They say you are “too sensitive” or you need to “lighten up.” But it just feels like no one sees you or understands you. There is so much responsibility on you and when you are dismissed the resentment gets even bigger. You can't imagine how therapy can possibly help when it feels like everyone else is the problem.
Tapping into your inner wisdom you will find clarity, calm, and freedom from rage, depression and anxiety.
Tension is building inside of you and lashing out or shutting down seem to be the only way to deal with this feeling. But this is not how you want to live your life. Acting in these ways is harming you and your relationships. You vow to stop this, to do things differently, but it keeps happening over and over again. They say you are “too sensitive” or you need to “lighten up.” But it just feels like no one sees you or understands you. There is so much responsibility on you and when you are dismissed the resentment gets even bigger. You can't imagine how therapy can possibly help when it feels like everyone else is the problem.
(732) 592-5843 View (732) 592-5843
Photo of Elissa Arbeitman, MA, ATR-BC, LPAT, LCAT, ATCS, Art Therapist
Elissa Arbeitman
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LPAT, LCAT, ATCS
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Many of the women I work with experience symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression and feelings of being stuck and alone.
I am passionate about working with women who are navigating a major life transition but are finding themselves exhausted by their inner critic, judging themselves to the point of being stuck and shut down from their creative expression. I value your internal sense of self as a significant resource to help alleviate your symptoms. Many women I see are looking for an alternative to traditional talk therapy. My comprehensive training in psychotherapy and art therapy brings a unique element to my sessions in which we access and utilize your creativity to help problem solve and gain a fresh, new perspective.
Many of the women I work with experience symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression and feelings of being stuck and alone.
I am passionate about working with women who are navigating a major life transition but are finding themselves exhausted by their inner critic, judging themselves to the point of being stuck and shut down from their creative expression. I value your internal sense of self as a significant resource to help alleviate your symptoms. Many women I see are looking for an alternative to traditional talk therapy. My comprehensive training in psychotherapy and art therapy brings a unique element to my sessions in which we access and utilize your creativity to help problem solve and gain a fresh, new perspective.
(908) 402-0166 View (908) 402-0166
Photo of Shaniyah Matthews, MA,  LAC, Counselor
Shaniyah Matthews
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Shaniyah Matthews, LAC, is dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can embark on their healing journeys. Serving patients in New Jersey, Shaniyah works collaboratively with her clients to develop personalized roadmaps that guide them through overcoming challenges and achieving their goals. She focuses on facilitating behavior change, helping clients cope with adverse events, strengthening and maintaining relationships, and promoting effective decision-making processes. Shaniyah is particularly passionate about treating anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Shaniyah Matthews, LAC, is dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can embark on their healing journeys. Serving patients in New Jersey, Shaniyah works collaboratively with her clients to develop personalized roadmaps that guide them through overcoming challenges and achieving their goals. She focuses on facilitating behavior change, helping clients cope with adverse events, strengthening and maintaining relationships, and promoting effective decision-making processes. Shaniyah is particularly passionate about treating anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(848) 345-2212 View (848) 345-2212
Photo of Bonnie Davis-Struble, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bonnie Davis-Struble
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722  (Online Only)
Hi! I am an LPC and NCC and received my graduate degree from Monmouth University. For the past 15 years I have assisted individuals with working through difficulties that arise in their lives. Whether it be depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, interpersonal relationships or other disturbances, we will work together in order to provide relief, understanding and change to your situation
Hi! I am an LPC and NCC and received my graduate degree from Monmouth University. For the past 15 years I have assisted individuals with working through difficulties that arise in their lives. Whether it be depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, interpersonal relationships or other disturbances, we will work together in order to provide relief, understanding and change to your situation
(848) 360-3162 View (848) 360-3162
Photo of Christian Lombino, MS,  LAC
Christian Lombino
Associate Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Christian is particularly passionate about working with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Christian Lombino, LAC, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health in New Jersey. Christian helps clients navigate their mental health challenges by applying a person-centered approach that values empathic understanding, congruence, and unconditional positive regard. Serving individuals across New Jersey, he provides support for adults, adolescents, and children aged 11 and older. Christian's extensive experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) equips him to address a wide range of mental health issues.
Christian is particularly passionate about working with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Christian Lombino, LAC, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health in New Jersey. Christian helps clients navigate their mental health challenges by applying a person-centered approach that values empathic understanding, congruence, and unconditional positive regard. Serving individuals across New Jersey, he provides support for adults, adolescents, and children aged 11 and older. Christian's extensive experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) equips him to address a wide range of mental health issues.
(855) 417-5683 View (855) 417-5683
Photo of Agnes Raczynski, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Agnes Raczynski
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
Agnes Raczynski is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, who has been practicing since 2015. She graduated from Seton Hall University with a Master's of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Agnes believes in a collaborative and supportive approach to therapy, offering a safe and comfortable space for her clients to share their experiences and emotions. Therapeutic approaches include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Family Systems. Her main areas of focus are anxiety, depression, and couple's counseling.
Agnes Raczynski is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, who has been practicing since 2015. She graduated from Seton Hall University with a Master's of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Agnes believes in a collaborative and supportive approach to therapy, offering a safe and comfortable space for her clients to share their experiences and emotions. Therapeutic approaches include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Family Systems. Her main areas of focus are anxiety, depression, and couple's counseling.
(848) 288-1168 View (848) 288-1168
1
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.