Depression Therapists in Eatontown, NJ

Photo of Nichelle Serrano - Nichelle Serrano - Relationships, Family, Stress, LAC, Counselor
Nichelle Serrano - Relationships, Family, Stress
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
My specialities include: Trauma, PTSD, Relationship/Family Issues, Depression, Anxiety and Adverse childhood/early life experiences.
My name is Nichelle Serrano and I am a Licensed Associate Counselor with years of experience working in both inpatient and outpatient mental health services. I enjoy working with adults struggling in transitions of life and/or relationships as well as, or due to, trauma or adverse childhood experiences. It is my passion to help clients work through unresolved past issues, learn new ways of thinking and practice communicating wants, needs and boundaries to develop healthy relationships and a strong sense of self worth. I enjoy working with both couples and individuals.
My specialities include: Trauma, PTSD, Relationship/Family Issues, Depression, Anxiety and Adverse childhood/early life experiences.
My name is Nichelle Serrano and I am a Licensed Associate Counselor with years of experience working in both inpatient and outpatient mental health services. I enjoy working with adults struggling in transitions of life and/or relationships as well as, or due to, trauma or adverse childhood experiences. It is my passion to help clients work through unresolved past issues, learn new ways of thinking and practice communicating wants, needs and boundaries to develop healthy relationships and a strong sense of self worth. I enjoy working with both couples and individuals.
(732) 561-5853 View (732) 561-5853
Photo of Lisa Osborn - Lisa Osborn- Chronic Illness, Pain & Depression, LSW, Counselor
Lisa Osborn- Chronic Illness, Pain & Depression
Counselor, LSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
Long-term depression, anxiety, trauma and dealing with chronic illness are all areas I have most passion and success with.
My therapeutic motto is "If you give a person a fish, they eat tonight; if you teach a person to fish, they eat for a lifetime". Ideal clients for me are those who seek their own answers between sessions and work to incorporate that knowledge into a therapeutic process that they own. My style is active & engaging, using techniques from both my clinical social work training but also my first Masters degree in old fashioned clinical psychology and my experience of more years than I want to admit. I like to say I’m a real person who encourages freedom of expression and unconditional positive regard.
Long-term depression, anxiety, trauma and dealing with chronic illness are all areas I have most passion and success with.
My therapeutic motto is "If you give a person a fish, they eat tonight; if you teach a person to fish, they eat for a lifetime". Ideal clients for me are those who seek their own answers between sessions and work to incorporate that knowledge into a therapeutic process that they own. My style is active & engaging, using techniques from both my clinical social work training but also my first Masters degree in old fashioned clinical psychology and my experience of more years than I want to admit. I like to say I’m a real person who encourages freedom of expression and unconditional positive regard.
(732) 889-5126 View (732) 889-5126
Photo of Gina Oliver (Gilanyi), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Oliver (Gilanyi)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724  (Online Only)
However, I specialize in helping those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Bachelor's and Master's Degree from Monmouth University. I have over 6 years of experience in the field of mental health and have successfully helped many different types of clients achieve their goals through counseling. My experience ranges from working with families within the division of child protection and permanency, to helping children and adolescents go through inpatient as well as IOP interventions at Rutgers UBHC, to working as an outpatient mental health therapist with adults and families in private practice.
However, I specialize in helping those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Bachelor's and Master's Degree from Monmouth University. I have over 6 years of experience in the field of mental health and have successfully helped many different types of clients achieve their goals through counseling. My experience ranges from working with families within the division of child protection and permanency, to helping children and adolescents go through inpatient as well as IOP interventions at Rutgers UBHC, to working as an outpatient mental health therapist with adults and families in private practice.
(848) 204-0403 View (848) 204-0403
Photo of Megan Shurtleff, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Shurtleff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
My clinical experience includes working with individuals and groups experiencing anxiety (generalized, OCD), depression, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, attachment-related issues, adjustment issues, and grief. I have worked with various populations across different settings including working with adolescents in a community program, dual diagnosis clinical setting, and in crisis intervention in a hospital setting. Using a strengths-based and client-centered approach to therapy, I work collaboratively with clients to address their current difficulties by identifying root causes and individualized goals for change.
My clinical experience includes working with individuals and groups experiencing anxiety (generalized, OCD), depression, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, attachment-related issues, adjustment issues, and grief. I have worked with various populations across different settings including working with adolescents in a community program, dual diagnosis clinical setting, and in crisis intervention in a hospital setting. Using a strengths-based and client-centered approach to therapy, I work collaboratively with clients to address their current difficulties by identifying root causes and individualized goals for change.
(732) 385-3904 View (732) 385-3904
Photo of Nicholas Desisto, LAC, Counselor
Nicholas Desisto
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I've helped clients with issues like anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, and relationships.
A client seeks therapy for various reasons, such as improving their overall quality of life, enhancing their self-esteem and self-confidence, and developing skills to navigate life's challenges effectively. I work with a diverse range of clients, each with unique background, issues, and goals. The ideal client for me is one who is ready and willing to engage in the therapeutic process and is open to exploring their concerns and growth.
I've helped clients with issues like anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, and relationships.
A client seeks therapy for various reasons, such as improving their overall quality of life, enhancing their self-esteem and self-confidence, and developing skills to navigate life's challenges effectively. I work with a diverse range of clients, each with unique background, issues, and goals. The ideal client for me is one who is ready and willing to engage in the therapeutic process and is open to exploring their concerns and growth.
(732) 786-3289 View (732) 786-3289
Photo of Victoria Romanyuk - Victoria Romanyuk - Anxiety, ADD & adhd, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Romanyuk - Anxiety, ADD & adhd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I specialize in evidence-based treatments for anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
I am a licensed social worker and mental health therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, and ADHD. Today, more and more people struggle with mental health disorders due to increased social, occupational, and emotional pressures. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment taking into account genetic and environmental factors to determine clients’ individual strengths and work together with them on improving their quality of life.
I specialize in evidence-based treatments for anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
I am a licensed social worker and mental health therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression, and ADHD. Today, more and more people struggle with mental health disorders due to increased social, occupational, and emotional pressures. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment taking into account genetic and environmental factors to determine clients’ individual strengths and work together with them on improving their quality of life.
(732) 889-5818 View (732) 889-5818
Photo of Fione Tsatskin, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fione Tsatskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
In my experience working with clients who struggle with anxiety, mood disorders like depression, and personality disorders, I've learned that empathy, along with patience, personalized guidance, and individualized therapeutic approaches, is crucial for achieving successful outcomes.
An ideal client for therapy is characterized by their openness to change, motivation, and willingness to invest effort in their therapeutic journey to achieve the most effective treatment and therapeutic experience. These clients often face mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or personality disorders, impacting daily life. They seek education, health management, prevention, treatment, diagnosis, and support for self-improvement and better relationships. Ultimately, someone who is actively seeks preventive and therapeutic measures to improve their mental health and overall quality of life.
In my experience working with clients who struggle with anxiety, mood disorders like depression, and personality disorders, I've learned that empathy, along with patience, personalized guidance, and individualized therapeutic approaches, is crucial for achieving successful outcomes.
An ideal client for therapy is characterized by their openness to change, motivation, and willingness to invest effort in their therapeutic journey to achieve the most effective treatment and therapeutic experience. These clients often face mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or personality disorders, impacting daily life. They seek education, health management, prevention, treatment, diagnosis, and support for self-improvement and better relationships. Ultimately, someone who is actively seeks preventive and therapeutic measures to improve their mental health and overall quality of life.
(732) 538-5291 View (732) 538-5291
Photo of Adnan Kastrat, LAC, Counselor
Adnan Kastrat
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07724  (Online Only)
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I help address anxiety, depression, phobias, and OCD.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor with a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from William Paterson University and a Bachelor's in Psychology from Rutgers University. My extensive training at the Kessler Institute focused on psychotherapy for adults and older adults with neurological conditions. As a clinician in the Statewide Clinical Outreach Program for the Elderly, I conducted on-site interventions for mental health crises. In my role as a Case Manager, I emphasized wellness and recovery for individuals with mental disorders.
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I help address anxiety, depression, phobias, and OCD.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor with a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from William Paterson University and a Bachelor's in Psychology from Rutgers University. My extensive training at the Kessler Institute focused on psychotherapy for adults and older adults with neurological conditions. As a clinician in the Statewide Clinical Outreach Program for the Elderly, I conducted on-site interventions for mental health crises. In my role as a Case Manager, I emphasized wellness and recovery for individuals with mental disorders.
(848) 285-6145 View (848) 285-6145
Photo of Janna Foster, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janna Foster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07724  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Bachelor's Degree from Pennsylvania State University in Psychology and a Master's Degree from University of Rochester in Counseling. I have over ten years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a range of concerns from discourse at home or work, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or difficulty managing day to day issues. No problem is too large or small to begin working through.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Bachelor's Degree from Pennsylvania State University in Psychology and a Master's Degree from University of Rochester in Counseling. I have over ten years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a range of concerns from discourse at home or work, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or difficulty managing day to day issues. No problem is too large or small to begin working through.
(848) 208-8395 View (848) 208-8395
Photo of Dr. Maryellen Stanisci, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Maryellen Stanisci
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I provide Individual, Couples, and Family Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. My specialties include: Adult Children of Alcoholics, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bereavement/Grief, Child Abuse/Neglect, Chronic Illness, Depression, Domestic Violence, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Impulse Control Disorders, Marital/Couples Issues, Meditation/Mindfulness, Mood Disorders, OCD/Compulsion, Pain Management, Panic Attacks, Personality Disorders (e.g., Borderline, Narcissistic, etc.), Phobias, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)/Trauma, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self-acceptance, Self-mutilation/Cutting, Sex Abuse Victim, Sleep Disorders, Social Skills, Stress, Substance Abuse, Suicidality, Weight Loss, and Women's Issues.
I provide Individual, Couples, and Family Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics. My specialties include: Adult Children of Alcoholics, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bereavement/Grief, Child Abuse/Neglect, Chronic Illness, Depression, Domestic Violence, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Impulse Control Disorders, Marital/Couples Issues, Meditation/Mindfulness, Mood Disorders, OCD/Compulsion, Pain Management, Panic Attacks, Personality Disorders (e.g., Borderline, Narcissistic, etc.), Phobias, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)/Trauma, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self-acceptance, Self-mutilation/Cutting, Sex Abuse Victim, Sleep Disorders, Social Skills, Stress, Substance Abuse, Suicidality, Weight Loss, and Women's Issues.
(732) 289-9594 View (732) 289-9594
Photo of Farah N Skow, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Farah N Skow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
My clinical experience has been in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD and behavior management, family and school problems, issues related to grief/loss, and issues related to self-esteem and self-image. I primarily work with adolescents and young adults.
My clinical experience has been in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD and behavior management, family and school problems, issues related to grief/loss, and issues related to self-esteem and self-image. I primarily work with adolescents and young adults.
(732) 507-9751 View (732) 507-9751
Photo of Andrea Wiggs - Andrea Wiggs - Couples Counseling, Relationships &, LAC, Counselor
Andrea Wiggs - Couples Counseling, Relationships &
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
My specialties include: Anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, self-esteem/self-compassion, codependency, infidelity, and trauma/PTSD.
We all go through difficult seasons of life and sometimes the hardest seasons can be the most rewarding. My goal is to guide others through those seasons by aiding them in gaining insight as well as the tools needed to build the life and love they truly desire. I am a licensed associate counselor in New Jersey and provide counseling services for adults, couples, and families. I am passionate about the field of mental health and helping others to reach their fullest potential.
My specialties include: Anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, self-esteem/self-compassion, codependency, infidelity, and trauma/PTSD.
We all go through difficult seasons of life and sometimes the hardest seasons can be the most rewarding. My goal is to guide others through those seasons by aiding them in gaining insight as well as the tools needed to build the life and love they truly desire. I am a licensed associate counselor in New Jersey and provide counseling services for adults, couples, and families. I am passionate about the field of mental health and helping others to reach their fullest potential.
(732) 410-7540 View (732) 410-7540
Photo of Allison Santero, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Santero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I have been a Clinical Therapist for over 20 years, treating children, adolescents, adults and families. I graduated with my Masters Degree from Monmouth University as well as School Certification in Social Work. I have extensive experience in healthcare /hospital setting, which broadens my skill set, and allows me to take into consideration how physical health affects emotional health. At the present time I am working clients and families going through difficult transitions such as divorce, trauma or academic challenges., as well as anxiety, depression, self harm and bullying with coinciding diagnosis. LGBTQ experience.
I have been a Clinical Therapist for over 20 years, treating children, adolescents, adults and families. I graduated with my Masters Degree from Monmouth University as well as School Certification in Social Work. I have extensive experience in healthcare /hospital setting, which broadens my skill set, and allows me to take into consideration how physical health affects emotional health. At the present time I am working clients and families going through difficult transitions such as divorce, trauma or academic challenges., as well as anxiety, depression, self harm and bullying with coinciding diagnosis. LGBTQ experience.
(973) 459-4213 View (973) 459-4213
Photo of Nicole Klausman, LAC, Counselor
Nicole Klausman
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I would help my clients by utilizing CBT to help them recognize the faulty thought patterns that could be leading to the anxiety; or possibly the depression.
I work with clients who are ready and willing to work towards the changes that might need to be made to get to the goals that they are setting for themselves. They would be open and forthcoming with their thoughts and feelings so that in collaboration with me we can design a treatment plan that fits their needs, and navigate the best way to achieve their goals. I am experienced with working with individuals with anxiety and depression to help them function more effectively in their everyday lives. Ideally, my clients would be motivated to change and willing to fully participate in the process of therapy to reach their goals.
I would help my clients by utilizing CBT to help them recognize the faulty thought patterns that could be leading to the anxiety; or possibly the depression.
I work with clients who are ready and willing to work towards the changes that might need to be made to get to the goals that they are setting for themselves. They would be open and forthcoming with their thoughts and feelings so that in collaboration with me we can design a treatment plan that fits their needs, and navigate the best way to achieve their goals. I am experienced with working with individuals with anxiety and depression to help them function more effectively in their everyday lives. Ideally, my clients would be motivated to change and willing to fully participate in the process of therapy to reach their goals.
(732) 605-4194 View (732) 605-4194
Photo of Courtney Lamourt, MSW,  LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Lamourt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07724
Courtney Lamourt, LSW, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health in New Jersey, committed to helping clients realize they are more than their negative thoughts, emotions, or current situations. By emphasizing clients’ strengths and abilities, Courtney helps foster positive thoughts and a sense of hope, guiding individuals towards the possibility of positive outcomes. Serving clients in New Jersey, she specializes in working with teens and adults. Courtney is passionate about treating anxiety, depression, and substance use/abuse.
Courtney Lamourt, LSW, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health in New Jersey, committed to helping clients realize they are more than their negative thoughts, emotions, or current situations. By emphasizing clients’ strengths and abilities, Courtney helps foster positive thoughts and a sense of hope, guiding individuals towards the possibility of positive outcomes. Serving clients in New Jersey, she specializes in working with teens and adults. Courtney is passionate about treating anxiety, depression, and substance use/abuse.
(848) 345-5933 View (848) 345-5933
Photo of Jennifer Gorny, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Gorny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07724  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with Bachelor Degrees from Rutgers University in Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Sociology, as well as a Master's Degree from Rutgers University in Clinical Social Work. I provide a client centered approach to therapy in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. I work with individuals of all ages who experience anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, substance use, and relationship difficulties. I have worked in crisis intervention, as well as outpatient psychiatric and mental health settings.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with Bachelor Degrees from Rutgers University in Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Sociology, as well as a Master's Degree from Rutgers University in Clinical Social Work. I provide a client centered approach to therapy in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. I work with individuals of all ages who experience anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, substance use, and relationship difficulties. I have worked in crisis intervention, as well as outpatient psychiatric and mental health settings.
(848) 257-9697 View (848) 257-9697
Photo of Marissa Greco, MS, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marissa Greco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I specialize in treating adults with anxiety and depression, and am also certified in perinatal mental health, treating women during pregnancy and through the first year postpartum and beyond.
People seek therapy for a variety of different reasons, and there is no issue too complex or minor to work on! My goal is to offer guidance, instill hope, and foster empowerment, to enable clients to regain control of the areas of their lives they feel they may have lost control over. I truly believe that people are the experts of their own lives and sometimes just need assistance discovering the strengths and tools they already possess to manage life's challenges. I believe therapy is a collaborative process in which a therapist and client must work together towards desired goals.
I specialize in treating adults with anxiety and depression, and am also certified in perinatal mental health, treating women during pregnancy and through the first year postpartum and beyond.
People seek therapy for a variety of different reasons, and there is no issue too complex or minor to work on! My goal is to offer guidance, instill hope, and foster empowerment, to enable clients to regain control of the areas of their lives they feel they may have lost control over. I truly believe that people are the experts of their own lives and sometimes just need assistance discovering the strengths and tools they already possess to manage life's challenges. I believe therapy is a collaborative process in which a therapist and client must work together towards desired goals.
(732) 508-0538 View (732) 508-0538
Photo of Jasmine Viviani - Jasmine Viviani - Young Adults, Anxiety, Trauma, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmine Viviani - Young Adults, Anxiety, Trauma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07724
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to work through presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, insecurities, self-esteem, & childhood trauma. Their needs and goals are to become the best version of themselves by working on their mind, body, and spirit by working through intrusive/obsessive thinking, taking care of themselves by improving their eating and sleeping habits, and connecting to their spirituality if they feel called to it. I specifically work with young adults in their twenties to help guide them through life transitions, challenges, societal pressure, navigating relationships, & discovering self-identity.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to work through presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, insecurities, self-esteem, & childhood trauma. Their needs and goals are to become the best version of themselves by working on their mind, body, and spirit by working through intrusive/obsessive thinking, taking care of themselves by improving their eating and sleeping habits, and connecting to their spirituality if they feel called to it. I specifically work with young adults in their twenties to help guide them through life transitions, challenges, societal pressure, navigating relationships, & discovering self-identity.
(732) 607-4510 View (732) 607-4510
Photo of Christian Lombino, MS,  LAC
Christian Lombino
Associate Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07724
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 Sari Gottleib - Sari Gottleib - Couples Therapy & Trauma, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sari Gottleib - Couples Therapy & Trauma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
My specializations include working with individuals with PTSD, OCD, Trauma, Anxiety & Depression.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have been working with individuals, couples and families for 15+ years. Through active engagement, compassion and collaboration, I am committed to helping my clients gain peace, understanding, and acceptance. I have extensive experience working with teens and young adults & adults struggling through social challenges, identity, and emerging adulthood. Additionally, I have many years of experience working with couples and families struggling with relationship challenges.
My specializations include working with individuals with PTSD, OCD, Trauma, Anxiety & Depression.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have been working with individuals, couples and families for 15+ years. Through active engagement, compassion and collaboration, I am committed to helping my clients gain peace, understanding, and acceptance. I have extensive experience working with teens and young adults & adults struggling through social challenges, identity, and emerging adulthood. Additionally, I have many years of experience working with couples and families struggling with relationship challenges.
(732) 943-1961 View (732) 943-1961
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.