Depression Therapists in Edison, NJ
![Photo of Kirsten Reid, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de92dd17-091d-415c-a15f-835ae3798f6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm Kirsten Reid, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New Jersey, bringing several years of experience to my practice. Throughout my career as a Mental Health Therapist, I've worked across various settings, including Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Traditional Outpatient programs. My aim is to support clients in navigating life's hurdles, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem issues. I'm committed to equipping clients with the tools and strategies necessary to improve their well-being and foster enduring positive change.
Hello! I'm Kirsten Reid, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New Jersey, bringing several years of experience to my practice. Throughout my career as a Mental Health Therapist, I've worked across various settings, including Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Traditional Outpatient programs. My aim is to support clients in navigating life's hurdles, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem issues. I'm committed to equipping clients with the tools and strategies necessary to improve their well-being and foster enduring positive change.
![Photo of Kayden Sarria, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9e4a3fe-7633-475b-b110-09ea713bee47/2/320x400.jpeg)
No matter what you're facing—anxiety, depression, issues surrounding gender identity, sexuality, PTSD, or anything else—I'm here to support you.
Hello there! I'm Kayden Sarria, a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey. With several years of experience across diverse settings, including inpatient hospitals, in-home services, and community-based support for survivors of sexual assault, I believe everyone deserves a therapeutic space where they feel safe, heard, and valued on their healing journey. I'm here to assist individuals facing challenging life experiences, emotions, or feelings, helping them discover healthy and meaningful ways to manage their stress levels.
No matter what you're facing—anxiety, depression, issues surrounding gender identity, sexuality, PTSD, or anything else—I'm here to support you.
Hello there! I'm Kayden Sarria, a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey. With several years of experience across diverse settings, including inpatient hospitals, in-home services, and community-based support for survivors of sexual assault, I believe everyone deserves a therapeutic space where they feel safe, heard, and valued on their healing journey. I'm here to assist individuals facing challenging life experiences, emotions, or feelings, helping them discover healthy and meaningful ways to manage their stress levels.
![Photo of Katherine Tommaso, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7c35e81-a0c4-49d6-8ccb-911b4d8cd5b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you're facing challenging relationship dynamics, grappling with grief and loss, navigating life's hurdles, or experiencing cycles of anxiety and depression, remember, you're not alone.
Hello! I'm Katie Tommaso, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a wealth of experience in clinical settings, serving diverse populations. My mission is to assist individuals in overcoming life's obstacles and navigating its unpredictable twists and turns with empathy and understanding. I firmly believe that everyone possesses the potential to thrive mentally, physically, and spiritually. By emphasizing a Wellness Model and embracing a holistic approach, I empower individuals to pursue their goals with renewed motivation.
Whether you're facing challenging relationship dynamics, grappling with grief and loss, navigating life's hurdles, or experiencing cycles of anxiety and depression, remember, you're not alone.
Hello! I'm Katie Tommaso, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a wealth of experience in clinical settings, serving diverse populations. My mission is to assist individuals in overcoming life's obstacles and navigating its unpredictable twists and turns with empathy and understanding. I firmly believe that everyone possesses the potential to thrive mentally, physically, and spiritually. By emphasizing a Wellness Model and embracing a holistic approach, I empower individuals to pursue their goals with renewed motivation.
![Photo of Rochel Greer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6c15fd-9284-475d-986a-9ad5818be896/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Rochel Greer, a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience across various settings. Recently, I've worked in a methadone clinic addressing substance use and in an outpatient mental health clinic providing tele-health services. My focus lies in assisting individuals, particularly adolescents and adults, dealing with anxiety and depression. Together, we'll delve into the root causes of your concerns and collaborate on effective strategies to manage your emotions. I primarily utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness techniques in my approach.
Hello, I'm Rochel Greer, a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience across various settings. Recently, I've worked in a methadone clinic addressing substance use and in an outpatient mental health clinic providing tele-health services. My focus lies in assisting individuals, particularly adolescents and adults, dealing with anxiety and depression. Together, we'll delve into the root causes of your concerns and collaborate on effective strategies to manage your emotions. I primarily utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness techniques in my approach.
![Photo of Corinne Reilly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90d8d940-5feb-4848-81cf-94f3a80275dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Corinne Reilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Edison, NJ 08820 (Online Only)
Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or struggles with self-esteem, I'm here to help you achieve balance in your life.
Hello, I'm Corinne Reilly, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New Jersey. My approach is rooted in treating every individual with utmost respect, dignity, and compassion. With a commitment to facilitating healing and personal growth, I bring experience from various settings including outpatient community and private practice mental health, in-community therapy, and supportive housing for intellectual and developmental disabilities. My goal is to cultivate a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable sharing even the most challenging aspects of your life.
Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or struggles with self-esteem, I'm here to help you achieve balance in your life.
Hello, I'm Corinne Reilly, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New Jersey. My approach is rooted in treating every individual with utmost respect, dignity, and compassion. With a commitment to facilitating healing and personal growth, I bring experience from various settings including outpatient community and private practice mental health, in-community therapy, and supportive housing for intellectual and developmental disabilities. My goal is to cultivate a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable sharing even the most challenging aspects of your life.
![Photo of Andie Loiseau, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf1a6270-0d4c-4c54-9ca0-ad84904eebd3/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client is the client that has an idea of what they want in life but is overwhelmed with life stressors such as anxiety and depression. This client needs a safe space to explore their life options and the triggers that are causing negative thinking patterns, self-doubt, and low self-confidence. This client needs support, encouragement, and a non-judgmental approach to achieve their goals.
My ideal client is the client that has an idea of what they want in life but is overwhelmed with life stressors such as anxiety and depression. This client needs a safe space to explore their life options and the triggers that are causing negative thinking patterns, self-doubt, and low self-confidence. This client needs support, encouragement, and a non-judgmental approach to achieve their goals.
![Photo of Dr. Julee Wickliffe, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/804a8617-68b8-4b54-90a9-15b031155068/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wickliffe specializes in addressing a range of challenges with a passion for assisting clients through life transitions, managing anxiety & depression, and addressing women's issues such as self-esteem.
Julee Wickliffe, DSW, LCSW, brings 25 years of experience in the social work field as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist. Her professional journey includes roles at Rutgers University Correctional Healthcare, where she served in the NJ State Prison System and NJ State Parole System. Alongside, she has maintained a private practice, contributed to a child/adolescent psychiatric unit in a hospital, and worked in a juvenile correctional facility. Dr. Wickliffe's therapeutic approach is grounded in strengths, aiming to empower her clients.
Wickliffe specializes in addressing a range of challenges with a passion for assisting clients through life transitions, managing anxiety & depression, and addressing women's issues such as self-esteem.
Julee Wickliffe, DSW, LCSW, brings 25 years of experience in the social work field as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist. Her professional journey includes roles at Rutgers University Correctional Healthcare, where she served in the NJ State Prison System and NJ State Parole System. Alongside, she has maintained a private practice, contributed to a child/adolescent psychiatric unit in a hospital, and worked in a juvenile correctional facility. Dr. Wickliffe's therapeutic approach is grounded in strengths, aiming to empower her clients.
![Photo of Shams Elbedeiwy, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8e6e8c4-656b-428c-b19c-bd229f1854a9/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client is a young adult under the age of 35 who may have difficulty with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, adjusting to new circumstances, stress, family strain, relationship issues, and cultural stress.
My ideal client is a young adult under the age of 35 who may have difficulty with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, adjusting to new circumstances, stress, family strain, relationship issues, and cultural stress.
![Photo of Roger B Peterson - Roger B Peterson - Psychotherapy LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42c656c7-0869-4925-a223-be5169533b8a/2/320x400.png)
Roger B Peterson - Psychotherapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Edison, NJ 08817 (Online Only)
I typically work with clients who tend to feel any combination of the following: depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, over-stressed, or "stuck." Things aren't working in their life. They're at a loss as to what to do to improve their sense of well-being. They would love to be happier but what they're doing isn't working. So they're reaching out to see what can be done to get things on track.
I typically work with clients who tend to feel any combination of the following: depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, over-stressed, or "stuck." Things aren't working in their life. They're at a loss as to what to do to improve their sense of well-being. They would love to be happier but what they're doing isn't working. So they're reaching out to see what can be done to get things on track.
![Photo of Helena Gage, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbe54640-d708-4bbc-9e1a-eaf579f4d342/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Helena Gage, a licensed clinical social worker, having earned my Masters in Social Work from Ramapo College of New Jersey in 2018. With years of experience, I've supported adolescents and adults facing various mental health and substance use challenges, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. My approach involves meeting clients where they are in life and aiding them in achieving their treatment goals.
I'm Helena Gage, a licensed clinical social worker, having earned my Masters in Social Work from Ramapo College of New Jersey in 2018. With years of experience, I've supported adolescents and adults facing various mental health and substance use challenges, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. My approach involves meeting clients where they are in life and aiding them in achieving their treatment goals.
![Photo of Amanda Perez](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca231290-49d1-4695-bb8f-268cac5b199d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Amanda Perez, a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) with a master's degree in counseling psychology from St. Elizabeth University. My specialization centers around counseling preteens, teens, adults, and elders, with a focus on addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship concerns. Employing evidence-based modalities like CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy, I tailor my approach to match your unique needs and goals.
I'm Amanda Perez, a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) with a master's degree in counseling psychology from St. Elizabeth University. My specialization centers around counseling preteens, teens, adults, and elders, with a focus on addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship concerns. Employing evidence-based modalities like CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy, I tailor my approach to match your unique needs and goals.
15 Second Videos
Roger B Peterson - Psychotherapy LLC
Enriched Life Therapy, LLC
Stephanie Sammarco, LLC
Matthew Donohue
Kenneth Kressel
Jessica Vlossak
Yujia Dai
Charis Chase
Joey Zhou
Michelle Jiang
Anmol Champaneria: Teens, Adults, & Couples
David Patrick Munck
Kristian Hunt
Dr. Wanda M. Thomas
Eliza Strawbridge
Frederick Rotgers
Natasha Patel
Jay Serrano
Rachel Gonzalez
Center for Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Zahayra: ADHD, Postpartum, Infertility, DBT
Cintia Gutierrez
Melissa Cramutolo
DBT Groups & Autism Group
Jackelin Santiago
Shakirah Ewell: Women And Young Adults
Charmaine R Perry
Sho Ishikura
Shamima Akhter
Reema Patel
Melody Smith
Addi Ankrah: Seniors, Adults, Teens
Jeffrey Ly I Porn Addiction Relationship
Danika Ali
Ivy Horan
Alicia Joel
![Photo of Marisol Charernsook, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e84d018-5d1a-43ab-97ad-a1513c0bcafb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hey, I'm Marisol Charernsook! With 20 years under my belt, I've been all over— from mental health programs to community settings. Whether it's tough relationship stuff or battling anxiety and depression, I've got your back. I know taking the leap into therapy can be daunting, but trust me, you're making the right move. Welcome aboard!
Hey, I'm Marisol Charernsook! With 20 years under my belt, I've been all over— from mental health programs to community settings. Whether it's tough relationship stuff or battling anxiety and depression, I've got your back. I know taking the leap into therapy can be daunting, but trust me, you're making the right move. Welcome aboard!
![Photo of Vilma Ramos, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff594f32-8c85-47d7-97f9-9ef99f76426d/1/320x400.png)
I'm Vilma Ramos, a Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisee with extensive experience in clinical psychology settings. From inpatient psychiatric hospitals to substance use disorder treatment programs, I've worked across diverse environments. My focus is on assisting individuals who easily feel overwhelmed by teaching distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Together, we'll collaborate on strategies to help you manage your emotions effectively. Whether you're grappling with challenging relationship dynamics or navigating cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to offer support and guidance.
I'm Vilma Ramos, a Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisee with extensive experience in clinical psychology settings. From inpatient psychiatric hospitals to substance use disorder treatment programs, I've worked across diverse environments. My focus is on assisting individuals who easily feel overwhelmed by teaching distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Together, we'll collaborate on strategies to help you manage your emotions effectively. Whether you're grappling with challenging relationship dynamics or navigating cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to offer support and guidance.
![Photo of Margot Harris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff1c8524-357f-4945-b68c-2fd4c5ba4841/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked extensively with issues of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief and PTSD, just to name a few.
I have had over 42 years of experience treating adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups, primarily utilizing the Cognitive Behavioral therapy approach, along with healthy doses of humor (when appropriate, of course). I am a firm believer that the bedrock of successful treatment begins with establishing a solid connection and rapport with the people I treat. My philosophy is that the patient is the captain of the ship and I am the navigator; the captain tells me where he/she wants to go (goals) and I suggest the routing to get there - and as a team...we'll get there!
I have worked extensively with issues of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief and PTSD, just to name a few.
I have had over 42 years of experience treating adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups, primarily utilizing the Cognitive Behavioral therapy approach, along with healthy doses of humor (when appropriate, of course). I am a firm believer that the bedrock of successful treatment begins with establishing a solid connection and rapport with the people I treat. My philosophy is that the patient is the captain of the ship and I am the navigator; the captain tells me where he/she wants to go (goals) and I suggest the routing to get there - and as a team...we'll get there!
![Photo of Megan Shane, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7110a9f0-d2ce-4503-af54-d6920078d3cc/1/320x400.png)
I'm Megan Shane, holding licenses as both a Clinical Social Worker and Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My background spans years of assisting adults and families in navigating mental health and addiction challenges. From inpatient to various outpatient settings, I've gained diverse experience. Whether you're grappling with relationship difficulties, recurring depression or anxiety, or seeking behavioral changes like managing substance use, I aim to empower you. Together, we'll cultivate skills to regulate episodes, identify triggers, and express thoughts and emotions surrounding past and present experiences.
I'm Megan Shane, holding licenses as both a Clinical Social Worker and Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My background spans years of assisting adults and families in navigating mental health and addiction challenges. From inpatient to various outpatient settings, I've gained diverse experience. Whether you're grappling with relationship difficulties, recurring depression or anxiety, or seeking behavioral changes like managing substance use, I aim to empower you. Together, we'll cultivate skills to regulate episodes, identify triggers, and express thoughts and emotions surrounding past and present experiences.
![Photo of Jackelyn Alvarez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b63b3ae-7eda-4d1a-917f-04c28853a1c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
My aim is to support individuals facing various challenges such as anxiety, depression, life adjustments, and more.
Hello, I'm Jackelyn Alvarez, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New Jersey. I earned my Masters of Social Work degree from Rutgers University in 2017. With several years of experience, I've worked across diverse settings including Respite care, Supportive housing, Outpatient clinic, and Intensive In Community Counseling. Fluent in Spanish, I also have extensive experience conducting telehealth sessions. I've worked with individuals of all ages, from children to geriatric populations.
My aim is to support individuals facing various challenges such as anxiety, depression, life adjustments, and more.
Hello, I'm Jackelyn Alvarez, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New Jersey. I earned my Masters of Social Work degree from Rutgers University in 2017. With several years of experience, I've worked across diverse settings including Respite care, Supportive housing, Outpatient clinic, and Intensive In Community Counseling. Fluent in Spanish, I also have extensive experience conducting telehealth sessions. I've worked with individuals of all ages, from children to geriatric populations.
![Photo of Lizhen Yan - Enriched Life Therapy, LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/342c6d01-0677-4bce-b574-18ecbe17009b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Enriched Life Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edison, NJ 08820 (Online Only)
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), I use a Christian perspective to help adults, children, and families of all backgrounds to understand how our behaviors affect ourselves and our relationships. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, parenting/marital troubles, substance or gambling addictions, I provide a safe place for you to come individually, as a family, or as a couple. Through understanding our thinking and emotion behind our behaviors and finding the meaning of your life, you will be inspired to live out an enriched life.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), I use a Christian perspective to help adults, children, and families of all backgrounds to understand how our behaviors affect ourselves and our relationships. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, parenting/marital troubles, substance or gambling addictions, I provide a safe place for you to come individually, as a family, or as a couple. Through understanding our thinking and emotion behind our behaviors and finding the meaning of your life, you will be inspired to live out an enriched life.
![Photo of Rebecca Warrington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4b40ca4-5f5b-457f-aa83-b75d28cf448d/1/320x400.png)
Rebecca Warrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Edison, NJ 08820 (Online Only)
Rebecca Warrington is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience providing therapy to adults and couples tackling life’s challenges. Her expertise stems from an international client base helping those with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, work-related stress, women’s issues, and other life transitions. Author, speaker, broadcaster, and mindfulness authority, Rebecca draws upon her deep knowledge to form a distinctive mind-body approach working with clients.
Rebecca Warrington is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience providing therapy to adults and couples tackling life’s challenges. Her expertise stems from an international client base helping those with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, work-related stress, women’s issues, and other life transitions. Author, speaker, broadcaster, and mindfulness authority, Rebecca draws upon her deep knowledge to form a distinctive mind-body approach working with clients.
![Photo of Michelle Bonilla, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/979e7a87-98e1-4100-bc3f-a6b6926443d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Michelle Bonilla, a licensed professional counselor with extensive experience across various clinical settings, including inpatient detoxification units and outpatient substance use disorder treatment programs. Are you constantly overwhelmed by anxiety and worry, despite your efforts to manage them? Does your depression leave you feeling stagnant, unsatisfied, and discontented? Perhaps you're weary of incessant overthinking or the weight of numerous responsibilities. Maybe you're frustrated with feelings of isolation or a lack of motivation. It's possible you can't recall a time when things weren't this challenging.
Hello, I'm Michelle Bonilla, a licensed professional counselor with extensive experience across various clinical settings, including inpatient detoxification units and outpatient substance use disorder treatment programs. Are you constantly overwhelmed by anxiety and worry, despite your efforts to manage them? Does your depression leave you feeling stagnant, unsatisfied, and discontented? Perhaps you're weary of incessant overthinking or the weight of numerous responsibilities. Maybe you're frustrated with feelings of isolation or a lack of motivation. It's possible you can't recall a time when things weren't this challenging.
![Photo of Selma Wankhade - Selma Wankhade. - The Path to Wellness Counseling , MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbdbe265-572c-4bb1-902a-c5267a37c29c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Selma Wankhade. - The Path to Wellness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edison, NJ 08820 (Online Only)
Mental health is an essential aspect of our overall well-being. As individuals, we go through several changes in our lives. Some of those changes can be very distressing. You may feel stuck, anxious, or depressed. You may not know, where to turn. As a therapist, my goal is dedicated to helping you navigate the right therapeutic path to optimize wellness. No matter how big or small the problem is, we work as a team, to explore past or present issues. I specialize in working with individuals affected by anxiety, depression, trauma, or low self-esteem.
Mental health is an essential aspect of our overall well-being. As individuals, we go through several changes in our lives. Some of those changes can be very distressing. You may feel stuck, anxious, or depressed. You may not know, where to turn. As a therapist, my goal is dedicated to helping you navigate the right therapeutic path to optimize wellness. No matter how big or small the problem is, we work as a team, to explore past or present issues. I specialize in working with individuals affected by anxiety, depression, trauma, or low self-esteem.
See more therapy options for Edison
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Edison
- Avenel
- Colonia
- Fords
- Highland Park
- Iselin
- Metuchen
- New Brunswick
- Perth Amboy
- Piscataway
- Sayreville
- South Plainfield
- Woodbridge
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.