Depression Therapists in Matawan, NJ

Photo of Krystal Cooper - Compassion Starts Within, LLC , LPC, LPCMH, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Compassion Starts Within, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCMH, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747  (Online Only)
My name is Krystal, owner of Compassion Starts Within. I work with folks who deal with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, low self esteem, minority stress, and more. Life is hard and everyone is doing their best; the folks I support struggle to believe that their current best is enough and they feel defeated. They might be dealing with a negative internal dialogue stemming from past trauma or unattainable familial/societal expectations. Instead of making comparisons or fighting to "fit the mold" we find ways to make things work for us.
My name is Krystal, owner of Compassion Starts Within. I work with folks who deal with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, low self esteem, minority stress, and more. Life is hard and everyone is doing their best; the folks I support struggle to believe that their current best is enough and they feel defeated. They might be dealing with a negative internal dialogue stemming from past trauma or unattainable familial/societal expectations. Instead of making comparisons or fighting to "fit the mold" we find ways to make things work for us.
(732) 655-3490 View (732) 655-3490
Photo of Felicia Etuke, PhD, LPC, LCADC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Felicia Etuke
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCADC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747
Among our areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, attachment issues, domestic violence, women's issues, marriage/relationship issues, substance abuse, etc.
With over 30 combined years experience, Grace Abounds Counseling specializes in individual counseling, couples therapy, child psychotherapy, adolescent psychotherapy, and family therapy.
Among our areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, attachment issues, domestic violence, women's issues, marriage/relationship issues, substance abuse, etc.
With over 30 combined years experience, Grace Abounds Counseling specializes in individual counseling, couples therapy, child psychotherapy, adolescent psychotherapy, and family therapy.
(732) 876-9927 View (732) 876-9927
Photo of Tanya Jones-Awolusi - Butterfly Effect Counseling and Consulting LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Butterfly Effect Counseling and Consulting LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747
Depression and Anxiety are two twins we most commonly treat; however, we have a variety of other specialty areas as well.
Let's keep it real, life can be a challenge at times! Let's assist you in navigating through it. We are faith-based, licensed clinicians with real-life experiences, that have been the catalyst for our "Keep It Real" approach to therapy. We congratulate you for choosing to speak and share the most important and private thoughts you have with us. We like to believe that we are the type of therapists who keep sessions real, applicable, and relatable. We help Black professional women who are experiencing Depression and/or Anxiety and who feel stuck in life, to explore ways to implement change; and build confidence to move forward.
Depression and Anxiety are two twins we most commonly treat; however, we have a variety of other specialty areas as well.
Let's keep it real, life can be a challenge at times! Let's assist you in navigating through it. We are faith-based, licensed clinicians with real-life experiences, that have been the catalyst for our "Keep It Real" approach to therapy. We congratulate you for choosing to speak and share the most important and private thoughts you have with us. We like to believe that we are the type of therapists who keep sessions real, applicable, and relatable. We help Black professional women who are experiencing Depression and/or Anxiety and who feel stuck in life, to explore ways to implement change; and build confidence to move forward.
(848) 233-3324 View (848) 233-3324
Photo of Jacalyn Held - Center for Marriage and Family Therapy, P.C.
Center for Marriage and Family Therapy, P.C.
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
The Center For Marriage and Family Therapy has five offices throughout central New Jersey. Jackie Held, Karen Spiler and Jill Stein founded the Center in 1984. We refer to a large network of affiliated therapists whose specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, gay and lesbian issues, child and adolescent therapy, grief therapy, sex therapy and substance abuse. Our offices are in Matawan, Freehold, Princeton, Toms River and Piscataway. Our network includes licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers, substance abuse specialists, child and adolescent specialists and sex therapists.
The Center For Marriage and Family Therapy has five offices throughout central New Jersey. Jackie Held, Karen Spiler and Jill Stein founded the Center in 1984. We refer to a large network of affiliated therapists whose specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, gay and lesbian issues, child and adolescent therapy, grief therapy, sex therapy and substance abuse. Our offices are in Matawan, Freehold, Princeton, Toms River and Piscataway. Our network includes licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers, substance abuse specialists, child and adolescent specialists and sex therapists.
(732) 806-5219 x301 View (732) 806-5219 x301
Photo of Roseanne Arpaia, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roseanne Arpaia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
Intention is the starting point for meaningful change and psychotherapy can be the vehicle that can help you get there. Intentions for positive change involve considering both directions, the past and future. Unresolved emotional pain- the proverbial ghosts of the past- have a negative effect on well-being and can manifest in ways that limit your life whether you are suffering from depression and anxiety, addictive illness, or have relationship issues. Developing insight along with learning positive coping skills is a powerful approach to working through core emotional issues and problematic patterns that keep you stuck.
Intention is the starting point for meaningful change and psychotherapy can be the vehicle that can help you get there. Intentions for positive change involve considering both directions, the past and future. Unresolved emotional pain- the proverbial ghosts of the past- have a negative effect on well-being and can manifest in ways that limit your life whether you are suffering from depression and anxiety, addictive illness, or have relationship issues. Developing insight along with learning positive coping skills is a powerful approach to working through core emotional issues and problematic patterns that keep you stuck.
(732) 703-6122 View (732) 703-6122
Photo of Cynthia Heller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Heller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747  (Online Only)
As a seasoned clinician, I am dedicated to supporting clients who are navigating stress, anxiety, depression, career difficulties, relationship issues, and other life challenges. I will work collaboratively with you to explore and address the obstacles that may be preventing you from reaching your goals. My approach ensures that treatment is individualized and tailored to your unique needs, concerns, and circumstances. I look forward to working with you.
As a seasoned clinician, I am dedicated to supporting clients who are navigating stress, anxiety, depression, career difficulties, relationship issues, and other life challenges. I will work collaboratively with you to explore and address the obstacles that may be preventing you from reaching your goals. My approach ensures that treatment is individualized and tailored to your unique needs, concerns, and circumstances. I look forward to working with you.
(551) 314-6233 View (551) 314-6233
Photo of Laura Klockner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Klockner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people suffering from anxiety, depression and low self esteem.
Do racing thoughts keep you up at night? Are you constantly worrying? Does everything you do need to be perfect? Do you struggle with change or uncertainty? Are you restless? Having trouble sleeping? Relationship troubles? Fred Rogers once said, “Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.”
I specialize in helping people suffering from anxiety, depression and low self esteem.
Do racing thoughts keep you up at night? Are you constantly worrying? Does everything you do need to be perfect? Do you struggle with change or uncertainty? Are you restless? Having trouble sleeping? Relationship troubles? Fred Rogers once said, “Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.”
(848) 353-0361 View (848) 353-0361
Photo of Denise Spivey, Pre-Licensed Professional
Denise Spivey
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747  (Online Only)
Together, we will work to identify you current stressors & build your confidence to break the cycle of living under stress, anxiety, and depression.
Are you looking to make positive changes in your mental health? As a clinical intern, I work under the supervision of well experienced therapists to provide personalized mental health support for children, teens & adults in New Jersey. I have a strong background in social and human services supporting the mental health needs of individuals and families. I also have experience as a provider of expressive art therapies with adults and children to assist with communication & expression. I will provide a safe, comfortable, private space for you to unload your worries, untangle your conflicts, and plan for your future the way you desire.
Together, we will work to identify you current stressors & build your confidence to break the cycle of living under stress, anxiety, and depression.
Are you looking to make positive changes in your mental health? As a clinical intern, I work under the supervision of well experienced therapists to provide personalized mental health support for children, teens & adults in New Jersey. I have a strong background in social and human services supporting the mental health needs of individuals and families. I also have experience as a provider of expressive art therapies with adults and children to assist with communication & expression. I will provide a safe, comfortable, private space for you to unload your worries, untangle your conflicts, and plan for your future the way you desire.
(732) 466-7118 View (732) 466-7118
Photo of Lisa Musolino, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Musolino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747
Specialities include: Relationship and family conflict/trauma, addiction recovery, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression.
Are you looking to finally feel heard and understood? Do you fear the unknown and feel stuck as you struggle to create genuine change? Finding the courage to ask for help, is the first step towards growth. Whatever you are facing, change is possible through hard work, building self awareness and patience. I am a LPC in NJ with 4 years private practice experience, working together with my clients to identify and achieve their goals, towards genuine happiness. My main goal is to create a therapeutic relationship and environment, where you will feel safe and comfortable sharing your intimate thoughts and feelings, without judgement
Specialities include: Relationship and family conflict/trauma, addiction recovery, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression.
Are you looking to finally feel heard and understood? Do you fear the unknown and feel stuck as you struggle to create genuine change? Finding the courage to ask for help, is the first step towards growth. Whatever you are facing, change is possible through hard work, building self awareness and patience. I am a LPC in NJ with 4 years private practice experience, working together with my clients to identify and achieve their goals, towards genuine happiness. My main goal is to create a therapeutic relationship and environment, where you will feel safe and comfortable sharing your intimate thoughts and feelings, without judgement
(732) 723-5649 View (732) 723-5649
Photo of Stephanie Quiroga, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Quiroga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747
As a licensed clinical social worker, I use an eclectic approach while treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, low self-esteem, grief, stress, and relationship conflict.
In our fast-paced world, feeling stressed, lonely, and confused is easy. How do I navigate these emotions, and who can I trust to help me process my fears, doubts, and deep secrets without judgment? With that in mind, I want every patient to walk into my room and know they have someone who will listen, connect, empathize with, and encourage growth.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I use an eclectic approach while treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, low self-esteem, grief, stress, and relationship conflict.
In our fast-paced world, feeling stressed, lonely, and confused is easy. How do I navigate these emotions, and who can I trust to help me process my fears, doubts, and deep secrets without judgment? With that in mind, I want every patient to walk into my room and know they have someone who will listen, connect, empathize with, and encourage growth.
(732) 385-9449 View (732) 385-9449
Photo of Jill Stein - Toms River Center for Marriage and Family Therapy, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toms River Center for Marriage and Family Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
The Center for Marriage and Family Therapy has five offices throughout central New Jersey. Jackie Held, Karen Spiler and Jill Stein founded the Center in 1984. We refer to a large network of affiliated therapists whose specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, gay and lesbian issues,grief therapy,stress management, victims of spousal abuse, chronic and terminal illness and dealing with life stage transitions. In addition to Toms River, our offices are in Matawan, Freehold, Piscataway and Princeton. Our network includes licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers and substance abuse specialists.
The Center for Marriage and Family Therapy has five offices throughout central New Jersey. Jackie Held, Karen Spiler and Jill Stein founded the Center in 1984. We refer to a large network of affiliated therapists whose specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, gay and lesbian issues,grief therapy,stress management, victims of spousal abuse, chronic and terminal illness and dealing with life stage transitions. In addition to Toms River, our offices are in Matawan, Freehold, Piscataway and Princeton. Our network includes licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers and substance abuse specialists.
(732) 481-1863 x301 View (732) 481-1863 x301
Photo of Christina Carbone, LMHC, Counselor
Christina Carbone
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747  (Online Only)
I work closely with adolescents and young adults who are struggling as they navigate through difficult life transitions, anxiety, panic attacks, depression and trauma.
Limited Space available, now accepting clients in NY & NJ. My goal is to make sure that my clients always feel supported and see real, tangible progress. In my work with my clients, I blend traditional talk therapy with CBT, mindfulness, and somatic interventions in order to create a fully holistic and supportive therapeutic experience. The collaborative approach I take enables my clients to feel both supported and empowered through the therapeutic process. I actively guide them through building on their own strengths as well as learning new skills in order to work through barriers and challenges they are facing.
I work closely with adolescents and young adults who are struggling as they navigate through difficult life transitions, anxiety, panic attacks, depression and trauma.
Limited Space available, now accepting clients in NY & NJ. My goal is to make sure that my clients always feel supported and see real, tangible progress. In my work with my clients, I blend traditional talk therapy with CBT, mindfulness, and somatic interventions in order to create a fully holistic and supportive therapeutic experience. The collaborative approach I take enables my clients to feel both supported and empowered through the therapeutic process. I actively guide them through building on their own strengths as well as learning new skills in order to work through barriers and challenges they are facing.
(646) 419-4873 View (646) 419-4873
Photo of Martha Hicks, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Martha Hicks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747
Are you feeling stuck? Stressed? Depressed? Couple or relationship difficulties? Going through a painful divorce? Is it derailing your life? In practice for 25 years, I can help you feel better and resolve difficulties. In a warm and open atmosphere, I offer an approach tailored to each client’s needs for support, insight, and emotional regulation. Together we can address your unique concerns. I was trained in individual and marriage and family therapy in Manhattan at the Blanton-Peale Graduate Institute and have a graduate degree from Yale University.
Are you feeling stuck? Stressed? Depressed? Couple or relationship difficulties? Going through a painful divorce? Is it derailing your life? In practice for 25 years, I can help you feel better and resolve difficulties. In a warm and open atmosphere, I offer an approach tailored to each client’s needs for support, insight, and emotional regulation. Together we can address your unique concerns. I was trained in individual and marriage and family therapy in Manhattan at the Blanton-Peale Graduate Institute and have a graduate degree from Yale University.
(732) 654-2260 View (732) 654-2260
Photo of Christina McDermott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina McDermott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
I work with clients who are feeling stuck, isolated, and/or experience anxiety, depression, co-occurring diagnoses, and/or trauma. Clients who are looking to improve their relationship with themselves and others. As well as seeking to support to improve their coping skills and self-care, especially while facing significant life changes.
I work with clients who are feeling stuck, isolated, and/or experience anxiety, depression, co-occurring diagnoses, and/or trauma. Clients who are looking to improve their relationship with themselves and others. As well as seeking to support to improve their coping skills and self-care, especially while facing significant life changes.
(732) 538-8332 View (732) 538-8332
Photo of Amber Rodriguez, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747  (Online Only)
I have experience in school and outpatient settings, working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions and stressors, grief and loss, low self-esteem, academic and sports performance stressors and more.
Do you frequently overthink, lack confidence, and feel like you are not good enough? Do you find yourself emotionally drained and unable to enjoy things that you once did? Is your child struggling with emotion regulation and social skills? I’m dedicated to supporting adolescents, teens, and college-aged adults in achieving their goals, developing tools and skills to navigate life’s difficulties, and guiding them on their journeys toward personal growth.
I have experience in school and outpatient settings, working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions and stressors, grief and loss, low self-esteem, academic and sports performance stressors and more.
Do you frequently overthink, lack confidence, and feel like you are not good enough? Do you find yourself emotionally drained and unable to enjoy things that you once did? Is your child struggling with emotion regulation and social skills? I’m dedicated to supporting adolescents, teens, and college-aged adults in achieving their goals, developing tools and skills to navigate life’s difficulties, and guiding them on their journeys toward personal growth.
(848) 368-0129 View (848) 368-0129
Photo of Taylor Ricciardi, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Ricciardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
I am most comfortable working with anxiety and depression but have also worked with those who have bipolar disorders, OCD, going through grief and other things of this nature.
I think of someone who has anxiety and depression where at different times it can be harder or easier. Their main goal would be to understand where it is coming from and how to work on it. They can have a hard time with it but ultimately want to feel better.
I am most comfortable working with anxiety and depression but have also worked with those who have bipolar disorders, OCD, going through grief and other things of this nature.
I think of someone who has anxiety and depression where at different times it can be harder or easier. Their main goal would be to understand where it is coming from and how to work on it. They can have a hard time with it but ultimately want to feel better.
(848) 271-5030 View (848) 271-5030
Photo of Lisa M Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa M Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
I provide therapy to individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, lack of emotional regulation and complex family issues.
Lets work together in a safe, warm and nonjudgemental setting that allows you or your child to meet their fullest potential. I will help you identify goals that are meaningful to you and together we will work towards meeting these goals. Therapy is a partnership and we will embark on the journey and navigate the roadblocks that can make life difficult. I use a client-centered approach along with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and play therapy.
I provide therapy to individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, lack of emotional regulation and complex family issues.
Lets work together in a safe, warm and nonjudgemental setting that allows you or your child to meet their fullest potential. I will help you identify goals that are meaningful to you and together we will work towards meeting these goals. Therapy is a partnership and we will embark on the journey and navigate the roadblocks that can make life difficult. I use a client-centered approach along with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and play therapy.
(848) 294-2418 View (848) 294-2418
Photo of Jennifer Hunter - Hunter Counseling LCSW, PLLC, LCSW-R, SIFI, SHRM, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hunter Counseling LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SIFI, SHRM, PhD
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747  (Online Only)
Some changes bring about stress, anxiety, and/or depression.
Communication is conducted in various forms and I know it can be difficult to seek and maintain mental health services. The first step is identifying that there may be an issue affecting you from successfully managing your day to day activities. The second step is recognizing your not alone. At Hunter Counseling LCSW, PLLC, we help you explore the underlying conditions that may be impacting your ability to put yourself first and move forward. Together we will focus on your inner strengths and confidence; set realistic and tangible goals; and help you reach the outcome you want to achieve. Licensed in NY, NJ, NA, & RI. Let's Talk!
Some changes bring about stress, anxiety, and/or depression.
Communication is conducted in various forms and I know it can be difficult to seek and maintain mental health services. The first step is identifying that there may be an issue affecting you from successfully managing your day to day activities. The second step is recognizing your not alone. At Hunter Counseling LCSW, PLLC, we help you explore the underlying conditions that may be impacting your ability to put yourself first and move forward. Together we will focus on your inner strengths and confidence; set realistic and tangible goals; and help you reach the outcome you want to achieve. Licensed in NY, NJ, NA, & RI. Let's Talk!
(718) 524-3088 View (718) 524-3088
Photo of Barbara Devin Rodriguez, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Devin Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matawan, NJ 07747  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients suffering with depression, anxiety, grief and overall life changes.
Talking about our problems is never easy, let alone acknowledging we may need help and support, but I hope to make that process a little easier by providing a safe and supportive environment for you to heal and grow in. Just like your local Planet Fitness, this too is a judgment free zone! If you’re looking for a space where you can talk openly and honestly, sarcasm included, then I can help create that space for you.
I have experience working with clients suffering with depression, anxiety, grief and overall life changes.
Talking about our problems is never easy, let alone acknowledging we may need help and support, but I hope to make that process a little easier by providing a safe and supportive environment for you to heal and grow in. Just like your local Planet Fitness, this too is a judgment free zone! If you’re looking for a space where you can talk openly and honestly, sarcasm included, then I can help create that space for you.
(848) 253-6272 View (848) 253-6272
Photo of Veronica Mullin - Extracare Health Services LLC, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Extracare Health Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
Extracare Health Services is an outpatient drug and alcohol counseling center offering individualized outpatient and intensive outpatient treatment for adolescents, adults and their families. Via a Cognitive/Behavioral approach to treatment, there is a strong emphasis on building self-esteem in our clients and empowering them to take effective control of their lives. Since addiction is an illness that impacts all aspects of a person's life, we provide a holistic and comprehensive treatment program that includes, individual and group counseling, family education and urine-testing. Additionally, we provide counseling for anxiety, depression, codependency, PTSD and domestic violence/anger management.
Extracare Health Services is an outpatient drug and alcohol counseling center offering individualized outpatient and intensive outpatient treatment for adolescents, adults and their families. Via a Cognitive/Behavioral approach to treatment, there is a strong emphasis on building self-esteem in our clients and empowering them to take effective control of their lives. Since addiction is an illness that impacts all aspects of a person's life, we provide a holistic and comprehensive treatment program that includes, individual and group counseling, family education and urine-testing. Additionally, we provide counseling for anxiety, depression, codependency, PTSD and domestic violence/anger management.
(732) 410-7244 View (732) 410-7244
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.