Depression Therapists in Princeton Junction, NJ

Photo of Melissa Weisel, MSW, LCSW, MPH-PP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Weisel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MPH-PP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550  (Online Only)
I utilize positive psychology, mindfulness, scientifically proven therapeutic modalities, and psycho-education to improve the signs and symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression daily.
Welcome! I offer free consultations. Go to hamiltonhealingarts.com and fill out the contact form on the home page! My therapeutic aim is to support individuals in transforming themselves from who they believe they need to be, to their most authentic and satisfied selves. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). With experience helping those from eight years old to 80, I can offer a wide range of interventions to successfully alleviate symptoms of distress that may disrupt your daily life or keep you from achieving your most important goals.
I utilize positive psychology, mindfulness, scientifically proven therapeutic modalities, and psycho-education to improve the signs and symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression daily.
Welcome! I offer free consultations. Go to hamiltonhealingarts.com and fill out the contact form on the home page! My therapeutic aim is to support individuals in transforming themselves from who they believe they need to be, to their most authentic and satisfied selves. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). With experience helping those from eight years old to 80, I can offer a wide range of interventions to successfully alleviate symptoms of distress that may disrupt your daily life or keep you from achieving your most important goals.
(609) 316-4450 View (609) 316-4450
Photo of Megan Teperman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Teperman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
Her experience in helping clients with different concerns varies among those who are struggling with, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, experiencing difficulties with transitions through life stages or events, limited emotional awareness, family and relationship dynamic struggles, and career and college planning.
Megan is a Licensed Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. She graduated from Monmouth University with an MS in Mental Health Counseling. She gained experience from various settings: vocational rehabilitation, behavioral & mental health, grief counseling and has worked with adults, young adults, teens, and young children in OP, IOP, and PHP levels of care. Her patient's well-being is the ultimate concern. Developing trust to build a therapeutic relationship that allows the client to feel supported and safe to express themselves is important.
Her experience in helping clients with different concerns varies among those who are struggling with, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, experiencing difficulties with transitions through life stages or events, limited emotional awareness, family and relationship dynamic struggles, and career and college planning.
Megan is a Licensed Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. She graduated from Monmouth University with an MS in Mental Health Counseling. She gained experience from various settings: vocational rehabilitation, behavioral & mental health, grief counseling and has worked with adults, young adults, teens, and young children in OP, IOP, and PHP levels of care. Her patient's well-being is the ultimate concern. Developing trust to build a therapeutic relationship that allows the client to feel supported and safe to express themselves is important.
(609) 733-5397 View (609) 733-5397
Photo of Kayla Simmons, MA,  LAC, Counselor
Kayla Simmons
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
Kayla Simmons is a Licensed Associate Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2024. As a Licensed Associate Counselor with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Kayla brings a unique blend of clinical expertise, diverse experiences, and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity. Her passion lies in utilizing evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, to address a range of mental health challenges, from anxiety and depression to relationship difficulties and trauma.
Kayla Simmons is a Licensed Associate Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2024. As a Licensed Associate Counselor with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Kayla brings a unique blend of clinical expertise, diverse experiences, and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity. Her passion lies in utilizing evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, to address a range of mental health challenges, from anxiety and depression to relationship difficulties and trauma.
(848) 212-8620 View (848) 212-8620
Photo of Judy V. Fisher, MSW, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy V. Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550  (Online Only)
Hi, we all face challenges in our lives from time to time. Talking with a professional counselor in an open and honest way leads to self-discovery and healing. As owner of Choose Happiness, LLC, I work with people from all walks of life, educational levels, ages and cultures who are experiencing any number of emotional and/or behavioral challenges. Please, join me in working to help you explore and resolve your life's challenges. Some of the common issues people bring to me are, how to cope with anxiety, depression, attention issues, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, life transitions, career and school issues.
Hi, we all face challenges in our lives from time to time. Talking with a professional counselor in an open and honest way leads to self-discovery and healing. As owner of Choose Happiness, LLC, I work with people from all walks of life, educational levels, ages and cultures who are experiencing any number of emotional and/or behavioral challenges. Please, join me in working to help you explore and resolve your life's challenges. Some of the common issues people bring to me are, how to cope with anxiety, depression, attention issues, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, life transitions, career and school issues.
(732) 258-5616 View (732) 258-5616
Photo of Melissa Weisel - Hamilton Healing Arts, LLC, MSW, LCSW , MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hamilton Healing Arts, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW , MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550  (Online Only)
We utilize CBT, DBT, positive psychology, mindfulness, scientifically proven therapeutic modalities, and psycho-education to improve the signs and symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression daily.
Welcome to Hamilton Healing Arts! Our therapists are talented and ready to treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and assist in life transitions. We offer free consultations. Go to hamiltonhealingarts.com and fill out the contact form on the home page!
We utilize CBT, DBT, positive psychology, mindfulness, scientifically proven therapeutic modalities, and psycho-education to improve the signs and symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression daily.
Welcome to Hamilton Healing Arts! Our therapists are talented and ready to treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and assist in life transitions. We offer free consultations. Go to hamiltonhealingarts.com and fill out the contact form on the home page!
(908) 867-9461 View (908) 867-9461
Photo of Shoshanna Joss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shoshanna Joss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
Choosing the right therapist can be a challenge. Finding the perfect fit for your needs will lead you to a better quality of life. You may be experiencing, grief, unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, or any number of other conditions that are stopping you from leading the life you want to live. For my graduate degree at the University of Michigan, I focused on geriatrics, end of life, caregiving, and grief. Over the past 11 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have branched out into the fields of trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression.
Choosing the right therapist can be a challenge. Finding the perfect fit for your needs will lead you to a better quality of life. You may be experiencing, grief, unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, or any number of other conditions that are stopping you from leading the life you want to live. For my graduate degree at the University of Michigan, I focused on geriatrics, end of life, caregiving, and grief. Over the past 11 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have branched out into the fields of trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression.
(609) 905-5714 View (609) 905-5714
Photo of Sophia Fishbane, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Fishbane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550  (Online Only)
My focus of work has been with diverse backgrounds who have struggled with issues of depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, substance use, divorce and marital issues.
In the past 11 years I have had the privilege of working with individuals and families in a therapeutic partnership. Making the decision to focus on oneself and start working with a therapist can be life changing and I applaud you for taking the time to focus on yourself. Therapy can be enlightening and help create positive and lasting changes. But it can also be intimidating when starting this process. This is why the therapeutic relationship is so important. As a therapist it is my goal to work with you to help you unlock your greatness and move past any barriers that are holding you back.
My focus of work has been with diverse backgrounds who have struggled with issues of depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, substance use, divorce and marital issues.
In the past 11 years I have had the privilege of working with individuals and families in a therapeutic partnership. Making the decision to focus on oneself and start working with a therapist can be life changing and I applaud you for taking the time to focus on yourself. Therapy can be enlightening and help create positive and lasting changes. But it can also be intimidating when starting this process. This is why the therapeutic relationship is so important. As a therapist it is my goal to work with you to help you unlock your greatness and move past any barriers that are holding you back.
(609) 849-3437 View (609) 849-3437
Photo of Denise Martin, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denise Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
Denise Martin is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Master’s of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Monmouth University and is a certified Grief Counselor from David Kessler’s Grief Educator Certificate program. Denise has worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, mood, personality disorders, low self-esteem, life transitions, and grief/loss amongst other areas. Her counseling style is nurturing, and client centered.
Denise Martin is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Master’s of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Monmouth University and is a certified Grief Counselor from David Kessler’s Grief Educator Certificate program. Denise has worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, mood, personality disorders, low self-esteem, life transitions, and grief/loss amongst other areas. Her counseling style is nurturing, and client centered.
(609) 905-5738 View (609) 905-5738
Photo of Jennifer Chiaramonti, MSEd,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Chiaramonti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
Jennifer Chiaramonti is a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Board-Certified Counselor, and a Certified Global Career Development Facilitator in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2004. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Sociology, and World Religions, and a Master’s degree in Counseling and Higher Education. Jennifer assists clients from ages 16-65 with a wide range of concerns including, but not limited to: Depression and anxiety; relationship, family, and couple challenges; trauma; life transitions and adjustments; stress; low self-esteem; attachment issues; seasonal affective disorder; social anxiety;
Jennifer Chiaramonti is a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Board-Certified Counselor, and a Certified Global Career Development Facilitator in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2004. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Sociology, and World Religions, and a Master’s degree in Counseling and Higher Education. Jennifer assists clients from ages 16-65 with a wide range of concerns including, but not limited to: Depression and anxiety; relationship, family, and couple challenges; trauma; life transitions and adjustments; stress; low self-esteem; attachment issues; seasonal affective disorder; social anxiety;
(609) 507-3100 View (609) 507-3100
Photo of Matthew L. Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew L. Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
His specialties include anxiety, trauma, depression, and social skills.
Matthew L. Williams is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2016. He has an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, ACS credential for Clinical Supervision, and CCTP certification for Trauma Treatment. Much of Matthew's experience is centered around working with adolescents in multiple levels of care settings (e. g. , outpatient to partial hospitalization) with things like mood disorders, self-esteem issues, interpersonal effectiveness needs, and parent-child relational issues to name a few of areas.
His specialties include anxiety, trauma, depression, and social skills.
Matthew L. Williams is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2016. He has an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, ACS credential for Clinical Supervision, and CCTP certification for Trauma Treatment. Much of Matthew's experience is centered around working with adolescents in multiple levels of care settings (e. g. , outpatient to partial hospitalization) with things like mood disorders, self-esteem issues, interpersonal effectiveness needs, and parent-child relational issues to name a few of areas.
(609) 552-0177 View (609) 552-0177
Photo of Eliot B. Garson, PhD, Psychologist
Eliot B. Garson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
I believe that each individual is unique, and that compassion, trust and understanding are the essential foundations of a helping relationship. In my practice, I have helped children, adolescents and adults deal with depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning differences, questions of sexual or religious identity, and more. Together, we can understand the roots of the pain and suffering you are experiencing and help you work toward a better life.
I believe that each individual is unique, and that compassion, trust and understanding are the essential foundations of a helping relationship. In my practice, I have helped children, adolescents and adults deal with depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning differences, questions of sexual or religious identity, and more. Together, we can understand the roots of the pain and suffering you are experiencing and help you work toward a better life.
(610) 813-2198 View (610) 813-2198
Photo of Jennifer Waldron, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Waldron
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
I specialize in addressing symptoms of anxiety and depression in adults as well as in couples therapy.
From an early age, we all learn ways to cope with stress, change, and new relationships. Sometimes, familiar coping strategies, which may have served you well in the past, are no longer effective as life inevitably changes. You may feel "stuck" in these moments and at a loss for how to move forward. I work to provide a safe therapy space to explore feelings of sadness, worry, and uncertainty. Together, we can develop new coping strategies and create a plan for positive change that feels meaningful to you.
I specialize in addressing symptoms of anxiety and depression in adults as well as in couples therapy.
From an early age, we all learn ways to cope with stress, change, and new relationships. Sometimes, familiar coping strategies, which may have served you well in the past, are no longer effective as life inevitably changes. You may feel "stuck" in these moments and at a loss for how to move forward. I work to provide a safe therapy space to explore feelings of sadness, worry, and uncertainty. Together, we can develop new coping strategies and create a plan for positive change that feels meaningful to you.
(609) 362-5170 View (609) 362-5170
Photo of Melissa Held, MA, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Held
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
Do you find yourself wanting to feel happier, feel less stressed or want to be calmer? My counseling approach is focused on using positive psychology to help achieve a happier, more fulfilling life. I believe in focusing on one's strengths, while working on one's weaknesses. I believe strengthening self-esteem is one of the keys to helping conquer any issue. I routinely treat people suffering from depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, mood disorders, relationship issues, eating disorders, and everyday stress.
Do you find yourself wanting to feel happier, feel less stressed or want to be calmer? My counseling approach is focused on using positive psychology to help achieve a happier, more fulfilling life. I believe in focusing on one's strengths, while working on one's weaknesses. I believe strengthening self-esteem is one of the keys to helping conquer any issue. I routinely treat people suffering from depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, mood disorders, relationship issues, eating disorders, and everyday stress.
(609) 741-8990 View (609) 741-8990
Photo of Shira Schaktman, PsyD, Psychologist
Shira Schaktman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
I also work with individuals who experience general depression, social anxiety, especially related to social media isolation, low self-esteem and self-worth, and fertility issues.
I believe that you have the power and opportunity to change your life through therapy. My specialty entails working with teens, young, and middle age adults who experience difficult and challenging relationships, with family, friends, colleagues, and intimate partners. Working with clients who desire healthy relationships but feel precluded from having them, as well as individuals who experience communication and trust difficulties is something I enjoy. My clients and I collaborate in the exploration of challenging relationships and the related symptoms, with a goal of seeking out solutions to personal hurdles.
I also work with individuals who experience general depression, social anxiety, especially related to social media isolation, low self-esteem and self-worth, and fertility issues.
I believe that you have the power and opportunity to change your life through therapy. My specialty entails working with teens, young, and middle age adults who experience difficult and challenging relationships, with family, friends, colleagues, and intimate partners. Working with clients who desire healthy relationships but feel precluded from having them, as well as individuals who experience communication and trust difficulties is something I enjoy. My clients and I collaborate in the exploration of challenging relationships and the related symptoms, with a goal of seeking out solutions to personal hurdles.
(609) 236-7503 View (609) 236-7503
Photo of Antonio Rudo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Antonio Rudo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
I have 15+ years of experience treating young adults and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and life transitions using cognitive-behavioral (CBT), solution-focused, EMDR & person-centered therapy.
You are a young adult trying to navigate the challenges life presents while exploring your identity. You are struggling to find your direction in life and who you really are. It can be stressful juggling school, work, and relationships. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem from your current stressors or past trauma. Change can be scary, even when it’s good. If you’re looking to make a change in your life, I’m here to help you through that process. My goal is to help you find your path, build your confidence, enhance your well-being, and achieve your goals.
I have 15+ years of experience treating young adults and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and life transitions using cognitive-behavioral (CBT), solution-focused, EMDR & person-centered therapy.
You are a young adult trying to navigate the challenges life presents while exploring your identity. You are struggling to find your direction in life and who you really are. It can be stressful juggling school, work, and relationships. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem from your current stressors or past trauma. Change can be scary, even when it’s good. If you’re looking to make a change in your life, I’m here to help you through that process. My goal is to help you find your path, build your confidence, enhance your well-being, and achieve your goals.
(201) 431-3238 View (201) 431-3238
Photo of Chase Girvin, LMHC, LPC, ACS, Counselor
Chase Girvin
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550  (Online Only)
Do you want to overcome depression or anxiety and feel confident? Are you struggling with relationships? Do you find yourself getting angry quickly? Sometimes life transitions get difficult to manage. I have been helping people with these problems for 10 years and we can work collaboratively and holistically. We will focus on physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your life. We will figure out your best qualities and strengths, your personal resources and virtues to realize your true potential that will help you heal.
Do you want to overcome depression or anxiety and feel confident? Are you struggling with relationships? Do you find yourself getting angry quickly? Sometimes life transitions get difficult to manage. I have been helping people with these problems for 10 years and we can work collaboratively and holistically. We will focus on physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your life. We will figure out your best qualities and strengths, your personal resources and virtues to realize your true potential that will help you heal.
(929) 325-0188 View (929) 325-0188
Photo of D'Amani Bowman, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor
D'Amani Bowman
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
Waitlist for new clients
After obtaining professional experience, I work best with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, and relationship stressors.
Do you find yourself minimizing or gaslighting your feelings and experiences to make peace in relationships? Are you struggling because you feel unheard? Are you tired of unrealistic expectations of others? Seeking counseling services can be an overwhelming experience. Especially if this is your first time, or if you haven't had the best experiences in therapy. What I can offer is a space where you are safe to be your authentic self, without judgment. Our work together will consist of putting you back into the driver seat of your own life and achieving the goals that you set for yourself.
After obtaining professional experience, I work best with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, and relationship stressors.
Do you find yourself minimizing or gaslighting your feelings and experiences to make peace in relationships? Are you struggling because you feel unheard? Are you tired of unrealistic expectations of others? Seeking counseling services can be an overwhelming experience. Especially if this is your first time, or if you haven't had the best experiences in therapy. What I can offer is a space where you are safe to be your authentic self, without judgment. Our work together will consist of putting you back into the driver seat of your own life and achieving the goals that you set for yourself.
(856) 263-2139 View (856) 263-2139
Photo of Dr. Bridget Anton, PhD, MA, LPC, Psychologist
Dr. Bridget Anton
Psychologist, PhD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550  (Online Only)
People often seek out therapy hoping for some form of change. Whether you are struggling with feelings of stress, anger, sadness, confusion, or frustration, or searching for peace, you are not meant to do it alone. My goal is to help you live a more meaningful life through a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focus, I create a unique plan for clients to most effectively address a broad range of issues including depression, anxiety, alcohol abuse, marital distress, and to develop more adaptive skills related to coping and communication. We will work to create better awareness of yourself and create happier and healthier lives.
People often seek out therapy hoping for some form of change. Whether you are struggling with feelings of stress, anger, sadness, confusion, or frustration, or searching for peace, you are not meant to do it alone. My goal is to help you live a more meaningful life through a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focus, I create a unique plan for clients to most effectively address a broad range of issues including depression, anxiety, alcohol abuse, marital distress, and to develop more adaptive skills related to coping and communication. We will work to create better awareness of yourself and create happier and healthier lives.
(862) 212-0870 View (862) 212-0870
Photo of Laura Skivone, PhD, Psychologist
Laura Skivone
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
I have been in practice for 37 years. During that time I have been dedicated to providing psychological services to an adult, adolescent, child population within inidividual and couples modalities. I specialize in the psychological treatment of eating disorders,anxiety and related conditions, mood states, depression, women's concerns, trauma, relationship and marital experiences, Asperger's syndrome. I understand that psychological and emotional issues are most effectively addressed and treated through empathic listening, attunement, support, and the fostering of insight and self-empowerment.
I have been in practice for 37 years. During that time I have been dedicated to providing psychological services to an adult, adolescent, child population within inidividual and couples modalities. I specialize in the psychological treatment of eating disorders,anxiety and related conditions, mood states, depression, women's concerns, trauma, relationship and marital experiences, Asperger's syndrome. I understand that psychological and emotional issues are most effectively addressed and treated through empathic listening, attunement, support, and the fostering of insight and self-empowerment.
(609) 799-5771 View (609) 799-5771
Photo of Gregory H Moore, PsyD, Psychologist
Gregory H Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550
With over 30 years of experience working with children and families, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders within the context of family therapy. In addition, my advocacy for children has informed my work as a reunification therapist for parents who have found themselves victims of parental alienation or estrangement from their children. Every child deserves to have a loving relationship with both parents whenever possible. I also specialize in ADHD diagnosis and treatment, including interfacing with both public schools and colleges. Treatment includes executive functioning skills development.
With over 30 years of experience working with children and families, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders within the context of family therapy. In addition, my advocacy for children has informed my work as a reunification therapist for parents who have found themselves victims of parental alienation or estrangement from their children. Every child deserves to have a loving relationship with both parents whenever possible. I also specialize in ADHD diagnosis and treatment, including interfacing with both public schools and colleges. Treatment includes executive functioning skills development.
(609) 975-0699 View (609) 975-0699
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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.