Depression Therapists in Tewksbury Township, NJ

Photo of Laura B Segal, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura B Segal
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tewksbury Township, NJ 07830
Self conscious, down, depressed, hopeless, anxious, shy, socially awkward, have low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, perfectionism, small 't' trauma, distracted, or recovering from pandemic stress? Rather than pigeonhole or isolate problems and focus on diagnoses, I focus on your subjective experience and find find ways to nurture emotional growth.
I bring warmth, openness, empathy, intelligent understanding, and a non-judgmental, down-to-earth approach to therapy. Through a relationship in which your experiences are validated and understood, I will help you tap into your innate strength and break the shackles of prior negative, self-defining experiences. You will have the opportunity to change your life and truly free yourself of ways that may have overwhelmed you and held you captive. In an interactive and responsive therapeutic relationship, we cannot predict precisely who will emerge: A strengthened person, free of disruptive influences from past trauma, a person who
Self conscious, down, depressed, hopeless, anxious, shy, socially awkward, have low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, perfectionism, small 't' trauma, distracted, or recovering from pandemic stress? Rather than pigeonhole or isolate problems and focus on diagnoses, I focus on your subjective experience and find find ways to nurture emotional growth.
I bring warmth, openness, empathy, intelligent understanding, and a non-judgmental, down-to-earth approach to therapy. Through a relationship in which your experiences are validated and understood, I will help you tap into your innate strength and break the shackles of prior negative, self-defining experiences. You will have the opportunity to change your life and truly free yourself of ways that may have overwhelmed you and held you captive. In an interactive and responsive therapeutic relationship, we cannot predict precisely who will emerge: A strengthened person, free of disruptive influences from past trauma, a person who
(908) 854-4080 View (908) 854-4080
Photo of Janet Piedilato, PhD
Janet Piedilato
PhD
Verified Verified
Tewksbury Township, NJ 07830
My clients are individuals who are suffering grief, loss, and anxiety. They are confused, often angry, and depressed as they face challenges thrust upon them by tragedy and unexpected transitions. They are lost, in need of compassionate assistance. They need guidance in shifting their focus in order to move forward unhindered by the inertia inflicted by their pain, depression and negativity. As a therapist who has personally suffered the loss of daughter, son, and husband I can not only relate professionally but personally, thus I can provide each with the support they need to move through transitions with new outlooks.
My clients are individuals who are suffering grief, loss, and anxiety. They are confused, often angry, and depressed as they face challenges thrust upon them by tragedy and unexpected transitions. They are lost, in need of compassionate assistance. They need guidance in shifting their focus in order to move forward unhindered by the inertia inflicted by their pain, depression and negativity. As a therapist who has personally suffered the loss of daughter, son, and husband I can not only relate professionally but personally, thus I can provide each with the support they need to move through transitions with new outlooks.
(908) 650-8541 View (908) 650-8541
Photo of Theresa Messineo, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa Messineo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP, CCS
Verified Verified
Tewksbury Township, NJ 07830
I welcome all clients who would like to improve their well being and their family, intimate, or work relationships. I will help you gain greater insight into your behaviors and feelings so that you may ultimately make choices to live a more free, fulfilled, happy life.
I welcome all clients who would like to improve their well being and their family, intimate, or work relationships. I will help you gain greater insight into your behaviors and feelings so that you may ultimately make choices to live a more free, fulfilled, happy life.
(908) 386-4541 View (908) 386-4541
Photo of Christianna Capra - Spring Reins of Hope, LLC, ES
Spring Reins of Hope, LLC
ES
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tewksbury Township, NJ 07830
Sometimes it's difficult to speak the words? Sometimes it is hard to find answers. We believe our clients have their own best solutions from within and that Horses assist us in on that path. Spring Reins of Hope (SRoH) was founded in 2009 under the Eagala Model of equine-assisted services. The horses provide an experiential/ solution focused therapeutic model that can act as a fast-track intervention therapy alongside traditional therapies (collaborating with your therapist), or as a stand-alone alternative to talk therapy. We have licensed professionals and follow HIPAA guidelines while we 'get to the horse of the matter'.
Sometimes it's difficult to speak the words? Sometimes it is hard to find answers. We believe our clients have their own best solutions from within and that Horses assist us in on that path. Spring Reins of Hope (SRoH) was founded in 2009 under the Eagala Model of equine-assisted services. The horses provide an experiential/ solution focused therapeutic model that can act as a fast-track intervention therapy alongside traditional therapies (collaborating with your therapist), or as a stand-alone alternative to talk therapy. We have licensed professionals and follow HIPAA guidelines while we 'get to the horse of the matter'.
(732) 497-3247 View (732) 497-3247

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Gwen Susan Bloom, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen Susan Bloom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Depression Anxiety Mood Disorders Eating Disorders Addictive Behaviors Personality Disorders PTSD / Trauma Women's Issues Issues of Adolescence Adjustment Disorders Life Transitions Couples Counseling Family Therapy ADHD Psycho-Education SERVICES OFFERED Dialectical Behavior Therapy Individual Therapy Couple / Marital Counseling Family Therapy Group Therapy Crisis Intervention.
I have been a Clinical Social Worker since 1985. During the last 30 years, I have had the opportunity to work in many clinical settings, in both the public and private sector specializing in adolescence, adults, couples and families. Additionally, I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, in-home, nursing home and school settings. I have been trained in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and implemented a DBT track at a therapeutic High School for Ed teens,. At this juncture, my focus is private practice and to continue specializing in DBT and traditional psychotherapy with teens, adults, couples and families.
Depression Anxiety Mood Disorders Eating Disorders Addictive Behaviors Personality Disorders PTSD / Trauma Women's Issues Issues of Adolescence Adjustment Disorders Life Transitions Couples Counseling Family Therapy ADHD Psycho-Education SERVICES OFFERED Dialectical Behavior Therapy Individual Therapy Couple / Marital Counseling Family Therapy Group Therapy Crisis Intervention.
I have been a Clinical Social Worker since 1985. During the last 30 years, I have had the opportunity to work in many clinical settings, in both the public and private sector specializing in adolescence, adults, couples and families. Additionally, I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, in-home, nursing home and school settings. I have been trained in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and implemented a DBT track at a therapeutic High School for Ed teens,. At this juncture, my focus is private practice and to continue specializing in DBT and traditional psychotherapy with teens, adults, couples and families.
(732) 588-8206 View (732) 588-8206
Photo of Paige D Kleinfeldt - Paige D Kleinfeldt, LCSW, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige D Kleinfeldt, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809
I have 10+ years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, mood disorders as well as life’s stressors.
The past few years have been extremely difficult for so many and may have caused or exacerbated emotional health issues. It’s normal to feel stuck, lost or a need to recover lost parts of you. I can help you if you feel weighed down or drained of energy, feel depressed or have anxious thoughts, or lack enjoyment in your life like you use too. I know it can be hard to take the first step and ask for help, however, a new transition and transformation for your life is just around the corner. My professional focus is to work with individuals to help them find a greater sense of self and purpose in the midst of life's hardships.
I have 10+ years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, mood disorders as well as life’s stressors.
The past few years have been extremely difficult for so many and may have caused or exacerbated emotional health issues. It’s normal to feel stuck, lost or a need to recover lost parts of you. I can help you if you feel weighed down or drained of energy, feel depressed or have anxious thoughts, or lack enjoyment in your life like you use too. I know it can be hard to take the first step and ask for help, however, a new transition and transformation for your life is just around the corner. My professional focus is to work with individuals to help them find a greater sense of self and purpose in the midst of life's hardships.
(908) 396-6027 View (908) 396-6027
Photo of Iris Aybar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Iris Aybar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Califon, NJ 07830  (Online Only)
I also have experience treating issues related to anxiety, depression, affective disorders, trauma, loss, interpersonal conflict, adjustment, & behavioral issues related to ADHD.
As we face life’s challenges, we may also be facing the opportunity to find growth & meaning through our most difficult experiences. I am here to provide you with warmth, respect, & kindness as you face these difficult moments. I will aim to work alongside you, supporting you through the process of recognizing your strengths, uncovering & learning new skills, & problem solving ways to effectively cope with whatever difficulties you may be facing.
I also have experience treating issues related to anxiety, depression, affective disorders, trauma, loss, interpersonal conflict, adjustment, & behavioral issues related to ADHD.
As we face life’s challenges, we may also be facing the opportunity to find growth & meaning through our most difficult experiences. I am here to provide you with warmth, respect, & kindness as you face these difficult moments. I will aim to work alongside you, supporting you through the process of recognizing your strengths, uncovering & learning new skills, & problem solving ways to effectively cope with whatever difficulties you may be facing.
(908) 263-1011 View (908) 263-1011
Photo of John Guldner, MA, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Guldner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809  (Online Only)
Coping with depression, anxiety, addiction, or even just life stressors can at times feel overwhelming. It's like you are stuck in a cycle of pain and anguish, and your best efforts to deal with it end up making things worse. Maybe you have reached out to friends and family for help, and have been met with either criticism or well-intentioned, but unhelpful advice. You might have even read a self-help book or two, and struggled to use what you've learned for more than a couple weeks. Sometimes, even the efforts to change seem so difficult that you'll give up, convinced things will never get better. There is a better way.
Coping with depression, anxiety, addiction, or even just life stressors can at times feel overwhelming. It's like you are stuck in a cycle of pain and anguish, and your best efforts to deal with it end up making things worse. Maybe you have reached out to friends and family for help, and have been met with either criticism or well-intentioned, but unhelpful advice. You might have even read a self-help book or two, and struggled to use what you've learned for more than a couple weeks. Sometimes, even the efforts to change seem so difficult that you'll give up, convinced things will never get better. There is a better way.
(609) 474-0094 View (609) 474-0094
Photo of Heidi Smith, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
Are you feeling stuck? Often we get trapped in old patterns and habits that once worked for us but no longer do. My goal is to provide a place where you feel safe, understood, and respected. We will work together to explore and identify the areas of your life that you would like to understand better and develop plans to help you reach your goals. I have extensive experience with trauma, anxiety (including school, social anxiety, phobias and OCD) depression, stress management and parenting, among others. I offer children, teens and adults a non-judgmental place to come speak confidentially.
Are you feeling stuck? Often we get trapped in old patterns and habits that once worked for us but no longer do. My goal is to provide a place where you feel safe, understood, and respected. We will work together to explore and identify the areas of your life that you would like to understand better and develop plans to help you reach your goals. I have extensive experience with trauma, anxiety (including school, social anxiety, phobias and OCD) depression, stress management and parenting, among others. I offer children, teens and adults a non-judgmental place to come speak confidentially.
(908) 378-9894 View (908) 378-9894
Photo of Karin Gruss, LCSW, LCADC, DVS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karin Gruss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, DVS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809
I work with many issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, addiction, life management issues, parenting issues, learning disabilities, bipolar disorder, serious illness, work stressors and adjustment to life changes including retirement.
I specialize in empowering individuals who are trapped in people pleasing behaviors to break free from self doubt and overthinking, fostering self confidence and assertiveness for a more authentic and fulfilling life. I help clients connect deeply with their core values, guiding them through a journey of self discovery and alignment.
I work with many issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, addiction, life management issues, parenting issues, learning disabilities, bipolar disorder, serious illness, work stressors and adjustment to life changes including retirement.
I specialize in empowering individuals who are trapped in people pleasing behaviors to break free from self doubt and overthinking, fostering self confidence and assertiveness for a more authentic and fulfilling life. I help clients connect deeply with their core values, guiding them through a journey of self discovery and alignment.
(908) 364-5552 View (908) 364-5552
Photo of Lisa Quaglia, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Quaglia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Califon, NJ 07830
I also have experience working with clients struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, substance use, interpersonal conflict, trauma, and difficult life transitions.
Starting therapy can be a scary journey, but I’m here to provide you with a safe environment to discuss all of the issues and concerns you’ve been bottling up inside. Change only happens when we challenge ourselves to venture outside of our comfort zone, and I’m here to walk with you every step of the way. I incorporate the principles of mindfulness and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) in all of my sessions as I believe living in the present moment helps improve our connection with self, others, and the world around us.
I also have experience working with clients struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, substance use, interpersonal conflict, trauma, and difficult life transitions.
Starting therapy can be a scary journey, but I’m here to provide you with a safe environment to discuss all of the issues and concerns you’ve been bottling up inside. Change only happens when we challenge ourselves to venture outside of our comfort zone, and I’m here to walk with you every step of the way. I incorporate the principles of mindfulness and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) in all of my sessions as I believe living in the present moment helps improve our connection with self, others, and the world around us.
(732) 592-5602 View (732) 592-5602
Photo of Katharine Mary Bergacs - My Place for Peace, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
My Place for Peace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
No matter how strong we are, we all need help sometimes. We know it can be hard to ask for help. Maybe you’ve been thinking about it for months, even years. We’re so glad you’ve taken this courageous step and found us. We’re confident that together we can develop the tools to help you overcome whatever challenges you face. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety and/or depression interfering in your life, trauma and loss, or life transitions, it is important that you know you don’t have to go it alone. We have the experience to help you face your challenges, achieve your goals, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
No matter how strong we are, we all need help sometimes. We know it can be hard to ask for help. Maybe you’ve been thinking about it for months, even years. We’re so glad you’ve taken this courageous step and found us. We’re confident that together we can develop the tools to help you overcome whatever challenges you face. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety and/or depression interfering in your life, trauma and loss, or life transitions, it is important that you know you don’t have to go it alone. We have the experience to help you face your challenges, achieve your goals, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(908) 628-0108 View (908) 628-0108
Photo of Melissa Dolgos, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Dolgos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lebanon, NJ 08833
Hello, I am someone who is genuine, caring, approachable and practical as a therapist. The populations I serve are pre - adolescents, adolescents, adults, couples, and parents. I have over 7 years of experience in the mental health field working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders and peer issues. I am fully trained in Dialectal Behavior Therapy. Other specialties include self harm, self esteem and Asperger's.
Hello, I am someone who is genuine, caring, approachable and practical as a therapist. The populations I serve are pre - adolescents, adolescents, adults, couples, and parents. I have over 7 years of experience in the mental health field working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders and peer issues. I am fully trained in Dialectal Behavior Therapy. Other specialties include self harm, self esteem and Asperger's.
(908) 341-1507 View (908) 341-1507
Photo of Marsha Morris, PhD, Psychologist
Marsha Morris
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist practicing in Clinton, NJ with over 25 years of experience helping people who have been suffering and struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, loss, and major life change issues. If you are looking for help because you feel overwhelmed and usual ways of managing struggles seem not to work, I can help you by listening carefully and thoughtfully to your problems and struggles and then help you find better ways to manage your life and these issues. The goal of our work together is to reduce anxiety and emotional pain and to live a more joyful and productive life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist practicing in Clinton, NJ with over 25 years of experience helping people who have been suffering and struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, loss, and major life change issues. If you are looking for help because you feel overwhelmed and usual ways of managing struggles seem not to work, I can help you by listening carefully and thoughtfully to your problems and struggles and then help you find better ways to manage your life and these issues. The goal of our work together is to reduce anxiety and emotional pain and to live a more joyful and productive life.
(908) 287-1107 View (908) 287-1107
Photo of Alan J. Giordano - Alan J. Giordano, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alan J. Giordano, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds and a range of presenting issues. I have been successful in treating adolescents and adults for depression, anxiety, stress management, marital and relationship difficulties, anger management, and Attention Deficit Disorder. My philosophy is that people are often resistant to change as the change is unknown. I help them explore what that change would look and feel like and how it could improve their lives if they do decide to make those changes.
I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds and a range of presenting issues. I have been successful in treating adolescents and adults for depression, anxiety, stress management, marital and relationship difficulties, anger management, and Attention Deficit Disorder. My philosophy is that people are often resistant to change as the change is unknown. I help them explore what that change would look and feel like and how it could improve their lives if they do decide to make those changes.
(908) 339-6671 View (908) 339-6671
Photo of Dr. Nicole Waldron, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Nicole Waldron
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809  (Online Only)
Research has shown this treatment method to be highly effective in alleviating symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, grief, etc.
New Horizons was founded by Nicole Waldron, Psy.D. and Ronald Gonzalez, MA, Ed.S., LPC. We offer both individual and group therapy for adults. Dr. Waldron specializes in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Stress, Relationship issues, Forensic issues, and those in Crisis. Mr. Gonzalez specializes in Family Therapy and in treating Anger Issues, Substance Abuse Issues, Forensic Issues, and those in Crisis. We are also a welcoming and affirming practice for LGBTQ clients. We believe respect, compassion, and trust are cornerstones of every therapeutic relationship, and we will work to tailor treatment to our client's unique needs.
Research has shown this treatment method to be highly effective in alleviating symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, grief, etc.
New Horizons was founded by Nicole Waldron, Psy.D. and Ronald Gonzalez, MA, Ed.S., LPC. We offer both individual and group therapy for adults. Dr. Waldron specializes in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Stress, Relationship issues, Forensic issues, and those in Crisis. Mr. Gonzalez specializes in Family Therapy and in treating Anger Issues, Substance Abuse Issues, Forensic Issues, and those in Crisis. We are also a welcoming and affirming practice for LGBTQ clients. We believe respect, compassion, and trust are cornerstones of every therapeutic relationship, and we will work to tailor treatment to our client's unique needs.
(908) 428-8656 View (908) 428-8656
Photo of Ann Silvestri, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Silvestri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lebanon, NJ 08833
With hundreds of studies indicating that practical problem solving counseling works most effectively, I utilize with my clients a highly effective form of therapy. Get some of the most effective types of assistance with your depression, anxiety or relationship concerns. Cogntive Behavioral Therapy provides support for your concerns from the beginning. Assisting with pragmatic, enriching treatment. Weither it is that your are feeling blue, concerned with anxiety and worries or relationship problems, call today to speak with me about how you can apply highly effective easy to utilize approaches to making improvements in your life.
With hundreds of studies indicating that practical problem solving counseling works most effectively, I utilize with my clients a highly effective form of therapy. Get some of the most effective types of assistance with your depression, anxiety or relationship concerns. Cogntive Behavioral Therapy provides support for your concerns from the beginning. Assisting with pragmatic, enriching treatment. Weither it is that your are feeling blue, concerned with anxiety and worries or relationship problems, call today to speak with me about how you can apply highly effective easy to utilize approaches to making improvements in your life.
(973) 862-4565 View (973) 862-4565
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Vorilas, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie Vorilas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Peapack, NJ 07977  (Online Only)
Sometimes life presents us with difficult situations and intense emotional experiences, but please know you are not alone and I will offer you a safe and supportive environment to be your true self and feel comfortable enough to be vulnerable as you work towards self healing. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who experience difficulties with a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, and navigating life’s stressors. I believe a collaborative relationship between therapist and client is most effective for treatment, and together we can individualize a plan that best meets your needs.
Sometimes life presents us with difficult situations and intense emotional experiences, but please know you are not alone and I will offer you a safe and supportive environment to be your true self and feel comfortable enough to be vulnerable as you work towards self healing. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who experience difficulties with a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, and navigating life’s stressors. I believe a collaborative relationship between therapist and client is most effective for treatment, and together we can individualize a plan that best meets your needs.
(908) 224-7768 View (908) 224-7768
Photo of Veronica Sheehan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Sheehan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809  (Online Only)
Welcome to VAS Counseling LLC. I have over 20 years experience working with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and general life stressors. My approach is person centered and collaborative, and I utilize interventions from multiple therapeutic approaches.
Welcome to VAS Counseling LLC. I have over 20 years experience working with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and general life stressors. My approach is person centered and collaborative, and I utilize interventions from multiple therapeutic approaches.
(484) 673-6178 View (484) 673-6178
Photo of Kathryn Osborne, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Osborne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809  (Online Only)
I have experience in treating a diverse population with a wide range of cognitive, behavioral, and emotional issues such as stress, depression, loss, and PTSD.
My name is Dr. Kathryn Osborne and I am a licensed professional counselor with a doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology. I believe that my role in therapy is to provide a safe space where you can successfully identify your issues and triggers, and accomplish your goals. I also believe that therapy is very much a team mentality. I concentrate on building a solid therapeutic relationship, as I believe it to be the catalyst for healthy change.
I have experience in treating a diverse population with a wide range of cognitive, behavioral, and emotional issues such as stress, depression, loss, and PTSD.
My name is Dr. Kathryn Osborne and I am a licensed professional counselor with a doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology. I believe that my role in therapy is to provide a safe space where you can successfully identify your issues and triggers, and accomplish your goals. I also believe that therapy is very much a team mentality. I concentrate on building a solid therapeutic relationship, as I believe it to be the catalyst for healthy change.
(908) 388-9608 View (908) 388-9608

See more therapy options for Tewksbury Township

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.