Depression Therapists in West Caldwell, NJ

Photo of Jelena Strazivuk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jelena Strazivuk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
As a licensed clinical social worker, I have worked with individuals on a range of issues including depression, anxiety, addictions, panic disorders, marital/relationship issues, school /work issues, and grief.
Are you asking whether there is more to life? Perhaps you feel depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? The decision to pursue therapy can be a challenging one. Change starts with the hope for something different, and in my practice we will work together to discover new ways of coping and overcoming life's obstacles. I have helped my clients overcome their doubts and significantly improve their quality of life. I provide a safe environment of non-judgment to discuss your goals for therapy and work with you to achieve them.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I have worked with individuals on a range of issues including depression, anxiety, addictions, panic disorders, marital/relationship issues, school /work issues, and grief.
Are you asking whether there is more to life? Perhaps you feel depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? The decision to pursue therapy can be a challenging one. Change starts with the hope for something different, and in my practice we will work together to discover new ways of coping and overcoming life's obstacles. I have helped my clients overcome their doubts and significantly improve their quality of life. I provide a safe environment of non-judgment to discuss your goals for therapy and work with you to achieve them.
(973) 840-7791 View (973) 840-7791
Photo of Alexa Squire - Alexa Squire, LMFT @ Positive Perspective Therapy, LMFT, ACS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexa Squire, LMFT @ Positive Perspective Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ACS
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I specialize in working with adolescents and teenagers struggling with anxiety & depression.
I aim to empower individuals (children, adolescents, adults) and families to discover healthier ways of living. I believe therapy can be beneficial to anyone looking to get through a difficult time in their life. I practice an integrative approach which includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-focused therapeutic models with my clients. I help my clients to process their current thoughts, feelings and behaviors and develop effective solutions to their presenting issues. I encourage clients to make positive changes both in the present and future to live the best possible life they can live.
I specialize in working with adolescents and teenagers struggling with anxiety & depression.
I aim to empower individuals (children, adolescents, adults) and families to discover healthier ways of living. I believe therapy can be beneficial to anyone looking to get through a difficult time in their life. I practice an integrative approach which includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-focused therapeutic models with my clients. I help my clients to process their current thoughts, feelings and behaviors and develop effective solutions to their presenting issues. I encourage clients to make positive changes both in the present and future to live the best possible life they can live.
(201) 345-6061 View (201) 345-6061
Photo of Amelia Kaplan Romanowsky, PsyD, Psychologist
Amelia Kaplan Romanowsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I have expertise in couples therapy, life transitions, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and GBLT issues.
I am a warm and experienced clinical psychologist who specializes in adult and couples therapy. I help you feel more understood and supported in your relationships. I have extensive training in working with emotions, as well as understanding behavior and how to make positive changes in your life. There are always good reasons why you do what you do. We collaborate to understand what is getting in your way so you can achieve your goals. I can help you have better relationships.
I have expertise in couples therapy, life transitions, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and GBLT issues.
I am a warm and experienced clinical psychologist who specializes in adult and couples therapy. I help you feel more understood and supported in your relationships. I have extensive training in working with emotions, as well as understanding behavior and how to make positive changes in your life. There are always good reasons why you do what you do. We collaborate to understand what is getting in your way so you can achieve your goals. I can help you have better relationships.
(732) 800-4669 View (732) 800-4669
Photo of Susan L Saunders, LCSW, NCPsyA, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan L Saunders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NCPsyA, ACS
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
Issues I have worked successfully with are addictions, marital problems, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders,low self-esteem, stress-related physical problems, achieving career goals, improving relationships, sexual problems, parenting, child/adolescent issues, depression, anxiety, adoption, infertility, thought disorders, and many more.
What gets in the way of having a satisfying life? Repetitive behaviors, thoughts, and feelings can be troubling. How can problems be resolved? Through talk therapy! Individuals, couples, and families enter treatment with concerns: issues in relationships, addictions, careers, school issues, depression, anxiety, parenting, child/adolescent issues, phobias, and many others. I work collaboratively with clients to resolve issues that prevent having a fulfilled life or reaching goals or accomplishments. For over 25 years I have worked with adolescents, families, individuals, couples, and young adults. Why not discuss your concerns?
Issues I have worked successfully with are addictions, marital problems, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders,low self-esteem, stress-related physical problems, achieving career goals, improving relationships, sexual problems, parenting, child/adolescent issues, depression, anxiety, adoption, infertility, thought disorders, and many more.
What gets in the way of having a satisfying life? Repetitive behaviors, thoughts, and feelings can be troubling. How can problems be resolved? Through talk therapy! Individuals, couples, and families enter treatment with concerns: issues in relationships, addictions, careers, school issues, depression, anxiety, parenting, child/adolescent issues, phobias, and many others. I work collaboratively with clients to resolve issues that prevent having a fulfilled life or reaching goals or accomplishments. For over 25 years I have worked with adolescents, families, individuals, couples, and young adults. Why not discuss your concerns?
(908) 962-7170 View (908) 962-7170
Photo of Dona Baldassarre-Caamano, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dona Baldassarre-Caamano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
My clinical experience covers a wide range of obstacles in life that effect children, adolescents and adults. My training includes cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, and individual therapy. I treat individuals who are experiencing concerns with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and school related concerns that impact your child's self-esteem. In counseling, we must break away from negative thinking, harmful self- talk and unhealthy relationships. My hope as we work together you are able to achieve your goals and to make positive changes in your life.
My clinical experience covers a wide range of obstacles in life that effect children, adolescents and adults. My training includes cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, and individual therapy. I treat individuals who are experiencing concerns with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and school related concerns that impact your child's self-esteem. In counseling, we must break away from negative thinking, harmful self- talk and unhealthy relationships. My hope as we work together you are able to achieve your goals and to make positive changes in your life.
(973) 840-8706 View (973) 840-8706
Photo of Judith Gurtman, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Judith Gurtman
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I am a psychologist and psychoanalyst with over thirty years of experience. I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, depression and relational conflicts. Many of the clients that I see have relational difficulties. Through a collaborative process, clients learn what interferes with initiating and maintaining relationships. I also use EMDR and Somatic Experience when it is appropriate.
I am a psychologist and psychoanalyst with over thirty years of experience. I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, depression and relational conflicts. Many of the clients that I see have relational difficulties. Through a collaborative process, clients learn what interferes with initiating and maintaining relationships. I also use EMDR and Somatic Experience when it is appropriate.
(973) 227-1668 View (973) 227-1668
Photo of Karen Greenberg, LCSW, Couples, Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Greenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Couples, Therapy
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
Having relationship problems? Feeling stuck or in a downward spiral? I work in a confidential setting where you find solutions and make changes to live a more satisfying and meaningful life. I work with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma/recovery, grief, difficult relationships, and major life transitions. I also treat borderline, narcissistic personality and mood disorders. A combination of advanced training in various modalities and experience allows me to custom treatment to your needs and concerns. A strong connection to the therapist is the most important factor in a successful therapy.
Having relationship problems? Feeling stuck or in a downward spiral? I work in a confidential setting where you find solutions and make changes to live a more satisfying and meaningful life. I work with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma/recovery, grief, difficult relationships, and major life transitions. I also treat borderline, narcissistic personality and mood disorders. A combination of advanced training in various modalities and experience allows me to custom treatment to your needs and concerns. A strong connection to the therapist is the most important factor in a successful therapy.
(732) 333-8025 View (732) 333-8025
Photo of Nicole-Marie R. Helmstetter, MA, LPC, Counselor
Nicole-Marie R. Helmstetter
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I most commonly see clients looking for support and strategies to help with stress management, life transitions, communication, boundaries, LGBTQ+ concerns, divorce, work-home balance, grief, academic concerns, parenting and behavioral challenges, family and couples conflict, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, adolescent experiences, and coping skills.
For both newcomers and those who’ve had counseling in the past, I am here to support you in this process. In our work together, you will find empathy and genuine non-judgment, respect for your worldview and culture, and the value of your collaboration. I instill advocacy and will help you to access other resources. I bring experience, continued education, and sincere dedication to our work. I wholeheartedly believe that every challenge in life presents opportunities to recognize existing strengths and discover new ones. I am committed to supporting your goals, your overcoming obstacles, and reclaiming expertise over your own life.
I most commonly see clients looking for support and strategies to help with stress management, life transitions, communication, boundaries, LGBTQ+ concerns, divorce, work-home balance, grief, academic concerns, parenting and behavioral challenges, family and couples conflict, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, adolescent experiences, and coping skills.
For both newcomers and those who’ve had counseling in the past, I am here to support you in this process. In our work together, you will find empathy and genuine non-judgment, respect for your worldview and culture, and the value of your collaboration. I instill advocacy and will help you to access other resources. I bring experience, continued education, and sincere dedication to our work. I wholeheartedly believe that every challenge in life presents opportunities to recognize existing strengths and discover new ones. I am committed to supporting your goals, your overcoming obstacles, and reclaiming expertise over your own life.
(862) 579-3422 View (862) 579-3422
Photo of Katie DeFrank, LPC, CPLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie DeFrank
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I specialize in helping adults and teens experiencing anxiety, stress, depression, overwhelm, life transitions, family/relational conflict and motivational struggles through virtual and in-person sessions.
One of the most difficult aspects of issues like anxiety, depression, and overwhelm can be the thought that something is "wrong" with you. You may feel like everyone else seems to have it all together, or they're at least coping well compared to you. When we isolate ourselves with those types of thoughts, it can bring us to a place where we feel unmotivated, unworthy and incapable of seeing things getting any better. At Katie DeFrank Counseling, it is my mission for you to know and feel that you're not alone, your struggle is legitimate, you are worth getting help, and that change for the better is not only possible, but a choice.
I specialize in helping adults and teens experiencing anxiety, stress, depression, overwhelm, life transitions, family/relational conflict and motivational struggles through virtual and in-person sessions.
One of the most difficult aspects of issues like anxiety, depression, and overwhelm can be the thought that something is "wrong" with you. You may feel like everyone else seems to have it all together, or they're at least coping well compared to you. When we isolate ourselves with those types of thoughts, it can bring us to a place where we feel unmotivated, unworthy and incapable of seeing things getting any better. At Katie DeFrank Counseling, it is my mission for you to know and feel that you're not alone, your struggle is legitimate, you are worth getting help, and that change for the better is not only possible, but a choice.
(201) 254-0095 View (201) 254-0095
Photo of George Askins, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
George Askins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Caldwell, NJ 07006  (Online Only)
Welcome to Higher Purpose Counseling! I'm George Askins, a licensed professional counselor specializing in trauma. I'm dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives from anxiety, depression, flashbacks, and racing thoughts, as well as a wide range of other mental health concerns. I specialize in treating various forms of trauma, including PTSD, childhood trauma, sexual assault and domestic violence.
Welcome to Higher Purpose Counseling! I'm George Askins, a licensed professional counselor specializing in trauma. I'm dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives from anxiety, depression, flashbacks, and racing thoughts, as well as a wide range of other mental health concerns. I specialize in treating various forms of trauma, including PTSD, childhood trauma, sexual assault and domestic violence.
(862) 599-3396 View (862) 599-3396
Photo of Tracie A Sarkar, MA, MSW, NBCFCH, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracie A Sarkar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, NBCFCH, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a relaxing nonjudgmental environment to explore who you are, what you want, where you are going, and how you will get there? Well, look no further I'm the Mental Health professional you have been looking for (Counselor MSW/MA, Psychotherapist LCSW, Psychologist, Sociologist, Criminologist, and Hypnotherapist). I'm an open minded, understanding, supportive, unbiased, reliable, and confident therapist in private practice providing individual, couple,mediation, marriage, group, play, family couns to anyone who needs help feeling happy, healthy, and motivated. My web site is orchard-center.com.
Are you looking for a relaxing nonjudgmental environment to explore who you are, what you want, where you are going, and how you will get there? Well, look no further I'm the Mental Health professional you have been looking for (Counselor MSW/MA, Psychotherapist LCSW, Psychologist, Sociologist, Criminologist, and Hypnotherapist). I'm an open minded, understanding, supportive, unbiased, reliable, and confident therapist in private practice providing individual, couple,mediation, marriage, group, play, family couns to anyone who needs help feeling happy, healthy, and motivated. My web site is orchard-center.com.
(973) 671-8204 View (973) 671-8204
Photo of Katie Wrobel, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Wrobel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LCADC) in the state of New Jersey. My ideal client is one who is ready to share their experiences and work together to collaboratively create positive changes in their life. I most enjoy working with teens, young adults, and adults experiencing a variety of life stressors and mental health challenges, with the goal of learning to manage and overcome your personal challenges and creating the life you desire.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LCADC) in the state of New Jersey. My ideal client is one who is ready to share their experiences and work together to collaboratively create positive changes in their life. I most enjoy working with teens, young adults, and adults experiencing a variety of life stressors and mental health challenges, with the goal of learning to manage and overcome your personal challenges and creating the life you desire.
(862) 278-2057 View (862) 278-2057
Photo of Toni Barrett - The Bridge - Center for Wellbeing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Bridge - Center for Wellbeing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
Are you looking for a stigma-free and culturally sensitive environment where you can work on improving your mental health, heal, and grow? We are a nonprofit community-based organization providing accessible mental health care since 1971. Our amazing team of therapists now have openings in their schedule and are excited to meet you!
Are you looking for a stigma-free and culturally sensitive environment where you can work on improving your mental health, heal, and grow? We are a nonprofit community-based organization providing accessible mental health care since 1971. Our amazing team of therapists now have openings in their schedule and are excited to meet you!
(973) 707-3193 View (973) 707-3193
Photo of Jill Brown, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
Many of my clients find me when life presents an unexpected and unwelcome crisis in their individual or family life. I always offer a complimentary video interview so new clients can get a "feel" for who I am and how I work. My approach is very interactive, and I seek to create a safe space where I can help you take a closer look at your life today. Then, together, we make plans for real change. My focus is on instilling hope, and being your partner in the changes you seek. That’s what motivates me every day.
Many of my clients find me when life presents an unexpected and unwelcome crisis in their individual or family life. I always offer a complimentary video interview so new clients can get a "feel" for who I am and how I work. My approach is very interactive, and I seek to create a safe space where I can help you take a closer look at your life today. Then, together, we make plans for real change. My focus is on instilling hope, and being your partner in the changes you seek. That’s what motivates me every day.
(973) 420-1456 View (973) 420-1456
Photo of Joseph Placenti - Reflection & Wellness Counseling, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reflection & Wellness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006  (Online Only)
The therapeutic relationship is about finding the right fit. Reflection and Wellness is not just the name of the practice, it’s the focus of my approach. Counseling services are centered on you as a whole person! Life is full of challenges, and learning how to manage and surpass them can help us enjoy life to the fullest.
The therapeutic relationship is about finding the right fit. Reflection and Wellness is not just the name of the practice, it’s the focus of my approach. Counseling services are centered on you as a whole person! Life is full of challenges, and learning how to manage and surpass them can help us enjoy life to the fullest.
(973) 313-5766 View (973) 313-5766
Photo of June M Young, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
June M Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
Many people remark they wish they had a handbook with specific directions on how to be a good parent. If you happen to be one of the selected who have an atypical child a generic handbook wouldn’t help anyway. Second guessing every decision you make can be overwhelming and emotional at times where you just don’t know what to do. You probably feel like you can’t possibly go on like this forever. These thoughts and feelings are quite natural and don’t mean you are not a good parent. Maybe you just need a new playbook for your specific situation.
Many people remark they wish they had a handbook with specific directions on how to be a good parent. If you happen to be one of the selected who have an atypical child a generic handbook wouldn’t help anyway. Second guessing every decision you make can be overwhelming and emotional at times where you just don’t know what to do. You probably feel like you can’t possibly go on like this forever. These thoughts and feelings are quite natural and don’t mean you are not a good parent. Maybe you just need a new playbook for your specific situation.
(973) 821-4681 View (973) 821-4681
Photo of Deborah Katz - Eye-to-Eye Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eye-to-Eye Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I believe that parenting is the hardest job we will ever have, and the one that comes with the least training and support. Especially in today's world, parenting adolescents can feel like a no-win situation. My goal is to help parents and teens see "eye-to-eye" and understand each other's perspectives and goals in a way that results in collaboration rather than the typical resistance that occurs in adolescence.
I believe that parenting is the hardest job we will ever have, and the one that comes with the least training and support. Especially in today's world, parenting adolescents can feel like a no-win situation. My goal is to help parents and teens see "eye-to-eye" and understand each other's perspectives and goals in a way that results in collaboration rather than the typical resistance that occurs in adolescence.
(973) 659-4094 View (973) 659-4094
Photo of Amy S. Goldberg, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy S. Goldberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I love working with children! Do you ever feel unsure how to help your child through this challenging time? I understand, and I'm here to help. Resilience, a vital component of the 20 therapeutic powers of play, is the cornerstone of my practice. With over 25 years of experience, I am equipped to help children, adolescents, and their families navigate various challenges and move forward. Therapy is a team effort. I work with parents to help guide you through the challenges you may be facing. We can help your child identify their feelings, develop coping skills, and gain personal strength to facilitate healing and growth.
I love working with children! Do you ever feel unsure how to help your child through this challenging time? I understand, and I'm here to help. Resilience, a vital component of the 20 therapeutic powers of play, is the cornerstone of my practice. With over 25 years of experience, I am equipped to help children, adolescents, and their families navigate various challenges and move forward. Therapy is a team effort. I work with parents to help guide you through the challenges you may be facing. We can help your child identify their feelings, develop coping skills, and gain personal strength to facilitate healing and growth.
(201) 485-3520 View (201) 485-3520
Photo of Devon Cavazos, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Devon Cavazos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I'm Devon Cavazos - a Licensed Clinical ​Social Worker and a groovy Trauma Informed Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200) with ​over a decade of mental health magic under my belt. From soaking in Psychology at ​Manhattan College to diving into my MSSW at Columbia University, my journey has been a ​whirlwind of expertise. Add in some Trauma Informed Yoga Teacher training from The ​Sakala School of Integrative Teaching, and voila - a recipe for awesomeness! I've sprinkled my healing touch at various hospitals, private practices, and even did a clinical ​tango at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD.
I'm Devon Cavazos - a Licensed Clinical ​Social Worker and a groovy Trauma Informed Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200) with ​over a decade of mental health magic under my belt. From soaking in Psychology at ​Manhattan College to diving into my MSSW at Columbia University, my journey has been a ​whirlwind of expertise. Add in some Trauma Informed Yoga Teacher training from The ​Sakala School of Integrative Teaching, and voila - a recipe for awesomeness! I've sprinkled my healing touch at various hospitals, private practices, and even did a clinical ​tango at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD.
(862) 350-0663 View (862) 350-0663
Photo of Lauren Stern, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Stern
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I am a clinical psychologist who has a passion for working with people to foster change. I see therapy as a collaborative process that's most successful in a safe, nurturing environment. I have experience working with children and adults of all ages. I strive to help my clients set and achieve realistic goals for themselves. With children and teens, I view collaboration with family members as crucial to the therapeutic process. I also have 15 years of experience in public schools, so am very familiar with the educational system. In my practice, I conduct individual, family and group therapy in person or via Telehealth.
I am a clinical psychologist who has a passion for working with people to foster change. I see therapy as a collaborative process that's most successful in a safe, nurturing environment. I have experience working with children and adults of all ages. I strive to help my clients set and achieve realistic goals for themselves. With children and teens, I view collaboration with family members as crucial to the therapeutic process. I also have 15 years of experience in public schools, so am very familiar with the educational system. In my practice, I conduct individual, family and group therapy in person or via Telehealth.
(973) 554-3981 View (973) 554-3981
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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.