Depression Therapists in Woodbury, NJ

Photo of Karen Ognibene, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Ognibene
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NJ 08096
I have extensive experience with attachment issues, trauma treatment, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, mindfulness, and much more.
A time comes in everyone's life when we need to do some growth & healing work. Thankfully the ability to grow & heal is built into our human-nature, a nature that comes alive when we receive the support we need. Therapy is for receiving this support, and in a way that fits with you.
 Throughout my life, along with my broad training and experience as a therapist, I've experienced my own, and have guided others in finding their ability to overcome what's happening 'right now', no matter what happened 'back then’, and no matter what concerns there are about the future.
I have extensive experience with attachment issues, trauma treatment, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, mindfulness, and much more.
A time comes in everyone's life when we need to do some growth & healing work. Thankfully the ability to grow & heal is built into our human-nature, a nature that comes alive when we receive the support we need. Therapy is for receiving this support, and in a way that fits with you.
 Throughout my life, along with my broad training and experience as a therapist, I've experienced my own, and have guided others in finding their ability to overcome what's happening 'right now', no matter what happened 'back then’, and no matter what concerns there are about the future.
(609) 454-6438 View (609) 454-6438
Photo of India Crawford - Step by Step Counseling LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Step by Step Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NJ 08096  (Online Only)
I work with adults and adolescents 15+. I look forward to working with individuals that seek help with healing from a loss, identifying strengths, conquering fears and/or decreasing symptoms of depression. Those who may be challenged with completing daily tasks or engaging in social activities are ideal clients as well. Those who may struggle with anger and anger outbursts are also welcomed.
I work with adults and adolescents 15+. I look forward to working with individuals that seek help with healing from a loss, identifying strengths, conquering fears and/or decreasing symptoms of depression. Those who may be challenged with completing daily tasks or engaging in social activities are ideal clients as well. Those who may struggle with anger and anger outbursts are also welcomed.
(856) 879-1160 View (856) 879-1160
Photo of Nancy Lubars, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Lubars
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NJ 08096
There are many difficult experiences in life--a painful loss, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, divorce, parenting challenges, gender identity, sexuality, etc.--that require us to seek help and guidance. Whether you are dealing with a crisis, a long-term struggle, or a desire to grow and become your best self, I am trained to guide clients to make positive changes and begin to feel better.
There are many difficult experiences in life--a painful loss, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, divorce, parenting challenges, gender identity, sexuality, etc.--that require us to seek help and guidance. Whether you are dealing with a crisis, a long-term struggle, or a desire to grow and become your best self, I am trained to guide clients to make positive changes and begin to feel better.
(856) 287-3924 View (856) 287-3924
Photo of Amber P Monserrate, MS, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber P Monserrate
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NJ 08096
Amber Monserrate, MS, LPC, LCADC is the owner of Advanced Counseling Services, LLC and the director of The Gloucester County IDRC. Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor with a Master's in Psychiatric Rehabilitation Counseling. Amber is also an adjunct professor at local colleges teaching counseling and psychology. Trained in providing various assessments and therapeutic interventions for mental health (such as anxiety, depression, trauma) and substance use disorder. ACS now has a male and female therapist.
Amber Monserrate, MS, LPC, LCADC is the owner of Advanced Counseling Services, LLC and the director of The Gloucester County IDRC. Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor with a Master's in Psychiatric Rehabilitation Counseling. Amber is also an adjunct professor at local colleges teaching counseling and psychology. Trained in providing various assessments and therapeutic interventions for mental health (such as anxiety, depression, trauma) and substance use disorder. ACS now has a male and female therapist.
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Photo of Bridgette Nicole Montgomery, DSW, LCSW, MSNPM, CSOTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridgette Nicole Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, MSNPM, CSOTS
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NJ 08096  (Online Only)
I treat Depression, Anxiety, Complex Trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Substance Abuse, Gambling Addiction, Social Media Addiction Eating Disorders and LGBTQIA2+ population.
Whatever your reason for seeking counseling services, I am here and committed to helping you resolve your interpersonal issues. I often share that no one is exempt from experiencing life's problems. At some point in life, we all will face some challenges. I have learned that not everyone has proper coping skills to deal with their problems, but by speaking with a therapist, you are on the right track to identifying ways to deal with your problems. Positive change can be difficult. However, positive change is possible with persistence, commitment, and hard work.
I treat Depression, Anxiety, Complex Trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Substance Abuse, Gambling Addiction, Social Media Addiction Eating Disorders and LGBTQIA2+ population.
Whatever your reason for seeking counseling services, I am here and committed to helping you resolve your interpersonal issues. I often share that no one is exempt from experiencing life's problems. At some point in life, we all will face some challenges. I have learned that not everyone has proper coping skills to deal with their problems, but by speaking with a therapist, you are on the right track to identifying ways to deal with your problems. Positive change can be difficult. However, positive change is possible with persistence, commitment, and hard work.
(267) 436-0127 View (267) 436-0127
Photo of Courtney Iantosca, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Iantosca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NJ 08096
Areas of Specialization include (but not limited to): Adolescent Issues & Therapy; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Individual and Family Therapy; Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT;) PTSD; Depression; Anxiety and mood disorders; Suicidality and self-injury; Emotional dysregulation.
I have over 8 years of dedicated experience in supporting diverse populations through various life challenges. I have skillfully assisted clients in navigating a variety of psychological challenges, helping clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger management, emotional dysregulation, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, and suicidality/self-injurious behaviors.
Areas of Specialization include (but not limited to): Adolescent Issues & Therapy; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Individual and Family Therapy; Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT;) PTSD; Depression; Anxiety and mood disorders; Suicidality and self-injury; Emotional dysregulation.
I have over 8 years of dedicated experience in supporting diverse populations through various life challenges. I have skillfully assisted clients in navigating a variety of psychological challenges, helping clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger management, emotional dysregulation, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, and suicidality/self-injurious behaviors.
(856) 644-4041 View (856) 644-4041
Photo of Natalie Conboy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Conboy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NJ 08096  (Online Only)
I believe that the relationship between therapist and client must be trusting and authentic. My specialized focus lies in helping my clients uncover the complexities of stress and its impact on our emotional and physical well-being. Utilizing evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness techniques, I equip my clients with the tools needed to navigate life's challenges with resilience and skill. Whether grappling with anxiety, depression, or a sense of stagnation, I am dedicated to guiding individuals towards a path of healing and personal growth.
I believe that the relationship between therapist and client must be trusting and authentic. My specialized focus lies in helping my clients uncover the complexities of stress and its impact on our emotional and physical well-being. Utilizing evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness techniques, I equip my clients with the tools needed to navigate life's challenges with resilience and skill. Whether grappling with anxiety, depression, or a sense of stagnation, I am dedicated to guiding individuals towards a path of healing and personal growth.
(856) 530-9571 View (856) 530-9571
Photo of Stephanie Diaz, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Diaz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NJ 08097  (Online Only)
I teach coping skills to overcome anxiety, depression, life stressors, low self-esteem and relationship issues.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stressed, and alone? Is it hard for you to control those racing thoughts? Do you feel stuck and unmotivated most days? I understand how you feel and you don't have to go through this alone. I provide clients with a supportive and compassionate environment that promotes strength, healing and growth. I specialize in treating adults with a variety of challenges including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, stress management, low self-esteem, relationship issues and life transitions.
I teach coping skills to overcome anxiety, depression, life stressors, low self-esteem and relationship issues.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stressed, and alone? Is it hard for you to control those racing thoughts? Do you feel stuck and unmotivated most days? I understand how you feel and you don't have to go through this alone. I provide clients with a supportive and compassionate environment that promotes strength, healing and growth. I specialize in treating adults with a variety of challenges including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, stress management, low self-esteem, relationship issues and life transitions.
(732) 538-8594 View (732) 538-8594
Photo of Joanne Turner, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NJ 08096
The treatment approaches used includes evidenced-based psychoeducation, prevention, assessment, and support services to enhance your overall functioning in a culturally sensitive atmosphere to address sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and relational issues.
I have over 20 years of clinical experience in diverse areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I'm devoted to delivering personalized care through individual, couples/marriage, family and group therapy services. Additionally, I'm a certified facilitator of Prepare/Enrich Pre-marital and marital counseling, Trauma-Focused CBT and other treatment modalities.
The treatment approaches used includes evidenced-based psychoeducation, prevention, assessment, and support services to enhance your overall functioning in a culturally sensitive atmosphere to address sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and relational issues.
I have over 20 years of clinical experience in diverse areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I'm devoted to delivering personalized care through individual, couples/marriage, family and group therapy services. Additionally, I'm a certified facilitator of Prepare/Enrich Pre-marital and marital counseling, Trauma-Focused CBT and other treatment modalities.
(856) 517-5260 View (856) 517-5260
Photo of Kathleen Grizky, MS, LCADC, CCS, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Kathleen Grizky
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCADC, CCS, SAP
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NJ 08096
If you are struggling with substance abuse issues, you are taking a step in the right direction by looking into treatment options. I can provide in person or tele-health sessions to address the many areas of life that can be affected by substance abuse. Whether it be trauma, anxiety, depression, legal issues, family concerns, or you just want to get life under control.
If you are struggling with substance abuse issues, you are taking a step in the right direction by looking into treatment options. I can provide in person or tele-health sessions to address the many areas of life that can be affected by substance abuse. Whether it be trauma, anxiety, depression, legal issues, family concerns, or you just want to get life under control.
(856) 432-2731 View (856) 432-2731
Photo of Shannon Yates, MS, LPC, NCC, CMHIMP, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Yates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CMHIMP, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NJ 08096
**In-person and teletherapy sessions offered** When feeling the need for help emotionally, reaching out for support can be very difficult. This is why my main objective in working with clients is to make them feel comfortable and understood. Often times, we deal with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, health issues, etc. without much emotional support, which is ironically when it feels we need it most. My therapy techniques take a collaborative, holistic approach so that I can understand my client and provide them with measurable, long-lasting change for an improved overall state of well-being.
**In-person and teletherapy sessions offered** When feeling the need for help emotionally, reaching out for support can be very difficult. This is why my main objective in working with clients is to make them feel comfortable and understood. Often times, we deal with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, health issues, etc. without much emotional support, which is ironically when it feels we need it most. My therapy techniques take a collaborative, holistic approach so that I can understand my client and provide them with measurable, long-lasting change for an improved overall state of well-being.
(856) 437-5879 View (856) 437-5879
Photo of Andrea N. Thompson, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea N. Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NJ 08096  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and I specialize in trauma, depression, and anxiety to name a few.
Hi! I am Andrea, your friendly neighborhood therapist! As a therapist who has a therapist, I understand the importance of connectivity and having a safe outlet. With my affirming approach to treatment, we can address your concerns, set goals and crush them together.
Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and I specialize in trauma, depression, and anxiety to name a few.
Hi! I am Andrea, your friendly neighborhood therapist! As a therapist who has a therapist, I understand the importance of connectivity and having a safe outlet. With my affirming approach to treatment, we can address your concerns, set goals and crush them together.
(609) 913-3057 View (609) 913-3057
Photo of Kelly White, PhD, LPC, LCPC, ACS/CCS, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly White
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCPC, ACS/CCS, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NJ 08096  (Online Only)
As a forensic and clinical therapist, I offer a variety of services such as Anger Management, Anxiety, Court Ordered Treatment, Depression, Domestic Violence, Forensic Evaluations, Mental Health, Risk Assessments, Sex Offender Specific treatment and Trauma Focused therapy.
At this time, I am accepting Forensic clients (Court mandated, parole, probation, DCPP) New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maine via telehealth (video) or phone sessions at Kaizen Foundation. For Psychoeducational Evaluations, ADHD testing, IQ testing, and General Mental Health therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Sandplay therapy, Somatic Experiencing therapy, Trauma Informed Care, and TraumaPlay therapy please contact me at Bridge to Balance, Inc at 856-354-0664. I can provide Clinical Supervision for LACs in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maine
As a forensic and clinical therapist, I offer a variety of services such as Anger Management, Anxiety, Court Ordered Treatment, Depression, Domestic Violence, Forensic Evaluations, Mental Health, Risk Assessments, Sex Offender Specific treatment and Trauma Focused therapy.
At this time, I am accepting Forensic clients (Court mandated, parole, probation, DCPP) New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maine via telehealth (video) or phone sessions at Kaizen Foundation. For Psychoeducational Evaluations, ADHD testing, IQ testing, and General Mental Health therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Sandplay therapy, Somatic Experiencing therapy, Trauma Informed Care, and TraumaPlay therapy please contact me at Bridge to Balance, Inc at 856-354-0664. I can provide Clinical Supervision for LACs in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maine
(856) 272-4117 View (856) 272-4117
Photo of Adrian R. Thompson, MBA, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrian R. Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NJ 08096  (Online Only)
Hi there! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist with several years in the field, I work with Adults experiencing depression, anxiety, low self esteem, life adjustments, and more. Majority of my work has been spent centering the needs and care of Black and Brown identified individuals from underserved and marginalized communities. As a Black Therapist with a shared experience I can resonate with the frustration of not being able to show up authentically. Which is why it's important to hold space for folk to do just that. You belong and you deserve to take up space. LGBTQIA+ allied. Glad you stopped by!
Hi there! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist with several years in the field, I work with Adults experiencing depression, anxiety, low self esteem, life adjustments, and more. Majority of my work has been spent centering the needs and care of Black and Brown identified individuals from underserved and marginalized communities. As a Black Therapist with a shared experience I can resonate with the frustration of not being able to show up authentically. Which is why it's important to hold space for folk to do just that. You belong and you deserve to take up space. LGBTQIA+ allied. Glad you stopped by!
(609) 913-3913 View (609) 913-3913
Photo of Dilena Perez-Dilan - Vision of Healing, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vision of Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NJ 08096
“You can’t see inside someone’s heart unless you ask.” These words resonate with me and are the foundation of my practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I pride myself on being the therapist that questions you to work through your experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Seeking to understand begins by asking the questions that influence an open and pure conversation that leads to connection and healing. Through dialogue, psycho-education, and uncovering, you can forge a stronger relationship with yourself, which is the most important one you will ever have. You can find relief from trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD & loneliness.
“You can’t see inside someone’s heart unless you ask.” These words resonate with me and are the foundation of my practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I pride myself on being the therapist that questions you to work through your experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Seeking to understand begins by asking the questions that influence an open and pure conversation that leads to connection and healing. Through dialogue, psycho-education, and uncovering, you can forge a stronger relationship with yourself, which is the most important one you will ever have. You can find relief from trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD & loneliness.
(856) 537-9490 View (856) 537-9490
Photo of Janet A Castellini, MSS, LCSW, LCADC, CGP, NCPsyA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet A Castellini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, LCADC, CGP, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodbury, NJ 08096
I work with problems related to trauma, addictions, anxiety, depression, anger, and persistent problems in relating to others.
Here are two things I think are important about therapy: 1) People can find relief for symptoms like worry, loneliness, sadness, hopelessness, and craving; and 2) People can build psychological strength. Psychological strength allows people to have more fulfilling relationships, use their capacities more effectively, and bring more flexibility and creativity to problems in living.
I work with problems related to trauma, addictions, anxiety, depression, anger, and persistent problems in relating to others.
Here are two things I think are important about therapy: 1) People can find relief for symptoms like worry, loneliness, sadness, hopelessness, and craving; and 2) People can build psychological strength. Psychological strength allows people to have more fulfilling relationships, use their capacities more effectively, and bring more flexibility and creativity to problems in living.
(609) 357-0888 View (609) 357-0888
Photo of Rebecca Tomlinson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Tomlinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NJ 08096
My expertise includes substance use recovery, navigating life's transitions, managing anxiety, overcoming depression, & addressing other mood-related disorders.
Are you your own biggest critic? Are you feeling overwhelmed by so many different emotions? Are you turning to unhealthy coping skills to get through the day? Do you need somewhere to feel heard? Maybe you can’t quite pinpoint what is going on yet, but you know you need some help. I am here to guide you on your path to emotional well-being, offering a tailored approach that honors your unique journey.
My expertise includes substance use recovery, navigating life's transitions, managing anxiety, overcoming depression, & addressing other mood-related disorders.
Are you your own biggest critic? Are you feeling overwhelmed by so many different emotions? Are you turning to unhealthy coping skills to get through the day? Do you need somewhere to feel heard? Maybe you can’t quite pinpoint what is going on yet, but you know you need some help. I am here to guide you on your path to emotional well-being, offering a tailored approach that honors your unique journey.
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Photo of Nicole Anderson, MA, LAC, Counselor
Nicole Anderson
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NJ 08096
As a person-centered/solution-focused counselor, I believe that empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard are key components to building the therapeutic relationship. I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques when necessary to help challenge negative thought processes. My previous experience is with the child and adolescent populations as well as adults with diverse backgrounds and experiences, specializing in a variety of areas including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life changes, substance abuse, ADHD, gender identity and grief/trauma.
As a person-centered/solution-focused counselor, I believe that empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard are key components to building the therapeutic relationship. I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques when necessary to help challenge negative thought processes. My previous experience is with the child and adolescent populations as well as adults with diverse backgrounds and experiences, specializing in a variety of areas including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life changes, substance abuse, ADHD, gender identity and grief/trauma.
(856) 446-3535 View (856) 446-3535
Photo of Irumu Breau, LAC, Counselor
Irumu Breau
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NJ 08096
I most often work with individuals and couples who are looking to build on their skills in order to better handle anxiety, depression, relationship struggles or challenging life stressors.
Are you struggling with long term challenges that you wish you could overcome or with a sudden change in circumstances that has brought unexpected difficulties? Life can be challenging at times, for all of us. Counseling can provide a safe place of support where you can explore, grow and change! I look forward to joining you on your journey of personal growth!
I most often work with individuals and couples who are looking to build on their skills in order to better handle anxiety, depression, relationship struggles or challenging life stressors.
Are you struggling with long term challenges that you wish you could overcome or with a sudden change in circumstances that has brought unexpected difficulties? Life can be challenging at times, for all of us. Counseling can provide a safe place of support where you can explore, grow and change! I look forward to joining you on your journey of personal growth!
(856) 544-2164 View (856) 544-2164
Photo of Donald Richard Recupido - Donald Recupido M Ed., M, Ed, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donald Recupido M Ed.
Licensed Professional Counselor, M, Ed
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NJ 08096
I believe that the most important part of helping a client relates to the development of trust between the client and therapist. It is essential to create an emotionally safe environment and demonstrate unconditional acceptance regarding the client's emotional experience. I am holistically oriented and use an integrative eclectic approach to treatment. I believe that the body and mind are inter-related. The therapeutic approach might focus at times on improving nutrition, exercise, and even self-appreciation. Therapeutic techniques may include aspects of: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, NLP, Art, Movement, and even Hypnosis.
I believe that the most important part of helping a client relates to the development of trust between the client and therapist. It is essential to create an emotionally safe environment and demonstrate unconditional acceptance regarding the client's emotional experience. I am holistically oriented and use an integrative eclectic approach to treatment. I believe that the body and mind are inter-related. The therapeutic approach might focus at times on improving nutrition, exercise, and even self-appreciation. Therapeutic techniques may include aspects of: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, NLP, Art, Movement, and even Hypnosis.
(856) 895-2463 View (856) 895-2463
1
Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.