Depression Therapists in Mount Vernon, NY

Photo of Doxene Roberts - Therapy-Helps LCSW, PLLC, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapy-Helps LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
I believe in using a tailored approach to assist with developing clear, attainable treatment goals instead of adopting one methodology for all individuals and issues. I have extensive experience working with adolescence and adults who present with challenges managing depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, co-dependency, parenting, self esteem, addictions, psychological effects of disease management and much more. We are all on a journey of change and growth and I am here to take these steps with you. I am Licensed in New York and Connecticut.
I believe in using a tailored approach to assist with developing clear, attainable treatment goals instead of adopting one methodology for all individuals and issues. I have extensive experience working with adolescence and adults who present with challenges managing depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, co-dependency, parenting, self esteem, addictions, psychological effects of disease management and much more. We are all on a journey of change and growth and I am here to take these steps with you. I am Licensed in New York and Connecticut.
(914) 342-7370 View (914) 342-7370
Photo of Diaon M Clarke, LCSW-R, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diaon M Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, PhD
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550
Specialties include: depression, life transitions, grief, assault, childhood trauma, and life issues.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. ~Maya Angelou Too often we walk through life fearful of telling our real story. But when we tell our story we free ourselves from unhealed wounds. Telling our story helps us to find our strength and recognize our resiliency through difficult times. Emotional well-being is one of the most important parts of an individual's life. Unfortunately it is a part of life that we often forget to take care of. We all deserve to enjoy the lives we live. You are worthy of a life you can enjoy!
Specialties include: depression, life transitions, grief, assault, childhood trauma, and life issues.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. ~Maya Angelou Too often we walk through life fearful of telling our real story. But when we tell our story we free ourselves from unhealed wounds. Telling our story helps us to find our strength and recognize our resiliency through difficult times. Emotional well-being is one of the most important parts of an individual's life. Unfortunately it is a part of life that we often forget to take care of. We all deserve to enjoy the lives we live. You are worthy of a life you can enjoy!
(914) 290-5326 View (914) 290-5326
Photo of Kathleen Hobson, MHC-LP
Kathleen Hobson
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
Areas of Expertise: - Anxiety and Stress Management - Depression and Mood Disorders - Self-esteem and Identity Development - Life Transitions and Adjustment Issues - Relationship and Interpersonal Challenges - Grief and Loss.
I am a dedicated mental health counselor with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve overall well-being. I am committed to providing empathetic and effective counseling services to individuals seeking support. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a person-centered perspective, where I create a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I believe in the power of collaboration, tailoring treatment plans to meet each individual's unique needs and goals.
Areas of Expertise: - Anxiety and Stress Management - Depression and Mood Disorders - Self-esteem and Identity Development - Life Transitions and Adjustment Issues - Relationship and Interpersonal Challenges - Grief and Loss.
I am a dedicated mental health counselor with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve overall well-being. I am committed to providing empathetic and effective counseling services to individuals seeking support. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a person-centered perspective, where I create a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I believe in the power of collaboration, tailoring treatment plans to meet each individual's unique needs and goals.
(914) 415-5894 View (914) 415-5894
Photo of Tracey Prisca Stephen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracey Prisca Stephen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate and thoughtful individual psychotherapist. I have significant areas of expertise in working with young adults and adults (18-60 years old) struggling with mood issues such as anxiety, depression and relationship and work issues like work-related stress and inter-generational conflict. I am especially skilled in working on conflict and emotional and mental stress due to current and historical racial animus. I utilize practices such as motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and supportive therapy in accordance with your needs and comfort level.
I am a compassionate and thoughtful individual psychotherapist. I have significant areas of expertise in working with young adults and adults (18-60 years old) struggling with mood issues such as anxiety, depression and relationship and work issues like work-related stress and inter-generational conflict. I am especially skilled in working on conflict and emotional and mental stress due to current and historical racial animus. I utilize practices such as motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and supportive therapy in accordance with your needs and comfort level.
(914) 279-8760 View (914) 279-8760
Photo of Judy Fernandez - Mind Muse Therapy , DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mind Muse Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
I have successfully helped individuals decrease symptoms relating to depression, anxiety, racial trauma and post traumatic stress.
Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker, and an EMDR trained therapist. I focus on the here and now while working with individuals to understand how past experiences have influenced the present. I work with individuals and practice using a variety of contemporary approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, meditation, and mindfulness. I create a safe and nonjudgmental space for patients to explore and process their feelings while sharing experiences. I offer a free, brief consultation to answer any questions, learn about your needs, and see if we will be a good fit.
I have successfully helped individuals decrease symptoms relating to depression, anxiety, racial trauma and post traumatic stress.
Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker, and an EMDR trained therapist. I focus on the here and now while working with individuals to understand how past experiences have influenced the present. I work with individuals and practice using a variety of contemporary approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, meditation, and mindfulness. I create a safe and nonjudgmental space for patients to explore and process their feelings while sharing experiences. I offer a free, brief consultation to answer any questions, learn about your needs, and see if we will be a good fit.
(646) 904-4209 View (646) 904-4209
Photo of Joanne Carrero, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Carrero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
The first step is realizing you want, need and desire a change! The next step is deciding to make a change. My experience working with people in need of support or change can help, all while using a strengths based perspective to help individuals realize they can heal. Whether it's depression, anxiety, life changes or stress, there is always the potential for a better life. I facilitate the healing process using a myriad of therapeutic approaches unique to the individual all while providing a safe place to express yourself without judgement.
The first step is realizing you want, need and desire a change! The next step is deciding to make a change. My experience working with people in need of support or change can help, all while using a strengths based perspective to help individuals realize they can heal. Whether it's depression, anxiety, life changes or stress, there is always the potential for a better life. I facilitate the healing process using a myriad of therapeutic approaches unique to the individual all while providing a safe place to express yourself without judgement.
(646) 759-2992 View (646) 759-2992
Photo of Colette Cassidy, LMHC, Counselor
Colette Cassidy
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating individuals with issues such as stress, anxiety and depression.
Do you find yourself feeling stressed and overwhelmed? How are you managing everything in your life? It can be challenging trying to balance your problems on your own. Trying to pinpoint the source can be even harder. Often times there could be so many stressors contributing to it, it becomes difficult to cope. Having someone who will listen free from judgment, can provide a sense of relief and peace. Together we can create that safe space where you will feel more empowered and less overwhelmed. “Our minds will lead us towards the path we envisioned”
I specialize in treating individuals with issues such as stress, anxiety and depression.
Do you find yourself feeling stressed and overwhelmed? How are you managing everything in your life? It can be challenging trying to balance your problems on your own. Trying to pinpoint the source can be even harder. Often times there could be so many stressors contributing to it, it becomes difficult to cope. Having someone who will listen free from judgment, can provide a sense of relief and peace. Together we can create that safe space where you will feel more empowered and less overwhelmed. “Our minds will lead us towards the path we envisioned”
(914) 292-7729 View (914) 292-7729
Photo of Jemour Maddux - Dr. Jemour Maddux Psychologist, Accepting Patients, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Jemour Maddux Psychologist, Accepting Patients
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
I offer a solution-focused & direct approach for issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, anger & family/relationship problems.
Professional - Doctoral Level - Theologically Sensitive - TeleHealth Friendly - Diagnostician & Therapist: Dr. Maddux offers tools for escaping bothersome thoughts, behaviors & reactions so you can reclaim self-control, fresh perspectives, stable relationships, energy & hope. I also understand that faith is important. I completed postdoctoral Theology & Ministry education at Princeton Theological Seminary to ethically combine faith-based tools & evidence-based psychotherapies, such as CBT & ERP. My style is time-limited & practical. Get a "Game Plan" for reaching your social, emotional & relationship goals.
I offer a solution-focused & direct approach for issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, anger & family/relationship problems.
Professional - Doctoral Level - Theologically Sensitive - TeleHealth Friendly - Diagnostician & Therapist: Dr. Maddux offers tools for escaping bothersome thoughts, behaviors & reactions so you can reclaim self-control, fresh perspectives, stable relationships, energy & hope. I also understand that faith is important. I completed postdoctoral Theology & Ministry education at Princeton Theological Seminary to ethically combine faith-based tools & evidence-based psychotherapies, such as CBT & ERP. My style is time-limited & practical. Get a "Game Plan" for reaching your social, emotional & relationship goals.
View
Photo of Annette Roldan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annette Roldan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10552  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Annette Roldan and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New York with over 7 years of experience. I work with mainly 5 years - 60 years old. The majority of my work has been with people who experience anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I am flexible with modalities based on clients' needs. I find I utilize CBT, DBT, and strengths perspective. I provide a thorough assessment to identify with the client the goals for treatment and like to focus on coping skills, building support systems and improving symptom management.
Hello! My name is Annette Roldan and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New York with over 7 years of experience. I work with mainly 5 years - 60 years old. The majority of my work has been with people who experience anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I am flexible with modalities based on clients' needs. I find I utilize CBT, DBT, and strengths perspective. I provide a thorough assessment to identify with the client the goals for treatment and like to focus on coping skills, building support systems and improving symptom management.
(347) 508-7469 View (347) 508-7469
Photo of Takara Y Rooks, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Takara Y Rooks
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, NY 10552
I offer an evidenced based mind/body fertility program to address the depression and anxiety many women feel during the fertility process.
Change is never easy. We seldom know where to start. Acknowledgement is the first step. Seeking assistance is the second. Let me guide you on that journey to wellness. As your therapist, it is my honor to work with you to formalize a plan that's best for you. Therapy is a relationship that when done properly, can reshape lives, and bring new perspectives to an issue. For the past 15 years, I have worked with adolescents and families. I enjoy getting to the heart of the situation and I'm not afraid to address "the elephant in the room". I am also a certified Hypnotherapist. This modality works really well for anxiety and phobias.
I offer an evidenced based mind/body fertility program to address the depression and anxiety many women feel during the fertility process.
Change is never easy. We seldom know where to start. Acknowledgement is the first step. Seeking assistance is the second. Let me guide you on that journey to wellness. As your therapist, it is my honor to work with you to formalize a plan that's best for you. Therapy is a relationship that when done properly, can reshape lives, and bring new perspectives to an issue. For the past 15 years, I have worked with adolescents and families. I enjoy getting to the heart of the situation and I'm not afraid to address "the elephant in the room". I am also a certified Hypnotherapist. This modality works really well for anxiety and phobias.
(646) 791-3213 View (646) 791-3213
Photo of Adeyola Locke - Unlock Wellness LLC, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Unlock Wellness LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10552  (Online Only)
Welcome all! I am a Christian woman who counsels Teens, Adults, Groups (ages 17-64) in the areas of spiritual wellness, anxiety/ depression, poor self-esteem, interpersonal conflicts, history of abuse/neglect, separation/divorce etc. I believe that when we successfully lean in and finally face our painful experiences without denial, avoidance or minimizing the harm we have endured, we learn to accept what we do have control over, and commit to healthy choices that honor God and ourselves. Together we can learn how to embrace our intrinsic value through what God says and not man or our feelings. Reach out and call/email me...
Welcome all! I am a Christian woman who counsels Teens, Adults, Groups (ages 17-64) in the areas of spiritual wellness, anxiety/ depression, poor self-esteem, interpersonal conflicts, history of abuse/neglect, separation/divorce etc. I believe that when we successfully lean in and finally face our painful experiences without denial, avoidance or minimizing the harm we have endured, we learn to accept what we do have control over, and commit to healthy choices that honor God and ourselves. Together we can learn how to embrace our intrinsic value through what God says and not man or our feelings. Reach out and call/email me...
(914) 297-7898 View (914) 297-7898
Photo of Leslie Ellen Ackerman - Leslie E Ackerman, PsyD and Associates, PsyD, Psychologist
Leslie E Ackerman, PsyD and Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550
The psychologists in my practice have extensive clinical experiences that include working with individuals of all ages including: children and their families, from newborn to young adults; adult clientele; and the geriatric population. We have extensive experience conducting psychological and psychoeducational assessments with children and adolescents. My practice provides psychotherapy and psychological evaluations to individuals with presenting issues such as general adjustment difficulties, anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, trauma, and behavioral disorders and ADHD.
The psychologists in my practice have extensive clinical experiences that include working with individuals of all ages including: children and their families, from newborn to young adults; adult clientele; and the geriatric population. We have extensive experience conducting psychological and psychoeducational assessments with children and adolescents. My practice provides psychotherapy and psychological evaluations to individuals with presenting issues such as general adjustment difficulties, anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, trauma, and behavioral disorders and ADHD.
(347) 514-9529 View (347) 514-9529
Photo of Nicole Case-Reid, MSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Case-Reid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
My background includes working with addiction, sexual trauma, relational conflicts and chronic depression.
I have a genuine interest in helping people cope with depression, anxiety ,low self esteem and trauma-related issues. If you are looking for someone who will listen, without judgement, and offer honest and supportive feedback then I can help you. I respect individual boundaries and a person's right to make their own decisions. My goal in working with everyone is always self empowerment.
My background includes working with addiction, sexual trauma, relational conflicts and chronic depression.
I have a genuine interest in helping people cope with depression, anxiety ,low self esteem and trauma-related issues. If you are looking for someone who will listen, without judgement, and offer honest and supportive feedback then I can help you. I respect individual boundaries and a person's right to make their own decisions. My goal in working with everyone is always self empowerment.
(646) 553-4125 View (646) 553-4125
Photo of Jesse Michael Osborn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesse Michael Osborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10553
Trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, grueling battles with addiction or an eating disorder: none of these things are unusual, or insurmountable.
Life isn’t always easy, and can be even less so in these uncertain times. There are disappointments and victories, trying struggles, periods of blissful calm and resounding joy. Remaining mindful, open, motivated, and passionate, both about who you are, and the people and things that you love, requires ongoing focus and attention to self. An objective figure to assist you in facing your fears, accessing your internal motivation, refining your perspective, and ongoing maintenance of your emotional well being and functioning can be crucial in that endeavor.
Trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, grueling battles with addiction or an eating disorder: none of these things are unusual, or insurmountable.
Life isn’t always easy, and can be even less so in these uncertain times. There are disappointments and victories, trying struggles, periods of blissful calm and resounding joy. Remaining mindful, open, motivated, and passionate, both about who you are, and the people and things that you love, requires ongoing focus and attention to self. An objective figure to assist you in facing your fears, accessing your internal motivation, refining your perspective, and ongoing maintenance of your emotional well being and functioning can be crucial in that endeavor.
(718) 400-6756 View (718) 400-6756
Photo of Yolanda Thomas, LMHC, Counselor
Yolanda Thomas
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, nervous or experiencing bouts of extreme sadness while trying to manage the ups and downs of life? Are you scared or upset due to a health diagnosis or condition? Situations at home, work and school can lead us feeling stressed, anxious and depressed. I am deeply committed to supporting adults through their most challenging times. My practice focuses on helping individuals manage stress, anxiety and depression with a specialized focus related to chronic health conditions such as cancer. I understand the profound emotional and psychological impact that a chronic illness can have on individuals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, nervous or experiencing bouts of extreme sadness while trying to manage the ups and downs of life? Are you scared or upset due to a health diagnosis or condition? Situations at home, work and school can lead us feeling stressed, anxious and depressed. I am deeply committed to supporting adults through their most challenging times. My practice focuses on helping individuals manage stress, anxiety and depression with a specialized focus related to chronic health conditions such as cancer. I understand the profound emotional and psychological impact that a chronic illness can have on individuals.
(914) 685-6122 View (914) 685-6122
Photo of Rosa H. Russell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosa H. Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
It takes a great deal of courage to take the first step towards seeking help. You are here for a reason. My goal is to help you figure out how to live a more meaningful, fulfilling, and happier life. I am a NYS licensed therapist with more than 15 years experience working with clients from diverse racial/ethnic, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, relationship/family conflict, parenting challenges, career problems, identity, self-esteem, women's issues (pregnancy, domestic violence, postpartum depression), HIV, medical concerns, and everyday life stressors.
It takes a great deal of courage to take the first step towards seeking help. You are here for a reason. My goal is to help you figure out how to live a more meaningful, fulfilling, and happier life. I am a NYS licensed therapist with more than 15 years experience working with clients from diverse racial/ethnic, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, relationship/family conflict, parenting challenges, career problems, identity, self-esteem, women's issues (pregnancy, domestic violence, postpartum depression), HIV, medical concerns, and everyday life stressors.
(914) 354-3845 View (914) 354-3845
Photo of Yolanda Jones, MHC-LP, CASAC-T
Yolanda Jones
MHC-LP, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, NY 10550
My area of expertise in providing counseling in the areas include, but not limited to grief and bereavement, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitioning, women issues, job related stressors, spirituality, and anger management.
Are you feeling like you have no one to talk with to express your feelings? Have life stressors become more and more difficult to cope? Do you feel like you are stuck in the same cycle of emotions? Are struggling to make sense of what is happening to you? Do you wish to improve your quality of life? Are a parent with a child or adolescent that needs a safe place to talk about the pressures of today's society?
My area of expertise in providing counseling in the areas include, but not limited to grief and bereavement, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitioning, women issues, job related stressors, spirituality, and anger management.
Are you feeling like you have no one to talk with to express your feelings? Have life stressors become more and more difficult to cope? Do you feel like you are stuck in the same cycle of emotions? Are struggling to make sense of what is happening to you? Do you wish to improve your quality of life? Are a parent with a child or adolescent that needs a safe place to talk about the pressures of today's society?
(914) 430-4280 View (914) 430-4280
Photo of Trenace Lee, MHC-LP
Trenace Lee
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550  (Online Only)
“Healing is not linear, but it is possible.” As a MHC-LP I provide a welcoming and judgement free environment for individual that require assistance navigating through their life challenges. I provide individual telehealth counseling to individuals who are dealing with but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, and daily life stressors. Lets embark on this therapeutic journey together. Take the first step to help. Text or email Trenace Lee now - (914) 341-4151
“Healing is not linear, but it is possible.” As a MHC-LP I provide a welcoming and judgement free environment for individual that require assistance navigating through their life challenges. I provide individual telehealth counseling to individuals who are dealing with but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, and daily life stressors. Lets embark on this therapeutic journey together. Take the first step to help. Text or email Trenace Lee now - (914) 341-4151
(929) 547-9738 View (929) 547-9738
Photo of Michelle Grennan, PhD, Psychologist
Michelle Grennan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, NY 10552
My specialty is trauma, with the understanding that trauma is often not just one major event, but also the cumulative effect of both severe and more subtle traumas over a lifetime, ranging from emotional deprivation, bullying, verbal abuse to rejections and perceived failures. Since I believe that trauma contributes to most issues, I work with a broad range of patients, including those struggling with interpersonal problems, having difficulty reaching personal and professional goals, or lacking confidence and positive self-image. I also work with patients experiencing mental illness, ranging from depression to psychotic disorders.
My specialty is trauma, with the understanding that trauma is often not just one major event, but also the cumulative effect of both severe and more subtle traumas over a lifetime, ranging from emotional deprivation, bullying, verbal abuse to rejections and perceived failures. Since I believe that trauma contributes to most issues, I work with a broad range of patients, including those struggling with interpersonal problems, having difficulty reaching personal and professional goals, or lacking confidence and positive self-image. I also work with patients experiencing mental illness, ranging from depression to psychotic disorders.
(914) 996-4698 View (914) 996-4698
Photo of Angela Lobdell, LMHC, Counselor
Angela Lobdell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10552  (Online Only)
My experience includes trauma, bereavement, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and life transitions.
I have always felt that my purpose in life was to serve in some capacity. While completing my undergraduate degree in psychology, I discovered a passion for human service and the field of counseling. I realized through my studies and personal experiences in therapy that what people seek the most is a safe place that is free from judgment and centered around acceptance. My goal is to be able to provide the same quality of care to every human being I encounter on their personal journey of healing.
My experience includes trauma, bereavement, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and life transitions.
I have always felt that my purpose in life was to serve in some capacity. While completing my undergraduate degree in psychology, I discovered a passion for human service and the field of counseling. I realized through my studies and personal experiences in therapy that what people seek the most is a safe place that is free from judgment and centered around acceptance. My goal is to be able to provide the same quality of care to every human being I encounter on their personal journey of healing.
(914) 785-6589 View (914) 785-6589
1

See more therapy options for Mount Vernon

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.