Depression Therapists in Pittsford, NY
![Photo of Stephen S Farmer - Stephen Farmer Clinical Psychologist, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/464b1672-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephen Farmer Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
My therapy style is relational and I am particularly skilled at helping clients identify feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that impede efforts to form and maintain fulfilling relationships. Together, in a warm and empathetic atmosphere, we will look into your unique past and come to understand how that history is connected to your current emotional pain. Emotional pain tends to manifest as some variety of anxiety and/or depression. Understandably, we all look to alleviate anxiety and depression. Coping methods such as drugs/alcohol, may do the trick, initially. However, they tend to stop working, and ultimately lead to more misery.
My therapy style is relational and I am particularly skilled at helping clients identify feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that impede efforts to form and maintain fulfilling relationships. Together, in a warm and empathetic atmosphere, we will look into your unique past and come to understand how that history is connected to your current emotional pain. Emotional pain tends to manifest as some variety of anxiety and/or depression. Understandably, we all look to alleviate anxiety and depression. Coping methods such as drugs/alcohol, may do the trick, initially. However, they tend to stop working, and ultimately lead to more misery.
![Photo of Lynne Pier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25e446ec-c2e9-44d1-b89a-8b1229da90b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Lynne Pier, LCSW. Through my 23 years of experience in clinical social work, I have expertise in working with diverse populations across various agencies, including a rewarding and challenging 8-year tenure within the school system. As someone who struggled with anxiety and depression as a teenager, I am able to better relate to teens that are struggling with their mental health. Because of this, I am most passionate about working with children with severe mental health issues between 6-16, those struggling with ADHD, depression, ptsd, and anxiety.
Hello! My name is Lynne Pier, LCSW. Through my 23 years of experience in clinical social work, I have expertise in working with diverse populations across various agencies, including a rewarding and challenging 8-year tenure within the school system. As someone who struggled with anxiety and depression as a teenager, I am able to better relate to teens that are struggling with their mental health. Because of this, I am most passionate about working with children with severe mental health issues between 6-16, those struggling with ADHD, depression, ptsd, and anxiety.
![Photo of Dr. Megan M. Humphreys, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdd49ca3-3738-47e5-99ae-e53f44ca5bd3/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to therapy is warm, inviting, and challenging. I value compassion and "realness" and approach my work with clients from a place of curiosity and respect. I believe the quality of the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for meaningful work to occur and work with my clients to identify what feels most important to explore and address in therapy. Our work together may involve processing and organizing difficult life experiences or memories, preparing for major life transitions, or navigating challenges relating to depression/anxiety.
My approach to therapy is warm, inviting, and challenging. I value compassion and "realness" and approach my work with clients from a place of curiosity and respect. I believe the quality of the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for meaningful work to occur and work with my clients to identify what feels most important to explore and address in therapy. Our work together may involve processing and organizing difficult life experiences or memories, preparing for major life transitions, or navigating challenges relating to depression/anxiety.
![Photo of Jeffrey Young - Renew Hope and Healing - Pittsford, LCSW, PsyD, LMSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/731ddede-c04c-431d-abe8-c1f22ee266c3/1/320x400.png)
Renew Hope and Healing - Pittsford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD, LMSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
Clinicians specializing in: anxiety, depression, panic attacks, adjustment problems, controlling relationships, grief/loss, trauma, bipolar and more.
Immediate Openings! Get scheduled in 7 days. Most insurances accepted. We have over 60 clinicians with all different specialities so we are confident that we can find the right fit for you! "I have been referring patients to Jeff Young for more than a decade. He is professional, caring, and insightful. Patients comment back to me how much their time with Jeff has been both helpful and healing. He is a gifted therapist!" - Michael Brennan, Doctor Nurse Practitioner (DNP)
Clinicians specializing in: anxiety, depression, panic attacks, adjustment problems, controlling relationships, grief/loss, trauma, bipolar and more.
Immediate Openings! Get scheduled in 7 days. Most insurances accepted. We have over 60 clinicians with all different specialities so we are confident that we can find the right fit for you! "I have been referring patients to Jeff Young for more than a decade. He is professional, caring, and insightful. Patients comment back to me how much their time with Jeff has been both helpful and healing. He is a gifted therapist!" - Michael Brennan, Doctor Nurse Practitioner (DNP)
![Photo of Rekha Shrivastava, CH, CRC, CASAC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4047fb55-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have had good results combining the both and helped clients lose weight, quit smoking, reduce anxiety, depression and enhanced self esteem, and confidence level of the clients.
I am a certified hypnotist, credentialed alcoholism and substance abuse counselor, and a certified rehabilitation counselor. I have worked as a psychotherapist at Unity Health System for twenty years, offering treatment to clients for mental illnesses, ranging from Mild Anxiety to Psychotic Disorders. I am certified as a Hypnotist and have a practice of hypnosis. Hypnosis is a treatment modality which is effective and safe. I have worked with physicians, dentists and many other professionals to help them deal with everyday problems like obesity, stress, pain, smoking, addiction, PTSD, relationship issues, children's emotional problems, OCD, anxiety, low self esteem, depression etc.
I have had good results combining the both and helped clients lose weight, quit smoking, reduce anxiety, depression and enhanced self esteem, and confidence level of the clients.
I am a certified hypnotist, credentialed alcoholism and substance abuse counselor, and a certified rehabilitation counselor. I have worked as a psychotherapist at Unity Health System for twenty years, offering treatment to clients for mental illnesses, ranging from Mild Anxiety to Psychotic Disorders. I am certified as a Hypnotist and have a practice of hypnosis. Hypnosis is a treatment modality which is effective and safe. I have worked with physicians, dentists and many other professionals to help them deal with everyday problems like obesity, stress, pain, smoking, addiction, PTSD, relationship issues, children's emotional problems, OCD, anxiety, low self esteem, depression etc.
![Photo of Patricia P Schultz - Pati Schultz, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d062eefa-2b67-41cc-bb2a-d581d8faca2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist whose approach to therapy is collaborative, non-judgmental, direct, and warm. I strive to create a space you can better understand yourself, your emotions, your interpersonal relationships and, consequently, live a more fulfilling life. I work with adults who are experiencing emotional distress (such as anxiety and depression), grief and loss, relationship issues, or going through life changes (e.g., dislocation, career decisions, starting college). I have interest and experience with identity-based work (e.g., sexual orientation) and parenting.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist whose approach to therapy is collaborative, non-judgmental, direct, and warm. I strive to create a space you can better understand yourself, your emotions, your interpersonal relationships and, consequently, live a more fulfilling life. I work with adults who are experiencing emotional distress (such as anxiety and depression), grief and loss, relationship issues, or going through life changes (e.g., dislocation, career decisions, starting college). I have interest and experience with identity-based work (e.g., sexual orientation) and parenting.
![Photo of Kelcie Fenner, MHC-P, CASAC , Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01add973-e94e-4d07-a0e2-2139077df587/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have expertise in addictions, sexual areas of concern, anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other mental health concerns.
Are you interested in making positive changes in your life, but need some guidance and insight into how to meet your goals? Curious about what may be holding you back or causing you to feel stuck? Life is unpredictable and challenging and none of us have all the tools in our toolbox to deal with the many twists and turns. I am here to help unconditionally support you, provide different perspectives, and focus on solutions if and when you are ready for them. Together we can gain back a sense of empowerment and get you moving in a positive direction.
I have expertise in addictions, sexual areas of concern, anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other mental health concerns.
Are you interested in making positive changes in your life, but need some guidance and insight into how to meet your goals? Curious about what may be holding you back or causing you to feel stuck? Life is unpredictable and challenging and none of us have all the tools in our toolbox to deal with the many twists and turns. I am here to help unconditionally support you, provide different perspectives, and focus on solutions if and when you are ready for them. Together we can gain back a sense of empowerment and get you moving in a positive direction.
![Photo of Mike Morde, LMHC, NCC, CASAC-T, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97c21d7d-ef39-4e6f-bef4-2243cd578759/1/320x400.jpeg)
No one aspires to be in therapy indefinitely. My clients walk through the door bearing similar worries, but their real concerns often differ from their initial perceptions. They express desires to "fix my anxiety," "solve my depression," or "quit smoking marijuana." What they're truly communicating is, "I want to flourish, I want to deepen my relationships with those I care about, and I'm weary of these issues."
No one aspires to be in therapy indefinitely. My clients walk through the door bearing similar worries, but their real concerns often differ from their initial perceptions. They express desires to "fix my anxiety," "solve my depression," or "quit smoking marijuana." What they're truly communicating is, "I want to flourish, I want to deepen my relationships with those I care about, and I'm weary of these issues."
![Photo of Justin Wixson, MS, MT-BC, LCAT, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2a1b068-b7d6-4e17-8b05-0d2ccb7f30f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Justin Wixson
Art Therapist, MS, MT-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534 (Online Only)
I use both traditional talk therapy and the creative process to help clients express feelings and heal issues related to anxiety, depression, appropriate coping techniques, self-esteem, emotional organization, and trauma. I encourage clients to challenge their long held beliefs and feelings about themselves that are, in fact, untrue. Through this type of work you will begin to get in touch with your potential and your true nature. Personal accountability and the motivation to evolve are an important factor in the type of therapy I provide.
I use both traditional talk therapy and the creative process to help clients express feelings and heal issues related to anxiety, depression, appropriate coping techniques, self-esteem, emotional organization, and trauma. I encourage clients to challenge their long held beliefs and feelings about themselves that are, in fact, untrue. Through this type of work you will begin to get in touch with your potential and your true nature. Personal accountability and the motivation to evolve are an important factor in the type of therapy I provide.
![Photo of Bridget Lucchesi - Bridget Lucchesi, LCSW, PC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/474808c0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bridget Lucchesi, LCSW, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsford, NY 14534
If you feel anxious, depressed, fearful, relationship or family problems? We offer a cutting edge integrative assessment to address possible sources of your mental health symptoms versus simply treating the symptoms. We look at your overall health including hormones, vitamin deficiency and environmental issues that may play a role. We develop a unique individualized evidence based treatment plan to manage or resolve your symptoms. I bring an integrative strength based perspective to my counseling. We teach mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
If you feel anxious, depressed, fearful, relationship or family problems? We offer a cutting edge integrative assessment to address possible sources of your mental health symptoms versus simply treating the symptoms. We look at your overall health including hormones, vitamin deficiency and environmental issues that may play a role. We develop a unique individualized evidence based treatment plan to manage or resolve your symptoms. I bring an integrative strength based perspective to my counseling. We teach mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
![Photo of Lisa Fulmer, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dd13a1c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, depressed? Job & relationships not as satisfying as you would like? Not sure where to turn? I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 28 years of experience. My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, loss/grief, self-esteem, relationship issues, hopelessness, job loss/transition, loneliness, divorce, separation & trauma. I strive to provide you with a comfortable, confidential and easily accessible office setting.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, depressed? Job & relationships not as satisfying as you would like? Not sure where to turn? I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 28 years of experience. My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, loss/grief, self-esteem, relationship issues, hopelessness, job loss/transition, loneliness, divorce, separation & trauma. I strive to provide you with a comfortable, confidential and easily accessible office setting.
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![Photo of Whitney Read, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/337d5716-805e-4e51-9640-6c8972041fa6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whitney Read
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed with an unwanted change, unmet expectations, or a significant health diagnosis such as cancer or a chronic illness? These experiences impact how we cope and live our lives. Healing is not always linear, but it is possible; finding a therapist that you connect well with and where you feel comfortable is a vital part of that healing. People can sometimes struggle to find a space that is just theirs to be able to process the good, the bad and the in between... but our sessions together can be just that. Your space and time to have a moment to focus on your needs.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed with an unwanted change, unmet expectations, or a significant health diagnosis such as cancer or a chronic illness? These experiences impact how we cope and live our lives. Healing is not always linear, but it is possible; finding a therapist that you connect well with and where you feel comfortable is a vital part of that healing. People can sometimes struggle to find a space that is just theirs to be able to process the good, the bad and the in between... but our sessions together can be just that. Your space and time to have a moment to focus on your needs.
![Photo of Sara Tucker, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78c2cc2d-2489-4808-9bba-7f116e5c81ad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome. Life can be stressful and difficult to cope with at times. Throughout my 20 years of experience as a therapist, my strengths are in working with teens, young adults and families on goals to address stressors and emotional challenges. Deciding to engage in therapy can be intimidating. However learning evidence based strategies, in a calm and non judgmental environment, can help to better manage anxiety, depression, stress, parenting struggles, life transitions, and interpersonal stressors. These changes can be rewarding and life changing.
Hello and welcome. Life can be stressful and difficult to cope with at times. Throughout my 20 years of experience as a therapist, my strengths are in working with teens, young adults and families on goals to address stressors and emotional challenges. Deciding to engage in therapy can be intimidating. However learning evidence based strategies, in a calm and non judgmental environment, can help to better manage anxiety, depression, stress, parenting struggles, life transitions, and interpersonal stressors. These changes can be rewarding and life changing.
![Photo of Janice Vitale, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e923ad32-02cf-4a89-9581-a74922ee4e79/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janice Vitale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients- I specialize in helping sensitive and deep-thinking people to rediscover their sense of purpose, meaning and joy. You may find yourself longing for change. You may feel disconnected from what brings you joy. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed with life stressors and you just want to feel calm and centered again. You may be experiencing anxiety/depression or burnout. When we are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed or anxious it can make it hard to feel like a good partner, parent, employee, family member or friend. The good news is that counseling can help with all of this!
Accepting New Clients- I specialize in helping sensitive and deep-thinking people to rediscover their sense of purpose, meaning and joy. You may find yourself longing for change. You may feel disconnected from what brings you joy. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed with life stressors and you just want to feel calm and centered again. You may be experiencing anxiety/depression or burnout. When we are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed or anxious it can make it hard to feel like a good partner, parent, employee, family member or friend. The good news is that counseling can help with all of this!
![Photo of Lori Teller-McDonald, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45404cc3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel anxious or depressed? Are you experiencing life stressors, loss, conflict, change, illness or trauma? When this happens, and coping skills break down, life quickly unravels. Compassion, empathy and ability, paired with a therapist who can guide you to healing, can really help you feel better and improve your quality of life. That person is me, and I am honored to walk along with you on the path to healing. Rarely is a single approach right for healing, growth and change. Rather, I believe in an eclectic approach to ensure one's desired goals for treatment are met.
Do you feel anxious or depressed? Are you experiencing life stressors, loss, conflict, change, illness or trauma? When this happens, and coping skills break down, life quickly unravels. Compassion, empathy and ability, paired with a therapist who can guide you to healing, can really help you feel better and improve your quality of life. That person is me, and I am honored to walk along with you on the path to healing. Rarely is a single approach right for healing, growth and change. Rather, I believe in an eclectic approach to ensure one's desired goals for treatment are met.
![Photo of Alisa K Phelps, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4270bddc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am honored to assist individuals in their personal journeys of change who are struggling to recover their ability to effectively respond to life’s challenges. I have over 25 years of experience helping individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, the aftermath of trauma, and relationship difficulties. I work within a framework of respect, warmth, and attention to the dignity and worth of every person. I am passionate about helping you learn tools that will empower you to become the person you truly want to be. I encourage you to continually evaluate the quality of our work together to ensure that I am meeting your needs.
I am honored to assist individuals in their personal journeys of change who are struggling to recover their ability to effectively respond to life’s challenges. I have over 25 years of experience helping individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, the aftermath of trauma, and relationship difficulties. I work within a framework of respect, warmth, and attention to the dignity and worth of every person. I am passionate about helping you learn tools that will empower you to become the person you truly want to be. I encourage you to continually evaluate the quality of our work together to ensure that I am meeting your needs.
![Photo of Jennifer M Thompson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d50a667-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer M Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
I want to help you get to the bottom of lingering issues with past trauma, depression and anxiety in order to promote whole and complete healing, not just put a temporary fix on symptoms.
Have you reviewed multiple write ups on Psychology Today looking for the right therapist? Do you feel confused because there are so many individuals listed that are willing and ready to help? The right "fit" is so important to me and I hope that you might consider my holistic and uplifting approach to treatment. I am so honored and humbled to help people on their path to healing and I strive to keep therapy relevant and comfortable. Most clients tell me, "You are not like any therapist that I have ever met before!". I always take this as a compliment.
I want to help you get to the bottom of lingering issues with past trauma, depression and anxiety in order to promote whole and complete healing, not just put a temporary fix on symptoms.
Have you reviewed multiple write ups on Psychology Today looking for the right therapist? Do you feel confused because there are so many individuals listed that are willing and ready to help? The right "fit" is so important to me and I hope that you might consider my holistic and uplifting approach to treatment. I am so honored and humbled to help people on their path to healing and I strive to keep therapy relevant and comfortable. Most clients tell me, "You are not like any therapist that I have ever met before!". I always take this as a compliment.
![Photo of Steve Michener, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de3d009-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
From depression and anxiety to adjustment issues and drugs and alcohol, I have helped many people over the years to improve their lives, with some gentle straight forward guidance.
Currently, I only have Monday morning appointments available. Have you been thinking about counseling for awhile? It's not uncommon for people to consider getting help for months before they make the first call. But remember, counseling is just people talking to each other. My goal is to help you to feel comfortable. I strive to create a non-judgmental atmosphere where people can develop the insights and skills they need to grow. My approach to counseling is down to earth and practical. I use a solution-focused approach that builds on the strengths already present in my clients.
From depression and anxiety to adjustment issues and drugs and alcohol, I have helped many people over the years to improve their lives, with some gentle straight forward guidance.
Currently, I only have Monday morning appointments available. Have you been thinking about counseling for awhile? It's not uncommon for people to consider getting help for months before they make the first call. But remember, counseling is just people talking to each other. My goal is to help you to feel comfortable. I strive to create a non-judgmental atmosphere where people can develop the insights and skills they need to grow. My approach to counseling is down to earth and practical. I use a solution-focused approach that builds on the strengths already present in my clients.
![Photo of Danielle Herold, LCSW-R, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bd635a9-7d13-4bc3-a69c-3aacb6d71eff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Herold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MEd
Verified Verified
Pittsford, NY 14534 (Online Only)
Danielle Herold received her Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University and a Master's Degree in Education from Lesley University. She is a trained psychotherapist who has experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy settings and has worked with adults, children, families, couples, and groups. She has a client-centered approach and is effective in working with anxiety and depression. She also has a background in trauma and eating disorders and a special interest in infertility and adoption. She has a commitment to working with a diverse clientele, including the trans community.
Danielle Herold received her Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University and a Master's Degree in Education from Lesley University. She is a trained psychotherapist who has experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychotherapy settings and has worked with adults, children, families, couples, and groups. She has a client-centered approach and is effective in working with anxiety and depression. She also has a background in trauma and eating disorders and a special interest in infertility and adoption. She has a commitment to working with a diverse clientele, including the trans community.
![Photo of Anne B. Graham, MS, Ed, CAS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce25676-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work extensively with individuals and couples specializing in the areas of relationship problems, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions including divorce, loss of a partner or family member.
Over thirty years of experience partnering with clients of all ages, from a wide variety of backgrounds, has confirmed for me each person has within themselves the resources and ability to become the person they wish to be and to improve their satisfaction in life. As a therapist I partner with each client helping them to identify patterns of thought and behavior that are no longer effective and guide them in discovering new, more rewarding ways of relating and connecting with others. I work collaboratively with clients to solve problems, connect with strengths, and reach their personal and professional goals.
I work extensively with individuals and couples specializing in the areas of relationship problems, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions including divorce, loss of a partner or family member.
Over thirty years of experience partnering with clients of all ages, from a wide variety of backgrounds, has confirmed for me each person has within themselves the resources and ability to become the person they wish to be and to improve their satisfaction in life. As a therapist I partner with each client helping them to identify patterns of thought and behavior that are no longer effective and guide them in discovering new, more rewarding ways of relating and connecting with others. I work collaboratively with clients to solve problems, connect with strengths, and reach their personal and professional goals.
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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.