Depression Therapists in Ambler, PA

Photo of James N Stowe, MA, LPC, CAADC, CCPG, Licensed Professional Counselor
James N Stowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC, CCPG
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002  (Online Only)
Hello. I'm James and I appreciate that you are considering me to be your therapist. The decision to begin therapy for the first time or with a new treatment professional requires strength, courage and commitment. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, financial pressures, addiction or any other obstacle that prevents you from living the life that you want, finding the right therapist for you is an important part of getting yourself back to where you would like to be.
Hello. I'm James and I appreciate that you are considering me to be your therapist. The decision to begin therapy for the first time or with a new treatment professional requires strength, courage and commitment. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, financial pressures, addiction or any other obstacle that prevents you from living the life that you want, finding the right therapist for you is an important part of getting yourself back to where you would like to be.
(267) 367-6058 View (267) 367-6058
Photo of Joshua E Snyder - J Snyder Therapeutic Services, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
J Snyder Therapeutic Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
J Snyder Therapeutic Services LLC is a multidisciplinary practice specializing in the integrated delivery of Counseling, Psychotherapy, and Psychiatrically overseen Medication Management, via three brick and mortar locations in Ambler, North Wales, and Blue Bell, Pa, in addition to Telehealth. JSTS treats a spectrum of patients with ages ranging from five throughout the lifespan, struggling with symptoms or diagnoses of myriad afflictions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and ADHD.
J Snyder Therapeutic Services LLC is a multidisciplinary practice specializing in the integrated delivery of Counseling, Psychotherapy, and Psychiatrically overseen Medication Management, via three brick and mortar locations in Ambler, North Wales, and Blue Bell, Pa, in addition to Telehealth. JSTS treats a spectrum of patients with ages ranging from five throughout the lifespan, struggling with symptoms or diagnoses of myriad afflictions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and ADHD.
(215) 688-5974 View (215) 688-5974
Photo of Breanna Potts, Pre-Licensed Professional
Breanna Potts
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping individuals reclaim their power over their life by using their strengths and resiliency to overcome their struggles. I love working with teen girls and young women struggling with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, body image, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and OCD. However, I welcome any person and would be honored to share in your healing journey!
I am passionate about helping individuals reclaim their power over their life by using their strengths and resiliency to overcome their struggles. I love working with teen girls and young women struggling with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, body image, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and OCD. However, I welcome any person and would be honored to share in your healing journey!
(267) 754-2335 View (267) 754-2335
Photo of Allison Powers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Powers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002
I have extensive experience treating individuals experiencing depression.
I will provide a safe therapeutic space where you can explore your authentic self, feel fully seen, and become comfortable sharing anything and everything. I will listen without judgment, offer empathy, ask growth-promoting questions, and help you discover healthier ways of relating to yourself and the other important people in your life. I value establishing a strong therapeutic alliance and will take the time to truly get to know you, learn your story, and help you feel understood. Ultimately, my goal is that therapy will result in you experiencing a happier, more balanced life with greater fulfillment.
I have extensive experience treating individuals experiencing depression.
I will provide a safe therapeutic space where you can explore your authentic self, feel fully seen, and become comfortable sharing anything and everything. I will listen without judgment, offer empathy, ask growth-promoting questions, and help you discover healthier ways of relating to yourself and the other important people in your life. I value establishing a strong therapeutic alliance and will take the time to truly get to know you, learn your story, and help you feel understood. Ultimately, my goal is that therapy will result in you experiencing a happier, more balanced life with greater fulfillment.
(267) 651-8042 View (267) 651-8042
Photo of Emily DeMalto, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily DeMalto
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002  (Online Only)
I have experience working with adolescents, young adults and adults dealing with trauma, eating disorders, body image concerns, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, life transitions, and personality disorders.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” -Carl Rodgers. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor focused on creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment in which I collaborate with clients to pursue their goals of change, self-discovery, acceptance or understanding. I believe that everyone can benefit from a relationship that is authentic, curious, non-judgmental, honest, and provides a space supportive of growth and self-discovery. This is the environment I seek to cultivate with clients in my practice.
I have experience working with adolescents, young adults and adults dealing with trauma, eating disorders, body image concerns, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, life transitions, and personality disorders.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” -Carl Rodgers. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor focused on creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment in which I collaborate with clients to pursue their goals of change, self-discovery, acceptance or understanding. I believe that everyone can benefit from a relationship that is authentic, curious, non-judgmental, honest, and provides a space supportive of growth and self-discovery. This is the environment I seek to cultivate with clients in my practice.
(215) 201-4268 View (215) 201-4268
Photo of Rachael F Rosenfeld, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachael F Rosenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in a range of emotional health needs, including anxiety, depression and grief.
Sometimes life sits heavy on our shoulders. This past year has been especially difficult- isolating, ever changing and transforming “normal” as we knew it. We need support along the way to untie knots, approach new solutions and receive warm support, especially during difficult chapters in life. I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in helping individuals find solutions with a supportive, problem solving approach. You can expect that therapy with me will prioritize understanding your individual needs and collaboration.
I have experience in a range of emotional health needs, including anxiety, depression and grief.
Sometimes life sits heavy on our shoulders. This past year has been especially difficult- isolating, ever changing and transforming “normal” as we knew it. We need support along the way to untie knots, approach new solutions and receive warm support, especially during difficult chapters in life. I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in helping individuals find solutions with a supportive, problem solving approach. You can expect that therapy with me will prioritize understanding your individual needs and collaboration.
(267) 204-2779 View (267) 204-2779
Photo of Emily Freedman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Freedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002
I believe therapy is a personal journey that helps people develop insight into past and present experiences to ensure a more positive and healthy present and future. I have significant experience helping people manage feelings of anxiety and depression. I help people develop coping skills and strategies to manage anxiety and feel a sense of control over their thoughts and actions. Depression, lack of motivation, and hopelessness can feel overwhelming, so I feel committed to helping people develop and foster feelings of empowerment and fulfillment.
I believe therapy is a personal journey that helps people develop insight into past and present experiences to ensure a more positive and healthy present and future. I have significant experience helping people manage feelings of anxiety and depression. I help people develop coping skills and strategies to manage anxiety and feel a sense of control over their thoughts and actions. Depression, lack of motivation, and hopelessness can feel overwhelming, so I feel committed to helping people develop and foster feelings of empowerment and fulfillment.
(267) 651-8712 View (267) 651-8712
Photo of Bonnie Eccles, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bonnie Eccles
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, psychosis, and relationship difficulties.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board-Certified Music Therapist focused on creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment in which I collaborate with clients to pursue their goals. I draw from psychodynamic and humanistic theories to assist clients in becoming aware of ways in which past experiences may influence one’s connection with self and others today, while accessing and engaging with inherent areas of strength and health.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, psychosis, and relationship difficulties.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board-Certified Music Therapist focused on creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment in which I collaborate with clients to pursue their goals. I draw from psychodynamic and humanistic theories to assist clients in becoming aware of ways in which past experiences may influence one’s connection with self and others today, while accessing and engaging with inherent areas of strength and health.
(215) 999-4564 View (215) 999-4564
Photo of Eve DeSimone - Everly Counseling, MS, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Everly Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
We are licensed professional counselors with over 30 years of combined experience (in clinical and school settings) specializing in addressing issues related to trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, adjustment, self-esteem, academic motivation, grief and loss, family relationships and interpersonal conflict.
Welcome! At Everly Counseling we provide therapy to teens, (14+), adults and families. Using compassionate and supportive care we partner with you to navigate life’s challenges. Our ultimate goal is to help you overcome difficulties, improve your mental well-being and discover your path to wellness.
We are licensed professional counselors with over 30 years of combined experience (in clinical and school settings) specializing in addressing issues related to trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, adjustment, self-esteem, academic motivation, grief and loss, family relationships and interpersonal conflict.
Welcome! At Everly Counseling we provide therapy to teens, (14+), adults and families. Using compassionate and supportive care we partner with you to navigate life’s challenges. Our ultimate goal is to help you overcome difficulties, improve your mental well-being and discover your path to wellness.
(267) 551-5447 View (267) 551-5447
Photo of Derek Pendleton, LCSW, ACSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derek Pendleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
(267) 592-6888 View (267) 592-6888
Photo of Audrey M. Morrow, MS, Psychologist
Audrey M. Morrow
Psychologist, MS
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002
I have trained and work in the area of Mindfulness as a treatment for anxiety, depression and Adult ADD.
I have over 30 years of clinical experience helping individuals and families to resolve negative thoughts, feelings, hurts and self-concepts and to move ahead in a healthier and clearer way. I am so appreciative of the trust that I have received over the years from my clients. My expertise lies in working with individuals burdened by anxiety, depression and stress.
I have trained and work in the area of Mindfulness as a treatment for anxiety, depression and Adult ADD.
I have over 30 years of clinical experience helping individuals and families to resolve negative thoughts, feelings, hurts and self-concepts and to move ahead in a healthier and clearer way. I am so appreciative of the trust that I have received over the years from my clients. My expertise lies in working with individuals burdened by anxiety, depression and stress.
(610) 630-8540 View (610) 630-8540
Photo of Bruce S. Zahn, EdD, ABPP, Psychologist
Bruce S. Zahn
Psychologist, EdD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002
These are uncertain times. Do you worry that you're falling into an ever-deepening rut of fear, depression, and misery that is robbing you of inner peace and happiness? Do you find yourself ruminating about the future and unable to sleep restfully? I am a Licensed Psychologist in PA, Board Certified in Clinical Psychology, with over 40 years of experience. I trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at pioneer Dr. Aaron Beck's clinic at Penn, and have since trained many psychologists in these evidence-based methods. I am glad to discuss your unique needs and determine if I can help you.
These are uncertain times. Do you worry that you're falling into an ever-deepening rut of fear, depression, and misery that is robbing you of inner peace and happiness? Do you find yourself ruminating about the future and unable to sleep restfully? I am a Licensed Psychologist in PA, Board Certified in Clinical Psychology, with over 40 years of experience. I trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at pioneer Dr. Aaron Beck's clinic at Penn, and have since trained many psychologists in these evidence-based methods. I am glad to discuss your unique needs and determine if I can help you.
(267) 888-5207 View (267) 888-5207
Photo of Harry Carl Amarnick, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Harry Carl Amarnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
; Very well trained in IFS- Informed EMDR through Syzygy Institute; For anxiety, depression, OCD- ACT (CBT); and Mindfulness-Based Psychology.
Many years ago I changed my life by pursuing a more fulfilling career. The concept that most inspired me was “Neuroplasticity”- That we can change the way our mind works and in so doing experience greater well-being. Negative beliefs about ourselves are generally linked to negative things that we experienced in the past, or positive things that we needed to experience but unfortunately never did. By utilizing interventions that target "what happened" or "what needed to happen but didn't" we can increase our self-worth. We can't undo "what happened" but we CAN undo the impact that hurtful experiences/relationships have had on us.
; Very well trained in IFS- Informed EMDR through Syzygy Institute; For anxiety, depression, OCD- ACT (CBT); and Mindfulness-Based Psychology.
Many years ago I changed my life by pursuing a more fulfilling career. The concept that most inspired me was “Neuroplasticity”- That we can change the way our mind works and in so doing experience greater well-being. Negative beliefs about ourselves are generally linked to negative things that we experienced in the past, or positive things that we needed to experience but unfortunately never did. By utilizing interventions that target "what happened" or "what needed to happen but didn't" we can increase our self-worth. We can't undo "what happened" but we CAN undo the impact that hurtful experiences/relationships have had on us.
(267) 354-8240 View (267) 354-8240
Photo of Andrew H. Johanson Jr, DMin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew H. Johanson Jr
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002  (Online Only)
I also work with individuals experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and depression.
I believe one of the most important parts of the counseling process is to develop a trusting caring relationship. With this relationship, much can be gained from the counseling sessions. I have worked well with individuals and families who have emotional pain. For many clients, helping them understand what creates such emotional pain, gaining insights puts them on a path for a more fulfilling life. In my practice I work with individuals who have sadness, depression, loss, relationship difficulties, family difficulties, sexual challenges and sexual abuse. My mission in therapy is to respect each client, and walk with them at their healing pace, I believe if we walk together on this healing journey life will be better.
I also work with individuals experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and depression.
I believe one of the most important parts of the counseling process is to develop a trusting caring relationship. With this relationship, much can be gained from the counseling sessions. I have worked well with individuals and families who have emotional pain. For many clients, helping them understand what creates such emotional pain, gaining insights puts them on a path for a more fulfilling life. In my practice I work with individuals who have sadness, depression, loss, relationship difficulties, family difficulties, sexual challenges and sexual abuse. My mission in therapy is to respect each client, and walk with them at their healing pace, I believe if we walk together on this healing journey life will be better.
(215) 995-5066 View (215) 995-5066
Photo of Beth Waks, LMFT, LSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beth Waks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
My work has been devoted to helping people work through relationship issues. Often clients enter therapy feeling lonely, depressed, or anxious. I hope to help clients feel comfortable with therapy and to begin to learn more about their early experiences, which may have led to negative thoughts and/or difficulty in relationships. I utilize EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples) to help clients understand how their underlying feelings may result in behaviors which contribute to unsatisfying relationships. My ultimate goal is to help clients change negative patterns and find more comfort and closeness in their lives.
My work has been devoted to helping people work through relationship issues. Often clients enter therapy feeling lonely, depressed, or anxious. I hope to help clients feel comfortable with therapy and to begin to learn more about their early experiences, which may have led to negative thoughts and/or difficulty in relationships. I utilize EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples) to help clients understand how their underlying feelings may result in behaviors which contribute to unsatisfying relationships. My ultimate goal is to help clients change negative patterns and find more comfort and closeness in their lives.
(610) 915-8893 View (610) 915-8893
Photo of Alexandra R Darion, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandra R Darion
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
Our collective mental health presents a major challenge in our society. One in three people meet the diagnostic criteria for anxiety and/or depression. There’s a lot of us out there! You’re here because you want relief from this epidemic, and that is an incredibly brave first step! If you're willing to work hard, I am willing to make every effort to help you achieve your goals so together we can change your life. Whether you’re going through a life transition, a traumatic event or you have battled mental health struggles all your life, you will feel empowered as we work together to make the improvements which you’re seeking today.
Our collective mental health presents a major challenge in our society. One in three people meet the diagnostic criteria for anxiety and/or depression. There’s a lot of us out there! You’re here because you want relief from this epidemic, and that is an incredibly brave first step! If you're willing to work hard, I am willing to make every effort to help you achieve your goals so together we can change your life. Whether you’re going through a life transition, a traumatic event or you have battled mental health struggles all your life, you will feel empowered as we work together to make the improvements which you’re seeking today.
(215) 770-3764 View (215) 770-3764
Photo of Sean Anthony Homsher, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sean Anthony Homsher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002
Perhaps you've wondered, "Why do I keep making the same mistakes over and over again, or why do find myself picking the wrong partners, or people to surround myself with?" Many people decide to seek therapy after some sort of crisis. Whether it be a break up, career change, loss of a loved one, a diagnosis of illness, or end-of-life issues. Still others are looking for relief from Anxiety & Depression, assistance managing Autism Spectrum Disorder in a child, or other family member, or overcoming sports and artistic performance anxiety, while maximizing results. People can find peace of mind by speaking with a trained therapist.
Perhaps you've wondered, "Why do I keep making the same mistakes over and over again, or why do find myself picking the wrong partners, or people to surround myself with?" Many people decide to seek therapy after some sort of crisis. Whether it be a break up, career change, loss of a loved one, a diagnosis of illness, or end-of-life issues. Still others are looking for relief from Anxiety & Depression, assistance managing Autism Spectrum Disorder in a child, or other family member, or overcoming sports and artistic performance anxiety, while maximizing results. People can find peace of mind by speaking with a trained therapist.
(215) 650-8452 View (215) 650-8452
Photo of Kristy Kingan, MS, NCC, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kristy Kingan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002  (Online Only)
I am a clinician specializing in trauma, eating disorders, addiction and LGBTQIA+ issues for individuals, couples, and families. I have extensive experience working with individuals with severe trauma, anxiety, and depression, often with various co-occurring disorders ranging from addictions to schizophrenia.
I am a clinician specializing in trauma, eating disorders, addiction and LGBTQIA+ issues for individuals, couples, and families. I have extensive experience working with individuals with severe trauma, anxiety, and depression, often with various co-occurring disorders ranging from addictions to schizophrenia.
(267) 485-6513 View (267) 485-6513
Photo of Richard Bergman Ph.d., PhD, Psychologist
Richard Bergman Ph.d.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002
As a licensed psychologist, I work with adults, teens (16 and older) and couples. I am here to help with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, life transitions and more. Through respect, understanding, honesty and a touch of humor, therapy becomes a safe place to ease distress and accomplish goals. As we work together, therapy can help with easing symptoms, healing and recovery, improving life satisfaction, relationships and well being. I incorporate the wisdom and tools from various psychotherapy approaches.
As a licensed psychologist, I work with adults, teens (16 and older) and couples. I am here to help with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, life transitions and more. Through respect, understanding, honesty and a touch of humor, therapy becomes a safe place to ease distress and accomplish goals. As we work together, therapy can help with easing symptoms, healing and recovery, improving life satisfaction, relationships and well being. I incorporate the wisdom and tools from various psychotherapy approaches.
(215) 618-9234 View (215) 618-9234
Photo of Megan MacDonnell, PsyD, Psychologist
Megan MacDonnell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
I treat adults and older teens with presenting concerns of depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, relational problems, and grief.
Seeking therapy takes immense strength and courage. It can feel vulnerable to trust another human with your struggles, fear, and pain. From the beginning, I will do my best to listen deeply and carefully, respecting that you have been doing the best you can with what you’ve been handed in life. I believe that our symptoms often provide information about how we have had to adapt to our circumstances. I therefore strive to honor how you have had to cope while working towards alleviating your distress and deepening your connection with yourself and others.
I treat adults and older teens with presenting concerns of depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, relational problems, and grief.
Seeking therapy takes immense strength and courage. It can feel vulnerable to trust another human with your struggles, fear, and pain. From the beginning, I will do my best to listen deeply and carefully, respecting that you have been doing the best you can with what you’ve been handed in life. I believe that our symptoms often provide information about how we have had to adapt to our circumstances. I therefore strive to honor how you have had to cope while working towards alleviating your distress and deepening your connection with yourself and others.
View
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.