Depression Therapists in Ardmore, PA
![Photo of Monika Koptyra, MA, LPC, LBC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/887db071-70cb-4e41-9216-c00f41fb8f2b/2/320x400.jpeg)
It’s not easy to face the problems alone. Struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship and family issues, parenting, or major life changes can be challenging. When you experience any of those problems, you might need someone who would understand you, meet you where you are, offer support, unconditional acceptance, empathy, someone who would help you to learn skills to manage the life challenges more effectively. I am confident that because of my professional experience in therapy I am the person who can help you to start the healing process now.
It’s not easy to face the problems alone. Struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship and family issues, parenting, or major life changes can be challenging. When you experience any of those problems, you might need someone who would understand you, meet you where you are, offer support, unconditional acceptance, empathy, someone who would help you to learn skills to manage the life challenges more effectively. I am confident that because of my professional experience in therapy I am the person who can help you to start the healing process now.
![Photo of Karen Ginsburg, LCSW, LMT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3712d8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Ginsburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMT
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
Waitlist for new clients
Many of us encounter times in our lives when we need support and guidance to find our way. I provide a thoughtful, compassionate and attentive presence in which you can make sense of yourself, your past, your present and your future. I believe when we are truly listened to, we can heal our deepest wounds and develop our capacities to their greatest fulfillment. In over 20 years as a psychotherapist, I have helped people overcome a wide variety of issues, from depression and anxiety to relationship issues, career indecision, and addictions.
Many of us encounter times in our lives when we need support and guidance to find our way. I provide a thoughtful, compassionate and attentive presence in which you can make sense of yourself, your past, your present and your future. I believe when we are truly listened to, we can heal our deepest wounds and develop our capacities to their greatest fulfillment. In over 20 years as a psychotherapist, I have helped people overcome a wide variety of issues, from depression and anxiety to relationship issues, career indecision, and addictions.
![Photo of Makalay Samuella Tarawally - Angel Counseling LLC at angelcounselingllc.com, LPC, MA, MPH, ICADC, DBT,SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13709d1a-4672-4453-aca1-2400611da7ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angel Counseling LLC at angelcounselingllc.com
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MPH, ICADC, DBT,SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Substance Abuse Professional with DoT and DBT certified therapist. I hold a master's degree in Public Health and Counseling Psychology . I am interested in treating a wide array of issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance-related disorder and Personality Disorder. I am also specialized in group and individual therapy. As a mental health therapist, I am passionate about helping my patients foster self-awareness and gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Substance Abuse Professional with DoT and DBT certified therapist. I hold a master's degree in Public Health and Counseling Psychology . I am interested in treating a wide array of issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance-related disorder and Personality Disorder. I am also specialized in group and individual therapy. As a mental health therapist, I am passionate about helping my patients foster self-awareness and gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
![Photo of Zakia S. Williams, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a857a305-4d3e-4e84-8837-bde05f823d0a/2/320x400.png)
Alleviating anxiety and depression symptoms can change your life.
Are you an individual or couple that are new to therapy? Wouldn't you love to embark on a journey to discover your true self and/or develop meaningful relationships with the significant people in your life? We are all inundated with "shoulds" or conditioned to fulfill other people's expectations. Identifying and accepting your true self will help shed anxiety and overcome depressive symptoms. I understand the importance of living a fulfilling life, and I am here to help you achieve that. Together, we can work toward setting realistic & achievable goals that will bring you happiness and satisfaction.
Alleviating anxiety and depression symptoms can change your life.
Are you an individual or couple that are new to therapy? Wouldn't you love to embark on a journey to discover your true self and/or develop meaningful relationships with the significant people in your life? We are all inundated with "shoulds" or conditioned to fulfill other people's expectations. Identifying and accepting your true self will help shed anxiety and overcome depressive symptoms. I understand the importance of living a fulfilling life, and I am here to help you achieve that. Together, we can work toward setting realistic & achievable goals that will bring you happiness and satisfaction.
![Photo of Sarah Scheckter, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/372ba0de-b973-4b9e-a5f0-8d258277dd4d/2/320x400.jpeg)
You may be the person others turn to for support, or you excel at perceiving other people's feelings. These are strengths, but can take a toll on your well-being over time if your own needs are neglected. Whether you are hoping to feel calmer and more alive, navigate a life change, or resolve a painful situation, therapy can help. I specialize in treating people who are living with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, caregiving stress, or medical illnesses. I help people heal from past difficulties and increase feelings of contentment, creativity, connection, and sense of fulfillment in their lives.
You may be the person others turn to for support, or you excel at perceiving other people's feelings. These are strengths, but can take a toll on your well-being over time if your own needs are neglected. Whether you are hoping to feel calmer and more alive, navigate a life change, or resolve a painful situation, therapy can help. I specialize in treating people who are living with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, caregiving stress, or medical illnesses. I help people heal from past difficulties and increase feelings of contentment, creativity, connection, and sense of fulfillment in their lives.
![Photo of Valerie Rosen, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35285224-2e73-4e4d-a426-0432fd79dcfa/1/320x400.jpeg)
I take a warm, active, and collaborative approach to helping my clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating concerns, chronic pain or illness, relationship problems, family conflict, grief and loss, coming out and other LGBTQ concerns, acculturation issues, and spiritual or existential concerns.
My goal as your therapist is to help you understand yourself better, take better care of yourself, and make healthier choices to enhance your relationships and meet your life goals. I try to understand your problems in the context of your personal life history, your family background, and your cultural identity.
I take a warm, active, and collaborative approach to helping my clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating concerns, chronic pain or illness, relationship problems, family conflict, grief and loss, coming out and other LGBTQ concerns, acculturation issues, and spiritual or existential concerns.
My goal as your therapist is to help you understand yourself better, take better care of yourself, and make healthier choices to enhance your relationships and meet your life goals. I try to understand your problems in the context of your personal life history, your family background, and your cultural identity.
![Photo of Jaime Zuckerman - The Z Group, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49595c6d-b064-4757-9371-aa20c816096a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Feel out of control or stuck in your life? Can't stop worrying? Carrying heavy sadness? We can help. The Z Group specializes in the treatment of adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and complex relationship issues. These difficulties, along with life's everyday stressors, can greatly impact your ability to enjoy life, connect with loved ones. Through therapy you will learn behavior strategies and emotional coping skills needed to achieve your goals, helping you to live a more fulfilled life.
Feel out of control or stuck in your life? Can't stop worrying? Carrying heavy sadness? We can help. The Z Group specializes in the treatment of adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and complex relationship issues. These difficulties, along with life's everyday stressors, can greatly impact your ability to enjoy life, connect with loved ones. Through therapy you will learn behavior strategies and emotional coping skills needed to achieve your goals, helping you to live a more fulfilled life.
![Photo of Emily Earley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e80bd3a-b962-4843-80d3-b8f4e80799ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
My particular clinical interests include depression, complex trauma, externalizing/oppositional behavior, anxiety, autism, and selective mutism.
Thank you for taking the time to read this! My name is Emily, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Calm Mind Therapy. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, and have experience providing counseling services in the school environment. I am committed to providing a safe and affirming space for my clients to process, problem-solve, heal, and grow. My goal is to form a supportive and trusting relationship with each client, where they feel empowered to share their deepest struggles. I consider it an honor and privilege to walk alongside my clients during difficult seasons.
My particular clinical interests include depression, complex trauma, externalizing/oppositional behavior, anxiety, autism, and selective mutism.
Thank you for taking the time to read this! My name is Emily, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Calm Mind Therapy. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, and have experience providing counseling services in the school environment. I am committed to providing a safe and affirming space for my clients to process, problem-solve, heal, and grow. My goal is to form a supportive and trusting relationship with each client, where they feel empowered to share their deepest struggles. I consider it an honor and privilege to walk alongside my clients during difficult seasons.
![Photo of Allison Rapp - Anxiety and Depression Solutions, MS, LCP, S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc92847a-16ae-4f6e-ad91-8409fe1b3c49/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anxiety and Depression Solutions
Counselor, MS, LCP, S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003
Our practice encompasses therapists who were specifically trained in CBT, which is the number one treatment for anxiety and depression.
Sometimes people get stuck in patterns that make life feel unsatisfying and empty. Are you feeling sad, worried, or just struggling with life balance in general? Perhaps you are experiencing relationship issues, parenting issues, or have a painful past event that you can't seem to let go. Psychotherapy allows you the space to understand how your past and present thoughts and experiences create the unhealthy patterns that become ingrained.
Our practice encompasses therapists who were specifically trained in CBT, which is the number one treatment for anxiety and depression.
Sometimes people get stuck in patterns that make life feel unsatisfying and empty. Are you feeling sad, worried, or just struggling with life balance in general? Perhaps you are experiencing relationship issues, parenting issues, or have a painful past event that you can't seem to let go. Psychotherapy allows you the space to understand how your past and present thoughts and experiences create the unhealthy patterns that become ingrained.
![Photo of Roodlee Rheem Moisset - Sparrow Worth Counseling, LLC , Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32114c24-df37-4b93-9652-79c5f7c1e547/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sparrow Worth Counseling, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003
I work with clients who suffer from perinatal mood disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and stress, in addition to co-occurring disorders and various other life challenges they may be experiencing.
As a mental health professional I understand that mental health is vital, not only for the clients I work with, but also for their families and communities. I have a strong interest in helping others, which is why I choose this career path. I received my Bachelors in Psychology from Arcadia University and my Masters in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Chestnut Hill College.
I work with clients who suffer from perinatal mood disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and stress, in addition to co-occurring disorders and various other life challenges they may be experiencing.
As a mental health professional I understand that mental health is vital, not only for the clients I work with, but also for their families and communities. I have a strong interest in helping others, which is why I choose this career path. I received my Bachelors in Psychology from Arcadia University and my Masters in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Chestnut Hill College.
![Photo of Stacy Sebro - Stacy Sebro Counseling Services, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a86006-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy Sebro Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
I provide individual counseling for a range of issues such as, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, low self-esteem, stress management, work/life balance, career issues and college preparation.
With the many challenges in our society, people often feel overwhelmed and misunderstood in their individual and family lives. Stacy Sebro Counseling Services is a private practice that focuses on helping people to work through their problems in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Family life, work, school and the community may present difficulties that can discourage people from achieving their potential. My mission is to help people find solutions to their problems, thereby empowering them to find fulfillment in their lives and become productive members of society.
I provide individual counseling for a range of issues such as, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, low self-esteem, stress management, work/life balance, career issues and college preparation.
With the many challenges in our society, people often feel overwhelmed and misunderstood in their individual and family lives. Stacy Sebro Counseling Services is a private practice that focuses on helping people to work through their problems in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Family life, work, school and the community may present difficulties that can discourage people from achieving their potential. My mission is to help people find solutions to their problems, thereby empowering them to find fulfillment in their lives and become productive members of society.
15 Second Videos
Sarah Rosenberg
Michelle Bloom
Paige Thompson
Christina Mitrofanis
Gary Ames
Minor Inspirations LLC
Vicki Tornetta Counseling, LLC
Perry Liss
Laura DiCesare
Aviva Gaskill
Seth J Gillihan
Aviva Rosenberg
Sloane Ferenchak
Maris W Findlay
![Photo of Citrini N Devi, PhD, E-RYT, C-IAYT, CCTP-II, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/518a5259-1b78-4ada-8e6a-350786bc4bbe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Citrini N Devi
Psychologist, PhD, E-RYT, C-IAYT, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychologist and yoga instructor. I work with the full range of mental health concerns through outpatient therapy with adults, children, and adolescents, as well as families, couples, and groups. I have strong interests in the connection between mind-body-spirit, in the promotion of well-being, in stress-related concerns, and in complementary approaches to healing. I welcome clients interested in integrating psychotherapy with yoga and meditation practices. I also have particular interest in depression, anxiety, GLBTQ* concerns, sexual orientation, concerns relating to eating, weight, and body image, concerns related to medical and physical difficulties, etc.
I am a psychologist and yoga instructor. I work with the full range of mental health concerns through outpatient therapy with adults, children, and adolescents, as well as families, couples, and groups. I have strong interests in the connection between mind-body-spirit, in the promotion of well-being, in stress-related concerns, and in complementary approaches to healing. I welcome clients interested in integrating psychotherapy with yoga and meditation practices. I also have particular interest in depression, anxiety, GLBTQ* concerns, sexual orientation, concerns relating to eating, weight, and body image, concerns related to medical and physical difficulties, etc.
![Photo of LaBreyia Ellis, MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d71428fb-6826-4acb-8abe-85e82e3e44fb/3/320x400.jpeg)
LaBreyia Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003 (Online Only)
I have extensive training in treating adults, adolescents, and children dealing with depression, anxiety, history of trauma, and behavioral concerns.
We were created to be relational, in marriage, parenting, friendship, or business. Relationships were created to illuminate our strengths and highlight areas of improvement. Let's join in a therapeutic relationship to aid in a better you. A You that is less angry, more peaceful. A You that is less anxious and more focused and calm. A You that is healed from disappointment and pain. A You that finds hope after months or years of hopeless and helplessness. We cannot be of good service to others unless we have unity and peace within. Let's begin again today, together.
I have extensive training in treating adults, adolescents, and children dealing with depression, anxiety, history of trauma, and behavioral concerns.
We were created to be relational, in marriage, parenting, friendship, or business. Relationships were created to illuminate our strengths and highlight areas of improvement. Let's join in a therapeutic relationship to aid in a better you. A You that is less angry, more peaceful. A You that is less anxious and more focused and calm. A You that is healed from disappointment and pain. A You that finds hope after months or years of hopeless and helplessness. We cannot be of good service to others unless we have unity and peace within. Let's begin again today, together.
![Photo of Jane K Rosen, LCSW, MSW, BCD, MEd, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be7f8bc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jane K Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BCD, MEd, RYT
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
My work has focused on anxiety disorders, depression/mood disorders, stress management (work/family), and relaxation training.
My practice style is problem-solving and goal-oriented. I utilize a psychodynamic/cognitive behavioral treatment methodology and incorporate a systems approach when dealing with individual and family psychopathology. I design and develop treatment plans tailored to individual needs while establishing short and long-term goals. With all of my clients, I provide a warm, sensitive, and supportive environment so that we can work together in a problem-solving way and find solutions to interpersonal difficulties. My style tends to be positive, interactive, direct, and empowering.
My work has focused on anxiety disorders, depression/mood disorders, stress management (work/family), and relaxation training.
My practice style is problem-solving and goal-oriented. I utilize a psychodynamic/cognitive behavioral treatment methodology and incorporate a systems approach when dealing with individual and family psychopathology. I design and develop treatment plans tailored to individual needs while establishing short and long-term goals. With all of my clients, I provide a warm, sensitive, and supportive environment so that we can work together in a problem-solving way and find solutions to interpersonal difficulties. My style tends to be positive, interactive, direct, and empowering.
![Photo of Jennifer Paige Hendler - Claiming My Voice with Jennifer Hendler, LCSW, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/116541da-d8d4-47d8-9486-1b926b829d60/1/320x400.jpeg)
Claiming My Voice with Jennifer Hendler, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
Are you stifling your voice? You want more in your relationships and know you have a powerful purpose. You just can't shed feeling like you're never good enough. Even with all your success, you end up people-pleasing, over-giving, and paralyzed by fear. You get ill, anxious, and depressed. It's unsustainable to keep silencing yourself, pushing through, and settling. For 25 years I’ve been helping women overcome these struggles and boldly claim their voices. Women who claim their voices know their worth, trust their inner wisdom, create incredible relationships, and use their gifts to make a profound impact on the planet.
Are you stifling your voice? You want more in your relationships and know you have a powerful purpose. You just can't shed feeling like you're never good enough. Even with all your success, you end up people-pleasing, over-giving, and paralyzed by fear. You get ill, anxious, and depressed. It's unsustainable to keep silencing yourself, pushing through, and settling. For 25 years I’ve been helping women overcome these struggles and boldly claim their voices. Women who claim their voices know their worth, trust their inner wisdom, create incredible relationships, and use their gifts to make a profound impact on the planet.
![Photo of Robert M Pomerantz, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bdee94a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In my psychology practice I help people address problems of depression, anxiety, coping with stress, adjusting to difficult life changes or events, self-esteem issues, relationship/marital concerns, and work related difficulties. I have a clinical specialty in assessing and treating problems related to drug and alcohol use.
In my psychology practice I help people address problems of depression, anxiety, coping with stress, adjusting to difficult life changes or events, self-esteem issues, relationship/marital concerns, and work related difficulties. I have a clinical specialty in assessing and treating problems related to drug and alcohol use.
![Photo of Thomas K Hurster, MSS, LCSW, CGP, AGPA-F, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e5468f9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thomas K Hurster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CGP, AGPA-F
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been providing counseling and therapy services to youth and their families for over 40 years. While I do see adults in psychotherapy as part of my private practice, I primarily work with older children, adolescents, and young adults, and their families. I have extensive experience with the range of problems and issues that youth encounter, including anxiety, depression, impulsivity, excessive anger, self-esteem erosion, and relational difficulties, and have a particular expertise in working with youth who present with neuro-diversity and learning struggles.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been providing counseling and therapy services to youth and their families for over 40 years. While I do see adults in psychotherapy as part of my private practice, I primarily work with older children, adolescents, and young adults, and their families. I have extensive experience with the range of problems and issues that youth encounter, including anxiety, depression, impulsivity, excessive anger, self-esteem erosion, and relational difficulties, and have a particular expertise in working with youth who present with neuro-diversity and learning struggles.
![Photo of Carole R Bogdanoff, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e32733b5-0c8f-4a1a-824f-66f57270af7f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you frequently feeling nervous or experiencing worrisome repetitive thoughts? Are you having difficulty communicating with your loved ones because anger, frustration and shared emotional overload impede the interaction before anything is accomplished? Do you feel misunderstood? I am a clinical psychologist with many years of experience as an individual, couples and family therapist treating anxiety, depression, and communication issues. The focus of treatment is determined by the mutual agreement of the client and the therapist. I firmly believe that the emotional safety provided by the psychologist is essential.
Are you frequently feeling nervous or experiencing worrisome repetitive thoughts? Are you having difficulty communicating with your loved ones because anger, frustration and shared emotional overload impede the interaction before anything is accomplished? Do you feel misunderstood? I am a clinical psychologist with many years of experience as an individual, couples and family therapist treating anxiety, depression, and communication issues. The focus of treatment is determined by the mutual agreement of the client and the therapist. I firmly believe that the emotional safety provided by the psychologist is essential.
![Photo of Edward J Dicesare, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e742f0d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have a special area of practice in anxiety, depression and out of control adolescents.
I practice a multi-modal approach which includes relational therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnotherapy, when indicated, in a family systems context. My approach is direct, problem solving oriented and skills building. Often my therapy attempts to increase a sense of well-being while increasing competence and mastery in engaging in the challenges of life.
I have a special area of practice in anxiety, depression and out of control adolescents.
I practice a multi-modal approach which includes relational therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnotherapy, when indicated, in a family systems context. My approach is direct, problem solving oriented and skills building. Often my therapy attempts to increase a sense of well-being while increasing competence and mastery in engaging in the challenges of life.
![Photo of Gary Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/477f35b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gary Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003 (Online Only)
I use a trauma informed perspective to approaching many issues of anxiety and depression.
I have always been passionate about helping others establish hope and to recognize their potential. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland. The focus of my work centers around trauma, anxiety and depression. I offer individual, couple and group counseling. My primary focus is on educating, and empowering individuals and communities though psychotherapy, counseling, training, facilitation, advocacy, education and education. Lets walk your next steps together.
I use a trauma informed perspective to approaching many issues of anxiety and depression.
I have always been passionate about helping others establish hope and to recognize their potential. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland. The focus of my work centers around trauma, anxiety and depression. I offer individual, couple and group counseling. My primary focus is on educating, and empowering individuals and communities though psychotherapy, counseling, training, facilitation, advocacy, education and education. Lets walk your next steps together.
See more therapy options for Ardmore
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Ardmore
- Bryn Mawr
- Drexel Hill
- Gladwyne
- Haverford
- Havertown
- Lower Merion
- Merion Station
- Narberth
- Penn Valley
- Rosemont
- Upper Darby
- Wynnewood
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.