Depression Therapists in Castle Shannon, PA

Photo of Emily Boris, CFRC, LPC, CAADC, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Boris
Licensed Professional Counselor, CFRC, LPC, CAADC, MSEd
Verified Verified
Castle Shannon, PA 15234
I have helped clients cope with various concerns such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, trauma, anger management, substance abuse and dual diagnosis only to name a few.
I believe that to enjoy a truly fulfilling life, one must find balance and cohesion amongst all areas of life; spiritual, emotional and mental, achievable through a holistic approach to therapy. I provide individuals a safe place to address their concerns, while treating them with dignity and respect, increasing overall client success. I have always been drawn to helping people, and believe that my down to earth personality and client-centered approach, creates a less intimidating experience, wherein my clients can truly engage in the therapeutic process, promoting profound personal growth and lifelong change.
I have helped clients cope with various concerns such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, trauma, anger management, substance abuse and dual diagnosis only to name a few.
I believe that to enjoy a truly fulfilling life, one must find balance and cohesion amongst all areas of life; spiritual, emotional and mental, achievable through a holistic approach to therapy. I provide individuals a safe place to address their concerns, while treating them with dignity and respect, increasing overall client success. I have always been drawn to helping people, and believe that my down to earth personality and client-centered approach, creates a less intimidating experience, wherein my clients can truly engage in the therapeutic process, promoting profound personal growth and lifelong change.
(412) 467-0782 View (412) 467-0782
Photo of Mary Anne Fisher, PhD,  , ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Anne Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, , ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Castle Shannon, PA 15234
For 3 decades, I have gained expertise in addressing issues of anxiety, depression, loss/grief, trauma, and relationship conflicts.
For the past 40 years, I have had the privilege of working with, and helping individuals, families and couples. Whether dealing with change, conflict, loss, a crisis or a concern, support is crucial. I provide knowledge and supportive guidance to help each person work through challenges and move forward on their path in life.
For 3 decades, I have gained expertise in addressing issues of anxiety, depression, loss/grief, trauma, and relationship conflicts.
For the past 40 years, I have had the privilege of working with, and helping individuals, families and couples. Whether dealing with change, conflict, loss, a crisis or a concern, support is crucial. I provide knowledge and supportive guidance to help each person work through challenges and move forward on their path in life.
(412) 214-8520 View (412) 214-8520
Photo of Nathaniel Rigby, PhD, Psychologist
Nathaniel Rigby
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Castle Shannon, PA 15234
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in treating emotional difficulties (e.g., depression, anxiety, anger), complicated grief, relationship issues, and problems with motivation. I provide high quality, meaningful psychotherapy informed by many years of education, training and experience. Your first impression is likely to be that I am patient, warm, and knowledgeable with a lighthearted sense of humor. As we get to know each other, you will find that I am devoted to helping you feel better and I am committed to being straightforward with you so you can be challenged and grow.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in treating emotional difficulties (e.g., depression, anxiety, anger), complicated grief, relationship issues, and problems with motivation. I provide high quality, meaningful psychotherapy informed by many years of education, training and experience. Your first impression is likely to be that I am patient, warm, and knowledgeable with a lighthearted sense of humor. As we get to know each other, you will find that I am devoted to helping you feel better and I am committed to being straightforward with you so you can be challenged and grow.
(412) 253-2588 View (412) 253-2588
Photo of Rachael French, LPC, MSCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachael French
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Castle Shannon, PA 15234
My clients face a range of life’s challenges: depression, anxiety, peer conflict, communication, transition to college/work, enhancing self-awareness, identity, relationship/family dynamics (separation/divorce), grief, and autism or attention deficit/executive functioning challenges.
Many of my clients are making exciting but often daunting transitions - from Jr High to High School or High School to College, ending or beginning new relationships and careers. Change is so often viewed with anxiety and negativity. Yet, change is happening all around us every day. How can we make change a positive experience in our lives? How can we choose to change something that is not working? How can we learn and grow from a challenging experience? As a counselor, I believe my job is to create a space where clients can explore these and other topics, in a way that ultimately positively impacts their day to day lives.
My clients face a range of life’s challenges: depression, anxiety, peer conflict, communication, transition to college/work, enhancing self-awareness, identity, relationship/family dynamics (separation/divorce), grief, and autism or attention deficit/executive functioning challenges.
Many of my clients are making exciting but often daunting transitions - from Jr High to High School or High School to College, ending or beginning new relationships and careers. Change is so often viewed with anxiety and negativity. Yet, change is happening all around us every day. How can we make change a positive experience in our lives? How can we choose to change something that is not working? How can we learn and grow from a challenging experience? As a counselor, I believe my job is to create a space where clients can explore these and other topics, in a way that ultimately positively impacts their day to day lives.
(878) 313-2170 View (878) 313-2170
Photo of Clarissa M Bridge, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clarissa M Bridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Castle Shannon, PA 15234
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that we are human and spiritual beings unfolding into our truest selves. As a skilled and gentle companion I support and encourage the balance of this wholeness and agree to walk this journey with you. It is in this therapeutic relationship that strength and courage are the center and source of healing.
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that we are human and spiritual beings unfolding into our truest selves. As a skilled and gentle companion I support and encourage the balance of this wholeness and agree to walk this journey with you. It is in this therapeutic relationship that strength and courage are the center and source of healing.
(412) 231-9934 View (412) 231-9934
Photo of Rosemary Cunningham, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rosemary Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Castle Shannon, PA 15234  (Online Only)
My focus as a therapist is to assist my clients in recognizing their strengths and using them to become the best person they can be. I specialize in working with the LGBT community on a variety of issues and am a sex-positive therapist. I use a trauma-informed approach with all of my clients and have been helping those who have been through various traumas in their lives throughout my years of practice.
My focus as a therapist is to assist my clients in recognizing their strengths and using them to become the best person they can be. I specialize in working with the LGBT community on a variety of issues and am a sex-positive therapist. I use a trauma-informed approach with all of my clients and have been helping those who have been through various traumas in their lives throughout my years of practice.
(878) 218-9610 View (878) 218-9610

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Evan Dean, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evan Dean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
In the process, I'll help you learn to manage emotions, like anxiety and depression.
Are you feeling like you can't manage your life? Do you want to learn how to reduce risky behaviors? Do you feel out of control of your emotions, thinking, and /or behavior? Do you want to regain your confidence in yourself, at home, and at work? If you are a man or woman in Recovery from substance Abuse, Sex Addiction, or Compulsive Gambling, or you think you may need to get into Recovery, I think I can help. Right now, I'm prioritizing male Recovery clients as my schedule is nearly full.
In the process, I'll help you learn to manage emotions, like anxiety and depression.
Are you feeling like you can't manage your life? Do you want to learn how to reduce risky behaviors? Do you feel out of control of your emotions, thinking, and /or behavior? Do you want to regain your confidence in yourself, at home, and at work? If you are a man or woman in Recovery from substance Abuse, Sex Addiction, or Compulsive Gambling, or you think you may need to get into Recovery, I think I can help. Right now, I'm prioritizing male Recovery clients as my schedule is nearly full.
(878) 206-0275 View (878) 206-0275
Photo of Carolyn Theresa Skiff, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn Theresa Skiff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15227
I enjoy working with depressed and anxious clients, and helping people understand some of their basic beliefs that may be hindering success in life.
I am here to help people on their journey, wherever they are in life. I believe in empowering people to make good choices for themselves. I work well with clients suffering from depression and/or anxiety and want solid positive coping skills to help deal with stressors. I use CBT and trauma-informed care, as well as an Adlerian perspective to understand the importance of early childhood experiences on personality and belief structure. I believe mindfulness matters. Taking care of you is important!
I enjoy working with depressed and anxious clients, and helping people understand some of their basic beliefs that may be hindering success in life.
I am here to help people on their journey, wherever they are in life. I believe in empowering people to make good choices for themselves. I work well with clients suffering from depression and/or anxiety and want solid positive coping skills to help deal with stressors. I use CBT and trauma-informed care, as well as an Adlerian perspective to understand the importance of early childhood experiences on personality and belief structure. I believe mindfulness matters. Taking care of you is important!
(412) 376-4050 View (412) 376-4050
Photo of Kevin B. Kumpf, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin B. Kumpf
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
I have worked with a diverse set of client issues including addiction, depression/anxiety, relationship/marital issues, dual diagnosis, sexuality, oppositional defiance, and holistic wellness as it relates to body process.
I have learned through my work with clients that sometimes being willing to take a risk can yield positive results. Finding the willingness to participate in therapy can often feel like taking a risk; however, I am here to provide you with the necessary support you may feel you need as you look to make a positive change in your life. I am confident we can work together to develop a constructive relationship for the purpose of helping you to define and accomplish the goals that you believe are important.
I have worked with a diverse set of client issues including addiction, depression/anxiety, relationship/marital issues, dual diagnosis, sexuality, oppositional defiance, and holistic wellness as it relates to body process.
I have learned through my work with clients that sometimes being willing to take a risk can yield positive results. Finding the willingness to participate in therapy can often feel like taking a risk; however, I am here to provide you with the necessary support you may feel you need as you look to make a positive change in your life. I am confident we can work together to develop a constructive relationship for the purpose of helping you to define and accomplish the goals that you believe are important.
(412) 847-5209 View (412) 847-5209
Photo of Kim Burdick, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Burdick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
I focus on trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment difficulties, & relationship/family issues. My ideal client would be open to change and exploring more positive ways to see themselves. My ideal client would be someone that values our time together and is present for sessions. My ideal client would be someone who can reflect from within and be willing to do the work, with a sincere desire to change their lifestyle. This client would be flexible and willing to see the other side of the coin, exploring the past and delving into the present.
I focus on trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment difficulties, & relationship/family issues. My ideal client would be open to change and exploring more positive ways to see themselves. My ideal client would be someone that values our time together and is present for sessions. My ideal client would be someone who can reflect from within and be willing to do the work, with a sincere desire to change their lifestyle. This client would be flexible and willing to see the other side of the coin, exploring the past and delving into the present.
(724) 997-4397 View (724) 997-4397
Photo of Dr. Waggy Zeleke, EdD, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Waggy Zeleke
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228  (Online Only)
Dr. Waggy Zeleke is a licensed clinical professional counselor in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Maryland. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Zeleke specializes in working with diverse populations dealing with relationship issues, depression, trauma, anxiety, autism, adoption, parenting, and other mental health disorders. As a provider of evidence-based, culturally responsive individual, family, and group psychotherapy, Dr. Zeleke also offers individual, group, and organizational consulting. Feel free to call now to schedule an appointment or visit www.ubuntucounseling.com to explore Dr. Zeleke's service.
Dr. Waggy Zeleke is a licensed clinical professional counselor in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Maryland. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Zeleke specializes in working with diverse populations dealing with relationship issues, depression, trauma, anxiety, autism, adoption, parenting, and other mental health disorders. As a provider of evidence-based, culturally responsive individual, family, and group psychotherapy, Dr. Zeleke also offers individual, group, and organizational consulting. Feel free to call now to schedule an appointment or visit www.ubuntucounseling.com to explore Dr. Zeleke's service.
(412) 612-2434 View (412) 612-2434
Photo of Kimberlee Ann Love, MSW, LCSW, CCPT-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberlee Ann Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCPT-II
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
As a clinical social worker I work with anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma.
Sometimes life beats us down, and sometimes we can’t leave our past behind. As we travel though the changes and challenges in our journey on this earth it may be hard to ask for help. Your strengths can be uncovered when you are able to reach out to someone who can understand, and has the experience to guide you along that road. A Bachelors Degree in Human Services from Geneva College, a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University Pittsburgh, holding a Pennsylvania State Board License as a Clinical Social Worker, and my certification in Trauma From Evergreen can help.
As a clinical social worker I work with anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma.
Sometimes life beats us down, and sometimes we can’t leave our past behind. As we travel though the changes and challenges in our journey on this earth it may be hard to ask for help. Your strengths can be uncovered when you are able to reach out to someone who can understand, and has the experience to guide you along that road. A Bachelors Degree in Human Services from Geneva College, a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University Pittsburgh, holding a Pennsylvania State Board License as a Clinical Social Worker, and my certification in Trauma From Evergreen can help.
(412) 910-2224 View (412) 910-2224
Photo of Julie Ann Scarpo, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Ann Scarpo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I specialize in treating individuals with severe anxiety and other anxiety spectrum disorders, those living with depression and other mood disorders, adolescents struggling with a variety of emotional and behavioral issues, and individuals struggling with creating and maintaining healthy relationships.
Ideally, I am committed to helping others who are committed to themselves, and to those who are willing to courageously embark on a journey to become the best version of themselves they can possibly be. Clients come to me with a variety of concerns, and I function from an integrative approach to meet clients wherever they may be. It is my strong belief that concerns don't define people; identity is a verb.
I specialize in treating individuals with severe anxiety and other anxiety spectrum disorders, those living with depression and other mood disorders, adolescents struggling with a variety of emotional and behavioral issues, and individuals struggling with creating and maintaining healthy relationships.
Ideally, I am committed to helping others who are committed to themselves, and to those who are willing to courageously embark on a journey to become the best version of themselves they can possibly be. Clients come to me with a variety of concerns, and I function from an integrative approach to meet clients wherever they may be. It is my strong belief that concerns don't define people; identity is a verb.
(412) 961-8029 View (412) 961-8029
Photo of Douglas C Stewart, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Douglas C Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
I work with many issues including: depression, anxiety, vocation, family strife, grief, and purpose.
The fundamental skill that I share with psychotherapy clients is to listen deeply to their life experiences. From there, I use questions carefully to clarify my understanding of where they are in life. I work to help people understand that they are not broken or defective. As Carl Rogers said "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." I accompany clients on a journey of self-exploration, and evolution. A more satisfying life is achieved via greater psychological skill and creating healthier behaviors. I specialize in working with people suffering from Childhood PTSD & narcissistic abuse.
I work with many issues including: depression, anxiety, vocation, family strife, grief, and purpose.
The fundamental skill that I share with psychotherapy clients is to listen deeply to their life experiences. From there, I use questions carefully to clarify my understanding of where they are in life. I work to help people understand that they are not broken or defective. As Carl Rogers said "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." I accompany clients on a journey of self-exploration, and evolution. A more satisfying life is achieved via greater psychological skill and creating healthier behaviors. I specialize in working with people suffering from Childhood PTSD & narcissistic abuse.
(412) 536-7801 View (412) 536-7801
Photo of Colleen O'Shea, MA, CFAS, CAADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Colleen O'Shea
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CFAS, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
Beyond the fear is freedom. Do you struggle with drug or alcohol abuse and/or depression or anxiety? Do you want someone who can help guide you along the path to recovery? For over 22 years, I have helped individuals find healing and understanding when they have become overwhelmed with life problems. Do you drink or use drugs to numb or escape emotional pain? Do you struggle with feeling sad, anxious, alone, or like no one understands you? You don't have to face your issues alone. I can understand what you are dealing with.
Beyond the fear is freedom. Do you struggle with drug or alcohol abuse and/or depression or anxiety? Do you want someone who can help guide you along the path to recovery? For over 22 years, I have helped individuals find healing and understanding when they have become overwhelmed with life problems. Do you drink or use drugs to numb or escape emotional pain? Do you struggle with feeling sad, anxious, alone, or like no one understands you? You don't have to face your issues alone. I can understand what you are dealing with.
(878) 216-0379 View (878) 216-0379
Photo of Claire Barber, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Claire Barber
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102  (Online Only)
Life presents us with light, darkness, and everything in between. It can be difficult to untangle life's complexities while maintaining the everyday responsibilities we expect of ourselves, especially when difficult circumstances act as obstacles to our growth and wellbeing. Your obstacles don't have to be a one-person battle. There is strength in seeking help and acknowledging you are worthy of it. Grief, depression, anxiety, and other issues are one part of your whole story. I'll take a holistic perspective into who you are and collaborate on a plan for us to work together by using integrated therapeutic approaches.
Life presents us with light, darkness, and everything in between. It can be difficult to untangle life's complexities while maintaining the everyday responsibilities we expect of ourselves, especially when difficult circumstances act as obstacles to our growth and wellbeing. Your obstacles don't have to be a one-person battle. There is strength in seeking help and acknowledging you are worthy of it. Grief, depression, anxiety, and other issues are one part of your whole story. I'll take a holistic perspective into who you are and collaborate on a plan for us to work together by using integrated therapeutic approaches.
(724) 948-1573 View (724) 948-1573
Photo of Larissa Johnston, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Larissa Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
I am an LPC with experience providing therapy to clients with mental health problems, substance use disorders and also co-occurring disorders. My experience comes from a variety of diverse treatment settings including Shawnee Academy Residential Treatment Facility, Southwood Hospital, Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services and Wesley Spectrum Services. I have delivered quality services across the lifespan. I am currently working with children and adults in individual, family, and couples counseling. I have addressed various issues in counseling such as bullying, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
I am an LPC with experience providing therapy to clients with mental health problems, substance use disorders and also co-occurring disorders. My experience comes from a variety of diverse treatment settings including Shawnee Academy Residential Treatment Facility, Southwood Hospital, Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services and Wesley Spectrum Services. I have delivered quality services across the lifespan. I am currently working with children and adults in individual, family, and couples counseling. I have addressed various issues in counseling such as bullying, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
(412) 547-5738 View (412) 547-5738
Photo of Matthew Metcalf, MS, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Matthew Metcalf
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
My ideal client is an individual who recognizes need and is open to assistance with help in areas of self-awareness and processing skills. This client would struggle in areas of acceptance and cognitive processing and ask the question " Why am I feeling or acting this way". Their issues could range from anger management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, grief, substance use disorder, or simply understanding themselves is a healthy manner. They would be in search of ways at which they could implement small changes in their daily routine to produce sustained positive change.
My ideal client is an individual who recognizes need and is open to assistance with help in areas of self-awareness and processing skills. This client would struggle in areas of acceptance and cognitive processing and ask the question " Why am I feeling or acting this way". Their issues could range from anger management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, grief, substance use disorder, or simply understanding themselves is a healthy manner. They would be in search of ways at which they could implement small changes in their daily routine to produce sustained positive change.
(412) 504-7830 View (412) 504-7830
Photo of Rebecca R. Hahn, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca R. Hahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
Rebecca Hahn, MA, LPC of Counseling for Progress, LLC counsels persons for progress in mental health (anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, etc), relationships, and more.
Every person is a unique individual with their own stressors, but everyone can use some counseling sometimes. Hurt from the past, worries about the future, and stressors right now can get in the way of living a fulfilling, happy life. Rebecca Hahn, MA, LPC (she/her) of Counseling for Progress, LLC can help you sort through your emotions, experiences, and thoughts to make progress now. As a team, you and Rebecca Hahn can work together to reach your goals so you can enjoy your life.
Rebecca Hahn, MA, LPC of Counseling for Progress, LLC counsels persons for progress in mental health (anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, etc), relationships, and more.
Every person is a unique individual with their own stressors, but everyone can use some counseling sometimes. Hurt from the past, worries about the future, and stressors right now can get in the way of living a fulfilling, happy life. Rebecca Hahn, MA, LPC (she/her) of Counseling for Progress, LLC can help you sort through your emotions, experiences, and thoughts to make progress now. As a team, you and Rebecca Hahn can work together to reach your goals so you can enjoy your life.
(412) 424-6143 View (412) 424-6143
Photo of Kathleen Martinez,  MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
My ideal client struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and/or related conditions. They are motivated for change or at least open to the possibility of change. They are open to feedback and willing to lean into the therapeutic process. They do not need to have clear goals for the therapeutic process right away but are willing to work to identify these goals in the treatment process. They would want to improve their life in some way, or even just their relationship with themselves.
My ideal client struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and/or related conditions. They are motivated for change or at least open to the possibility of change. They are open to feedback and willing to lean into the therapeutic process. They do not need to have clear goals for the therapeutic process right away but are willing to work to identify these goals in the treatment process. They would want to improve their life in some way, or even just their relationship with themselves.
(724) 580-2462 View (724) 580-2462

See more therapy options for Castle Shannon

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.