Depression Therapists in Devon, PA

Photo of Jesse Weiss-Zandfard, LCSW , BC-TMH, CCTP, CCATP, CSAM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesse Weiss-Zandfard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , BC-TMH, CCTP, CCATP, CSAM
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, interpersonal conflict and trauma/ PTSD.
Everyone possesses innate abilities and strengths that shape personal growth. Taking the first step to heal is courageous - striving for balance through self-discovery is the ultimate act of self-compassion. The heart of my practice is centered on how our experiences shape our brain, body and stress responses – how these emotional templates impact how we learn to cope with difficult emotions and their effect on our capacity to connect and realize our potential. I am passionate about helping adults, couples and adolescents develop skills that empower them to overcome obstacles, navigate life transitions and live a fulfilling life.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, interpersonal conflict and trauma/ PTSD.
Everyone possesses innate abilities and strengths that shape personal growth. Taking the first step to heal is courageous - striving for balance through self-discovery is the ultimate act of self-compassion. The heart of my practice is centered on how our experiences shape our brain, body and stress responses – how these emotional templates impact how we learn to cope with difficult emotions and their effect on our capacity to connect and realize our potential. I am passionate about helping adults, couples and adolescents develop skills that empower them to overcome obstacles, navigate life transitions and live a fulfilling life.
(484) 214-2290 View (484) 214-2290
Photo of Matthew Weldon Gelber, MS
Matthew Weldon Gelber
MS
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
As a certified Master’s Level psychotherapist with over 19 years experience and “face of therapy and counseling” 2024 Main Line Today Magazine, I’m able to offer experience and understanding that gets to the heart of the issue for my clients.Are you unhappy, stressed or depressed at home? At Work? At School? Do you find yourself yet again in another relationship doomed for failure? Is Intimacy or trust or sex lacking in your relationship? I am a compassionate therapist who helps individuals, couples and families achieve favorable outcomes in different areas of their lives. My focus is specific to your needs and your goals.
As a certified Master’s Level psychotherapist with over 19 years experience and “face of therapy and counseling” 2024 Main Line Today Magazine, I’m able to offer experience and understanding that gets to the heart of the issue for my clients.Are you unhappy, stressed or depressed at home? At Work? At School? Do you find yourself yet again in another relationship doomed for failure? Is Intimacy or trust or sex lacking in your relationship? I am a compassionate therapist who helps individuals, couples and families achieve favorable outcomes in different areas of their lives. My focus is specific to your needs and your goals.
(610) 915-8047 View (610) 915-8047
Photo of William Morgan - Paoli Psychological Associates, PsyD, Psychologist
Paoli Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
Some of our specialties include anxiety, depression, biplolar disorder, ADHD, marriage, family, and relationships, child and adolescent counseling, learning disabilities, academic achievement, social skills enhancement, trauma and PTSD, drug and alcohol, career and workplace, stress management, headaches, biofeedback, psychological testing, psychoeducational evaluations, and forensic evaluations.
Paoli Psychological Associates is a group of mental health professionals dedicated to helping people develop the skills they need for life's challenges. Our counseling services offer personalized attention and an individualized approach to helping individuals, couples, and families overcome life's challenges, grow, and develop greater satisfaction and success. Our services include psychotherapy, counseling, testing, and psychological evaluation. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Dr. Bill Morgan, director of PPA, is a licensed psychologist with over 20 years experience. Within our group we have a number of highly trained professionals covering a variety of specialties. We are committed to providing high quality services.
Some of our specialties include anxiety, depression, biplolar disorder, ADHD, marriage, family, and relationships, child and adolescent counseling, learning disabilities, academic achievement, social skills enhancement, trauma and PTSD, drug and alcohol, career and workplace, stress management, headaches, biofeedback, psychological testing, psychoeducational evaluations, and forensic evaluations.
Paoli Psychological Associates is a group of mental health professionals dedicated to helping people develop the skills they need for life's challenges. Our counseling services offer personalized attention and an individualized approach to helping individuals, couples, and families overcome life's challenges, grow, and develop greater satisfaction and success. Our services include psychotherapy, counseling, testing, and psychological evaluation. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Dr. Bill Morgan, director of PPA, is a licensed psychologist with over 20 years experience. Within our group we have a number of highly trained professionals covering a variety of specialties. We are committed to providing high quality services.
(610) 644-8182 View (610) 644-8182
Photo of Dr. Bill Morgan, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Bill Morgan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
I specialize in counseling/psychotherapy for emotional and relationship problems (anxiety, depression, marriage, and other); ADD/ADHD in children and adults; testing (diagnostic, psychoeducational, learning disabilities, career, ADHD, custody, forensic, and other); parenting and family issues; and career and workplace issues.
As a psychologist, counselor, and evaluator, I look at sessions as a collaborative process. Together we work towards making the changes my clients desire so that they experience more contentment, peace, satisfaction and success. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based approach that helps people learn skills that last a lifetime. I am a licensed psychologist with over twenty years experience as a counselor, therapist, and diagnostician, and am active in training therapists.
I specialize in counseling/psychotherapy for emotional and relationship problems (anxiety, depression, marriage, and other); ADD/ADHD in children and adults; testing (diagnostic, psychoeducational, learning disabilities, career, ADHD, custody, forensic, and other); parenting and family issues; and career and workplace issues.
As a psychologist, counselor, and evaluator, I look at sessions as a collaborative process. Together we work towards making the changes my clients desire so that they experience more contentment, peace, satisfaction and success. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based approach that helps people learn skills that last a lifetime. I am a licensed psychologist with over twenty years experience as a counselor, therapist, and diagnostician, and am active in training therapists.
(610) 644-8182 View (610) 644-8182
Photo of Joanne Lang, LPC, Counselor
Joanne Lang
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Devon, PA 19333
I believe that at some point in most people's lives, therapy can be beneficial. Whether you are dealing with an unusual amount of anxiety, depression or grief related to a specific event or relationship, or you just have a general sense that these emotions have been holding you back from the kind of life and relationships you would like to have, counseling can be helpful.
I believe that at some point in most people's lives, therapy can be beneficial. Whether you are dealing with an unusual amount of anxiety, depression or grief related to a specific event or relationship, or you just have a general sense that these emotions have been holding you back from the kind of life and relationships you would like to have, counseling can be helpful.
(215) 610-0068 View (215) 610-0068
Photo of Lauren Scott, MS, P-LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Scott
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, P-LPC
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
As your therapist, we will identify helpful coping strategies to decrease symptoms of anxiety & depression, reduce unhelpful thoughts, and increase self-esteem and resilience.
Hello! My name is Lauren and I am so glad you’re here. As a skilled mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience, I enjoy helping pre-teens, teens and young adults, ages 10-26, manage life’s challenges. This time in one’s life is filled with transition, identity development, and emerging independence, and these changes can often create anxiety, worry, changing moods, and lack of self-esteem. In addition to the typical changes, young people today face ever-evolving challenges in the age of social media, societal unrest & uncertainty, and significant pressure to experience success. I provide parenting support as well.
As your therapist, we will identify helpful coping strategies to decrease symptoms of anxiety & depression, reduce unhelpful thoughts, and increase self-esteem and resilience.
Hello! My name is Lauren and I am so glad you’re here. As a skilled mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience, I enjoy helping pre-teens, teens and young adults, ages 10-26, manage life’s challenges. This time in one’s life is filled with transition, identity development, and emerging independence, and these changes can often create anxiety, worry, changing moods, and lack of self-esteem. In addition to the typical changes, young people today face ever-evolving challenges in the age of social media, societal unrest & uncertainty, and significant pressure to experience success. I provide parenting support as well.
(610) 915-2849 View (610) 915-2849
Photo of Michele Dietrich, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michele Dietrich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
Michele was raised in eastern Pennsylvania where she received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in psychology. She has held a Pennsylvania counseling license since 2002 and Michele is an Advanced ART Practitioner. She is the founder of Heart of the Matter LLC. Michele focuses on a broad range of treatment issues including PTSD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, OCD from preschool through adult clients. Also, Michele works with families to improve family dynamics and relationships.
Michele was raised in eastern Pennsylvania where she received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in psychology. She has held a Pennsylvania counseling license since 2002 and Michele is an Advanced ART Practitioner. She is the founder of Heart of the Matter LLC. Michele focuses on a broad range of treatment issues including PTSD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, OCD from preschool through adult clients. Also, Michele works with families to improve family dynamics and relationships.
(484) 427-2936 View (484) 427-2936
Photo of Hilary Cooke, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hilary Cooke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Devon, PA 19333
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Gestalt and trained EMDR therapist, I have worked with adult clients who are struggling with life including trauma, PTSD, addiction, alcoholism, anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues. I utilize groups as well as individual therapy sessions for care for addiction, alcoholism, trauma and mental health issues. My clients typically gain peace of mind by calming their unsettling thoughts, memories, and experiences which can often be overwhelming and paralyzing. This approach provides relief and peace of mind which assist in dealing with the stress and anxiety of everyday life.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Gestalt and trained EMDR therapist, I have worked with adult clients who are struggling with life including trauma, PTSD, addiction, alcoholism, anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues. I utilize groups as well as individual therapy sessions for care for addiction, alcoholism, trauma and mental health issues. My clients typically gain peace of mind by calming their unsettling thoughts, memories, and experiences which can often be overwhelming and paralyzing. This approach provides relief and peace of mind which assist in dealing with the stress and anxiety of everyday life.
(610) 609-7488 View (610) 609-7488
Photo of Dr. Monica Buklan, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Monica Buklan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
My areas of expertise include ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues.
Adversity is a shared human experience. Sometimes even with your greatest efforts and supports, it feels that no matter what you do, you cannot seem to pass this roadblock in life. As a Licensed Psychologist, I help children, teens, and adults move past this impasse. My aim is to help you develop skills and strategies that you can carry with you throughout your journey. Whether you’re seeking help for you or your child, know that change is possible. While we do not get to choose our problems, we can choose how to respond to them.
My areas of expertise include ADHD, anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues.
Adversity is a shared human experience. Sometimes even with your greatest efforts and supports, it feels that no matter what you do, you cannot seem to pass this roadblock in life. As a Licensed Psychologist, I help children, teens, and adults move past this impasse. My aim is to help you develop skills and strategies that you can carry with you throughout your journey. Whether you’re seeking help for you or your child, know that change is possible. While we do not get to choose our problems, we can choose how to respond to them.
(267) 578-3440 View (267) 578-3440
Photo of Paul Kesselman - Kesselman Clinical Associates, PsyD, Psychologist
Kesselman Clinical Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Devon, PA 19333
At Kesselman Clinical Associates, we are creating a community where you and your family can find understanding and support. We have clinicians who specialize in an array of areas, from anxiety, depression, and personality disorders to parenting and family issues, addiction, trauma, ADD/ADHD, ASD, and impulse control disorders. We provide individual treatment for children, teens, and adults, as well as group, couples, and family therapy, and we offer in-person or telehealth sessions.
At Kesselman Clinical Associates, we are creating a community where you and your family can find understanding and support. We have clinicians who specialize in an array of areas, from anxiety, depression, and personality disorders to parenting and family issues, addiction, trauma, ADD/ADHD, ASD, and impulse control disorders. We provide individual treatment for children, teens, and adults, as well as group, couples, and family therapy, and we offer in-person or telehealth sessions.
(610) 285-7366 View (610) 285-7366
Photo of Kristen Ott, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristen Ott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
Waitlist for new clients
Life difficulties can propel us forward or they can leave us feeling stuck, anxious, angry and depressed. They can also take a toll on our interpersonal relationships. They can make us feel like our entire life is out of balance. I invite you to a safe environment where you can openly process difficult life experiences so that you can live a more fulfilling life with more meaningful relationships. I work with individuals, couples and families who have experienced trauma. I work from a core belief that our minds and body are interconnected. Past traumatic experiences get stored in our bodies and physical symptoms can manifest.
Life difficulties can propel us forward or they can leave us feeling stuck, anxious, angry and depressed. They can also take a toll on our interpersonal relationships. They can make us feel like our entire life is out of balance. I invite you to a safe environment where you can openly process difficult life experiences so that you can live a more fulfilling life with more meaningful relationships. I work with individuals, couples and families who have experienced trauma. I work from a core belief that our minds and body are interconnected. Past traumatic experiences get stored in our bodies and physical symptoms can manifest.
(215) 544-2966 View (215) 544-2966
Photo of Keeley Seymour, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keeley Seymour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Devon, PA 19333
I provide counseling services to individuals looking to reduce and manage symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve overall functioning, and receive support in facing life challenges. I strive to provide a safe, supportive and healing space for each of my clients. My treatment style has been described as calm, warm, empathic, authentic and nonjudgmental. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my specialization is in the treatment of eating disorders, which includes experience through The Renfrew Center. I also specialize in trauma from working at HopeWorks in Maryland and I hold a Certificate in Advanced Trauma Treatment from The Ferentz Institute.
I provide counseling services to individuals looking to reduce and manage symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve overall functioning, and receive support in facing life challenges. I strive to provide a safe, supportive and healing space for each of my clients. My treatment style has been described as calm, warm, empathic, authentic and nonjudgmental. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my specialization is in the treatment of eating disorders, which includes experience through The Renfrew Center. I also specialize in trauma from working at HopeWorks in Maryland and I hold a Certificate in Advanced Trauma Treatment from The Ferentz Institute.
(484) 712-1397 View (484) 712-1397
Photo of Addie Smith, PsyD, Psychologist
Addie Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
Most of my practice consists of folks with anxiety and/or depression.
When our children hurt, we hurt. Teaching young children, adolescents and young adults coping skills that they will use for a lifetime is a wonderful gift for the entire family. Adult women experience a tremendous amount of stress. Habitual behaviors or ways of thinking that served us as children are often of no use and even harmful during adulthood. Feeling better requires challenging these old habits and creating new pathways to suit our current goals.
Most of my practice consists of folks with anxiety and/or depression.
When our children hurt, we hurt. Teaching young children, adolescents and young adults coping skills that they will use for a lifetime is a wonderful gift for the entire family. Adult women experience a tremendous amount of stress. Habitual behaviors or ways of thinking that served us as children are often of no use and even harmful during adulthood. Feeling better requires challenging these old habits and creating new pathways to suit our current goals.
(610) 995-6667 View (610) 995-6667
Photo of Julie Benzaquen, PhD, Psychologist
Julie Benzaquen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
These include, but are not limited to anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, school stress, learning disabilities, family stress, and behavioral problems.
Dr. Julie Benzaquen is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise working with children, adolescents, and families. She works diligently with her clients to establish a strong therapeutic alliance with all members of the family, collaborating with them to develop new coping strategies and create positive changes in mood and behavior.
These include, but are not limited to anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, school stress, learning disabilities, family stress, and behavioral problems.
Dr. Julie Benzaquen is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise working with children, adolescents, and families. She works diligently with her clients to establish a strong therapeutic alliance with all members of the family, collaborating with them to develop new coping strategies and create positive changes in mood and behavior.
(484) 559-7224 View (484) 559-7224
Photo of Amy LeFurge, LCSW, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy LeFurge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Amy - a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist dedicated to helping children and teens identify and build upon strengths to overcome challenges. I have 10 years of experience working directly with children in individual and group settings. I rely heavily on CBT, Motivational Interviewing and DBT Principles to assist clients with identifying changes they want to make in their lives. I believe firmly that the best way to help teens and children is to build a strong rapport and assist them in building confidence and enhance their skills.
Hi, I'm Amy - a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist dedicated to helping children and teens identify and build upon strengths to overcome challenges. I have 10 years of experience working directly with children in individual and group settings. I rely heavily on CBT, Motivational Interviewing and DBT Principles to assist clients with identifying changes they want to make in their lives. I believe firmly that the best way to help teens and children is to build a strong rapport and assist them in building confidence and enhance their skills.
(267) 214-6017 View (267) 214-6017
Photo of John Guardiani, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Guardiani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
I strive to help people achieve their own goals through an individualized treatment plan that allows the client to fully recognize their own strength and potential, while also developing new perspectives that may help them grow. When appropriate, I find it especially rewarding to assist families in working together to resolve their loved one's challenges and promote long lasting change, well after my services are discontinued. I provide a unique approach to therapy for each client that is in alignment with their current state of motivation. I aim not to be pushy, meet the client where they are, and guide them at their own pace.
I strive to help people achieve their own goals through an individualized treatment plan that allows the client to fully recognize their own strength and potential, while also developing new perspectives that may help them grow. When appropriate, I find it especially rewarding to assist families in working together to resolve their loved one's challenges and promote long lasting change, well after my services are discontinued. I provide a unique approach to therapy for each client that is in alignment with their current state of motivation. I aim not to be pushy, meet the client where they are, and guide them at their own pace.
(484) 265-9491 View (484) 265-9491
Photo of Tracy Sciulli, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy Sciulli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Devon, PA 19333
I encourage personal growth and support my clients through the joys and challenges of life. My expertise is in helping adolescents, adults, and parents build strategies that support their goals toward a more fulfilling life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in anxiety, stress, and significant life transitions. I focus on the values of my clients to help them create a balance in our work together including educational tools, therapeutic skills, processing, and celebrating progress. Therapy takes courage and compassion to talk about the challenges and celebrate meaningful, positive changes.
I encourage personal growth and support my clients through the joys and challenges of life. My expertise is in helping adolescents, adults, and parents build strategies that support their goals toward a more fulfilling life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in anxiety, stress, and significant life transitions. I focus on the values of my clients to help them create a balance in our work together including educational tools, therapeutic skills, processing, and celebrating progress. Therapy takes courage and compassion to talk about the challenges and celebrate meaningful, positive changes.
(610) 580-2747 View (610) 580-2747
Photo of Lauren Merclean, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Merclean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Devon, PA 19333
I am a LCSW who specializes in treatment of mood and anxiety disorders for adults. I have a special interest and expertise in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and have significant experience with Exposure and Response Prevention and Dialectal Behavior Therapy Skills Training. I have worked with individuals who struggle with a variety of behavioral health issues to include but not limited to OCD, Anxiety Disorders, and Depressive Disorders. I have completed the Behavior Therapy Training Institute (BTTI) by the International OCD Foundation, an advanced training in the treatment of OCD.
I am a LCSW who specializes in treatment of mood and anxiety disorders for adults. I have a special interest and expertise in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and have significant experience with Exposure and Response Prevention and Dialectal Behavior Therapy Skills Training. I have worked with individuals who struggle with a variety of behavioral health issues to include but not limited to OCD, Anxiety Disorders, and Depressive Disorders. I have completed the Behavior Therapy Training Institute (BTTI) by the International OCD Foundation, an advanced training in the treatment of OCD.
(484) 321-6277 View (484) 321-6277
Photo of Keneley Bautista, MS
Keneley Bautista
MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Devon, PA 19333  (Online Only)
How often do you feel like life is spiraling out of your control? Establishing control can help you regain a sense of stability and improve your overall well-being. It can positively impact your relationships and daily interactions. Imagine a life where you are in charge of your choices and reactions. While it may be challenging, you have the ability to take control and create a balanced, fulfilling life for yourself.
How often do you feel like life is spiraling out of your control? Establishing control can help you regain a sense of stability and improve your overall well-being. It can positively impact your relationships and daily interactions. Imagine a life where you are in charge of your choices and reactions. While it may be challenging, you have the ability to take control and create a balanced, fulfilling life for yourself.
(610) 840-6735 View (610) 840-6735
Photo of John J. Novielli, MS, Psychologist
John J. Novielli
Psychologist, MS
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
Have the life you want, not the one you live. Develop with your partner the relationship you always desired and stop living the one that keeps you stuck. I am a Clinical Psychologist with over thirty years of experience specializing in marital and family relationships and in dismantling the black holes that minimize our lives. Whatever your marital or family situation, my experience allows me to help you develop a plan of change (one or two sessions), and then implement this plan. I serve as your Psychologist and Coaching guide from the start.
Have the life you want, not the one you live. Develop with your partner the relationship you always desired and stop living the one that keeps you stuck. I am a Clinical Psychologist with over thirty years of experience specializing in marital and family relationships and in dismantling the black holes that minimize our lives. Whatever your marital or family situation, my experience allows me to help you develop a plan of change (one or two sessions), and then implement this plan. I serve as your Psychologist and Coaching guide from the start.
(484) 962-0938 View (484) 962-0938
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.