Depression Therapists in Huntingdon Valley, PA

Photo of Alexandra R Darion, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandra R Darion
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Our collective mental health presents a major challenge in our society. One in three people meet the diagnostic criteria for anxiety and/or depression. There’s a lot of us out there! You’re here because you want relief from this epidemic, and that is an incredibly brave first step! If you're willing to work hard, I am willing to make every effort to help you achieve your goals and we can change your life. Whether you’re going through a life transition, a traumatic event or you have battled mental health struggles all your life, you will feel empowered as we work together to make the improvements which you’re seeking out today.
Our collective mental health presents a major challenge in our society. One in three people meet the diagnostic criteria for anxiety and/or depression. There’s a lot of us out there! You’re here because you want relief from this epidemic, and that is an incredibly brave first step! If you're willing to work hard, I am willing to make every effort to help you achieve your goals and we can change your life. Whether you’re going through a life transition, a traumatic event or you have battled mental health struggles all your life, you will feel empowered as we work together to make the improvements which you’re seeking out today.
(215) 770-3764 View (215) 770-3764
Photo of Paul VanAntwerp, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paul VanAntwerp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
I take a special interest in working with people suffering from Depression, Bipolar Disorder and/or Anxiety conditions which are negatively affecting their life.
I'm Paul VanAntwerp, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience working in the Mental Health field. My career path and clinical experience has included years of inpatient hospital work, treatment programs (PHP, IOP, RTF) and various outpatient therapy settings. I take pride in offering a non-judgmental and client-centered space for you to address all issues and problems that you want help with at this point in your life. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder while respectfully helping individuals in facing and overcoming all of their life challenges and obstacles.
I take a special interest in working with people suffering from Depression, Bipolar Disorder and/or Anxiety conditions which are negatively affecting their life.
I'm Paul VanAntwerp, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience working in the Mental Health field. My career path and clinical experience has included years of inpatient hospital work, treatment programs (PHP, IOP, RTF) and various outpatient therapy settings. I take pride in offering a non-judgmental and client-centered space for you to address all issues and problems that you want help with at this point in your life. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder while respectfully helping individuals in facing and overcoming all of their life challenges and obstacles.
(215) 996-7899 View (215) 996-7899
Photo of Derek Pendleton, LCSW, ACSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derek Pendleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
(267) 428-3650 View (267) 428-3650
Photo of May Lee, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
May Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Do you need a gentle hand to help you through your struggles? Do you find yourself entrenched in individual and family issues that keep you frozen in living the life you want to live? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of clinical experience. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are struggling with challenging life circumstances, relationship conflicts, parenting concerns, and emotional regulation difficulties. I have successfully helped people manage their depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and life/work stress.
Do you need a gentle hand to help you through your struggles? Do you find yourself entrenched in individual and family issues that keep you frozen in living the life you want to live? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of clinical experience. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are struggling with challenging life circumstances, relationship conflicts, parenting concerns, and emotional regulation difficulties. I have successfully helped people manage their depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and life/work stress.
(267) 357-1303 View (267) 357-1303
Photo of Harry Carl Amarnick, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Harry Carl Amarnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
; Very well trained in IFS- Informed EMDR through Syzygy Institute; For anxiety, depression, OCD- ACT (CBT); and Mindfulness-Based Psychology.
Many years ago I changed my life by pursuing a more fulfilling career. The concept that most inspired me was “Neuroplasticity”- That we can change the way our mind works and in so doing experience greater well-being. Negative beliefs about ourselves are generally linked to negative things that we experienced in the past, or positive things that we needed to experience but unfortunately never did. By utilizing interventions that target "what happened" or "what needed to happen but didn't" we can increase our self-worth. We can't undo "what happened" but we CAN undo the impact that hurtful experiences/relationships have had on us.
; Very well trained in IFS- Informed EMDR through Syzygy Institute; For anxiety, depression, OCD- ACT (CBT); and Mindfulness-Based Psychology.
Many years ago I changed my life by pursuing a more fulfilling career. The concept that most inspired me was “Neuroplasticity”- That we can change the way our mind works and in so doing experience greater well-being. Negative beliefs about ourselves are generally linked to negative things that we experienced in the past, or positive things that we needed to experience but unfortunately never did. By utilizing interventions that target "what happened" or "what needed to happen but didn't" we can increase our self-worth. We can't undo "what happened" but we CAN undo the impact that hurtful experiences/relationships have had on us.
(267) 354-8240 View (267) 354-8240
Photo of Florrie Fisher, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Florrie Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Are you feeling tired, overwhelmed, angry, or confused? Is there a change in your appetite? Are you having trouble sleeping? Talking with an experienced therapist will help you sort out and clarify issue(s)for change and a more satisfying life. I have over 25 years of experience helping individuals deal with depression and anxiety related to relationships, transitions in life, health, and loss of a loved one or a pet. I also assist people deal with issues related to aging.
Are you feeling tired, overwhelmed, angry, or confused? Is there a change in your appetite? Are you having trouble sleeping? Talking with an experienced therapist will help you sort out and clarify issue(s)for change and a more satisfying life. I have over 25 years of experience helping individuals deal with depression and anxiety related to relationships, transitions in life, health, and loss of a loved one or a pet. I also assist people deal with issues related to aging.
(215) 600-4759 View (215) 600-4759
Photo of Erin Austin, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Austin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, trauma, difficulties adjusting to life transitions, substance abuse, domestic violence, as well as treating individuals that may be involved in the criminal justice system.
I believe that life can be difficult to navigate, and everyone has their own personal story or journey to tell sometimes we just need a safe space for it. I try to place the utmost importance on treating everyone as an individual and understanding what they are personally and individually dealing with at that time. In supporting clients with guidance and empathy in a non-judgmental environment to process these areas of need in order to better cope is not only helpful but paramount to dealing with whatever life might or has thrown your way.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, trauma, difficulties adjusting to life transitions, substance abuse, domestic violence, as well as treating individuals that may be involved in the criminal justice system.
I believe that life can be difficult to navigate, and everyone has their own personal story or journey to tell sometimes we just need a safe space for it. I try to place the utmost importance on treating everyone as an individual and understanding what they are personally and individually dealing with at that time. In supporting clients with guidance and empathy in a non-judgmental environment to process these areas of need in order to better cope is not only helpful but paramount to dealing with whatever life might or has thrown your way.
(215) 234-1307 View (215) 234-1307
Photo of Sasha Silverman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sasha Silverman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
If you’ve been experiencing stress, anger, depression, grief, or any other states of discomfort, particularly those related to relationship issues (family, work, romantic, or other), you don’t have to struggle any longer. I’m here for you. Together we will work to uncover the roots of the problem and heal the issues so that you can live the full, expansive life that you deserve.
If you’ve been experiencing stress, anger, depression, grief, or any other states of discomfort, particularly those related to relationship issues (family, work, romantic, or other), you don’t have to struggle any longer. I’m here for you. Together we will work to uncover the roots of the problem and heal the issues so that you can live the full, expansive life that you deserve.
(267) 460-5238 View (267) 460-5238
Photo of Mark R Carlson, MS, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark R Carlson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MDiv
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
I also work with individuals & families, and am experienced with depression; child sexual abuse; troubled families; grief/loss; spiritual crises; self-esteem; multiple personalities; alternative relationships; EMDR trauma recovery, and a host of other challenging life situations.
I am by nature compassionate, intuitive and accepting, and 40 years of experience with an enormous range of client issues have honed my deep understanding of the messy emotional processes most of us have to go through. Do you feel stuck, ashamed, confused, needy, depressed, overwhelmed? Want to improve your relationships, deal with your past, heal from trauma, feel more connected, empowered or grounded? With respect and mutual exploration I will be able to help you uncover the clues and solutions you're looking for. I meet you wherever you are, in an atmosphere of trust and honesty.
I also work with individuals & families, and am experienced with depression; child sexual abuse; troubled families; grief/loss; spiritual crises; self-esteem; multiple personalities; alternative relationships; EMDR trauma recovery, and a host of other challenging life situations.
I am by nature compassionate, intuitive and accepting, and 40 years of experience with an enormous range of client issues have honed my deep understanding of the messy emotional processes most of us have to go through. Do you feel stuck, ashamed, confused, needy, depressed, overwhelmed? Want to improve your relationships, deal with your past, heal from trauma, feel more connected, empowered or grounded? With respect and mutual exploration I will be able to help you uncover the clues and solutions you're looking for. I meet you wherever you are, in an atmosphere of trust and honesty.
(215) 764-5309 View (215) 764-5309
Photo of Joseph Torre, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joseph Torre
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
In our daily lives, we face many challenges that can affect our mental health. One of the key factors in maintaining good mental health is resilience - the ability to overcome difficulties and bounce back from setbacks. The good news is that resilience is a skill that can be learned and developed. In therapy, the focus is often on reducing mental health symptoms such as depression and anxiety. While these are important goals, simply feeling less bad is not enough to lead a fulfilling life. Our therapeutic approach aims not only to help you manage your symptoms but also to build resilience skills that will bring balance to your life.
In our daily lives, we face many challenges that can affect our mental health. One of the key factors in maintaining good mental health is resilience - the ability to overcome difficulties and bounce back from setbacks. The good news is that resilience is a skill that can be learned and developed. In therapy, the focus is often on reducing mental health symptoms such as depression and anxiety. While these are important goals, simply feeling less bad is not enough to lead a fulfilling life. Our therapeutic approach aims not only to help you manage your symptoms but also to build resilience skills that will bring balance to your life.
(267) 354-8342 View (267) 354-8342
Maureen Marnell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Life can be challenging and going to a stranger for help can be just as challenging. I provide a welcoming environment and give you the emotional support you need. My experiences includes parenting, parenting support, adolescence issues, school related issues, behavioral problems, family cohesivness, career issues, anxiety, depression, along with the difficulties we may encounter in our daily lives.
Life can be challenging and going to a stranger for help can be just as challenging. I provide a welcoming environment and give you the emotional support you need. My experiences includes parenting, parenting support, adolescence issues, school related issues, behavioral problems, family cohesivness, career issues, anxiety, depression, along with the difficulties we may encounter in our daily lives.
(267) 777-7960 View (267) 777-7960
Photo of Valen Brozey, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valen Brozey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006  (Online Only)
If you are seeking a clinician who is solution oriented, look no further! I have been in the field for nearly 20 years working with individuals and families. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in relationships, anxiety, depression and anger management. My style is collaborative, with a focus on: Finding and highlighting your personal strengths, creating clear goals which have identified items that determine accomplishment, building up your skills to sustain long term success and reinforcing growth while encouraging continued development.
If you are seeking a clinician who is solution oriented, look no further! I have been in the field for nearly 20 years working with individuals and families. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in relationships, anxiety, depression and anger management. My style is collaborative, with a focus on: Finding and highlighting your personal strengths, creating clear goals which have identified items that determine accomplishment, building up your skills to sustain long term success and reinforcing growth while encouraging continued development.
(267) 361-1723 View (267) 361-1723
Photo of Maureen Broderick, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maureen Broderick
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Do you feel alone with your feelings? Are you struggling and unsure why? Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or having difficulty getting along with family members or friends? Let’s work together to help you heal. With over 8 years of experience working with people who are suffering with depression, anxiety, and addiction, and using evidence based modalities, I can guide you through the healing process. Let's break the cycles in your life that you feel are holding you in bondage.
Do you feel alone with your feelings? Are you struggling and unsure why? Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or having difficulty getting along with family members or friends? Let’s work together to help you heal. With over 8 years of experience working with people who are suffering with depression, anxiety, and addiction, and using evidence based modalities, I can guide you through the healing process. Let's break the cycles in your life that you feel are holding you in bondage.
(267) 478-1962 View (267) 478-1962
Photo of Jeffrey S Wexler, PsyD, JD, Psychologist
Jeffrey S Wexler
Psychologist, PsyD, JD
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Life is not easy. It challenges us in a myriad of ways, often painfully. Therapy is a collaborative process the goals of which are to alleviate suffering and develop more empowered understandings of self and others. I have experience treating problems such as anxiety, depression and relationship difficulties, among others. Often, these issues relate to longstanding patterns of behaviors, thoughts and feelings that can be successfully addressed in a thoughtful therapeutic process.
Life is not easy. It challenges us in a myriad of ways, often painfully. Therapy is a collaborative process the goals of which are to alleviate suffering and develop more empowered understandings of self and others. I have experience treating problems such as anxiety, depression and relationship difficulties, among others. Often, these issues relate to longstanding patterns of behaviors, thoughts and feelings that can be successfully addressed in a thoughtful therapeutic process.
(215) 709-2853 View (215) 709-2853
Photo of Jessica Bonner, LPC, NCC, CAADC, EMDR, CFRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Bonner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAADC, EMDR, CFRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Take a deep breath, close your eyes, unclench your jaw, relax your shoulders. I am so happy you are here! It takes incredible vulnerability to reach out for help & support. I hope you are proud of yourself for taking this first step. Are you struggling with your mental health and/or substance use? Feeling stuck or isolated, depressed or anxious, unfocused or unmotivated? You've reached the right place. This is your space to unwind, vent, work on your mental health, and meet your goals! This is your weekly hour to focus on just YOU.
Take a deep breath, close your eyes, unclench your jaw, relax your shoulders. I am so happy you are here! It takes incredible vulnerability to reach out for help & support. I hope you are proud of yourself for taking this first step. Are you struggling with your mental health and/or substance use? Feeling stuck or isolated, depressed or anxious, unfocused or unmotivated? You've reached the right place. This is your space to unwind, vent, work on your mental health, and meet your goals! This is your weekly hour to focus on just YOU.
(484) 613-3914 View (484) 613-3914
Photo of Edie Weinstein, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Edie Weinstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
I specialize in relationships, spirituality, addiction/recovery, stress management, trauma, depression, anxiety, women's issues, body image, sexuality, career growth, family, recovery from illness or injury, aging, loss and grief.
I welcome someone who is ready to make life changes and would like assistance to take them from where they are to where they want to be. A willingness to work with a supportive, experienced (since 1979) social worker/therapist who uses dynamic and interactive approaches, knowing that I am the guide, and you are the one who knows yourself best and that healing comes from within. Relationship, self esteem, body image, career goals, family challenge, sexuality, spirituality, illness, loss, addiction, depression or anxiety related issues. I offered my first TEDx talk called Overcoming the Taboo of Touch, about platonic touch by consent.
I specialize in relationships, spirituality, addiction/recovery, stress management, trauma, depression, anxiety, women's issues, body image, sexuality, career growth, family, recovery from illness or injury, aging, loss and grief.
I welcome someone who is ready to make life changes and would like assistance to take them from where they are to where they want to be. A willingness to work with a supportive, experienced (since 1979) social worker/therapist who uses dynamic and interactive approaches, knowing that I am the guide, and you are the one who knows yourself best and that healing comes from within. Relationship, self esteem, body image, career goals, family challenge, sexuality, spirituality, illness, loss, addiction, depression or anxiety related issues. I offered my first TEDx talk called Overcoming the Taboo of Touch, about platonic touch by consent.
(215) 914-2119 View (215) 914-2119
Photo of Hugh Stewart, PhD, ACHt
Hugh Stewart
PhD, ACHt
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
I compassionately listen to your needs while being a trusted guide in helping you find the answers within yourself in a private, confidential, and secluded setting. Our 90 minute sessions are twice the length of most appointments. My 17 years of experience has shown me & my clients that hypnotherapy and breathwork, integrated with talk therapy, accelerate positive results & healing. I'm an expert in coaching people to eliminate patterns that block their greatness & happiness. Specializing in relationship issues, interpersonal communication, depression, anxiety, addictions, inspiration, empowerment, self esteem, courage, & taking bold action. Create abundance in all areas of your life!
I compassionately listen to your needs while being a trusted guide in helping you find the answers within yourself in a private, confidential, and secluded setting. Our 90 minute sessions are twice the length of most appointments. My 17 years of experience has shown me & my clients that hypnotherapy and breathwork, integrated with talk therapy, accelerate positive results & healing. I'm an expert in coaching people to eliminate patterns that block their greatness & happiness. Specializing in relationship issues, interpersonal communication, depression, anxiety, addictions, inspiration, empowerment, self esteem, courage, & taking bold action. Create abundance in all areas of your life!
(215) 709-6738 View (215) 709-6738
Photo of Vincent Lamont, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vincent Lamont
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006  (Online Only)
I have experience working with depression and anxiety disorders addiction disorders, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, co-occurring disorders (mental illness and addiction), career changes, dysfunctional family of origin issues, LGBT issues and concerns and adjustment disorders.
My name is Vincent Lamont and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (Pennsylvania). Entering therapy can be a difficult decision for most people. I am committed to gently guiding my clients toward a place of relief from emotional distress and an enhanced sense of well-being. I am here to provide a safe space, and to help you work through whatever issue or conflict is troubling you.
I have experience working with depression and anxiety disorders addiction disorders, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, co-occurring disorders (mental illness and addiction), career changes, dysfunctional family of origin issues, LGBT issues and concerns and adjustment disorders.
My name is Vincent Lamont and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (Pennsylvania). Entering therapy can be a difficult decision for most people. I am committed to gently guiding my clients toward a place of relief from emotional distress and an enhanced sense of well-being. I am here to provide a safe space, and to help you work through whatever issue or conflict is troubling you.
(267) 433-2706 View (267) 433-2706
Photo of Adam Berman, PsyD, Psychologist
Adam Berman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
I work with children, adolescents, and families in the following areas: enhance academic achievement, enhance communication, ADHD, Behavioral Issues, Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conflict Resolution, Anxiety, Depression, Stress Management, Peer Pressure, Setting Limits for Internet & Technology Use, Improving Self Esteem & Self Confidence, & Autistic Spectrum Disorders.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families. I have extensive experience in improving the relationship between parent and child through enhanced familial communication. My intent is to enhance your child's level of motivation, increase academic achievement, increase their level of comfort within social environments, and strengthen relationships with friends and family. My intent is to empower children. I see children and parents as co-collaborators in treatment. Therapy offers new resources and can give children and families new skills and perspectives to improve the quality of their daily life and their relationships.
I work with children, adolescents, and families in the following areas: enhance academic achievement, enhance communication, ADHD, Behavioral Issues, Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conflict Resolution, Anxiety, Depression, Stress Management, Peer Pressure, Setting Limits for Internet & Technology Use, Improving Self Esteem & Self Confidence, & Autistic Spectrum Disorders.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families. I have extensive experience in improving the relationship between parent and child through enhanced familial communication. My intent is to enhance your child's level of motivation, increase academic achievement, increase their level of comfort within social environments, and strengthen relationships with friends and family. My intent is to empower children. I see children and parents as co-collaborators in treatment. Therapy offers new resources and can give children and families new skills and perspectives to improve the quality of their daily life and their relationships.
(267) 296-1050 View (267) 296-1050
Photo of Robin Axelrod Sabag, LCSW, MFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Axelrod Sabag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues. I realize that coming to see a therapist and opening up is an act of trust and not always easy. In your work with me, I hope you will feel accepted and understood and experience our work as an ongoing process that we co-create. If we work together, you can expect to gain a better understanding of yourself and of meaningful people in your life. My areas of expertise include: eating disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, moodiness, trauma, and addiction.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues. I realize that coming to see a therapist and opening up is an act of trust and not always easy. In your work with me, I hope you will feel accepted and understood and experience our work as an ongoing process that we co-create. If we work together, you can expect to gain a better understanding of yourself and of meaningful people in your life. My areas of expertise include: eating disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, moodiness, trauma, and addiction.
(215) 995-1199 View (215) 995-1199
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Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.