Depression Therapists in Jefferson Hills, PA
![Photo of Diane Bauer - Diane Bauer, LCSW & Associates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48b15ee0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Diane Bauer, LCSW & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jefferson Hills, PA 15025
Specialties: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Dissociative Disorders, Divorce/Dissolution LGBT issues, Grief/Loss, Mood Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parenting issues, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Self-esteem We provide counseling for children, teens, adults, families, and couples.
Are you "worrying" often? Do you feel uncomfortable in social settings? Feeling sad, frustrated/angry and having difficulty managing it? Are you a parent concerned about your child's behavior? Or in a relationship/marriage that is unfulfilling or not what it use to be? Is your family not accepting of your life choices? Counseling is a great opportunity to work through long standing concerns or just talk about what is going on in your life right now.
Specialties: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Dissociative Disorders, Divorce/Dissolution LGBT issues, Grief/Loss, Mood Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parenting issues, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Self-esteem We provide counseling for children, teens, adults, families, and couples.
Are you "worrying" often? Do you feel uncomfortable in social settings? Feeling sad, frustrated/angry and having difficulty managing it? Are you a parent concerned about your child's behavior? Or in a relationship/marriage that is unfulfilling or not what it use to be? Is your family not accepting of your life choices? Counseling is a great opportunity to work through long standing concerns or just talk about what is going on in your life right now.
![Photo of Donald J Zandier Jr. - Zandier Counseling, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fe9ca6e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
More Than Just Talk....... If you haven't been in psychotherapy before, you may not realize that the traditional approach to treatment is to educate the client about their conditions and teach them how to change their own feelings and behaviors. Although this approach can be very helpful, it is usually a long process that depends a great deal on the individual's courageous persistence. Moreover, a change in behavior and belief does not necessarily resolve the history of negative experiences fueling such things as depression and anxiety. These are some of the reasons I offer "More Than Just Talk".
More Than Just Talk....... If you haven't been in psychotherapy before, you may not realize that the traditional approach to treatment is to educate the client about their conditions and teach them how to change their own feelings and behaviors. Although this approach can be very helpful, it is usually a long process that depends a great deal on the individual's courageous persistence. Moreover, a change in behavior and belief does not necessarily resolve the history of negative experiences fueling such things as depression and anxiety. These are some of the reasons I offer "More Than Just Talk".
![Photo of Amy Schafer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0ecd2e6-2c55-46a3-a49e-a5879007048c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Schafer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jefferson Hills, PA 15025
I am happy to work with clients seeking help for marriage/relationship issues, parenting concerns, adjustment and transition difficulties, depression, anxiety and trauma.
I strongly believe that all people have the ability to live their best life when given the opportunity and the right tools for them. Each journey is just as unique as the individual who embarks on it. The work I do with clients is person centered, motivationally driven, and tailored to meet the needs of each person no matter where they are on their therapeutic journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or have decided to try again, I would be honored to meet you where you are and guide you toward reaching your personal goals.
I am happy to work with clients seeking help for marriage/relationship issues, parenting concerns, adjustment and transition difficulties, depression, anxiety and trauma.
I strongly believe that all people have the ability to live their best life when given the opportunity and the right tools for them. Each journey is just as unique as the individual who embarks on it. The work I do with clients is person centered, motivationally driven, and tailored to meet the needs of each person no matter where they are on their therapeutic journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or have decided to try again, I would be honored to meet you where you are and guide you toward reaching your personal goals.
![Photo of Katie Whitney - Steel Valley Wellness Group, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/562909d5-d471-4e52-a817-55f5ef2041d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steel Valley Wellness Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jefferson Hills, PA 15025
The licensed professional counselors of Steel Valley Wellness Group are experienced with adults, adolescents, children and couples. We address causes of anger, irritability, anxiety, fear, sadness, depression and hopelessness, and help to identify the factors that perpetuate these problems.
The licensed professional counselors of Steel Valley Wellness Group are experienced with adults, adolescents, children and couples. We address causes of anger, irritability, anxiety, fear, sadness, depression and hopelessness, and help to identify the factors that perpetuate these problems.
![Photo of Elizabeth Hammond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8751062-1f77-4296-9aa1-a05b162a06e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
My primary specialization lies in treating anxiety, bipolar, suicidal ideation, and depression.
Immediate openings - Hello and welcome to my page! I am a therapist who is dedicated to helping individuals overcome mood disorders ( depression, bipolar, cyclothymia, etc) but I also specialize in treating suicidal ideation. With over five years of clinical practice, I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding these conditions and their impact on one's overall well-being. My experience has taught me that no two individuals are the same, and I am committed to tailoring my approach to suit your unique circumstances. I offer a welcoming environment where we will tackle what is going on.
My primary specialization lies in treating anxiety, bipolar, suicidal ideation, and depression.
Immediate openings - Hello and welcome to my page! I am a therapist who is dedicated to helping individuals overcome mood disorders ( depression, bipolar, cyclothymia, etc) but I also specialize in treating suicidal ideation. With over five years of clinical practice, I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding these conditions and their impact on one's overall well-being. My experience has taught me that no two individuals are the same, and I am committed to tailoring my approach to suit your unique circumstances. I offer a welcoming environment where we will tackle what is going on.
![Photo of James A Whisner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b319516-6fb0-49cb-9c0a-d9634cbdded2/3/320x400.jpeg)
James A Whisner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jefferson Hills, PA 15025
Hello! I work with a broad range of clients from many backgrounds and cultures. I have assisted clients in coping with a broad range of mental health needs; anxiety disorders, depression, anger control, and family issues (blended family experience!). My professional experience that brings strength to my current practice includes working as a Behavioral Specialist Consultant and a Family Based Therapist. I have also performed as a counselor at long term inpatient facilities and spent a year working as a drug and alcohol counselor. I currently work as a mental health outpatient therapist.
Hello! I work with a broad range of clients from many backgrounds and cultures. I have assisted clients in coping with a broad range of mental health needs; anxiety disorders, depression, anger control, and family issues (blended family experience!). My professional experience that brings strength to my current practice includes working as a Behavioral Specialist Consultant and a Family Based Therapist. I have also performed as a counselor at long term inpatient facilities and spent a year working as a drug and alcohol counselor. I currently work as a mental health outpatient therapist.
![Photo of Dylan A. Morrell, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b83b0cd2-7b55-425b-8cbf-19f172a9c233/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dylan A. Morrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Jefferson Hills, PA 15025
Are you feeling anxious daily, perhaps depressed, and overwhelmed? Would you like to find a more content place in your life? If you have issues being yourself, as well as setting boundaries with others and yourself, it may be time for therapeutic intervention.
Are you feeling anxious daily, perhaps depressed, and overwhelmed? Would you like to find a more content place in your life? If you have issues being yourself, as well as setting boundaries with others and yourself, it may be time for therapeutic intervention.
![Photo of Heather Hoeke Abbruzzese, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/497dd10e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Hoeke Abbruzzese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Jefferson Hills, PA 15025
I have training and experience working with those hoping to find relief from anxiety and depression, unresolved traumatic experiences/PTSD, women's mental health, postpartum mood disorders, grief, parenting concerns, life adjustment and transitions, and general stress.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or frustrated with the demands being placed on you? Are you struggling with a disturbing event that is making it hard for you to live in the present? Are you ready to make meaningful change in your life? At times, we need a little extra support and guidance to get through the challenging seasons of our lives. I want to help you work through the difficult moments and to find the strength within to heal and to find peace. I offer a calm, supportive space without judgement where you can share your story, improve your ability to cope in the present, and set goals for the future.
I have training and experience working with those hoping to find relief from anxiety and depression, unresolved traumatic experiences/PTSD, women's mental health, postpartum mood disorders, grief, parenting concerns, life adjustment and transitions, and general stress.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or frustrated with the demands being placed on you? Are you struggling with a disturbing event that is making it hard for you to live in the present? Are you ready to make meaningful change in your life? At times, we need a little extra support and guidance to get through the challenging seasons of our lives. I want to help you work through the difficult moments and to find the strength within to heal and to find peace. I offer a calm, supportive space without judgement where you can share your story, improve your ability to cope in the present, and set goals for the future.
![Photo of Krystal Gibbs, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/325fad18-c518-4ee4-b823-575e5db717da/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krystal Gibbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 (Online Only)
To live is to suffer; to survive is to find meaning in the suffering (Neitzsche). We would never be able to experience our joy had we not of grown through our pain. GROWTH is the key component of findings ones true self. Be it feelings of anxiety, depression, or symptoms of PTSD, you CAN and WILL grow to be a better version of you when you take this journey of wellness. Exploration of ones self and mental toughness are key components to living a healthy and fulfilling life. Sometimes our past experiences, generational patterns, or our current thought patterns prohibit us from achieving greatness. YOU can be the hero of YOUR story!
To live is to suffer; to survive is to find meaning in the suffering (Neitzsche). We would never be able to experience our joy had we not of grown through our pain. GROWTH is the key component of findings ones true self. Be it feelings of anxiety, depression, or symptoms of PTSD, you CAN and WILL grow to be a better version of you when you take this journey of wellness. Exploration of ones self and mental toughness are key components to living a healthy and fulfilling life. Sometimes our past experiences, generational patterns, or our current thought patterns prohibit us from achieving greatness. YOU can be the hero of YOUR story!
![Photo of Nicole Brooke - Sanderson Psychological, LLC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e01d6a6-eeab-4c1e-b57e-008508d5759b/1/320x400.png)
Sanderson Psychological is a mental health counseling practice that values quality of client care. We have multiple providers with varying interests and expertise in order to provide the best therapist/client fit. Our mission is to help our clients reconnect with themselves and to explore current or past experiences that have not yet been processed. We hope that through this journey, we will help our clients find deeper self-understanding and compassion.
Sanderson Psychological is a mental health counseling practice that values quality of client care. We have multiple providers with varying interests and expertise in order to provide the best therapist/client fit. Our mission is to help our clients reconnect with themselves and to explore current or past experiences that have not yet been processed. We hope that through this journey, we will help our clients find deeper self-understanding and compassion.
![Photo of Brent W Hansen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/670a3086-2b78-440d-b44d-f9c1b4397d65/2/320x400.jpeg)
Is something keeping you from being your best? We all have great value and the ability to achieve great things. Sometimes, the burdens of this life, including past trouble, negative thinking/emotions, difficult circumstances, poor choices and lack of support can hold us back from reaching our potential. I believe my role as a counselor is to help others be more aware of their own strengths and abilities, so they can set and achieve positive goals. I believe in welcoming people with unconditional acceptance and support, and helping them work through difficulty to build and execute a plan to become the best version of themselves.
Is something keeping you from being your best? We all have great value and the ability to achieve great things. Sometimes, the burdens of this life, including past trouble, negative thinking/emotions, difficult circumstances, poor choices and lack of support can hold us back from reaching our potential. I believe my role as a counselor is to help others be more aware of their own strengths and abilities, so they can set and achieve positive goals. I believe in welcoming people with unconditional acceptance and support, and helping them work through difficulty to build and execute a plan to become the best version of themselves.
![Photo of Sharissa Shatten (Peace Love Wholeness Llc), MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e427c7f-5cbe-4cad-ad90-579c5ed56430/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sharissa Shatten (Peace Love Wholeness Llc)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jefferson Hills, PA 15025
I would love to support you and help guide you while piecing things together in this season of life. I work with individuals to manage their symptoms and help them achieve personal growth. We will focus on goals and create ways to stay accountable in between sessions with various resources or thought prompts to consider, for example. Many people I see have a history of childhood trauma, high stress, low self esteem, feeling "stuck", ready for change, or hormonal experiences- as some broad examples.
I would love to support you and help guide you while piecing things together in this season of life. I work with individuals to manage their symptoms and help them achieve personal growth. We will focus on goals and create ways to stay accountable in between sessions with various resources or thought prompts to consider, for example. Many people I see have a history of childhood trauma, high stress, low self esteem, feeling "stuck", ready for change, or hormonal experiences- as some broad examples.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Lauren Bossert, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94ba160f-66d6-4a05-be9f-3f28f569bf46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm Lauren, I am a mental health therapist with a passion for hearing people's stories and being a part of their journey toward better understanding themselves and the world around them. I bring experience from working in both residential treatment facilities and private practice, where I have supported clients facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma, and life transitions. Additionally, I work with couples to help improve their relationships, focusing on communication, intimacy, and trust. I see individuals of all ages, and I encourage everyone to come as they are.
Hello! I'm Lauren, I am a mental health therapist with a passion for hearing people's stories and being a part of their journey toward better understanding themselves and the world around them. I bring experience from working in both residential treatment facilities and private practice, where I have supported clients facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma, and life transitions. Additionally, I work with couples to help improve their relationships, focusing on communication, intimacy, and trust. I see individuals of all ages, and I encourage everyone to come as they are.
![Photo of Seema Chaubey, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4094ddda-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seema Chaubey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKeesport, PA 15133 (Online Only)
As a counselor I have 20+ years of experience working with adults and children. I treat my clients in a compassionate and professional manner and my approach is usually eclectic as I choose them according to the needs of my client. Techniques used by me are CBT, REBT, ACT, Motivational, Gestalt approach, meditation, relaxation and guided imagery. My expertise is in mood disorders such as depression, bipolar disorders, and on anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic disorder, and phobias. Anger management in relationships and marriage and relationship therapy are also my interest areas as well as resolution of trauma issues, whether acute or chronic. I have and continue to treat dually diagnosed substance abuse clients.
As a counselor I have 20+ years of experience working with adults and children. I treat my clients in a compassionate and professional manner and my approach is usually eclectic as I choose them according to the needs of my client. Techniques used by me are CBT, REBT, ACT, Motivational, Gestalt approach, meditation, relaxation and guided imagery. My expertise is in mood disorders such as depression, bipolar disorders, and on anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic disorder, and phobias. Anger management in relationships and marriage and relationship therapy are also my interest areas as well as resolution of trauma issues, whether acute or chronic. I have and continue to treat dually diagnosed substance abuse clients.
![Photo of Rachel Diaz, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2dec8ef-1b7a-40ed-b76d-889f00316898/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Diaz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
If you are feeling lost and out of control, or if you want to learn better ways to manage your emotions and behaviors, I can provide you with the help you need! I work with those suffering from addiction, dual diagnosis, stress-related disorders, eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, depression, adult ADHD, life transitions, trauma, grief, and mood disorders.
I am currently accepting new clients, please contact me via EMAIL ONLY. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC). My goal is to provide you with a safe and trusting environment where you can feel fully heard and validated. I will help you learn how to create goals, process emotions, build effective coping skills, and develop the strength necessary to face and defeat your obstacles. I will support you while you create meaning out of the things you once thought you'd never overcome.
If you are feeling lost and out of control, or if you want to learn better ways to manage your emotions and behaviors, I can provide you with the help you need! I work with those suffering from addiction, dual diagnosis, stress-related disorders, eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, depression, adult ADHD, life transitions, trauma, grief, and mood disorders.
I am currently accepting new clients, please contact me via EMAIL ONLY. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC). My goal is to provide you with a safe and trusting environment where you can feel fully heard and validated. I will help you learn how to create goals, process emotions, build effective coping skills, and develop the strength necessary to face and defeat your obstacles. I will support you while you create meaning out of the things you once thought you'd never overcome.
![Photo of Taylor Petro, LAPC, NCC, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad4059dd-e2cc-4681-8f7f-672cc0ed12fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Petro
Associate Professional Counselor, LAPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
Hi there, my name's Taylor and I'm a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor. I enjoy working with clients from late childhood through adulthood and I love helping clients who are new to therapy understand the therapeutic process, create goals, and empower themselves to live their best life. I have worked with clients who present with anxiety, depression, trauma, social struggles, self-esteem & life transitions. Starting your therapeutic journey can feel overwhelming and exciting, but every person is capable of growth. I approach building a therapeutic relationship with my clients from a place of curiosity on their life story.
Hi there, my name's Taylor and I'm a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor. I enjoy working with clients from late childhood through adulthood and I love helping clients who are new to therapy understand the therapeutic process, create goals, and empower themselves to live their best life. I have worked with clients who present with anxiety, depression, trauma, social struggles, self-esteem & life transitions. Starting your therapeutic journey can feel overwhelming and exciting, but every person is capable of growth. I approach building a therapeutic relationship with my clients from a place of curiosity on their life story.
![Photo of Zara Khan - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10533ce4-cb1f-42c7-aac4-8b02f57429be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Mifflin, PA 15123 (Online Only)
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
![Photo of Madelena Tran - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/712b6b32-99d8-44b3-a7e5-58ce543fbe9a/1/320x400.png)
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKeesport, PA 15133 (Online Only)
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
![Photo of Shaon L Robinson, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a47ebef4-6492-4695-87ca-99f9e7bd77d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shaon L Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Clairton, PA 15025 (Online Only)
I am a passionate, trauma-informed counselor with extensive clinical knowledge, committed to transforming lives through a non-traditional approach to therapy. I have 11 years of experience providing individual, family, and group therapy to culturally diverse, urban, and at-risk populations across settings and across the lifespan. My goal is to educate, empower, and advocate for my clients through a strength-based, evidence-based, holistic approach to provide quality services and meet my clients where they are. I am sensitive to racial trauma and provide Christian-based counseling upon request.
I am a passionate, trauma-informed counselor with extensive clinical knowledge, committed to transforming lives through a non-traditional approach to therapy. I have 11 years of experience providing individual, family, and group therapy to culturally diverse, urban, and at-risk populations across settings and across the lifespan. My goal is to educate, empower, and advocate for my clients through a strength-based, evidence-based, holistic approach to provide quality services and meet my clients where they are. I am sensitive to racial trauma and provide Christian-based counseling upon request.
![Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, PhD, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54a08b38-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKeesport, PA 15133
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
See more therapy options for Jefferson Hills
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Jefferson Hills
- Bethel Park
- Brentwood
- Castle Shannon
- Elizabeth
- Finleyville
- Homestead
- McKeesport
- Munhall
- Pleasant Hills
- South Park
- West Mifflin
- White Oak
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.