Depression Therapists in Mount Lebanon, PA

Photo of Kimberlee Ann Love, MSW, LCSW, CCPT-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberlee Ann Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCPT-II
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
As a clinical social worker I work with anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma.
Sometimes life beats us down, and sometimes we can’t leave our past behind. As we travel though the changes and challenges in our journey on this earth it may be hard to ask for help. Your strengths can be uncovered when you are able to reach out to someone who can understand, and has the experience to guide you along that road. A Bachelors Degree in Human Services from Geneva College, a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University Pittsburgh, holding a Pennsylvania State Board License as a Clinical Social Worker, and my certification in Trauma From Evergreen can help.
As a clinical social worker I work with anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma.
Sometimes life beats us down, and sometimes we can’t leave our past behind. As we travel though the changes and challenges in our journey on this earth it may be hard to ask for help. Your strengths can be uncovered when you are able to reach out to someone who can understand, and has the experience to guide you along that road. A Bachelors Degree in Human Services from Geneva College, a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University Pittsburgh, holding a Pennsylvania State Board License as a Clinical Social Worker, and my certification in Trauma From Evergreen can help.
(412) 910-2224 View (412) 910-2224
Photo of Beth Christiano, PhD, Psychologist
Beth Christiano
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
Are you noticing an imbalance in your life, in your body, or in your emotions that makes it difficult to see your options, recognize your power, and clarify your goals? I am a Clinical Psychologist, a Registered Yoga Instructor, and a Certified Yoga Therapist with over twenty-five years of experience helping people create clarity, realize their potential, and work towards achieving their goals. I work with adolescents and adults, who experience stressful life events, illness/injury, emotions (like depression and anxiety) and behaviors (like eating disorders and additions) that lead them to feel "stuck".
Are you noticing an imbalance in your life, in your body, or in your emotions that makes it difficult to see your options, recognize your power, and clarify your goals? I am a Clinical Psychologist, a Registered Yoga Instructor, and a Certified Yoga Therapist with over twenty-five years of experience helping people create clarity, realize their potential, and work towards achieving their goals. I work with adolescents and adults, who experience stressful life events, illness/injury, emotions (like depression and anxiety) and behaviors (like eating disorders and additions) that lead them to feel "stuck".
(412) 960-4930 View (412) 960-4930
Photo of James M Hepburn, PhD, Psychologist
James M Hepburn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
I offer psychotherapy for individuals who may be feeling overwhelmed or distressed by events in life. My specializations include working with couples, victims of abuse, family conflict, loneliness, depression, anxiety, worry and grief. My goal is to help you uncover your potential and to provide the support you need to lead a life that is worth celebrating. If you would like to let go of long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life, then contact me at 412-334-6585 to schedule a confidential consultation.
I offer psychotherapy for individuals who may be feeling overwhelmed or distressed by events in life. My specializations include working with couples, victims of abuse, family conflict, loneliness, depression, anxiety, worry and grief. My goal is to help you uncover your potential and to provide the support you need to lead a life that is worth celebrating. If you would like to let go of long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life, then contact me at 412-334-6585 to schedule a confidential consultation.
(412) 229-7974 View (412) 229-7974
Photo of Douglas C Stewart, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Douglas C Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
I work with many issues including: depression, anxiety, vocation, family strife, grief, and purpose.
The fundamental skill that I share with psychotherapy clients is to listen deeply to their life experiences. From there, I use questions carefully to clarify my understanding of where they are in life. I work to help people understand that they are not broken or defective. As Carl Rogers said "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." I accompany clients on a journey of self-exploration, and evolution. A more satisfying life is achieved via greater psychological skill and creating healthier behaviors. I specialize in working with people suffering from Childhood PTSD & narcissistic abuse.
I work with many issues including: depression, anxiety, vocation, family strife, grief, and purpose.
The fundamental skill that I share with psychotherapy clients is to listen deeply to their life experiences. From there, I use questions carefully to clarify my understanding of where they are in life. I work to help people understand that they are not broken or defective. As Carl Rogers said "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." I accompany clients on a journey of self-exploration, and evolution. A more satisfying life is achieved via greater psychological skill and creating healthier behaviors. I specialize in working with people suffering from Childhood PTSD & narcissistic abuse.
(412) 536-7801 View (412) 536-7801
Photo of Kevin B. Kumpf, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin B. Kumpf
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
I have worked with a diverse set of client issues including addiction, depression/anxiety, relationship/marital issues, dual diagnosis, sexuality, oppositional defiance, and holistic wellness as it relates to body process.
I have learned through my work with clients that sometimes being willing to take a risk can yield positive results. Finding the willingness to participate in therapy can often feel like taking a risk; however, I am here to provide you with the necessary support you may feel you need as you look to make a positive change in your life. I am confident we can work together to develop a constructive relationship for the purpose of helping you to define and accomplish the goals that you believe are important.
I have worked with a diverse set of client issues including addiction, depression/anxiety, relationship/marital issues, dual diagnosis, sexuality, oppositional defiance, and holistic wellness as it relates to body process.
I have learned through my work with clients that sometimes being willing to take a risk can yield positive results. Finding the willingness to participate in therapy can often feel like taking a risk; however, I am here to provide you with the necessary support you may feel you need as you look to make a positive change in your life. I am confident we can work together to develop a constructive relationship for the purpose of helping you to define and accomplish the goals that you believe are important.
(412) 847-5209 View (412) 847-5209
Photo of Matthew Metcalf, MS, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Matthew Metcalf
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
My ideal client is an individual who recognizes need and is open to assistance with help in areas of self-awareness and processing skills. This client would struggle in areas of acceptance and cognitive processing and ask the question " Why am I feeling or acting this way". Their issues could range from anger management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, grief, substance use disorder, or simply understanding themselves is a healthy manner. They would be in search of ways at which they could implement small changes in their daily routine to produce sustained positive change.
My ideal client is an individual who recognizes need and is open to assistance with help in areas of self-awareness and processing skills. This client would struggle in areas of acceptance and cognitive processing and ask the question " Why am I feeling or acting this way". Their issues could range from anger management, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, grief, substance use disorder, or simply understanding themselves is a healthy manner. They would be in search of ways at which they could implement small changes in their daily routine to produce sustained positive change.
(412) 504-7830 View (412) 504-7830
Photo of Caryn Jooste - Caryn Jooste, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caryn Jooste
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
My passion and interests lie in working with traumatic experiences you may have endured (both past and present), relational difficulties, anxiety and depression.
Sometimes it is difficult to like ourselves, let alone love who we are. We are our own harshest critic! Some people use the inner critic as a motivation to succeed in life, but what happens when the inner critic wears you down and becomes debilitating? There are inner resources and strengths in all of us. Sometimes we just need some guidance to figure out what they are and how we may use them to better our lives. With thoughtful consideration to self-compassion and the development of a deeper self-awareness, we can work together to develop a new narrative for your life in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
My passion and interests lie in working with traumatic experiences you may have endured (both past and present), relational difficulties, anxiety and depression.
Sometimes it is difficult to like ourselves, let alone love who we are. We are our own harshest critic! Some people use the inner critic as a motivation to succeed in life, but what happens when the inner critic wears you down and becomes debilitating? There are inner resources and strengths in all of us. Sometimes we just need some guidance to figure out what they are and how we may use them to better our lives. With thoughtful consideration to self-compassion and the development of a deeper self-awareness, we can work together to develop a new narrative for your life in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
(412) 998-7663 View (412) 998-7663
Photo of Jamie Harkins, MEd, LPC, CYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Harkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CYT-200
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
Waitlist for new clients
I have been working for nearly two decades with people experiencing a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, sexual identity matters, academic stress, navigating major life changes, and trauma recovery.
I believe in providing an environment of understanding, encouragement, and hope to allow you work through overwhelming, stressful, and confusing life situations. My therapeutic framework is client-centered and strengths-based, meaning that I recognize you as the expert on your own lived experiences. My goal is to collaborate with you, concentrating on your inherent strengths, to help you work through difficult and uncomfortable emotions, change thought patterns, and support your personal growth.
I have been working for nearly two decades with people experiencing a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, sexual identity matters, academic stress, navigating major life changes, and trauma recovery.
I believe in providing an environment of understanding, encouragement, and hope to allow you work through overwhelming, stressful, and confusing life situations. My therapeutic framework is client-centered and strengths-based, meaning that I recognize you as the expert on your own lived experiences. My goal is to collaborate with you, concentrating on your inherent strengths, to help you work through difficult and uncomfortable emotions, change thought patterns, and support your personal growth.
(412) 960-1266 View (412) 960-1266
Photo of Molly A Connelly, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Molly A Connelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
Life can be difficult. It can leave us feeling anxious, depressed and alone. I have been helping individuals for over 20 years and welcome the opportunity to provide my experience and passion to help you live your best life. I understand the importance of and value a strong therapeutic alliance. I use an integrated approach to therapy which is specific to your individual needs. We will work together to identify problem areas, along with strengths. We will find effective strategies to help you work through past issues that may be draining your energy or causing pain.
Life can be difficult. It can leave us feeling anxious, depressed and alone. I have been helping individuals for over 20 years and welcome the opportunity to provide my experience and passion to help you live your best life. I understand the importance of and value a strong therapeutic alliance. I use an integrated approach to therapy which is specific to your individual needs. We will work together to identify problem areas, along with strengths. We will find effective strategies to help you work through past issues that may be draining your energy or causing pain.
(412) 489-0709 View (412) 489-0709
Photo of Demond E Bledsoe, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Demond E Bledsoe
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
It is my belief that all people have the capacity to change and achieve their goals. I founded Resolutions Counseling and Behavioral Health Services, LLC to provide a place where clients can feel safe as they address some of the most significant challenges of their lives. I believe in the ability for all clients to make the changes necessary to live complete and satisfying lives, strengthen relationships, and bring families closer together. I work with clients experiencing mental health, emotional and behavioral concerns including relationship problems, anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, substance abuse issues and problems related to cultural identity.
It is my belief that all people have the capacity to change and achieve their goals. I founded Resolutions Counseling and Behavioral Health Services, LLC to provide a place where clients can feel safe as they address some of the most significant challenges of their lives. I believe in the ability for all clients to make the changes necessary to live complete and satisfying lives, strengthen relationships, and bring families closer together. I work with clients experiencing mental health, emotional and behavioral concerns including relationship problems, anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, substance abuse issues and problems related to cultural identity.
(412) 499-3520 View (412) 499-3520
Photo of Dr. Waggy Zeleke, EdD, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Waggy Zeleke
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228  (Online Only)
Dr. Waggy Zeleke is a licensed clinical professional counselor in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Maryland. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Zeleke specializes in working with diverse populations dealing with relationship issues, depression, trauma, anxiety, autism, adoption, parenting, and other mental health disorders. As a provider of evidence-based, culturally responsive individual, family, and group psychotherapy, Dr. Zeleke also offers individual, group, and organizational consulting. Feel free to call now to schedule an appointment or visit www.ubuntucounseling.com to explore Dr. Zeleke's service.
Dr. Waggy Zeleke is a licensed clinical professional counselor in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Maryland. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Zeleke specializes in working with diverse populations dealing with relationship issues, depression, trauma, anxiety, autism, adoption, parenting, and other mental health disorders. As a provider of evidence-based, culturally responsive individual, family, and group psychotherapy, Dr. Zeleke also offers individual, group, and organizational consulting. Feel free to call now to schedule an appointment or visit www.ubuntucounseling.com to explore Dr. Zeleke's service.
(412) 612-2434 View (412) 612-2434
Photo of Christina Pettinato, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Pettinato
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
Are you feeling anxious, alone, or depressed? Maybe you're feeling stuck in life? I'm here to help. Through meaningful conversation, you and I will navigate your issues and struggles with proven problem-solving techniques, coping skills, and self-reflection. My goal is to help you map out opportunities for growth, awareness, trust, and mindfulness in your life and your relationships. I provide professional counseling services with an approach that is conversational, non-judgmental and supportive. Some of my specialties include; anxiety, autism spectrum, depression, grief, guilt, life transitions, relationships, trauma, and trust.
Are you feeling anxious, alone, or depressed? Maybe you're feeling stuck in life? I'm here to help. Through meaningful conversation, you and I will navigate your issues and struggles with proven problem-solving techniques, coping skills, and self-reflection. My goal is to help you map out opportunities for growth, awareness, trust, and mindfulness in your life and your relationships. I provide professional counseling services with an approach that is conversational, non-judgmental and supportive. Some of my specialties include; anxiety, autism spectrum, depression, grief, guilt, life transitions, relationships, trauma, and trust.
(412) 567-0751 View (412) 567-0751
Photo of Renee' Kinavey, MSEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renee' Kinavey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, including being a school counselor and working in private practice, my heartfelt goal is to help others. We all struggle at times throughout life, and need some guidance. I offer a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, safe place for people to explore life issues, and strive to teach people various life skills. My passion is to help others reignite the lights within them that have dimmed for whatever reasons. I specialize in mood disorders, including depression and anxiety, as well as grief, life changes, and trauma.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, including being a school counselor and working in private practice, my heartfelt goal is to help others. We all struggle at times throughout life, and need some guidance. I offer a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, safe place for people to explore life issues, and strive to teach people various life skills. My passion is to help others reignite the lights within them that have dimmed for whatever reasons. I specialize in mood disorders, including depression and anxiety, as well as grief, life changes, and trauma.
(412) 501-4148 View (412) 501-4148
Photo of Eric T. Berta - Eric Berta, LPC, NCC, CCH, LPC, NCC, CCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eric Berta, LPC, NCC, CCH
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCH
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
"Before you diagnose yourself with depression or low self-esteem, make sure that you are not, in fact, just surrounded by a-holes." (William Gibson) We take on a lot of stress from those around us - at work, at home, from strangers, from spouses & kids. From rage & stress, to grief, through life-stagnation & confusion to betrayal and divorce, my clients tend to be articulate & very smart, and prefer a counselor who is a realist, not someone who re-hashes old techniques or spouts trendy remedies.
"Before you diagnose yourself with depression or low self-esteem, make sure that you are not, in fact, just surrounded by a-holes." (William Gibson) We take on a lot of stress from those around us - at work, at home, from strangers, from spouses & kids. From rage & stress, to grief, through life-stagnation & confusion to betrayal and divorce, my clients tend to be articulate & very smart, and prefer a counselor who is a realist, not someone who re-hashes old techniques or spouts trendy remedies.
(412) 888-0059 View (412) 888-0059
Photo of Margaret Ann Deverin, MSW, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Ann Deverin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228  (Online Only)
I have experience treating trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness or pain, relationship and/or marital conflict, depression and anxiety.
Witnessing positive change in my clients has provided not only professional joy, but unflagging belief in the benefit of psychotherapy as a catalyst for personal growth. Investment in self can bring great personal and professional rewards. I am ready to work with clients who are seeking to identify key areas, issues or goals in their lives that will support recovery, relief and new insights into life's many confounding challenges. Optimizing my clients' potential is my primary focus.
I have experience treating trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness or pain, relationship and/or marital conflict, depression and anxiety.
Witnessing positive change in my clients has provided not only professional joy, but unflagging belief in the benefit of psychotherapy as a catalyst for personal growth. Investment in self can bring great personal and professional rewards. I am ready to work with clients who are seeking to identify key areas, issues or goals in their lives that will support recovery, relief and new insights into life's many confounding challenges. Optimizing my clients' potential is my primary focus.
(412) 307-3671 View (412) 307-3671
Photo of Larissa Johnston, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Larissa Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
I am an LPC with experience providing therapy to clients with mental health problems, substance use disorders and also co-occurring disorders. My experience comes from a variety of diverse treatment settings including Shawnee Academy Residential Treatment Facility, Southwood Hospital, Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services and Wesley Spectrum Services. I have delivered quality services across the lifespan. I am currently working with children and adults in individual, family, and couples counseling. I have addressed various issues in counseling such as bullying, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
I am an LPC with experience providing therapy to clients with mental health problems, substance use disorders and also co-occurring disorders. My experience comes from a variety of diverse treatment settings including Shawnee Academy Residential Treatment Facility, Southwood Hospital, Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services and Wesley Spectrum Services. I have delivered quality services across the lifespan. I am currently working with children and adults in individual, family, and couples counseling. I have addressed various issues in counseling such as bullying, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
(412) 547-5738 View (412) 547-5738
Photo of Cristina Panaccione, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristina Panaccione
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
I am the owner of a group practice, Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in mental health services across the lifespan with expertise in treatment of depression and anxiety as well as therapeutic approaches from a family systemic and cognitive behavioral perspective. My clinical experience includes service coordination, school therapy, crisis intervention, Family Systems Theory, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well has extensive work within an outpatient setting treating individuals, couples, families, children and teens. Let me help you handle life's challenges.
I am the owner of a group practice, Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in mental health services across the lifespan with expertise in treatment of depression and anxiety as well as therapeutic approaches from a family systemic and cognitive behavioral perspective. My clinical experience includes service coordination, school therapy, crisis intervention, Family Systems Theory, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well has extensive work within an outpatient setting treating individuals, couples, families, children and teens. Let me help you handle life's challenges.
(412) 906-4433 View (412) 906-4433
Photo of Amy Shirey, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Shirey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
A lot of us deal with depression, worry, and anxiety in different stages of life.
I can help you cope with multiple stressors in your life as you manage the symptoms of mood and anxiety disorders. If you are looking for guidance and support, then we would be a great match.
A lot of us deal with depression, worry, and anxiety in different stages of life.
I can help you cope with multiple stressors in your life as you manage the symptoms of mood and anxiety disorders. If you are looking for guidance and support, then we would be a great match.
(724) 605-4437 View (724) 605-4437
Photo of Kathleen Martinez,  MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
My ideal client struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and/or related conditions. They are motivated for change or at least open to the possibility of change. They are open to feedback and willing to lean into the therapeutic process. They do not need to have clear goals for the therapeutic process right away but are willing to work to identify these goals in the treatment process. They would want to improve their life in some way, or even just their relationship with themselves.
My ideal client struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and/or related conditions. They are motivated for change or at least open to the possibility of change. They are open to feedback and willing to lean into the therapeutic process. They do not need to have clear goals for the therapeutic process right away but are willing to work to identify these goals in the treatment process. They would want to improve their life in some way, or even just their relationship with themselves.
(724) 580-2462 View (724) 580-2462
Photo of Rebecca Austin, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions or persistent negative thoughts? Maybe you're finding it hard to express your needs to loved ones, or you're feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety and depression. I primarily focus on treating anxiety, depression, & mood disorders while also supporting clients with coping skills development, life transitions, substance use, & relationship issues. My focus is to help you regain control over your emotions, find lasting relief from emotional distress, and achieve a sense of inner peace and happiness.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions or persistent negative thoughts? Maybe you're finding it hard to express your needs to loved ones, or you're feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety and depression. I primarily focus on treating anxiety, depression, & mood disorders while also supporting clients with coping skills development, life transitions, substance use, & relationship issues. My focus is to help you regain control over your emotions, find lasting relief from emotional distress, and achieve a sense of inner peace and happiness.
(724) 623-3008 View (724) 623-3008
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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.