Depression Therapists in New Hope, PA

Photo of Christine Marston, PhD, LP, CEDS, Psychologist
Christine Marston
Psychologist, PhD, LP, CEDS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
I help people who are overwhelmed, stressed & struggling to feel like themselves again. As an experienced psychologist, I'll help you gain perspective about your problem and inspire change. During unsettling times, we'll make sense of why you feel so bad and help you live better. I treat men, women, teens & couples helping with depression, anxiety & panic, eating issues & disorders, relationship problems, trauma, dissociative disorders & life transitions. I'm a brainspotting practitionner & collaborate with dietitians & physicians. Call me to schedule a first session. We can get to know each other and make a plan from there.
I help people who are overwhelmed, stressed & struggling to feel like themselves again. As an experienced psychologist, I'll help you gain perspective about your problem and inspire change. During unsettling times, we'll make sense of why you feel so bad and help you live better. I treat men, women, teens & couples helping with depression, anxiety & panic, eating issues & disorders, relationship problems, trauma, dissociative disorders & life transitions. I'm a brainspotting practitionner & collaborate with dietitians & physicians. Call me to schedule a first session. We can get to know each other and make a plan from there.
(267) 221-6478 View (267) 221-6478
Photo of Daniel J Leichter, PsyD, Psychologist
Daniel J Leichter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
I work with individuals, families, and couples and have specialized clinical expertise in the treatment of anxiety and depression, adolescent issues, life transition adjustment, grief and loss, emotional intelligence, and pain management.
It is truly a privilege to be invited into the lives of others during a therapy session. As a licensed clinical psychologist, my philosophy of psychological treatment is based upon an empathic and compassionate therapeutic rapport which I consider the primary vehicle to interpersonal understanding, change and healing. I utilize a multi-modal approach grounded in psychodynamic theory and cognitive behavioral technique.
I work with individuals, families, and couples and have specialized clinical expertise in the treatment of anxiety and depression, adolescent issues, life transition adjustment, grief and loss, emotional intelligence, and pain management.
It is truly a privilege to be invited into the lives of others during a therapy session. As a licensed clinical psychologist, my philosophy of psychological treatment is based upon an empathic and compassionate therapeutic rapport which I consider the primary vehicle to interpersonal understanding, change and healing. I utilize a multi-modal approach grounded in psychodynamic theory and cognitive behavioral technique.
(610) 915-8560 View (610) 915-8560
Photo of Melissa Rowan, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Rowan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
Melissa also has a strong background in working with clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, struggles navigating major life transitions, and recovery from trauma.
Melissa provides individual therapy with the goal of assisting her clients in making beneficial and gainful improvements in their lives. With an unbiased, empathetic, and genuine approach, Melissa will work with clients to identify and achieve their desired therapeutic goals starting from the first session. She primarily utilizes components of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused, and person-centered therapy, with an emphasis on building upon an individual's strengths. Melissa is also certified in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) which can be effective in the treatment of OCD and anxiety.
Melissa also has a strong background in working with clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, struggles navigating major life transitions, and recovery from trauma.
Melissa provides individual therapy with the goal of assisting her clients in making beneficial and gainful improvements in their lives. With an unbiased, empathetic, and genuine approach, Melissa will work with clients to identify and achieve their desired therapeutic goals starting from the first session. She primarily utilizes components of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused, and person-centered therapy, with an emphasis on building upon an individual's strengths. Melissa is also certified in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) which can be effective in the treatment of OCD and anxiety.
(267) 535-2112 View (267) 535-2112
Photo of Debra Sime Kilgariff, MA, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Debra Sime Kilgariff
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
Welcome and thank you for your interest in my practice. For the past 25 + years, my work has been dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families who are struggling and wish to make positive changes in their lives. Many of the people I see are experiencing stress associated with personal, career, academic, or family transitions. Others are trying to navigate through anxiety, depression, loneliness, or conflicts in relationships. My goal is to listen carefully and to provide valuable feedback and support so that clients may rediscover their strength and find solutions to life's often complex challenges.
Welcome and thank you for your interest in my practice. For the past 25 + years, my work has been dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families who are struggling and wish to make positive changes in their lives. Many of the people I see are experiencing stress associated with personal, career, academic, or family transitions. Others are trying to navigate through anxiety, depression, loneliness, or conflicts in relationships. My goal is to listen carefully and to provide valuable feedback and support so that clients may rediscover their strength and find solutions to life's often complex challenges.
(215) 794-2248 View (215) 794-2248
Photo of Shanel Santucci, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanel Santucci
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
My background includes working with those with ADHD, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, depression, mood disorders, and many other challenging behaviors.
I am here to help you become the best version of yourself. I have always been attracted to a holistic approach to counseling that includes brain health, nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, and overall wellness. Along with talk therapy, I also utilize Neurofeedback training to help stabilize brainwaves. Neurofeedback Therapy is a non-invasive/non-drug based form of treatment that facilitates desired functions and mental states. Self-regulation is key in improving daily stressors, quality of life, and a positive well being. I am rewarded by seeing my clients' efforts to grow and achieve their goals.
My background includes working with those with ADHD, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, depression, mood disorders, and many other challenging behaviors.
I am here to help you become the best version of yourself. I have always been attracted to a holistic approach to counseling that includes brain health, nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, and overall wellness. Along with talk therapy, I also utilize Neurofeedback training to help stabilize brainwaves. Neurofeedback Therapy is a non-invasive/non-drug based form of treatment that facilitates desired functions and mental states. Self-regulation is key in improving daily stressors, quality of life, and a positive well being. I am rewarded by seeing my clients' efforts to grow and achieve their goals.
(267) 753-7010 View (267) 753-7010
Photo of Dr. Karolyn W Seidl, PsyD, MA, MS, Psychologist
Dr. Karolyn W Seidl
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938  (Online Only)
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Greetings and a warm welcome! I work with adults, older adults, and couples to help navigate the complex human experience. I treat a variety of mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, life transitions, or simply feelings of being "stuck". I have helped many people develop a greater understanding of themselves individually and in their relationship to others. Through therapy together we can “untangle” the knots of thoughts and feelings so that you may work through emotional, psychological and/or spiritual issues to feel happier and healthier.
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Greetings and a warm welcome! I work with adults, older adults, and couples to help navigate the complex human experience. I treat a variety of mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, life transitions, or simply feelings of being "stuck". I have helped many people develop a greater understanding of themselves individually and in their relationship to others. Through therapy together we can “untangle” the knots of thoughts and feelings so that you may work through emotional, psychological and/or spiritual issues to feel happier and healthier.
(301) 679-7460 View (301) 679-7460
Photo of Ryan Hickox, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryan Hickox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
Over the years, I have worked with people from many different backgrounds and have had success helping with multiple and varied issues. I work well with mood disorders, whether anxiety, depression, or anger, and have also had success helping couples struggling with their communication and reactivity to one another. I have also been told that my guidance about parenting and interpersonal boundaries, whether with our children, coworkers, or family, has been very helpful.
Over the years, I have worked with people from many different backgrounds and have had success helping with multiple and varied issues. I work well with mood disorders, whether anxiety, depression, or anger, and have also had success helping couples struggling with their communication and reactivity to one another. I have also been told that my guidance about parenting and interpersonal boundaries, whether with our children, coworkers, or family, has been very helpful.
(267) 551-5772 View (267) 551-5772
Photo of Susan Sklaroff-Van Hook, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Sklaroff-Van Hook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
I specialize in life transitions, anxiety and depression, self-esteem, stress management, and trauma-related issues.
I am a licensed professional counselor and trauma-informed therapist trained in mindfulness self-compassion who works collaboratively with clients to help them make the lasting changes they seek. I create a safe, trusting, and supportive environment so you can feel less isolated and more connected and understood. This becomes the foundation on which we work to help you build your self-awareness and develop the tools to improve the quality of your life. My goal is to help you take what you learn in the therapy setting out into the life you inhabit.
I specialize in life transitions, anxiety and depression, self-esteem, stress management, and trauma-related issues.
I am a licensed professional counselor and trauma-informed therapist trained in mindfulness self-compassion who works collaboratively with clients to help them make the lasting changes they seek. I create a safe, trusting, and supportive environment so you can feel less isolated and more connected and understood. This becomes the foundation on which we work to help you build your self-awareness and develop the tools to improve the quality of your life. My goal is to help you take what you learn in the therapy setting out into the life you inhabit.
(610) 510-8972 View (610) 510-8972
Photo of Christopher J. Pittelli, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher J. Pittelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
It is my premise that states of mental confusion, depression, anxiety, upset and dissatisfaction with life and our relationships result from internal conflicts leading to a sense that things are not working out in our lives, at times without really knowing why.
Deciding to call a therapist and reach out for support with life's challenges requires courage and a leap of faith in your self. Your desire to end your suffering is where this healing journey begins. Your call or email is the first step. If you are reading this, the time is now. I understand the human condition, the trepidation about going to therapy and the place you are in life right now. I am here for you. Know that aside from decades of professional training as a therapist, I have also been a client for my own personal growth and healing.
It is my premise that states of mental confusion, depression, anxiety, upset and dissatisfaction with life and our relationships result from internal conflicts leading to a sense that things are not working out in our lives, at times without really knowing why.
Deciding to call a therapist and reach out for support with life's challenges requires courage and a leap of faith in your self. Your desire to end your suffering is where this healing journey begins. Your call or email is the first step. If you are reading this, the time is now. I understand the human condition, the trepidation about going to therapy and the place you are in life right now. I am here for you. Know that aside from decades of professional training as a therapist, I have also been a client for my own personal growth and healing.
(267) 282-6084 View (267) 282-6084
Photo of Dr. Luke Bieber, Psychologist
Dr. Luke Bieber
Psychologist
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or a major life transition, we might be a good fit! As a psychotherapist, I have over 8 years of experience providing evidence-based therapies for a variety of presenting concerns. I specialize in individual and couples therapy, and I approach therapy from a client-centered focus. Most importantly, I am committed to providing a warm, collaborative, and empathetic environment where you can achieve your goals and create a life worth living. A mission of mine is to help my clients treat their minds like old friends rather than classmates working on a group project.
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or a major life transition, we might be a good fit! As a psychotherapist, I have over 8 years of experience providing evidence-based therapies for a variety of presenting concerns. I specialize in individual and couples therapy, and I approach therapy from a client-centered focus. Most importantly, I am committed to providing a warm, collaborative, and empathetic environment where you can achieve your goals and create a life worth living. A mission of mine is to help my clients treat their minds like old friends rather than classmates working on a group project.
(484) 593-1959 View (484) 593-1959
Photo of Mary Jo O’Connor, MS-----, TAKING, NEW, CLIENTS
Mary Jo O’Connor
MS-----, TAKING, NEW, CLIENTS
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
More relevant is my own personal journey with bulimia, co-dependency, multiple addictions, infertility, depression &low self esteem.
I work with all gender clients, 13yrs and up. As men and women, young and old, we are multitaskers, we take care of others while neglecting ourselves. Self-care-self-love is foreign. Many self-medicate with food, alcohol, pills, shopping, social media, relationships, the list can go on. This creates a cycle of shame, remorse, and regret. We realize- I am not happy-how come? The people I work with are trying to answer that question. They are looking for someone else or something else to make them happy. An external fix/distraction to avoid feeling upset. And yet the outcome continues to be is anxiety, depression, substance abuse
More relevant is my own personal journey with bulimia, co-dependency, multiple addictions, infertility, depression &low self esteem.
I work with all gender clients, 13yrs and up. As men and women, young and old, we are multitaskers, we take care of others while neglecting ourselves. Self-care-self-love is foreign. Many self-medicate with food, alcohol, pills, shopping, social media, relationships, the list can go on. This creates a cycle of shame, remorse, and regret. We realize- I am not happy-how come? The people I work with are trying to answer that question. They are looking for someone else or something else to make them happy. An external fix/distraction to avoid feeling upset. And yet the outcome continues to be is anxiety, depression, substance abuse
(267) 263-7958 View (267) 263-7958
Photo of Megan Paolino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Paolino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
I specialize in the treatment of anger, anxiety, depression, life-transitions, adjustment difficulties, body image issues, self-esteem building, work challenges, trauma/grief/loss, and stress management.
In my practice, I work with individuals and couples who struggle with anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship conflict/goal setting, self-esteem and anger management. Are you feeling stressed or unsatisfied, worried, and struggling to keep it all together? I will meet you as you are and create a safe space to explore your needs. Together we can identify your strengths, change old patterns, increase self-awareness, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, and make life much more meaningful.
I specialize in the treatment of anger, anxiety, depression, life-transitions, adjustment difficulties, body image issues, self-esteem building, work challenges, trauma/grief/loss, and stress management.
In my practice, I work with individuals and couples who struggle with anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship conflict/goal setting, self-esteem and anger management. Are you feeling stressed or unsatisfied, worried, and struggling to keep it all together? I will meet you as you are and create a safe space to explore your needs. Together we can identify your strengths, change old patterns, increase self-awareness, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, and make life much more meaningful.
(215) 709-9264 View (215) 709-9264
Photo of Vivian Francesco - Vivian Francesco Psychology, MS, MEd, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vivian Francesco Psychology
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, CST
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
The Schema model of therapy is effective with individuals as well as couples who seek direction and clarity in an effort to unravel anxiety, depression and negative patterns.
Do you struggle with persistent patterns that block achievement of personal goals, happiness and growth leaving you feeling "stuck"? I can help you change these patterns bringing clarity and direction. I am a licensed Professional Counselor and Advanced Certified Schema Therapist. You will gain understanding of the origins of these frustrating patterns so that you can handle life's triggers with confidence and empowerment enabling you to make positive changes and create a healthier life consisting of improved relationships and self worth.My goal is to put you back in touch with your "core emotional needs" and get them met.
The Schema model of therapy is effective with individuals as well as couples who seek direction and clarity in an effort to unravel anxiety, depression and negative patterns.
Do you struggle with persistent patterns that block achievement of personal goals, happiness and growth leaving you feeling "stuck"? I can help you change these patterns bringing clarity and direction. I am a licensed Professional Counselor and Advanced Certified Schema Therapist. You will gain understanding of the origins of these frustrating patterns so that you can handle life's triggers with confidence and empowerment enabling you to make positive changes and create a healthier life consisting of improved relationships and self worth.My goal is to put you back in touch with your "core emotional needs" and get them met.
(215) 862-0363 View (215) 862-0363
Photo of Max Masino, MS
Max Masino
MS
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
I thrive when working with diverse clients—those embarking on their mental health journey and those already progressing. My expertise shines in supporting those dealing with anxiety, depression, or navigating significant life changes. The individuals I work with are often searching for internal harmony, an ability to handle life's challenges, and ways to improve their relationships. My approach is personalized, meeting clients at their unique stage of life and helping them progress at a pace that feels right for them. I have a private practice and I also work at ETHOS Treatment where I will be running an adolescent group this fall.
I thrive when working with diverse clients—those embarking on their mental health journey and those already progressing. My expertise shines in supporting those dealing with anxiety, depression, or navigating significant life changes. The individuals I work with are often searching for internal harmony, an ability to handle life's challenges, and ways to improve their relationships. My approach is personalized, meeting clients at their unique stage of life and helping them progress at a pace that feels right for them. I have a private practice and I also work at ETHOS Treatment where I will be running an adolescent group this fall.
(267) 729-9194 View (267) 729-9194
Photo of Mark Falango, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Falango
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
Thank you for taking the time to check out my profile and congratulations on beginning a journey towards a healthier life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) providing individual, couples and group therapy. For the past 25 years, I have helped people improve their emotional well-being, strengthen their recovery from addictions and trauma, and build healthy, fulfilling relationships. My clinical specialties include the treatment of anxiety, depression, addictions, sexual compulsivity and PTSD.
Thank you for taking the time to check out my profile and congratulations on beginning a journey towards a healthier life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) providing individual, couples and group therapy. For the past 25 years, I have helped people improve their emotional well-being, strengthen their recovery from addictions and trauma, and build healthy, fulfilling relationships. My clinical specialties include the treatment of anxiety, depression, addictions, sexual compulsivity and PTSD.
(267) 343-9121 View (267) 343-9121
Photo of Jennifer Riley, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals and couples experiencing difficulties related to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss, life stressors, trauma, pregnancy loss, ppd and infertility.
Taking the first step to talk to a therapist can be overwhelming and frightening. It takes strength and courage, but it can be life changing. My goal is to create a safe, caring and nonjudgemental space for clients to be heard and understood. It is my privilege to work with individuals and couples to instill hope, empowerment, and support personal growth. Communicating feelings in a safe environment promotes healing through expression, which often leads to insight into self and more meaningful connections with others. Taking the first step is the most difficult step.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples experiencing difficulties related to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss, life stressors, trauma, pregnancy loss, ppd and infertility.
Taking the first step to talk to a therapist can be overwhelming and frightening. It takes strength and courage, but it can be life changing. My goal is to create a safe, caring and nonjudgemental space for clients to be heard and understood. It is my privilege to work with individuals and couples to instill hope, empowerment, and support personal growth. Communicating feelings in a safe environment promotes healing through expression, which often leads to insight into self and more meaningful connections with others. Taking the first step is the most difficult step.
(215) 261-7209 View (215) 261-7209
Photo of Audrey Ervin, PhD, Psychologist
Audrey Ervin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
I specialize in anxiety, depression, women's issues, body image concerns, assertiveness, stress management, relationship problems, career decision making, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender and gender expansive identities.
I am a licensed psychologist in Doylestown, PA who creates a warm, compassionate and supportive space where you are empowered to move in new directions. As a strengths oriented psychologist who focuses on human resiliency, I work with you to overcome obstacles and develop proactive strategies to reach your goals. Change is possible.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, women's issues, body image concerns, assertiveness, stress management, relationship problems, career decision making, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender and gender expansive identities.
I am a licensed psychologist in Doylestown, PA who creates a warm, compassionate and supportive space where you are empowered to move in new directions. As a strengths oriented psychologist who focuses on human resiliency, I work with you to overcome obstacles and develop proactive strategies to reach your goals. Change is possible.
(267) 622-4191 View (267) 622-4191
Photo of Wendy A. Maraska, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy A. Maraska
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
Topics include: healthy relationships, positive coping skills, decoding media, eating disorders prevention, recognizing risk factors for depression/anxiety, developing leadership skills, and becoming a positive role model.
In my practice, I support my clients' emotional growth in a safe and nurturing environment through an eclectic, solution-focused approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, evaluating healthy lifestyle choices, and awareness of the mind-body connection. Most importantly, I recognize the importance of positive therapeutic alliance and evidence-based practices in support of my clients' unique personal and interpersonal growth. I have worked in the field of mental health for 15+ years. My Master's is from Gwynedd-Mercy University and I am completing a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Arcadia University.
Topics include: healthy relationships, positive coping skills, decoding media, eating disorders prevention, recognizing risk factors for depression/anxiety, developing leadership skills, and becoming a positive role model.
In my practice, I support my clients' emotional growth in a safe and nurturing environment through an eclectic, solution-focused approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, evaluating healthy lifestyle choices, and awareness of the mind-body connection. Most importantly, I recognize the importance of positive therapeutic alliance and evidence-based practices in support of my clients' unique personal and interpersonal growth. I have worked in the field of mental health for 15+ years. My Master's is from Gwynedd-Mercy University and I am completing a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Arcadia University.
(215) 712-8041 View (215) 712-8041
Photo of Patricia M Brody - Patricia M. Brody, MA, MA
Patricia M. Brody, MA
MA
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
Being in private practice for 29 years as a psychotherapist/coach my areas of expertise include: pre/postpartum depression adjustment support, blended family adjustment, parenting support, co-dependency, panic/anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and depression. I work with individuals and couples . In addition to my areas of expertise; I have been a speaker, conducted groups and seminars on career/education, workplace stress, addictions, emotional/stress eating, postpartum depression, and relationships.
Being in private practice for 29 years as a psychotherapist/coach my areas of expertise include: pre/postpartum depression adjustment support, blended family adjustment, parenting support, co-dependency, panic/anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and depression. I work with individuals and couples . In addition to my areas of expertise; I have been a speaker, conducted groups and seminars on career/education, workplace stress, addictions, emotional/stress eating, postpartum depression, and relationships.
(215) 458-2238 View (215) 458-2238
Photo of Susan Milgate Kuczura, PsyD, Psychologist
Susan Milgate Kuczura
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
Susan Kuczura, Psy.D. is a licensed psychologist who has been working with children, adolescents and families in the Doylestown, New Hope and Bucks County for more than 20 years. A graduate of Temple University and Chestnut Hill College, she enjoys working with children and young adults. Susan served as the Clinical Director of a BHRS agency servicing Philadelphia. She collaborated with teachers, parents and counselors concerning behaviors and classroom interventions. Dr. Kuczura works with people with anxiety, behavior problems, ADHD, Asperger's and Autism, OCD, family issues, depression and bereavement.
Susan Kuczura, Psy.D. is a licensed psychologist who has been working with children, adolescents and families in the Doylestown, New Hope and Bucks County for more than 20 years. A graduate of Temple University and Chestnut Hill College, she enjoys working with children and young adults. Susan served as the Clinical Director of a BHRS agency servicing Philadelphia. She collaborated with teachers, parents and counselors concerning behaviors and classroom interventions. Dr. Kuczura works with people with anxiety, behavior problems, ADHD, Asperger's and Autism, OCD, family issues, depression and bereavement.
(267) 592-3643 View (267) 592-3643
1
Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

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

What happens in therapy for depression?

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

What therapy types help with depression?

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

Can therapy for depression be done online?

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

How effective is therapy for depression?

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