Depression Therapists in Newtown, PA

Photo of Christine Marie Agnese-Etzrodt, PsyD, Psychologist
Christine Marie Agnese-Etzrodt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness and trauma.
Welcome to finding peace and happiness in your life again. Sometimes it can feel like peace and happiness are out of your grasp, but I am here to remind you that healing is possible for you. We all have times in our lives when we are struggling and need to know that help and support is there for us. Together you and I can find that path for you. I will help you to feel good about yourself and your life. Here you will find a place where you are always accepted.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness and trauma.
Welcome to finding peace and happiness in your life again. Sometimes it can feel like peace and happiness are out of your grasp, but I am here to remind you that healing is possible for you. We all have times in our lives when we are struggling and need to know that help and support is there for us. Together you and I can find that path for you. I will help you to feel good about yourself and your life. Here you will find a place where you are always accepted.
(267) 433-2539 View (267) 433-2539
Photo of Catherine Maher Cahill, PsyD, Psychologist
Catherine Maher Cahill
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
I have extensive experience working with a variety of issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, childhood abuse, trauma, and spiritual/existential issues.
Whether you're experiencing a recent difficulty or a long-standing challenge, therapy is a terrific opportunity for healing and self-growth in a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment. Emphasizing warm and caring relationships with my clients, I help them to address certain behaviors, beliefs, attitudes and emotions. As they continue to gain insight, we work together to establish healthier and more effective patterns of behaviors. I believe, when we attain insight we can feel increased freedom and optimism; we no longer feel "stuck" and hopeless in our pain.
I have extensive experience working with a variety of issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, childhood abuse, trauma, and spiritual/existential issues.
Whether you're experiencing a recent difficulty or a long-standing challenge, therapy is a terrific opportunity for healing and self-growth in a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment. Emphasizing warm and caring relationships with my clients, I help them to address certain behaviors, beliefs, attitudes and emotions. As they continue to gain insight, we work together to establish healthier and more effective patterns of behaviors. I believe, when we attain insight we can feel increased freedom and optimism; we no longer feel "stuck" and hopeless in our pain.
(215) 504-1368 View (215) 504-1368
Photo of Julia Meehan, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia Meehan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
My clinical interests lie in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, perfectionism, eating disordered behaviors, and managing chronic pain/ illness.
Whether you are familiar with the process of finding the right therapist, or if this is your first time seeking the help of a professional, I'm glad you have come to my page. As a clinician, I believe that people possess the inner strength to overcome obstacles. Compassion and empathy are fundamental in my therapeutic approach in order to help the individual build the courage and the stability needed to handle life's challenges.
My clinical interests lie in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, perfectionism, eating disordered behaviors, and managing chronic pain/ illness.
Whether you are familiar with the process of finding the right therapist, or if this is your first time seeking the help of a professional, I'm glad you have come to my page. As a clinician, I believe that people possess the inner strength to overcome obstacles. Compassion and empathy are fundamental in my therapeutic approach in order to help the individual build the courage and the stability needed to handle life's challenges.
(267) 609-9641 View (267) 609-9641
Photo of Kevin Ganey, PsyD, Psychologist
Kevin Ganey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? We all struggle at some point in our lives. Seeking help is difficult, but it is the first step to restoring your health and learning to live a vibrant life that is joy filled. I work with you to help you develop skills to not only address your current struggles, but also future struggles. I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to help you become more aware of your own core values which direct your emotional responses and choices and to help make necessary changes that assist you to live a fulfilling life.
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? We all struggle at some point in our lives. Seeking help is difficult, but it is the first step to restoring your health and learning to live a vibrant life that is joy filled. I work with you to help you develop skills to not only address your current struggles, but also future struggles. I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to help you become more aware of your own core values which direct your emotional responses and choices and to help make necessary changes that assist you to live a fulfilling life.
(215) 839-1192 View (215) 839-1192
Photo of Haley Eicher, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Haley Eicher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
I have experience working with clients of all ages who are seeking support for a variety of reasons including anxiety, depression, relational concerns and substance use.
As a counselor I strive to make counseling a collaborative and empowering experience that helps clients to reach their individual goals and lead a fulfilling life. I work together with my clients to implement strategies to help them cope with life's challenges and find balance. I am passionate about helping clients recognize their worth and build self-compassion and self-esteem. I work together with my clients to identify and modify beliefs and behaviors that are hindering their mental and emotional wellness.
I have experience working with clients of all ages who are seeking support for a variety of reasons including anxiety, depression, relational concerns and substance use.
As a counselor I strive to make counseling a collaborative and empowering experience that helps clients to reach their individual goals and lead a fulfilling life. I work together with my clients to implement strategies to help them cope with life's challenges and find balance. I am passionate about helping clients recognize their worth and build self-compassion and self-esteem. I work together with my clients to identify and modify beliefs and behaviors that are hindering their mental and emotional wellness.
(267) 848-8702 View (267) 848-8702
Photo of Kelly Corbitt, LCSW, E-RYT, RPYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Corbitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, E-RYT, RPYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified yoga instructor with particular interest in the way the mind and body influence our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. My approach therapy includes an orientation rooted in psychodynamic, attachment, relational, somatic, internal family systems and strengths-based theories and models. I collaborate with clients to address struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma processing and life transition. I also work with clients with mood disorders, ADHD and relationship issues. I see children, adolescents, adults and families in my practice.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified yoga instructor with particular interest in the way the mind and body influence our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. My approach therapy includes an orientation rooted in psychodynamic, attachment, relational, somatic, internal family systems and strengths-based theories and models. I collaborate with clients to address struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma processing and life transition. I also work with clients with mood disorders, ADHD and relationship issues. I see children, adolescents, adults and families in my practice.
(215) 461-3250 View (215) 461-3250
Photo of Lillie Skalka, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lillie Skalka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940  (Online Only)
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I graduated from West Chester University with my master’s degree in social work in 2019. I’ve provided care for 8 years in the behavioral health field and enjoyed working as a mobile therapist helping individuals, families, children, and teens to treat Autism, ADHD, ODD, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, I work in intensive autistic support classrooms supporting case management, crisis intervention, post-21 planning, and counseling. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life; to learn where you’ve been, where you are, and together accomplish where you want to go.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I graduated from West Chester University with my master’s degree in social work in 2019. I’ve provided care for 8 years in the behavioral health field and enjoyed working as a mobile therapist helping individuals, families, children, and teens to treat Autism, ADHD, ODD, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, I work in intensive autistic support classrooms supporting case management, crisis intervention, post-21 planning, and counseling. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life; to learn where you’ve been, where you are, and together accomplish where you want to go.
(215) 608-1123 View (215) 608-1123
Photo of Samantha Heeren, LMFT, AS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Heeren
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
My work with clients has focused on anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, life transitions and improving relationships between family members.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about working with individuals and families as they navigate different transitions throughout their lives. I value my relationships with my clients and focus on providing them a safe space to open up and feel heard. Looking at ourselves and making changes for the better can be a very difficult thing to do, therefore, I make sure to approach therapy with my clients in an authentic, direct, and collaborative way.
My work with clients has focused on anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, life transitions and improving relationships between family members.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about working with individuals and families as they navigate different transitions throughout their lives. I value my relationships with my clients and focus on providing them a safe space to open up and feel heard. Looking at ourselves and making changes for the better can be a very difficult thing to do, therefore, I make sure to approach therapy with my clients in an authentic, direct, and collaborative way.
(215) 690-1059 View (215) 690-1059
Photo of Alexandria Samuels- Ross - Agency Has Immediate Openings!, MS
Agency Has Immediate Openings!
MS
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940  (Online Only)
Do you feel trapped by negative thought patterns? Does your negative thoughts often lead to depression or suicidal ideation? Do you wish you could stop these intrusive thoughts, but it feels like an unbreakable cycle? Some days, your anxiety might even push you to the point of tears. Depression can often cause impulsive, self harming behaviors or put a damper on the relationships around us. Life doesn't have to be like this. You are the captain to your life. Start making changes today!
Do you feel trapped by negative thought patterns? Does your negative thoughts often lead to depression or suicidal ideation? Do you wish you could stop these intrusive thoughts, but it feels like an unbreakable cycle? Some days, your anxiety might even push you to the point of tears. Depression can often cause impulsive, self harming behaviors or put a damper on the relationships around us. Life doesn't have to be like this. You are the captain to your life. Start making changes today!
(971) 202-9622 View (971) 202-9622
Photo of Lauren Greenewald, MS, LAPC
Lauren Greenewald
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
I offer therapy for teens, young adults, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, divorce/separation, parenting, and personal/family trauma.
Are you facing a challenge in your relationships, marriage, parenting or life in general that you can't seem to get past? Are you struggling with your mental and emotional wellbeing? Do you feel like something needs to change but you don't know what it is or where to start?
I offer therapy for teens, young adults, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, divorce/separation, parenting, and personal/family trauma.
Are you facing a challenge in your relationships, marriage, parenting or life in general that you can't seem to get past? Are you struggling with your mental and emotional wellbeing? Do you feel like something needs to change but you don't know what it is or where to start?
(215) 774-2282 x702 View (215) 774-2282 x702
Photo of Linda Andrea Hart, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Andrea Hart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
I have worked with individuals of all ages that have had difficulty with anxiety, depression, anger and relationships.
Psychotherapy can be a powerful healing tool. I have seen individuals make dramatic changes leading to greater joy and confidence in their lives. Working with a therapist who genuinely cares and listens without judgement is transformative. One can begin to perceive issues in a new way and move on to a more balanced, productive life.
I have worked with individuals of all ages that have had difficulty with anxiety, depression, anger and relationships.
Psychotherapy can be a powerful healing tool. I have seen individuals make dramatic changes leading to greater joy and confidence in their lives. Working with a therapist who genuinely cares and listens without judgement is transformative. One can begin to perceive issues in a new way and move on to a more balanced, productive life.
(804) 621-7206 View (804) 621-7206
Photo of Randall Hicks, PsyD, Psychologist
Randall Hicks
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
I have been a licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania since 2003, and practicing in the Bucks County area as a Christian therapist since 1991. I have experience dealing with a wide range of issues and working with children, adolescents, and adults, in addition to teaching at the graduate level. I get tremendous joy from seeing people take their troubling symptoms, the panic attacks, the depressed mood, the self-defeating patterns of relating, and use them to build the self-understanding and character strength necessary to boldly love and experience the kind of intimacy in relationships they never thought possible.
I have been a licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania since 2003, and practicing in the Bucks County area as a Christian therapist since 1991. I have experience dealing with a wide range of issues and working with children, adolescents, and adults, in addition to teaching at the graduate level. I get tremendous joy from seeing people take their troubling symptoms, the panic attacks, the depressed mood, the self-defeating patterns of relating, and use them to build the self-understanding and character strength necessary to boldly love and experience the kind of intimacy in relationships they never thought possible.
(215) 995-3247 View (215) 995-3247
Photo of Chad Inker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chad Inker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
I am a licensed professional counselor who works with adults and couples. I help those with depression, anxiety, and stress management, along with other adjustment issues. Working and helping others since 2010, I am well versed in positive psychology as well. My clinical approach is a flexible one, as I apply a range of modalities that best serves you. In treatment, strategies that we work on are learned are developed to help you reach your goals.
I am a licensed professional counselor who works with adults and couples. I help those with depression, anxiety, and stress management, along with other adjustment issues. Working and helping others since 2010, I am well versed in positive psychology as well. My clinical approach is a flexible one, as I apply a range of modalities that best serves you. In treatment, strategies that we work on are learned are developed to help you reach your goals.
(215) 458-2360 View (215) 458-2360
Photo of Kristen Spear, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Spear
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, adult ADHD, relationship issues, communication skill building, as well as many other life challenges.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing psychotherapy with adults for over 11 years. I take a multimodal approach, tailoring treatment to each client's individual needs using various therapeutic techniques. Clients have told me that they feel comfortable with me due to my warmth and humor, which creates a feeling of acceptance and nonjudgment. I enjoy helping clients gain the skills to feel empowered in their lives. It is important to me that my clients see positive results and change through this process and feel supported throughout.
I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, adult ADHD, relationship issues, communication skill building, as well as many other life challenges.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing psychotherapy with adults for over 11 years. I take a multimodal approach, tailoring treatment to each client's individual needs using various therapeutic techniques. Clients have told me that they feel comfortable with me due to my warmth and humor, which creates a feeling of acceptance and nonjudgment. I enjoy helping clients gain the skills to feel empowered in their lives. It is important to me that my clients see positive results and change through this process and feel supported throughout.
(215) 709-9507 View (215) 709-9507
Photo of Rebecca J Lee, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca J Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
I specialize in working with teens/young adults struggling with depression, anxiety and self harm.
Sometimes life throws us curve balls, and sometimes life feels like one big curve ball. No matter what the situation or circumstances may be, having a trusted person to listen and validate, with unconditional positive regard, can bring comfort, and ultimately cure. I work particularly well with individuals who may have had previous experience with therapy that felt too “cookie cutter”. I do not presume that there is a one formula approach that fits all, and I will validate your unique life experience throughout our work together. Above all, I provide therapy of depth, insight and focus on relationships.
I specialize in working with teens/young adults struggling with depression, anxiety and self harm.
Sometimes life throws us curve balls, and sometimes life feels like one big curve ball. No matter what the situation or circumstances may be, having a trusted person to listen and validate, with unconditional positive regard, can bring comfort, and ultimately cure. I work particularly well with individuals who may have had previous experience with therapy that felt too “cookie cutter”. I do not presume that there is a one formula approach that fits all, and I will validate your unique life experience throughout our work together. Above all, I provide therapy of depth, insight and focus on relationships.
(267) 214-6303 View (267) 214-6303
Photo of Stacy Karagis Hunt - Newtown Therapy & Wellness Center, PhD, Psychologist
Newtown Therapy & Wellness Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
We provide services for: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Childhood Disorders, Eating Disorders, Addictions, Personality Disorders, Relationship Issues, Family & Marital Therapy, Life Transitions, Stress Management, Separation & Divorce, Grief & Loss, Parenting Support, Bullying, & Educational Advocacy.
Newtown Therapy & Wellness Center is founded on the belief that individuals have the innate ability to change and self-actualize. We work with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, couples, group and family sessions. Our providers conduct psycho-educational, ADHD and psychological assessment services. Our methodology involves encouraging clients to be actively involved in their treatment. We rely heavily on an interpersonal model of therapy while incorporating aspects of dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and solution-focused techniques. We are a gender affirming space.
We provide services for: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Childhood Disorders, Eating Disorders, Addictions, Personality Disorders, Relationship Issues, Family & Marital Therapy, Life Transitions, Stress Management, Separation & Divorce, Grief & Loss, Parenting Support, Bullying, & Educational Advocacy.
Newtown Therapy & Wellness Center is founded on the belief that individuals have the innate ability to change and self-actualize. We work with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, couples, group and family sessions. Our providers conduct psycho-educational, ADHD and psychological assessment services. Our methodology involves encouraging clients to be actively involved in their treatment. We rely heavily on an interpersonal model of therapy while incorporating aspects of dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and solution-focused techniques. We are a gender affirming space.
(267) 399-1073 View (267) 399-1073
Photo of Brian Alexander Young, MEd, MA, LPC, LBS, BCBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Alexander Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC, LBS, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940  (Online Only)
I specialize in adolescents and teens, as well as adults, who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, relational issues, ODD, and working with individuals with special needs and their families.
The connection one makes with their therapist is what makes or breaks the progress that can be made in therapy. I pride myself in my ability to connect with my clients. If you feel you can’t seem to find the right connection for yourself or your child, I’m the guy to call! I don't treat a diagnosis, disability, or disorder...I treat people. I believe anyone and everyone can benefit from the therapeutic process, if they put the necessary work in. Remember, a healthy mind can have a global impact on one's emotional and physical well being.
I specialize in adolescents and teens, as well as adults, who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, relational issues, ODD, and working with individuals with special needs and their families.
The connection one makes with their therapist is what makes or breaks the progress that can be made in therapy. I pride myself in my ability to connect with my clients. If you feel you can’t seem to find the right connection for yourself or your child, I’m the guy to call! I don't treat a diagnosis, disability, or disorder...I treat people. I believe anyone and everyone can benefit from the therapeutic process, if they put the necessary work in. Remember, a healthy mind can have a global impact on one's emotional and physical well being.
(215) 337-2367 View (215) 337-2367
Photo of Sammy Chebolio - Sammy Chebolio,LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sammy Chebolio,LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
I have experience working with children, families and individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, relational issues and truama.
I believe that we are all going through something in our lives and that from time to time we need the help of someone else to get through particularly rough patches. This is where a therapist can be very helpful. I am a compassionate, Board Certified, Licensed Clinical Social Worker who uses a variety of therapeutic approaches to help my clients heal and grow. I provide both individual and family therapy for persons ages 9 and up. I use many different therapeutic approaches because I tailor the therapy to each individual client, based on their specific needs.
I have experience working with children, families and individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, relational issues and truama.
I believe that we are all going through something in our lives and that from time to time we need the help of someone else to get through particularly rough patches. This is where a therapist can be very helpful. I am a compassionate, Board Certified, Licensed Clinical Social Worker who uses a variety of therapeutic approaches to help my clients heal and grow. I provide both individual and family therapy for persons ages 9 and up. I use many different therapeutic approaches because I tailor the therapy to each individual client, based on their specific needs.
(267) 833-4101 View (267) 833-4101
Photo of Lee A Picariello, PsyD, Psychologist
Lee A Picariello
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
I work best with people who have difficulty connecting how their current role relates to a personal problem. If you often respond to stressful situations in similar ways with little resolve and are left feeling misunderstood (anxious) and/or alone (depressed), this is an example of learned behaviors that becomes more casual for people over time. I one-on-one coach to promote change and help develop realistic tools that assist you in-the-moment as a life event unfolds. Using a straightforward approach I can improve your insight, discourage old habits and improve your personal control.
I work best with people who have difficulty connecting how their current role relates to a personal problem. If you often respond to stressful situations in similar ways with little resolve and are left feeling misunderstood (anxious) and/or alone (depressed), this is an example of learned behaviors that becomes more casual for people over time. I one-on-one coach to promote change and help develop realistic tools that assist you in-the-moment as a life event unfolds. Using a straightforward approach I can improve your insight, discourage old habits and improve your personal control.
(610) 983-8851 View (610) 983-8851
Photo of Dr. Hunter Stevens, PsyD, MBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Hunter Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
I realize that change can be difficult and stressful. Asking for help is hard and that is why I do everything within my power to create a safe, productive, and encouraging environment in therapy. Together, we will work collaboratively to help you live a richer and more meaningful life. If approached through a lens of curiosity the process can be fun and enjoyable. In my experience, I have supported people with a variety of stressors including feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem, loneliness, procrastination, peer conflict, social media distress and school challenges.
I realize that change can be difficult and stressful. Asking for help is hard and that is why I do everything within my power to create a safe, productive, and encouraging environment in therapy. Together, we will work collaboratively to help you live a richer and more meaningful life. If approached through a lens of curiosity the process can be fun and enjoyable. In my experience, I have supported people with a variety of stressors including feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem, loneliness, procrastination, peer conflict, social media distress and school challenges.
(610) 810-2728 View (610) 810-2728
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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.