Therapists in Northampton County, PA

Photo of Valentine Croft, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valentine Croft
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18017  (Online Only)
I have worked with many people struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, low self worth, rumination, difficulty finding meaning and purpose in life. Perhaps due to current overwhelming situations, past traumas or living far away from home and having difficulty acclimating. I am passionate about helping people gain a better understanding between surviving and thriving, gaining a better understanding of their strengths and resiliencies, finding and implementing healthy coping skills, goals and confidence needed to move forward.
I have worked with many people struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, low self worth, rumination, difficulty finding meaning and purpose in life. Perhaps due to current overwhelming situations, past traumas or living far away from home and having difficulty acclimating. I am passionate about helping people gain a better understanding between surviving and thriving, gaining a better understanding of their strengths and resiliencies, finding and implementing healthy coping skills, goals and confidence needed to move forward.
(610) 978-6621 View (610) 978-6621
Photo of Kristelle Mallah, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristelle Mallah
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18042
You might be experiencing stressful moments at work, conflictual relationship with your partner, difficulties maintaining relationships or parenting your kids, issues with self-esteem or emotional regulation, feelings of loneliness and unworthiness, or difficulties dealing with transitions. It’s hard to deal with all this in isolation. The good news is that there’s help and I’m here to support you in feeling better . I work with individuals, couples and families. I work in collaboration with you, we discuss your goals and set a plan to achieve them. I focus a lot on strengths and encourage you to gain ownership of the change.
You might be experiencing stressful moments at work, conflictual relationship with your partner, difficulties maintaining relationships or parenting your kids, issues with self-esteem or emotional regulation, feelings of loneliness and unworthiness, or difficulties dealing with transitions. It’s hard to deal with all this in isolation. The good news is that there’s help and I’m here to support you in feeling better . I work with individuals, couples and families. I work in collaboration with you, we discuss your goals and set a plan to achieve them. I focus a lot on strengths and encourage you to gain ownership of the change.
(267) 833-2435 View (267) 833-2435

Online Therapists

Photo of Sophie Longwill, PsyD, HSPP, MBA, Psychologist
Sophie Longwill
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
Je travaille en collaboration. Ensemble, notre première tâche est d'identifier clairement les troubles qui vous amènent à moi et de vous assurer que je les comprends correctement. Ensuite, nous décidons les approches therapeutiques qui vous conviendraient le mieux. J'offre des therapies:- comportementale et cognitive, - therapie brève axees sur la solution, EMDR, ainsi que des méthodes de pleine conscience. Mon but est de vous aider à devenir votre propre psicologue. Je veux que vous appreniez à depasser les difficulties et ainsi mieux vivre.
Je travaille en collaboration. Ensemble, notre première tâche est d'identifier clairement les troubles qui vous amènent à moi et de vous assurer que je les comprends correctement. Ensuite, nous décidons les approches therapeutiques qui vous conviendraient le mieux. J'offre des therapies:- comportementale et cognitive, - therapie brève axees sur la solution, EMDR, ainsi que des méthodes de pleine conscience. Mon but est de vous aider à devenir votre propre psicologue. Je veux que vous appreniez à depasser les difficulties et ainsi mieux vivre.
(302) 469-0236 View (302) 469-0236
Photo of Sylvie M Beauvais - Sylvie Beauvais, LCSW, MLA, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sylvie Beauvais
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MLA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Je sais que trouver le bon thérapeute peut être intimidant. Mon objectif est de rendre la thérapie accueillante et transparente. Ensemble, nous pouvons explorer des sujets difficiles avec sensibilité, curiosité et humour. Je m'intéresse à vous--aux joies et aux difficultés que vous avez vécues. Mon espoir est de mobiliser vos forces, votre créativité et votre résilience pour votre santé. Nous travaillerons à votre rythme. Vous pouvez me poser n'importe quelle question à tout moment. Donnez-moi vos commentaires ou partagez vos besoins ou vos peurs lorsqu'ils se présentent. Ce sera une conversation en cours. Commençons.
Je sais que trouver le bon thérapeute peut être intimidant. Mon objectif est de rendre la thérapie accueillante et transparente. Ensemble, nous pouvons explorer des sujets difficiles avec sensibilité, curiosité et humour. Je m'intéresse à vous--aux joies et aux difficultés que vous avez vécues. Mon espoir est de mobiliser vos forces, votre créativité et votre résilience pour votre santé. Nous travaillerons à votre rythme. Vous pouvez me poser n'importe quelle question à tout moment. Donnez-moi vos commentaires ou partagez vos besoins ou vos peurs lorsqu'ils se présentent. Ce sera une conversation en cours. Commençons.
(267) 433-4435 View (267) 433-4435
Photo of Michele Marianne Rice, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michele Marianne Rice
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I use cognitive behavioral therapy to help my clients with marriage and relationship problems, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other issues. I take a proactive, holistic approach to effect changes not only in thinking but in behaviors, in order to promote increased well-being, contentment, and self esteem. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults, and maintain flexible working hours to accomodate work and school schedules. My practice is in network with several managed care companies, or I can assist you in filing a claim with your insurance company.
I use cognitive behavioral therapy to help my clients with marriage and relationship problems, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other issues. I take a proactive, holistic approach to effect changes not only in thinking but in behaviors, in order to promote increased well-being, contentment, and self esteem. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults, and maintain flexible working hours to accomodate work and school schedules. My practice is in network with several managed care companies, or I can assist you in filing a claim with your insurance company.
(484) 263-0572 View (484) 263-0572
Photo of Citrini N Devi, PhD, E-RYT, C-IAYT, CCTP-II, Psychologist
Citrini N Devi
Psychologist, PhD, E-RYT, C-IAYT, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Drexel Hill, PA 19026
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychologist and yoga instructor. I work with the full range of mental health concerns through outpatient therapy with adults, children, and adolescents, as well as families, couples, and groups. I have strong interests in the connection between mind-body-spirit, in the promotion of well-being, in stress-related concerns, and in complementary approaches to healing. I welcome clients interested in integrating psychotherapy with yoga and meditation practices. I also have particular interest in depression, anxiety, GLBTQ* concerns, sexual orientation, concerns relating to eating, weight, and body image, concerns related to medical and physical difficulties, etc.
I am a psychologist and yoga instructor. I work with the full range of mental health concerns through outpatient therapy with adults, children, and adolescents, as well as families, couples, and groups. I have strong interests in the connection between mind-body-spirit, in the promotion of well-being, in stress-related concerns, and in complementary approaches to healing. I welcome clients interested in integrating psychotherapy with yoga and meditation practices. I also have particular interest in depression, anxiety, GLBTQ* concerns, sexual orientation, concerns relating to eating, weight, and body image, concerns related to medical and physical difficulties, etc.
(610) 638-0466 x1 View (610) 638-0466 x1
Photo of Michael Dean Kaltenbach, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Dean Kaltenbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
I work with clients experiencing any of the following issues: anxiety, work-related stress, sexuality issues, relationship issues, depression, over-partying, HIV+, cancer, creative blocks, life transitions, career goals, family issues, etc.
Oftentimes, people just need someone to listen to them, to help them work through an issue, and sort out their feelings. That's where I come in as a licensed psychotherapist as well as a medical social worker. I'm skilled at hearing what people are saying and helping them to figure out strategies for improving their situation. I work with a variety of clients ---men, women and children from all sexualities, gender identities, and races to help them with all sorts of issues. My clientele ranges in ages; however, a majority of my clients are in their early 30's.
I work with clients experiencing any of the following issues: anxiety, work-related stress, sexuality issues, relationship issues, depression, over-partying, HIV+, cancer, creative blocks, life transitions, career goals, family issues, etc.
Oftentimes, people just need someone to listen to them, to help them work through an issue, and sort out their feelings. That's where I come in as a licensed psychotherapist as well as a medical social worker. I'm skilled at hearing what people are saying and helping them to figure out strategies for improving their situation. I work with a variety of clients ---men, women and children from all sexualities, gender identities, and races to help them with all sorts of issues. My clientele ranges in ages; however, a majority of my clients are in their early 30's.
(323) 510-3581 View (323) 510-3581
Photo of Emma Steiner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Steiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143
Addt'l Specialties: trauma, loss, anxiety, depression, addictions, exploring childhood & family history.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified Couple and Family therapist & Chief Clinical Officer at the highly-regarded Council for Relationships. With over fifteen years of experience as a dynamic psychotherapist, I am a deeply empathic therapist, whose warmth & humor help to create a safe environment for self-exploration, growth & empowerment. Together with my clients, I work to forge a new story about themselves & the world that comes from a place of compassion, strength & acceptance. I aim to help my clients live a richer life, engage in more fulfilling relationships with themselves & others, and embrace opportunities.
Addt'l Specialties: trauma, loss, anxiety, depression, addictions, exploring childhood & family history.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified Couple and Family therapist & Chief Clinical Officer at the highly-regarded Council for Relationships. With over fifteen years of experience as a dynamic psychotherapist, I am a deeply empathic therapist, whose warmth & humor help to create a safe environment for self-exploration, growth & empowerment. Together with my clients, I work to forge a new story about themselves & the world that comes from a place of compassion, strength & acceptance. I aim to help my clients live a richer life, engage in more fulfilling relationships with themselves & others, and embrace opportunities.
(215) 804-4106 View (215) 804-4106
Photo of Kim Burdick, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Burdick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
I strive to provide balance for those struggling to regulate their emotions and self-esteem, focusing on trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment difficulties, and relationship and family issues.
My ideal client would be open to change and exploring more positive ways to see themselves. My ideal client would be someone that values our time together and is present for sessions. My ideal client would be someone who can reflect from within and be willing to do the work, with a sincere desire to change their lifestyle. This client would be flexible and willing to see the other side of the coin, exploring the past and delving into the present.
I strive to provide balance for those struggling to regulate their emotions and self-esteem, focusing on trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment difficulties, and relationship and family issues.
My ideal client would be open to change and exploring more positive ways to see themselves. My ideal client would be someone that values our time together and is present for sessions. My ideal client would be someone who can reflect from within and be willing to do the work, with a sincere desire to change their lifestyle. This client would be flexible and willing to see the other side of the coin, exploring the past and delving into the present.
(215) 515-2631 View (215) 515-2631
Photo of Marion Rudin Frank, EdD, MA, Psychologist
Marion Rudin Frank
Psychologist, EdD, MA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
As a licensed psychologist, board certified clinical hypnotherapist and medical psychotherapist, I have been in private practice for 30 years in center city Philadelphia and Chestnut Hill,Pa. I am primarily Jungian, feminist, and cognitive/behavioral in orientation and use a blend of whatever suits the person and situation. My specialties include relationships, depression and anxiety/panic, self-esteem. trauma, and life transitions. I am widely published, formerly on staff at the Belmont Center and at Hahnemann and Temple Universities.The goal is to diminish negative symptoms and patterns, facilitate individuation, find your path and personal meaning in life, at work and in relationships.
As a licensed psychologist, board certified clinical hypnotherapist and medical psychotherapist, I have been in private practice for 30 years in center city Philadelphia and Chestnut Hill,Pa. I am primarily Jungian, feminist, and cognitive/behavioral in orientation and use a blend of whatever suits the person and situation. My specialties include relationships, depression and anxiety/panic, self-esteem. trauma, and life transitions. I am widely published, formerly on staff at the Belmont Center and at Hahnemann and Temple Universities.The goal is to diminish negative symptoms and patterns, facilitate individuation, find your path and personal meaning in life, at work and in relationships.
(267) 348-4075 x1 View (267) 348-4075 x1
Photo of Camille Koenig, MSc, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Camille Koenig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Safe Space Therapy. In an atmosphere of safety and trust, I support clients develop insight into their internal experiences and build the skills to support them in navigating their lives. My goal is to help clients create a new meaning of themselves and their experiences that comes from a place of strength and acceptance. I work primarily with adolescents, young adults, and adults and specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, identity development and life transitions. I speak English and French and enjoy working expats and first- and second-generation immigrants.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Safe Space Therapy. In an atmosphere of safety and trust, I support clients develop insight into their internal experiences and build the skills to support them in navigating their lives. My goal is to help clients create a new meaning of themselves and their experiences that comes from a place of strength and acceptance. I work primarily with adolescents, young adults, and adults and specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, identity development and life transitions. I speak English and French and enjoy working expats and first- and second-generation immigrants.
(484) 359-0401 View (484) 359-0401
Photo of Makalay Samuella Tarawally - Angel Counseling LLC at angelcounselingllc.com, LPC, MA, MPH, ICADC, DBT,SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angel Counseling LLC at angelcounselingllc.com
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MPH, ICADC, DBT,SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Substance Abuse Professional with DoT and DBT certified therapist. I hold a master's degree in Public Health and Counseling Psychology . I am interested in treating a wide array of issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance-related disorder and Personality Disorder. I am also specialized in group and individual therapy. As a mental health therapist, I am passionate about helping my patients foster self-awareness and gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Substance Abuse Professional with DoT and DBT certified therapist. I hold a master's degree in Public Health and Counseling Psychology . I am interested in treating a wide array of issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance-related disorder and Personality Disorder. I am also specialized in group and individual therapy. As a mental health therapist, I am passionate about helping my patients foster self-awareness and gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(484) 573-7064 View (484) 573-7064
Photo of Marcio Costa, PhD
Marcio Costa
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I have been working as a psychoanalyst for almost twenty years and understand how challenging it can be to seek help at times. However, as we all need assistance at various moments in our lives, embarking on psychotherapy is an important step. Working with psychoanalysis can help you better understand the past experiences that shaped your character, as well as your future, desires, goals you aspire to achieve and the fears and obstacles you encounter. I can listen to patients in English, Portuguese (my native language), and Spanish. I have experience with student's mental health, depression, anxiety, psychosis and another diagnosis.
I have been working as a psychoanalyst for almost twenty years and understand how challenging it can be to seek help at times. However, as we all need assistance at various moments in our lives, embarking on psychotherapy is an important step. Working with psychoanalysis can help you better understand the past experiences that shaped your character, as well as your future, desires, goals you aspire to achieve and the fears and obstacles you encounter. I can listen to patients in English, Portuguese (my native language), and Spanish. I have experience with student's mental health, depression, anxiety, psychosis and another diagnosis.
(484) 897-6780 View (484) 897-6780
Photo of Kim Burdick, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Burdick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
I focus on trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment difficulties, & relationship/family issues. My ideal client would be open to change and exploring more positive ways to see themselves. My ideal client would be someone that values our time together and is present for sessions. My ideal client would be someone who can reflect from within and be willing to do the work, with a sincere desire to change their lifestyle. This client would be flexible and willing to see the other side of the coin, exploring the past and delving into the present.
I focus on trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment difficulties, & relationship/family issues. My ideal client would be open to change and exploring more positive ways to see themselves. My ideal client would be someone that values our time together and is present for sessions. My ideal client would be someone who can reflect from within and be willing to do the work, with a sincere desire to change their lifestyle. This client would be flexible and willing to see the other side of the coin, exploring the past and delving into the present.
(484) 603-6242 View (484) 603-6242
Photo of Emily Nussdorfer, MA, BC-DMT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Nussdorfer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Are you seeking to find relief from past pain and the courage and positive energy needed to recharge your life? Trauma experiences can have a crippling effect on the mind and body, causing depression, anxiety, rage reactions, grief, addiction, and other distressing symptoms. I offer a warm and safe space for you to unpack your burdens, and experience genuine and lasting relief. With over 20 years of combined experience in trauma therapy, expressive movement therapy, and mindfulness, I will guide you in developing practical tools to transform the immobilizing effects of trauma, PTSD and chronic stress so that you can move forward.
Are you seeking to find relief from past pain and the courage and positive energy needed to recharge your life? Trauma experiences can have a crippling effect on the mind and body, causing depression, anxiety, rage reactions, grief, addiction, and other distressing symptoms. I offer a warm and safe space for you to unpack your burdens, and experience genuine and lasting relief. With over 20 years of combined experience in trauma therapy, expressive movement therapy, and mindfulness, I will guide you in developing practical tools to transform the immobilizing effects of trauma, PTSD and chronic stress so that you can move forward.
(215) 608-1934 View (215) 608-1934
Photo of Yvette Okeke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yvette Okeke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17103  (Online Only)
I specialize in women's reproductive mental health for issues such as infertility, miscarriage, post partum depression or anxiety.
Welcome! My name is Yvette Okeke, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have extensive therapy experience with various populations and provide support to people battling depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma as well as interpersonal issues.
I specialize in women's reproductive mental health for issues such as infertility, miscarriage, post partum depression or anxiety.
Welcome! My name is Yvette Okeke, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have extensive therapy experience with various populations and provide support to people battling depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma as well as interpersonal issues.
(412) 218-3938 View (412) 218-3938
Photo of Julie Saragosa, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julie Saragosa
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
I have experience in helping clients reduce their symptoms associated with depression and anxiety, as well as relationship issues, addiction, low self-esteem, professional burnout, especially educators and others in helping professions.
As your therapist, my goal is to provide a comfortable and safe environment for you to express your feelings and help you gain perspective with challenges you may be facing. My clients learn healthy coping skills and tools to better navigate life's difficult moments. My role is to walk alongside you through this journey to your most empowered and best self. By challenging beliefs and emotions that no longer serve you, in addition to improving intra and interpersonal relationships, personal growth and symptom relief are my goals for you. You are not alone; allow me to help you through challenges and find hope and happiness again.
I have experience in helping clients reduce their symptoms associated with depression and anxiety, as well as relationship issues, addiction, low self-esteem, professional burnout, especially educators and others in helping professions.
As your therapist, my goal is to provide a comfortable and safe environment for you to express your feelings and help you gain perspective with challenges you may be facing. My clients learn healthy coping skills and tools to better navigate life's difficult moments. My role is to walk alongside you through this journey to your most empowered and best self. By challenging beliefs and emotions that no longer serve you, in addition to improving intra and interpersonal relationships, personal growth and symptom relief are my goals for you. You are not alone; allow me to help you through challenges and find hope and happiness again.
(223) 218-2976 View (223) 218-2976
Photo of Florence Mungo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Florence Mungo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19111  (Online Only)
Have you been wondering if your current challenges are due to past traumatic life events? Do you struggle in relationships? If so, I may be the Therapist for you. I specialize in trauma therapy for teenagers and adults. If you or your teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, or life stressors, therapy with me can help with positive changes to strengthen self-esteem and confidence. Clients who work with me report living a more fulling life with less worry, sadness and fear, after working on core issues.
Have you been wondering if your current challenges are due to past traumatic life events? Do you struggle in relationships? If so, I may be the Therapist for you. I specialize in trauma therapy for teenagers and adults. If you or your teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, or life stressors, therapy with me can help with positive changes to strengthen self-esteem and confidence. Clients who work with me report living a more fulling life with less worry, sadness and fear, after working on core issues.
(215) 960-9448 View (215) 960-9448
Photo of Anthony F Verdi, PhD, Psychologist
Anthony F Verdi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046  (Online Only)
I take a cognitive behavioral approach to helping my clients gain personal insight and to make behavioral changes. Depression, anxiety, and relationship issues can interfere with problem solving. Together we can explore options, develop problem solving techniques, and coping mechanisms that will help you feel more in control of your self and your situation. My style is informal and relaxed. Ideal clients are those that are committed to making changes and who are willing to fully participate in the therapeutic relationship.
I take a cognitive behavioral approach to helping my clients gain personal insight and to make behavioral changes. Depression, anxiety, and relationship issues can interfere with problem solving. Together we can explore options, develop problem solving techniques, and coping mechanisms that will help you feel more in control of your self and your situation. My style is informal and relaxed. Ideal clients are those that are committed to making changes and who are willing to fully participate in the therapeutic relationship.
(215) 987-2609 View (215) 987-2609
Photo of Renee Balthrop, PhD, Psychologist
Renee Balthrop
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Media, PA 19063  (Online Only)
I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and issues related to identity and purpose.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist. In doing this work, I have had the extraordinary experience of helping patients live more meaningful and satisfying lives. Patients often gain self-awareness, see others more clearly and make positive life changes. I use new research findings and the principles of depth psychology to better understand the way an individual's mind works, to identify longstanding patterns and to determine their effect on mood and life circumstances. This informs the identification of goals and supports their achievement. WEBSITE: BodySoulWorks.com
I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and issues related to identity and purpose.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist. In doing this work, I have had the extraordinary experience of helping patients live more meaningful and satisfying lives. Patients often gain self-awareness, see others more clearly and make positive life changes. I use new research findings and the principles of depth psychology to better understand the way an individual's mind works, to identify longstanding patterns and to determine their effect on mood and life circumstances. This informs the identification of goals and supports their achievement. WEBSITE: BodySoulWorks.com
(610) 915-8431 View (610) 915-8431

See more therapy options for Northampton County

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.