Depression Therapists in Oakdale, PA

Photo of Lisa M Wilson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa M Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakdale, PA 15071
As a therapist with over 20 years experience, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support, and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with children, teens and adults who are seeking help with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, parenting, maternal health and life transitions.
As a therapist with over 20 years experience, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support, and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with children, teens and adults who are seeking help with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, parenting, maternal health and life transitions.
(412) 538-5982 View (412) 538-5982
Photo of Tammie Barkus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammie Barkus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakdale, PA 15071
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in substance abuse, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, bipolar and dual-diagnosis.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified drug and alcohol counselor. I have over 10 years experience in therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
I specialize in substance abuse, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, bipolar and dual-diagnosis.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified drug and alcohol counselor. I have over 10 years experience in therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
(412) 301-9599 View (412) 301-9599
Photo of Daniella Parrish, MSCP, LPC, LBS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniella Parrish
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC, LBS
Verified Verified
Oakdale, PA 15071
Waitlist for new clients
My experience includes but is not limited to: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disability, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Oppositional Defiance, Disruptive Behaviors, behavioral modification, Relationship Issues/Communication and Family Therapy, trauma.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Behavioral Specialist. I have over 10 years experience in providing therapy services to clients from early childhood age to adult. I work with individuals, couples and families in reaching their goals and maximizing their unique strengths and potential. I am focused on providing a supportive, safe and comfortable environment to work with my clients in utilizing their strengths in overcoming challenges they may face. My goal is to help you build confidence, develop a better quality of life, and develop strength based, individualized goals and interventions.
My experience includes but is not limited to: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disability, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Oppositional Defiance, Disruptive Behaviors, behavioral modification, Relationship Issues/Communication and Family Therapy, trauma.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Behavioral Specialist. I have over 10 years experience in providing therapy services to clients from early childhood age to adult. I work with individuals, couples and families in reaching their goals and maximizing their unique strengths and potential. I am focused on providing a supportive, safe and comfortable environment to work with my clients in utilizing their strengths in overcoming challenges they may face. My goal is to help you build confidence, develop a better quality of life, and develop strength based, individualized goals and interventions.
(412) 254-8009 View (412) 254-8009
Photo of Elise M. Vandamia - Psychotherapy, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Oakdale, PA 15071
I have an extensive history in treating anxiety, trauma, depression, emotional instability, behavior modification, and improving family dynamics with a multi-modal approach.
Regardless of the pressing issue, most people struggle through transitions and adjustments in life. My goal is to provide professional quality treatment in the comfort of your own space in a manner that fosters growth, wellness, and positive thinking toward living a productive healthy life and stabilizing emotional distress.
I have an extensive history in treating anxiety, trauma, depression, emotional instability, behavior modification, and improving family dynamics with a multi-modal approach.
Regardless of the pressing issue, most people struggle through transitions and adjustments in life. My goal is to provide professional quality treatment in the comfort of your own space in a manner that fosters growth, wellness, and positive thinking toward living a productive healthy life and stabilizing emotional distress.
(412) 424-6928 View (412) 424-6928
Photo of Tara Deutsch, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Deutsch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Oakdale, PA 15071
I have training and experience working with those hoping to find relief from anxiety, depression, substance use, grief, unresolved traumatic experiences, postpartum, parenting concerns, and struggles with life transitions.
Welcome! You may be feeling overwhelmed or stuck in your current season. Or you may be struggling with finding peace and freedom from something making it hard to live in the present moment. I want you to know that you are not alone and that I will meet you where you are right now. My name is Tara Deutsch, and I received my Masters in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of Pittsburgh. My clinical experiences include individual and group therapy, primarily with adolescents, young adults, and adults.
I have training and experience working with those hoping to find relief from anxiety, depression, substance use, grief, unresolved traumatic experiences, postpartum, parenting concerns, and struggles with life transitions.
Welcome! You may be feeling overwhelmed or stuck in your current season. Or you may be struggling with finding peace and freedom from something making it hard to live in the present moment. I want you to know that you are not alone and that I will meet you where you are right now. My name is Tara Deutsch, and I received my Masters in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of Pittsburgh. My clinical experiences include individual and group therapy, primarily with adolescents, young adults, and adults.
(724) 302-5710 View (724) 302-5710
Photo of Robert L Selser - ColdWater Christian Counseling, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
ColdWater Christian Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Oakdale, PA 15071
Life can be extremely difficult at times. Young or old, rich or poor, famous or ordinary, we all need help occasionally to sort out the solutions to life's problems. Whether the issue is personal loss, problems with relationships, sadness, loneliness, or just struggling with life, the pain is real, the consequences disheartening, and the impact often overwhelming. At ColdWater Christian Counseling each client is considered unique, with a equally unique answer to the complex issues of life. You will find a safe, caring environment in which to explore the sources and solutions to life's challenges.
Life can be extremely difficult at times. Young or old, rich or poor, famous or ordinary, we all need help occasionally to sort out the solutions to life's problems. Whether the issue is personal loss, problems with relationships, sadness, loneliness, or just struggling with life, the pain is real, the consequences disheartening, and the impact often overwhelming. At ColdWater Christian Counseling each client is considered unique, with a equally unique answer to the complex issues of life. You will find a safe, caring environment in which to explore the sources and solutions to life's challenges.
(724) 871-3166 View (724) 871-3166
Photo of Joe Trecki - Sense Of Direction Counseling Services, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joe Trecki - Sense Of Direction Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Oakdale, PA 15071
Sometimes life can feel a little overwhelming. This holds true for young kids, teens, and adults. In my therapy, I use a variety of techniques and approaches to meet my clients where they are and utilize their strengths in order to get them to achieve their goals regardless of their age, gender, or orientation. Together, we will identify strengths, skills, and resources that you will turn into opportunity and growth. We will focus on the solution and not the problem. Greatness is just being better than you were yesterday!
Sometimes life can feel a little overwhelming. This holds true for young kids, teens, and adults. In my therapy, I use a variety of techniques and approaches to meet my clients where they are and utilize their strengths in order to get them to achieve their goals regardless of their age, gender, or orientation. Together, we will identify strengths, skills, and resources that you will turn into opportunity and growth. We will focus on the solution and not the problem. Greatness is just being better than you were yesterday!
(412) 520-3934 View (412) 520-3934
Photo of Michelle Lynn Grosso, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michelle Lynn Grosso
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Oakdale, PA 15071
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I'm Michelle! I'm a mental health counselor, who works with clients of all ages. I work with individuals with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, Autism Spectrum and more. I belive that people are the experts of their own lives. As such, I aim to build a collaborative relationship, to help people reach their goals and bring positive changes to their lives.
Hi, I'm Michelle! I'm a mental health counselor, who works with clients of all ages. I work with individuals with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, Autism Spectrum and more. I belive that people are the experts of their own lives. As such, I aim to build a collaborative relationship, to help people reach their goals and bring positive changes to their lives.
(412) 998-7455 View (412) 998-7455

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michael Schneider - New Directions Mental Health - Wexford, PsyD, Psychologist
New Directions Mental Health - Wexford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with challenges including: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from traumatic experiences; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with challenges including: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from traumatic experiences; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
(724) 436-1948 View (724) 436-1948
Callan Weisser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Moon Township, PA 15108
Callan works with children, teens, emerging adults, and adults with a variety of mental health needs including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress management, and life transitions such as co-parenting, career, and college transitions.
Callan Weisser is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology. She has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from La Roche University and a Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University. Callan has gained experience providing therapy in a variety of mental health settings including crisis services, family-based services, and community mental health agencies. Through these experiences, she has learned the importance of an individualized and interactive approach to helping clients build skills to achieve their goals.
Callan works with children, teens, emerging adults, and adults with a variety of mental health needs including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress management, and life transitions such as co-parenting, career, and college transitions.
Callan Weisser is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology. She has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from La Roche University and a Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University. Callan has gained experience providing therapy in a variety of mental health settings including crisis services, family-based services, and community mental health agencies. Through these experiences, she has learned the importance of an individualized and interactive approach to helping clients build skills to achieve their goals.
(412) 361-9945 View (412) 361-9945
Photo of Ryan Reagan, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryan Reagan
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Ryan Reagan is a Licensed Professional Counselor with twenty years of experience working with adults, children, and families. His specific training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), his approach focuses heavily on patient-centered counseling. Ryan has a wide area of expertise with specific interests in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma. Working in Mental Health for many years, Ryan’s main motivation is to understand how people think and help them find meaning in their world.
Ryan Reagan is a Licensed Professional Counselor with twenty years of experience working with adults, children, and families. His specific training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), his approach focuses heavily on patient-centered counseling. Ryan has a wide area of expertise with specific interests in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma. Working in Mental Health for many years, Ryan’s main motivation is to understand how people think and help them find meaning in their world.
(412) 214-0042 View (412) 214-0042
Photo of Cristina Panaccione, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristina Panaccione
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
I am the owner of a group practice, Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in mental health services across the lifespan with expertise in treatment of depression and anxiety as well as therapeutic approaches from a family systemic and cognitive behavioral perspective. My clinical experience includes service coordination, school therapy, crisis intervention, Family Systems Theory, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well has extensive work within an outpatient setting treating individuals, couples, families, children and teens. Let me help you handle life's challenges.
I am the owner of a group practice, Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in mental health services across the lifespan with expertise in treatment of depression and anxiety as well as therapeutic approaches from a family systemic and cognitive behavioral perspective. My clinical experience includes service coordination, school therapy, crisis intervention, Family Systems Theory, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well has extensive work within an outpatient setting treating individuals, couples, families, children and teens. Let me help you handle life's challenges.
(412) 906-4433 View (412) 906-4433
Photo of Cristina Panaccione - Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC, LPC, NCC
Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC
LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Our specialties include Caregiver Support, Life Coaching, Stress Management, Managing Chronic Pain/Health Concerns, Addiction/Recovery, Family Issues, Children & Teens, Women's Issues, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief/Loss, Trauma, and General Health and Wellness.
Our practice is a small, down to earth setting. We strive to make our clients feel at home and connected with supportive, caring staff. We come from many walks of life and a wide range of experience. We will tailor our treatment methods to best suit your needs so that you can get out of our office and back into the life you were meant to lead! Our office is open 7 days a week with morning, afternoon and evening hours to best suit your needs.
Our specialties include Caregiver Support, Life Coaching, Stress Management, Managing Chronic Pain/Health Concerns, Addiction/Recovery, Family Issues, Children & Teens, Women's Issues, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief/Loss, Trauma, and General Health and Wellness.
Our practice is a small, down to earth setting. We strive to make our clients feel at home and connected with supportive, caring staff. We come from many walks of life and a wide range of experience. We will tailor our treatment methods to best suit your needs so that you can get out of our office and back into the life you were meant to lead! Our office is open 7 days a week with morning, afternoon and evening hours to best suit your needs.
(412) 520-3556 View (412) 520-3556
Photo of Shannon Hogan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Hogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coraopolis, PA 15108
I primarily work with teens and young adults to address issues including depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and self-harm, life changes, and family conflict.
Hi, I'm Shannon! As a therapist, I am to help you harness your natural strengths to foster positive change. I believe in creating a supportive and safe environment to help build resilience and process emotions. I utilize a warm and lighthearted approach and adapt therapeutic methods to fit your unique needs.
I primarily work with teens and young adults to address issues including depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and self-harm, life changes, and family conflict.
Hi, I'm Shannon! As a therapist, I am to help you harness your natural strengths to foster positive change. I believe in creating a supportive and safe environment to help build resilience and process emotions. I utilize a warm and lighthearted approach and adapt therapeutic methods to fit your unique needs.
(412) 547-8876 View (412) 547-8876
Photo of Erika Kuhn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Kuhn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKees Rocks, PA 15136
I have worked with individuals from different backgrounds and have helped these individuals with various issues such as: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, grief and loss, self esteem and relationship concerns.
"Life is a journey and only you hold the map," however you don't have to navigate alone. I truly believe in the healing power of human connection and will walk beside you as we work together to develop a healthier, happier you. Therapy is a collaborative process during which I will listen to, respect, and support you. I am eclectic in my approach and will tailor your treatment to an approach that is the best fit for you and your needs.
I have worked with individuals from different backgrounds and have helped these individuals with various issues such as: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, grief and loss, self esteem and relationship concerns.
"Life is a journey and only you hold the map," however you don't have to navigate alone. I truly believe in the healing power of human connection and will walk beside you as we work together to develop a healthier, happier you. Therapy is a collaborative process during which I will listen to, respect, and support you. I am eclectic in my approach and will tailor your treatment to an approach that is the best fit for you and your needs.
(570) 409-3140 View (570) 409-3140
Photo of Shelby O'Brien, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelby O'Brien
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Hi! My name is Shelby and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked with clients ranging in age from 4-50 in the individual, family, and group settings. I have helped countless clients manage anxiety, depression, anger, suicidal thoughts, and process through various trauma. I have also worked with clients who have bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder. I have also helped numerous clients navigate every day stressors related to family, school, work, and life changes. I love animals and am a believer that animals are also great healers and am interested in implementing other alternative forms of healing.
Hi! My name is Shelby and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked with clients ranging in age from 4-50 in the individual, family, and group settings. I have helped countless clients manage anxiety, depression, anger, suicidal thoughts, and process through various trauma. I have also worked with clients who have bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder. I have also helped numerous clients navigate every day stressors related to family, school, work, and life changes. I love animals and am a believer that animals are also great healers and am interested in implementing other alternative forms of healing.
(412) 413-9043 View (412) 413-9043
Photo of Colleen Druga, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colleen Druga
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15205  (Online Only)
I offer 23 years of clinical experience with specialties in trauma informed therapy, Anxiety, and Depression with an emphasis on co-occurring disorders (i.
If you are someone that forgets to put their own oxygen mask on before helping others then I might be the one for you. Do you feel like you are spinning your wheels for change and are unsure why nothing's improved? Do you experience physiological symptoms but there's nothing the doctors can find wrong? I'm here to help facilitate awareness, openness to foster growth, insight, and change. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Treatment taking a look at how our thoughts, feelings, behaviors relate and can sometimes manifest themselves into head, muscle tension, and stomach upset, I also specialize in Meditation and MIndfulness.
I offer 23 years of clinical experience with specialties in trauma informed therapy, Anxiety, and Depression with an emphasis on co-occurring disorders (i.
If you are someone that forgets to put their own oxygen mask on before helping others then I might be the one for you. Do you feel like you are spinning your wheels for change and are unsure why nothing's improved? Do you experience physiological symptoms but there's nothing the doctors can find wrong? I'm here to help facilitate awareness, openness to foster growth, insight, and change. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Treatment taking a look at how our thoughts, feelings, behaviors relate and can sometimes manifest themselves into head, muscle tension, and stomach upset, I also specialize in Meditation and MIndfulness.
(412) 837-0613 View (412) 837-0613
Photo of Taylor Kyle, LPC, Counselor
Taylor Kyle
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed and not sure where to find the support needed to reduce those feelings? Being a teenager or young adult is challenging time in life where a yearning for independence is often in conflict with the expectations of family, school, and peers. It can feel even more difficult to maintain this balance when you are struggling with mental health symptoms such as depression or anxiety. I am a therapist that is passionate about helping youth and young adults become more secure in their own identity while recognizing how they impact the world around them.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed and not sure where to find the support needed to reduce those feelings? Being a teenager or young adult is challenging time in life where a yearning for independence is often in conflict with the expectations of family, school, and peers. It can feel even more difficult to maintain this balance when you are struggling with mental health symptoms such as depression or anxiety. I am a therapist that is passionate about helping youth and young adults become more secure in their own identity while recognizing how they impact the world around them.
(412) 910-2088 View (412) 910-2088
Photo of Michael Schneider - New Directions Mental Health - Robinson Twp, PsyD, Psychologist
New Directions Mental Health - Robinson Twp
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from trauma; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; disease management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider and offering effective services. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy and/or psychiatric services, we can assist.
We provide help for adults, children, teens, couples, and families struggling with: depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety; recovery from trauma; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; sexual dysfunctions; eating disorders; substance abuse; pain management; disease management; ADHD; parenting difficulties; and disruptive behavior problems.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider and offering effective services. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy and/or psychiatric services, we can assist.
(412) 444-7275 View (412) 444-7275
Photo of Julie Zubryd, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Zubryd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
I provide individual and family therapy my clients (14+) struggling with a wide range of difficulties including, trauma, anxiety, depression, life changes, grief, relationship issues, anger, mood disorders, codependency, sexuality and gender issues, personality disorders, OCD, social dysfunction, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation and self-injury.
My number one goal is to provide a relaxing and safe environment and relationship for my clients to begin their path to healing. I desire to work with my clients to create a well rounded and holistic approach into their well being. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor.
I provide individual and family therapy my clients (14+) struggling with a wide range of difficulties including, trauma, anxiety, depression, life changes, grief, relationship issues, anger, mood disorders, codependency, sexuality and gender issues, personality disorders, OCD, social dysfunction, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation and self-injury.
My number one goal is to provide a relaxing and safe environment and relationship for my clients to begin their path to healing. I desire to work with my clients to create a well rounded and holistic approach into their well being. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor.
(412) 388-2365 View (412) 388-2365

See more therapy options for Oakdale

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.