Depression Therapists in Rydal, PA

Photo of Bernie Epstein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bernie Epstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rydal, PA 19046  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in treating children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples confronting: depression, anxiety, grief, attention/learning problems, oppositional/defiant "behaviors," anger, mood disorders, couple conflict/divorce, parenting difficulties, and other realtional problems.
If we often struggle to connect with ourselves and with others, then how can we feel safe, how can we make sense of what's happening inside, how can we make sense of what's happening between us and others? I help people find meaningful ways to effectively communicate and connect with themselves and each other, make sense of their experiences and relationships, and ultimately, find a path toward healing. I believe in the innate drive of every person to move toward health. With acceptance, curiosity, and compassion, I help people slow down, attune to that drive, and support them in moving with it.
I'm a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in treating children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples confronting: depression, anxiety, grief, attention/learning problems, oppositional/defiant "behaviors," anger, mood disorders, couple conflict/divorce, parenting difficulties, and other realtional problems.
If we often struggle to connect with ourselves and with others, then how can we feel safe, how can we make sense of what's happening inside, how can we make sense of what's happening between us and others? I help people find meaningful ways to effectively communicate and connect with themselves and each other, make sense of their experiences and relationships, and ultimately, find a path toward healing. I believe in the innate drive of every person to move toward health. With acceptance, curiosity, and compassion, I help people slow down, attune to that drive, and support them in moving with it.
(215) 774-6301 View (215) 774-6301
Photo of Hope Stein, LCSW, CADC, PMAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hope Stein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, PMAC
Verified Verified
Rydal, PA 19046  (Online Only)
As a seasoned therapist, I offer a comprehensive and progressive therapeutic experience for substance use disorders and mental health concerns. I have worked with various clients, including adolescents, adults, families, and couples, tailoring my approach to meet their unique needs. I use comprehensive assessments to develop personalized treatments and facilitate seamless entry into treatment facilities. My goal is to enhance accessibility to treatment and empower individuals to embark on their recovery journeys.
As a seasoned therapist, I offer a comprehensive and progressive therapeutic experience for substance use disorders and mental health concerns. I have worked with various clients, including adolescents, adults, families, and couples, tailoring my approach to meet their unique needs. I use comprehensive assessments to develop personalized treatments and facilitate seamless entry into treatment facilities. My goal is to enhance accessibility to treatment and empower individuals to embark on their recovery journeys.
(267) 930-2335 View (267) 930-2335
Photo of Celestia Patience, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Celestia Patience
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rydal, PA 19046  (Online Only)
My name is Celestia (she/they), and I am a systemically trained Couples and Family Therapist (MFT) working with individuals, families, and intimate relationships, of all structures. I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience, and it is my responsibility within that bond to meet the client(s) where they are. As a trauma-informed therapist, my understanding of our current climate is crucial in our work together; addressing the ways in which society marginalizes us for race, ability, sexuality, body size, class, and gender identity are crucial in working through the human experience.
My name is Celestia (she/they), and I am a systemically trained Couples and Family Therapist (MFT) working with individuals, families, and intimate relationships, of all structures. I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience, and it is my responsibility within that bond to meet the client(s) where they are. As a trauma-informed therapist, my understanding of our current climate is crucial in our work together; addressing the ways in which society marginalizes us for race, ability, sexuality, body size, class, and gender identity are crucial in working through the human experience.
(267) 762-2262 View (267) 762-2262
Photo of Dr. Ja'net M. Howard - Help, Healing & Hope Therapeutic Services, LLC, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Help, Healing & Hope Therapeutic Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Rydal, PA 19046
Help, Healing, and Hope (H3) Therapeutic Services is committed to helping people find their sense of purpose and happiness. Whether you have serious emotional difficulties, or you are struggling with finding your sense of peace, my staff and I are here to help you every step of the way. Let's work together to improve your sense of satisfaction of where you are, and what you hope to become." To schedule an appointment, please email your contact information to h3therapeutic@gmail.com, or send a text message to 267.355.9374, and a member of our staff will contact you.
Help, Healing, and Hope (H3) Therapeutic Services is committed to helping people find their sense of purpose and happiness. Whether you have serious emotional difficulties, or you are struggling with finding your sense of peace, my staff and I are here to help you every step of the way. Let's work together to improve your sense of satisfaction of where you are, and what you hope to become." To schedule an appointment, please email your contact information to h3therapeutic@gmail.com, or send a text message to 267.355.9374, and a member of our staff will contact you.
(267) 452-2172 View (267) 452-2172
Photo of Meghan Kraenbring Comerford, PsyD, Psychologist
Meghan Kraenbring Comerford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rydal, PA 19046
Welcome! I am Dr. Meghan, a pediatric psychologist, who is licensed in PA and certified by PSYPACT to provide services virtually to individuals in participating states. Life throws many challenges our way, some of which feel easy to manage, some more difficult. When your child or teen is faced with health, academic, or social obstacles, it can be overwhelming. I am here to help you and your child manage these challenges effectively and build a meaningful life. I specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults and am passionate about helping those with acute/chronic health conditions and those who suffer with anxiety.
Welcome! I am Dr. Meghan, a pediatric psychologist, who is licensed in PA and certified by PSYPACT to provide services virtually to individuals in participating states. Life throws many challenges our way, some of which feel easy to manage, some more difficult. When your child or teen is faced with health, academic, or social obstacles, it can be overwhelming. I am here to help you and your child manage these challenges effectively and build a meaningful life. I specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults and am passionate about helping those with acute/chronic health conditions and those who suffer with anxiety.
(267) 209-7750 View (267) 209-7750

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jade Green - Green Wellness NP in Family Health , CRNP
Green Wellness NP in Family Health
CRNP
Verified Verified
Wyncote, PA 19095  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing symptoms like depression, anxiety, adhd, PTSD, or mood disorders, know that you don't have to suffer in silence.
Medication management ONLY! Hi there! As a psychiatric medication management provider in PA and NY, I am here to support you on your journey towards better mental health. I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout while also helping navigate trauma, depression and the negative coping mechanisms associated with them. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self and holistic approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. As a prescriber, you and I will work together to formulate the best plan to fit your needs.
If you are experiencing symptoms like depression, anxiety, adhd, PTSD, or mood disorders, know that you don't have to suffer in silence.
Medication management ONLY! Hi there! As a psychiatric medication management provider in PA and NY, I am here to support you on your journey towards better mental health. I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout while also helping navigate trauma, depression and the negative coping mechanisms associated with them. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self and holistic approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. As a prescriber, you and I will work together to formulate the best plan to fit your needs.
(716) 325-9542 View (716) 325-9542
Photo of Cierra Andrews, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cierra Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals who have experienced anxiety, depression, mood symptoms & past traumas. Often times, you may fear being vulnerable. We are taught that if you are vulnerable, it is a sign of weakness, & you will end up hurt somehow. But what if I told you sometimes vulnerability is needed to heal! Through vulnerability, a person can take back the power that was once taken from them. It allows a safe and open space for one to express their thoughts, emotions & feelings & share past traumas or current life stressors in a nonjudgmental space that will help build resiliency and courage.
I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals who have experienced anxiety, depression, mood symptoms & past traumas. Often times, you may fear being vulnerable. We are taught that if you are vulnerable, it is a sign of weakness, & you will end up hurt somehow. But what if I told you sometimes vulnerability is needed to heal! Through vulnerability, a person can take back the power that was once taken from them. It allows a safe and open space for one to express their thoughts, emotions & feelings & share past traumas or current life stressors in a nonjudgmental space that will help build resiliency and courage.
(267) 435-2467 View (267) 435-2467
Photo of Rhoda Fuchs-Morton, MA, CAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhoda Fuchs-Morton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Cheltenham, PA 19012
I have been providing mental health care since 1989 in both inpatient and outpatient settings, treating individuals, couples and families for a variety of mental health problems. My professional training and background is as a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Addictions Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor. I also have a strong background in Alternative Holistic Healing Therapies from mind/body practices,energy psychology, body-based therapies, holistic health and spiritual practices. As a therapist I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and am able to integrate psychotherapy with alternative healing modalities to support psychological growth in the best way possible for each individual's particular needs (see fuchsmortonholistic.com). I believe it's important to find the "right/best" fit between client and therapist. The following are some of my specializations: individual therapy integrating holistic therapies, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions recovery, couples counseling, adolescence and families, compulsive eating and obesity, spiritual development, children of narcissistic parents, menopausal change, chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia.
I have been providing mental health care since 1989 in both inpatient and outpatient settings, treating individuals, couples and families for a variety of mental health problems. My professional training and background is as a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Addictions Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor. I also have a strong background in Alternative Holistic Healing Therapies from mind/body practices,energy psychology, body-based therapies, holistic health and spiritual practices. As a therapist I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and am able to integrate psychotherapy with alternative healing modalities to support psychological growth in the best way possible for each individual's particular needs (see fuchsmortonholistic.com). I believe it's important to find the "right/best" fit between client and therapist. The following are some of my specializations: individual therapy integrating holistic therapies, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions recovery, couples counseling, adolescence and families, compulsive eating and obesity, spiritual development, children of narcissistic parents, menopausal change, chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia.
(609) 849-3184 View (609) 849-3184
Photo of Elaine Alexander, EdD, Psychologist
Elaine Alexander
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
You are invited to experience a relationship which is caring, collaborative and respectful. People often experience relief from knowing they are heard and understood.I help you to address the obstacles that have kept you stuck, anxious, depressed and feeling bad about yourself. I also help people with histories of trauma, abuse, and eating disorders. We unearth long-standing behavior or thought patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing the present in a more fulfilling and meaningful way. We identify and build upon your strengths and skills in an indivualized and supportive relationship
You are invited to experience a relationship which is caring, collaborative and respectful. People often experience relief from knowing they are heard and understood.I help you to address the obstacles that have kept you stuck, anxious, depressed and feeling bad about yourself. I also help people with histories of trauma, abuse, and eating disorders. We unearth long-standing behavior or thought patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing the present in a more fulfilling and meaningful way. We identify and build upon your strengths and skills in an indivualized and supportive relationship
(215) 583-3288 View (215) 583-3288
Photo of Katishka Johnson, MS, MFT
Katishka Johnson
MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Wyncote, PA 19095  (Online Only)
When seeking out a therapist there's always a few lingering questions. Ultimately, how can this set person help me? At Turning Pages Therapy, we can assess that question together. How do we get pass this anxiety? I Don't know what triggers my Depression, but I would like to figure that out. How do I parent after having my baby? Am I bad mother because of what I am feeling? Turning pages takes those lingering questions and works with our clients to find the answer. You won't read a chapter alone with us.
When seeking out a therapist there's always a few lingering questions. Ultimately, how can this set person help me? At Turning Pages Therapy, we can assess that question together. How do we get pass this anxiety? I Don't know what triggers my Depression, but I would like to figure that out. How do I parent after having my baby? Am I bad mother because of what I am feeling? Turning pages takes those lingering questions and works with our clients to find the answer. You won't read a chapter alone with us.
(267) 494-6784 View (267) 494-6784
Photo of Brigette Potgieter - Brigette Potgieter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brigette Potgieter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elkins Park, PA 19027
Anxiety and depression have a way of waking us up to the ways in which we are out of synch with our true nature.
You are smart, competent, and lovable, but every day is a struggle to trust that this is true. The "should haves" and "what-ifs" pile up before the first cup of coffee, draining you of energy and motivation. It's time to turn the table on anxiety and depression. You deserve the support and guidance it takes to feel strength, clarity and enthusiasm in your life. You've tried doing this alone. Now It's time to get help.
Anxiety and depression have a way of waking us up to the ways in which we are out of synch with our true nature.
You are smart, competent, and lovable, but every day is a struggle to trust that this is true. The "should haves" and "what-ifs" pile up before the first cup of coffee, draining you of energy and motivation. It's time to turn the table on anxiety and depression. You deserve the support and guidance it takes to feel strength, clarity and enthusiasm in your life. You've tried doing this alone. Now It's time to get help.
(267) 463-4038 View (267) 463-4038
Photo of Karen Fithian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Fithian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Abington, PA 19001
I have over 25 years experience helping people to overcome depression, anxiety, marital problems, stress and other issues which limit their quality of life.
Life can bring stress and challenges that often leave us feeling unsure and overwhelmed of our next steps. Making the decision to seek therapy is a personal and at times difficult process. I tailor my work to my client's diverse needs and concerns and provide a safe and supportive environment to allow for personal growth. I enjoy working with individuals and families to help them find their way through difficult times and emerge stronger, happier and more hopeful about their futures.
I have over 25 years experience helping people to overcome depression, anxiety, marital problems, stress and other issues which limit their quality of life.
Life can bring stress and challenges that often leave us feeling unsure and overwhelmed of our next steps. Making the decision to seek therapy is a personal and at times difficult process. I tailor my work to my client's diverse needs and concerns and provide a safe and supportive environment to allow for personal growth. I enjoy working with individuals and families to help them find their way through difficult times and emerge stronger, happier and more hopeful about their futures.
(215) 839-3249 View (215) 839-3249
Photo of Steven Adelman, PhD, Psychologist
Steven Adelman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046  (Online Only)
I find it deeply rewarding to help people decrease the suffering in their lives and move toward greater fulfillment. Working together, we would identify and develop your strengths, remove obstacles, and build skills to reach your goals. Cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and in-depth approaches such as IFS are especially useful in my work. I have an expertise in anxiety based problems, as well as with relationship concerns and depression. My style is interactive. Clients find that I create a warm environment of acceptance, insight and compassion in which people feel safe to take risks to explore themselves and to learn new skills.
I find it deeply rewarding to help people decrease the suffering in their lives and move toward greater fulfillment. Working together, we would identify and develop your strengths, remove obstacles, and build skills to reach your goals. Cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and in-depth approaches such as IFS are especially useful in my work. I have an expertise in anxiety based problems, as well as with relationship concerns and depression. My style is interactive. Clients find that I create a warm environment of acceptance, insight and compassion in which people feel safe to take risks to explore themselves and to learn new skills.
(484) 371-3092 View (484) 371-3092
Photo of Maureen Foy-Tornay - Maureen Foy-Tornay, MA, ATR, LPC, CTHM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maureen Foy-Tornay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC, CTHM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Strong emotions such as anxiety and depression often emerge as we struggle to express our needs within our relationships. We might worry, begin losing sleep and feel hopeless. My passion is to restore your connection to yourself and the world. I am excited to add Imago Relationship Therapy to my tool box of support for your growth. I love working with men and women as well as couple. Our sessions will help you focus on moving past fears to new resilience with reduced symptoms, healing from past loss and will get you back on track. I am here for you and ready to help.
Strong emotions such as anxiety and depression often emerge as we struggle to express our needs within our relationships. We might worry, begin losing sleep and feel hopeless. My passion is to restore your connection to yourself and the world. I am excited to add Imago Relationship Therapy to my tool box of support for your growth. I love working with men and women as well as couple. Our sessions will help you focus on moving past fears to new resilience with reduced symptoms, healing from past loss and will get you back on track. I am here for you and ready to help.
(267) 633-8878 View (267) 633-8878
Photo of Andrew Coyle, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Coyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogontz Campus, PA 19001
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. Before my move to Thriveworks, I worked in the Philadelphia area with underprivileged individuals, providing positive and compassionate care to clients. My clinical experience has demonstrated my ability to build positive therapeutic relationships with clients of all ages and backgrounds. This clinical expertise has helped my clients reach their therapeutic goals, specifically with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, ADHD, familial stressors, and Autism.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. Before my move to Thriveworks, I worked in the Philadelphia area with underprivileged individuals, providing positive and compassionate care to clients. My clinical experience has demonstrated my ability to build positive therapeutic relationships with clients of all ages and backgrounds. This clinical expertise has helped my clients reach their therapeutic goals, specifically with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, ADHD, familial stressors, and Autism.
(215) 201-4966 View (215) 201-4966
Photo of May Lee, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
May Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Do you need a gentle hand to help you through your struggles? Do you find yourself entrenched in individual and family issues that keep you frozen in living the life you want to live? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of clinical experience. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are struggling with challenging life circumstances, relationship conflicts, parenting concerns, and emotional regulation difficulties. I have successfully helped people manage their depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and life/work stress.
Do you need a gentle hand to help you through your struggles? Do you find yourself entrenched in individual and family issues that keep you frozen in living the life you want to live? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of clinical experience. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are struggling with challenging life circumstances, relationship conflicts, parenting concerns, and emotional regulation difficulties. I have successfully helped people manage their depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and life/work stress.
(267) 357-1303 View (267) 357-1303
Photo of Nicole Machinski - Dr Robin Lowey & Associates Psychological Svcs, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr Robin Lowey & Associates Psychological Svcs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Dr. Robin Lowey & Associates is a group psychology practice where experienced clinicians have been offering therapy and assessment services in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas for over 30 years. We provide psychotherapy, medication management, and psychological evaluations. The therapists at Dr. Robin Lowey & Associates have differing educational backgrounds and therapeutic styles, but the common theme is that we are all focused on heightening each client's overall happiness. We see the pain caused by depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship turmoil as an opportunity for growth and change.
Dr. Robin Lowey & Associates is a group psychology practice where experienced clinicians have been offering therapy and assessment services in Philadelphia and the surrounding areas for over 30 years. We provide psychotherapy, medication management, and psychological evaluations. The therapists at Dr. Robin Lowey & Associates have differing educational backgrounds and therapeutic styles, but the common theme is that we are all focused on heightening each client's overall happiness. We see the pain caused by depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship turmoil as an opportunity for growth and change.
(215) 839-1259 View (215) 839-1259
Photo of Craig M Aaron, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Craig M Aaron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges that include anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, shame, embarrassment, procrastination, avoidance, marital/couple/family relations and more. My approach though highly individualized and eclectic is primarily a cognitive behavioral one in which we delve into the emotional, behavioral and cognitive roots in order to identify, challenge and ultimately replace those unhelpful aspects with health promoting aspects. This along with a commitment to hard work on the part of the client often results in improved functioning and an enriched and more satisfying quality of life.
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges that include anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, shame, embarrassment, procrastination, avoidance, marital/couple/family relations and more. My approach though highly individualized and eclectic is primarily a cognitive behavioral one in which we delve into the emotional, behavioral and cognitive roots in order to identify, challenge and ultimately replace those unhelpful aspects with health promoting aspects. This along with a commitment to hard work on the part of the client often results in improved functioning and an enriched and more satisfying quality of life.
(610) 898-3192 View (610) 898-3192
Photo of Cathy Jacobsen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy Jacobsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elkins Park, PA 19027  (Online Only)
An experienced clinician and Grief and Loss Educator, I'm devoted to helping clients manage life's challenges while uncovering their unique strengths and resources. I work with a broad range of issues-trauma, anxiety (OCD, Panic) depression, relationships. Grief over the loss of a loved one is an area of special interest. Grief is traumatic and transformative. There is no ‘cure’ for grief. No timeline. You tell yourself that time will heal the wound, yet every day opens it anew. I am your guide, the journey is yours. You will leave our first session feeling understood, more hopeful and with at least one new coping skill in hand.
An experienced clinician and Grief and Loss Educator, I'm devoted to helping clients manage life's challenges while uncovering their unique strengths and resources. I work with a broad range of issues-trauma, anxiety (OCD, Panic) depression, relationships. Grief over the loss of a loved one is an area of special interest. Grief is traumatic and transformative. There is no ‘cure’ for grief. No timeline. You tell yourself that time will heal the wound, yet every day opens it anew. I am your guide, the journey is yours. You will leave our first session feeling understood, more hopeful and with at least one new coping skill in hand.
(267) 435-3727 View (267) 435-3727
Photo of Maxwell Wagenknecht, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maxwell Wagenknecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ogontz Campus, PA 19001  (Online Only)
So often anxiety or depression can leave us feeling like there is no way out. I am here to empower you to be able to find hope. Whether it's struggling with a recent life transition or loss, I can provide you with the much needed space to work through these difficult feelings. Whether you have seen a therapist in the past or this is your first time, I am here to help guide you along your path to change and self-discovery. I focus on creating a safe space where we can feel free to express ourselves and work towards the change we desire.
So often anxiety or depression can leave us feeling like there is no way out. I am here to empower you to be able to find hope. Whether it's struggling with a recent life transition or loss, I can provide you with the much needed space to work through these difficult feelings. Whether you have seen a therapist in the past or this is your first time, I am here to help guide you along your path to change and self-discovery. I focus on creating a safe space where we can feel free to express ourselves and work towards the change we desire.
(267) 651-0193 View (267) 651-0193

See more therapy options for Rydal

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.