Depression Therapists in Sellersville, PA

Photo of Robin B Lynk, PhD, Psychologist
Robin B Lynk
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sellersville, PA 18960
Incorporating a mind-body awareness, I have been successful helping people who experience anxiety, depression, intrusive thinking, body image struggles, sexuality issues, or medical/health related concerns enhance their self-care and expand their capacity for joy.
"The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes"..... Do you ever feel like you are stuck in a cage without a key? Are you caught in an unexpected or difficult situation which seems increasingly demanding? Maybe you find yourself caught up in thoughts, memories or behaviors which leave you feeling diminished or scared, and leave others feeling worried about you. Via psychotherapy, we can turn these experiences around by effecting changes in the way you experience yourself and your world.
Incorporating a mind-body awareness, I have been successful helping people who experience anxiety, depression, intrusive thinking, body image struggles, sexuality issues, or medical/health related concerns enhance their self-care and expand their capacity for joy.
"The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes"..... Do you ever feel like you are stuck in a cage without a key? Are you caught in an unexpected or difficult situation which seems increasingly demanding? Maybe you find yourself caught up in thoughts, memories or behaviors which leave you feeling diminished or scared, and leave others feeling worried about you. Via psychotherapy, we can turn these experiences around by effecting changes in the way you experience yourself and your world.
(215) 262-7400 View (215) 262-7400
Photo of Jennifer Parke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Parke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sellersville, PA 18960
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working with individuals and families through the most challenging times. Even the most exciting life transitions can be overwhelming leading you to feel anxious or depressed. Whether it is a change in the family system, in a job, or the natural changes that occur as we move through the stages of life. Using an integrative approach, I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families to guide them to discover moments of clarity. I take the time to listen to your story and see things as you see them to better understand all your experiences.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working with individuals and families through the most challenging times. Even the most exciting life transitions can be overwhelming leading you to feel anxious or depressed. Whether it is a change in the family system, in a job, or the natural changes that occur as we move through the stages of life. Using an integrative approach, I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families to guide them to discover moments of clarity. I take the time to listen to your story and see things as you see them to better understand all your experiences.
(267) 662-2883 View (267) 662-2883
Photo of Lindsey Shaak, LAPC, MA
Lindsey Shaak
Associate Professional Counselor, LAPC, MA
Verified Verified
Sellersville, PA 18960  (Online Only)
My experience includes but is not limited to working with individuals who struggle with anxiety and depression.
Hi, I am Lindsey (she/her) and I am a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for all people on their journey. My goal is to meet my clients where they are at, helping to create a collaborative relationship that empowers my clients in their healing! Therapy can be a vulnerable place, and it is important you find a therapist that you "click" with and feel you can open up to. Please Note: I am ONLY doing REMOTE sessions at this time.
My experience includes but is not limited to working with individuals who struggle with anxiety and depression.
Hi, I am Lindsey (she/her) and I am a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for all people on their journey. My goal is to meet my clients where they are at, helping to create a collaborative relationship that empowers my clients in their healing! Therapy can be a vulnerable place, and it is important you find a therapist that you "click" with and feel you can open up to. Please Note: I am ONLY doing REMOTE sessions at this time.
(267) 354-8322 View (267) 354-8322
Photo of Michael Brown, LPC, CCTP-II, EMDR, IFS, AEDP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP-II, EMDR, IFS, AEDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sellersville, PA 18960  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma but also address challenges like anxiety and depression using techniques such as EMDR, IFS, AEDP and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
Life often places barriers between us and our best selves, be it past traumas or present struggles like anxiety or relational conflicts. My ideal client seeks clarity and transformation, aspiring not just to cope, but truly thrive. They yearn for holistic guidance that respects both the intricacies of the mind and the broader tapestry of their life. Through a blend of neuroscience, trauma interventions, and mindfulness, I offer paths to a brighter, unburdened future.
I specialize in trauma but also address challenges like anxiety and depression using techniques such as EMDR, IFS, AEDP and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
Life often places barriers between us and our best selves, be it past traumas or present struggles like anxiety or relational conflicts. My ideal client seeks clarity and transformation, aspiring not just to cope, but truly thrive. They yearn for holistic guidance that respects both the intricacies of the mind and the broader tapestry of their life. Through a blend of neuroscience, trauma interventions, and mindfulness, I offer paths to a brighter, unburdened future.
(215) 608-7250 View (215) 608-7250
Photo of Robin Beaumont, PhD, LLC, Psychologist
Robin Beaumont
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
Sellersville, PA 18960
My passion is helping people find their strength to cope with life challenges.I work alongside clients to help them discover and embrace their personal power. I feel my life work is to help people gain strength to move beyond the struggles of life and realize their full potential.
My passion is helping people find their strength to cope with life challenges.I work alongside clients to help them discover and embrace their personal power. I feel my life work is to help people gain strength to move beyond the struggles of life and realize their full potential.
(215) 874-6017 View (215) 874-6017
Photo of Nicole Cantor, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Cantor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sellersville, PA 18960
Throughout my work and training, I feel I have relearned the meaning of therapy. I, like most, used to see therapy as only a solution to a problem. Something has to be wrong in order for one to seek therapy. While counselors are certainly here to help with symptoms and adversities, I encourage anyone seeking growth and perspective to consider therapy. We have all heard the phrase, “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it.” Why do we have to wait for something to be broken? Reach out for support now, wherever you are in your timeline, because you deserve it and that’s ok.
Throughout my work and training, I feel I have relearned the meaning of therapy. I, like most, used to see therapy as only a solution to a problem. Something has to be wrong in order for one to seek therapy. While counselors are certainly here to help with symptoms and adversities, I encourage anyone seeking growth and perspective to consider therapy. We have all heard the phrase, “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it.” Why do we have to wait for something to be broken? Reach out for support now, wherever you are in your timeline, because you deserve it and that’s ok.
(267) 263-7271 View (267) 263-7271
Photo of Zoe A Carver, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zoe A Carver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sellersville, PA 18960
You are strong. You are unique. We can, and will, do this together. I pride myself on making the uncomfortable, comfortable. The Practice setting offers a safe, warm and learning environment. We can meet in the office, the park, or outside in nature on a walk. Our time together will be focused on personal growth and a deeper understanding of the actions that will allow for peace, balance and a positive human experience.
You are strong. You are unique. We can, and will, do this together. I pride myself on making the uncomfortable, comfortable. The Practice setting offers a safe, warm and learning environment. We can meet in the office, the park, or outside in nature on a walk. Our time together will be focused on personal growth and a deeper understanding of the actions that will allow for peace, balance and a positive human experience.
(610) 557-0109 View (610) 557-0109
Photo of William C. Roth, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William C. Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Sellersville, PA 18960
I have been helping others navigate their lives for nearly 35 years. Therapy can help you see from a new vantage point. Expect to resolve and heal distress linked to experiences of your past. Begin to recognize habits that no longer serve you. Practice being clear; responsible with your feelings and ask for what you need. Begin to build and reinforce healthy boundaries with others. Stop giving away your power. Practice thoughtful irritation; ending cycles of distressing anger that lead to shame and self criticism. Be kinder to yourself and practice making better choices. Only you can change your internal response to what is.
I have been helping others navigate their lives for nearly 35 years. Therapy can help you see from a new vantage point. Expect to resolve and heal distress linked to experiences of your past. Begin to recognize habits that no longer serve you. Practice being clear; responsible with your feelings and ask for what you need. Begin to build and reinforce healthy boundaries with others. Stop giving away your power. Practice thoughtful irritation; ending cycles of distressing anger that lead to shame and self criticism. Be kinder to yourself and practice making better choices. Only you can change your internal response to what is.
(215) 995-5074 View (215) 995-5074
Photo of Kate Sutphin, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kate Sutphin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sellersville, PA 18960
Whether you’re looking for support, a safe space, someone to help you make sense of everything inside — I’m here to help. You are the expert on yourself and your journey. I’m your guide to give you perspective, dig deeper, and be a reflective listener. Sometimes therapy can look like problem solving and learning new skills. My work is always rooted in proven therapeutic methods. Therapy with me looks different for everyone because I will focus on your goals and work with your strengths and needs.
Whether you’re looking for support, a safe space, someone to help you make sense of everything inside — I’m here to help. You are the expert on yourself and your journey. I’m your guide to give you perspective, dig deeper, and be a reflective listener. Sometimes therapy can look like problem solving and learning new skills. My work is always rooted in proven therapeutic methods. Therapy with me looks different for everyone because I will focus on your goals and work with your strengths and needs.
(267) 641-9614 View (267) 641-9614
Photo of James A. Baldwin - Professional Counseling Services, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Professional Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Sellersville, PA 18960  (Online Only)
Welcome to PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING SERVICES. Human beings often struggle with unpleasant thoughts, feelings and sensations that can seem almost unbearable and impact our behaviors and relationships. When we are consumed with emotional pain and suffering, it becomes a challenge to attend to other important parts of our life. This may be an important time for you where you realize that your life has shrunk significantly and you would like to create a life 'worth living' for yourself again.
Welcome to PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING SERVICES. Human beings often struggle with unpleasant thoughts, feelings and sensations that can seem almost unbearable and impact our behaviors and relationships. When we are consumed with emotional pain and suffering, it becomes a challenge to attend to other important parts of our life. This may be an important time for you where you realize that your life has shrunk significantly and you would like to create a life 'worth living' for yourself again.
(267) 356-4861 View (267) 356-4861

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jenna Desrosiers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Desrosiers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perkasie, PA 18944
I focus on one's strengths and offer CBT, DBT, ACT, and ERP techniques to help manage depression and anxiety.
Are you a mom or a future mom who is trying to adjust to pregnancy and life after having a child? Are you neurodivergent and trying to process dealing with a world that feels like it just does not get you? Are you a young adult who is adjusting to life after college? Are you feeling hopeless or worried about the future? So much is unknown and is constantly changing in this world. By working on coping skills and ways to be more self-compassionate, I can help you feel like "you" again.
I focus on one's strengths and offer CBT, DBT, ACT, and ERP techniques to help manage depression and anxiety.
Are you a mom or a future mom who is trying to adjust to pregnancy and life after having a child? Are you neurodivergent and trying to process dealing with a world that feels like it just does not get you? Are you a young adult who is adjusting to life after college? Are you feeling hopeless or worried about the future? So much is unknown and is constantly changing in this world. By working on coping skills and ways to be more self-compassionate, I can help you feel like "you" again.
(919) 585-1069 View (919) 585-1069
Photo of Susan R Hansen - Susan R. Hansen LCSW, LCSW, BCD, TEAM L3, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan R. Hansen LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, TEAM L3
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Perkasie, PA 18944
Susan has worked successfully with individuals diagnosed with mild to severe depression and anxiety problems, newly married and older couples experiencing infidelity, and chronic illness/disappointments.
Have you ever wondered; "Are the problems in my life because of the people around me, or is there something wrong with me?" Susan uses "TEAM Cognitive Behavioral Therapy" which is sweeping the world! TEAM does not focus on pathology, it's effort is to teach Mental Health, and how to stabilize your mood to produce confidence and joy! I ask my client's to practice new ways of thinking every week to keep therapeutic momentum and energy high. My current training with the FeelingGoodInstitute.com "TEAM Cognitive Behavioral Therapy" has energized my work and led to faster results and higher levels of client satisfaction.
Susan has worked successfully with individuals diagnosed with mild to severe depression and anxiety problems, newly married and older couples experiencing infidelity, and chronic illness/disappointments.
Have you ever wondered; "Are the problems in my life because of the people around me, or is there something wrong with me?" Susan uses "TEAM Cognitive Behavioral Therapy" which is sweeping the world! TEAM does not focus on pathology, it's effort is to teach Mental Health, and how to stabilize your mood to produce confidence and joy! I ask my client's to practice new ways of thinking every week to keep therapeutic momentum and energy high. My current training with the FeelingGoodInstitute.com "TEAM Cognitive Behavioral Therapy" has energized my work and led to faster results and higher levels of client satisfaction.
(215) 995-0026 View (215) 995-0026
Photo of Cara Dececchis, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cara Dececchis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Perkasie, PA 18944
As a licensed clinician, my goal is to create a supportive and safe space for individuals and their families to process their experiences. I hope to support others with exploring their individual symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma etc. that have affected their lives and the impact on their families. In therapy, my goal is to instill hope for positive growth and change. I implement a variety of therapeutic models to support development of healthy coping skills, self-confidence, non-judgmental acceptance, developing healthy support systems, and motivation for growth and healing.
As a licensed clinician, my goal is to create a supportive and safe space for individuals and their families to process their experiences. I hope to support others with exploring their individual symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma etc. that have affected their lives and the impact on their families. In therapy, my goal is to instill hope for positive growth and change. I implement a variety of therapeutic models to support development of healthy coping skills, self-confidence, non-judgmental acceptance, developing healthy support systems, and motivation for growth and healing.
(267) 460-5523 View (267) 460-5523
Photo of Tamika Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamika Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Perkasie, PA 18944  (Online Only)
I specialize in the following: Anxiety, facing and managing substance abuse, and other addictions, depression, anger/underlining powerlessness, and helplessness.
My name is Tamika Johnson-Ogbu and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma informed therapy, reality therapy and motivational interviewing. I have also earned a Masters in Divinity where I have received a solid knowledge of pastoral care and Christian counseling. My focus is on the whole person, body, soul and spirit. My aim is to help you regain a sense of hope for your life that is found in Jesus Christ.
I specialize in the following: Anxiety, facing and managing substance abuse, and other addictions, depression, anger/underlining powerlessness, and helplessness.
My name is Tamika Johnson-Ogbu and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma informed therapy, reality therapy and motivational interviewing. I have also earned a Masters in Divinity where I have received a solid knowledge of pastoral care and Christian counseling. My focus is on the whole person, body, soul and spirit. My aim is to help you regain a sense of hope for your life that is found in Jesus Christ.
(484) 882-0418 View (484) 882-0418
Photo of Emily Hallahan, LPC, NCC, CCTP, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Hallahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Perkasie, PA 18944  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with Trauma/Abuse, Women’s Issues, Life Transitions, Anxiety, and Depression through a Trauma-Informed and Empowerment-Based approach that is tailored to each Client’s individual needs.
Asking for help is one of the most challenging steps towards making meaningful changes in our lives. Often we feel that our problems are “not bad enough” or that “others have had it worse,” which prevent us from reaching out to others for support when we need it the most. This could not be further from the truth. Everyone deserves and is worthy of receiving support; we need not struggle in silence. I believe that no two individuals' experiences are the same and therefore neither are our therapeutic and healing journeys.
I specialize in working with Trauma/Abuse, Women’s Issues, Life Transitions, Anxiety, and Depression through a Trauma-Informed and Empowerment-Based approach that is tailored to each Client’s individual needs.
Asking for help is one of the most challenging steps towards making meaningful changes in our lives. Often we feel that our problems are “not bad enough” or that “others have had it worse,” which prevent us from reaching out to others for support when we need it the most. This could not be further from the truth. Everyone deserves and is worthy of receiving support; we need not struggle in silence. I believe that no two individuals' experiences are the same and therefore neither are our therapeutic and healing journeys.
(215) 234-7760 View (215) 234-7760
Photo of Michael Avender, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Avender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Perkasie, PA 18944
If you're dealing with trauma, anxiety, LGBTQ+ concerns, grief, depression, or general life stress, I'm here to help.
Are you feeling stuck, consumed by your thoughts or overwhelmed by your emotions? You’re not alone. Many of the people I work with face challenges like anxiety, PTSD, complex trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, depression, or stressful life changes. These struggles can lead to low self-esteem, boundary issues, relationship troubles, feelings of hopelessness, negative self-talk, & perfectionism. My goal is to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where we can work together to find meaningful, long-term change. Whether it’s dealing with daily stress or tackling deeper, ongoing issues, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
If you're dealing with trauma, anxiety, LGBTQ+ concerns, grief, depression, or general life stress, I'm here to help.
Are you feeling stuck, consumed by your thoughts or overwhelmed by your emotions? You’re not alone. Many of the people I work with face challenges like anxiety, PTSD, complex trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, depression, or stressful life changes. These struggles can lead to low self-esteem, boundary issues, relationship troubles, feelings of hopelessness, negative self-talk, & perfectionism. My goal is to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where we can work together to find meaningful, long-term change. Whether it’s dealing with daily stress or tackling deeper, ongoing issues, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
(267) 680-7165 View (267) 680-7165
Photo of Tamika Marie Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamika Marie Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Perkasie, PA 18944  (Online Only)
Depression & anger/underlining powerlessness & helplessness.
My name is Tamika Johnson-Ogbu and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma informed therapy, reality therapy and motivational interviewing. I have also earned a Masters in Divinity where I have received a solid knowledge of pastoral care and Christian counseling. My focus is on the whole person, body, soul and spirit. My aim is to help you regain a sense of hope for your life that is found in Jesus Christ.
Depression & anger/underlining powerlessness & helplessness.
My name is Tamika Johnson-Ogbu and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma informed therapy, reality therapy and motivational interviewing. I have also earned a Masters in Divinity where I have received a solid knowledge of pastoral care and Christian counseling. My focus is on the whole person, body, soul and spirit. My aim is to help you regain a sense of hope for your life that is found in Jesus Christ.
(267) 848-8640 View (267) 848-8640
Photo of Erin R. Eagles, MSS, LCSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin R. Eagles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hilltown, PA 18927
My ideal client is someone ready to delve into their inner world to find clarity and change. They may struggle with trauma, disordered eating, anxiety, or mood disorders, seeking a safe space to understand and make sense of life’s challenges. Their goals often include living more fully, developing healthier boundaries, and improving relationships. They value deep, reflective work in a compassionate, non-judgmental space, striving to cultivate insight and self-acceptance to enhance their quality of life.
My ideal client is someone ready to delve into their inner world to find clarity and change. They may struggle with trauma, disordered eating, anxiety, or mood disorders, seeking a safe space to understand and make sense of life’s challenges. Their goals often include living more fully, developing healthier boundaries, and improving relationships. They value deep, reflective work in a compassionate, non-judgmental space, striving to cultivate insight and self-acceptance to enhance their quality of life.
(215) 398-7325 View (215) 398-7325
Photo of Elizabeth Otto - Introspective Alliance, LLC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Introspective Alliance, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perkasie, PA 18944
Today's world is plagued by distractions that take us away from what is fundamentally important. Learning to separate from an illogical need to please others may allow us to determine our path and help us to be true to ourselves. There is no such thing as an ideal client, only willingness to look within as a shared experience is necessary for growth.
Today's world is plagued by distractions that take us away from what is fundamentally important. Learning to separate from an illogical need to please others may allow us to determine our path and help us to be true to ourselves. There is no such thing as an ideal client, only willingness to look within as a shared experience is necessary for growth.
(267) 354-8264 View (267) 354-8264
Photo of Erika Maguire, MA, MT-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika Maguire
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MT-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Perkasie, PA 18944
Waitlist for new clients
Stress, worry, anxiety- It sucks. Like an unwelcome guest that just won't leave. It's paralyzing. You find yourself under pressure to make the right decisions and keep it all together all the time. That voice inside your head keeps nagging, "Why can't I just be 'normal' and stop worrying? Why is everything so hard?" You may carry the mental load of the household or feel like there's no time. On the outside, things may seem perfectly fine, but inside, it's a different story. Life feels like an impossible maze with all this self-doubt, constant worry, and the weight of expectations. You know you're capable, but it feels out of reach.
Stress, worry, anxiety- It sucks. Like an unwelcome guest that just won't leave. It's paralyzing. You find yourself under pressure to make the right decisions and keep it all together all the time. That voice inside your head keeps nagging, "Why can't I just be 'normal' and stop worrying? Why is everything so hard?" You may carry the mental load of the household or feel like there's no time. On the outside, things may seem perfectly fine, but inside, it's a different story. Life feels like an impossible maze with all this self-doubt, constant worry, and the weight of expectations. You know you're capable, but it feels out of reach.
(215) 398-6067 View (215) 398-6067

See more therapy options for Sellersville

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.