Depression Therapists in Warminster, PA

Photo of John Bolger, PsyD, Psychologist
John Bolger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
I specialize in the treatment of symptoms of anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, relationship issues, and social anxiety; and have assisted clients with improving skills in assertiveness, in adapting to life changes, and avoiding ongoing participation in chronic maladaptive behaviors.
Whether you are beginning or continuing your psychotherapy journey, I believe that a thorough assessment of your strengths and specific areas in your life that may benefit from clinical attention. My focus is providing therapeutic supports towards you achieving success in your life as your define it. My practice is informed by psychotherapy principles that promote a collaborative approach to therapy including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic approaches. My practice includes providing assessment and treatment services for adults, couples, and teenagers. I accept coverage from most major insurance companies and a sliding scale is also available.
I specialize in the treatment of symptoms of anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, relationship issues, and social anxiety; and have assisted clients with improving skills in assertiveness, in adapting to life changes, and avoiding ongoing participation in chronic maladaptive behaviors.
Whether you are beginning or continuing your psychotherapy journey, I believe that a thorough assessment of your strengths and specific areas in your life that may benefit from clinical attention. My focus is providing therapeutic supports towards you achieving success in your life as your define it. My practice is informed by psychotherapy principles that promote a collaborative approach to therapy including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic approaches. My practice includes providing assessment and treatment services for adults, couples, and teenagers. I accept coverage from most major insurance companies and a sliding scale is also available.
(215) 607-7747 View (215) 607-7747
Photo of Andrea Distler, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Distler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters Degree from Eastern University and have been working in the mental health field the last 7 years as a Mobile Therapist, Crisis Counselor, and Child and Adolescent Therapist. I help adolescents struggling with depression and anxiety develop healthy coping mechanisms and work through life's many challenges.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters Degree from Eastern University and have been working in the mental health field the last 7 years as a Mobile Therapist, Crisis Counselor, and Child and Adolescent Therapist. I help adolescents struggling with depression and anxiety develop healthy coping mechanisms and work through life's many challenges.
(215) 918-7264 View (215) 918-7264
Photo of Erin Austin, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Austin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, trauma, difficulties adjusting to life transitions, substance abuse, domestic violence, as well as treating individuals that may be involved in the criminal justice system.
I believe that life can be difficult to navigate, and everyone has their own personal story or journey to tell sometimes we just need a safe space for it. I try to place the utmost importance on treating everyone as an individual and understanding what they are personally and individually dealing with at that time. In supporting clients with guidance and empathy in a non-judgmental environment to process these areas of need in order to better cope is not only helpful but paramount to dealing with whatever life might or has thrown your way.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, trauma, difficulties adjusting to life transitions, substance abuse, domestic violence, as well as treating individuals that may be involved in the criminal justice system.
I believe that life can be difficult to navigate, and everyone has their own personal story or journey to tell sometimes we just need a safe space for it. I try to place the utmost importance on treating everyone as an individual and understanding what they are personally and individually dealing with at that time. In supporting clients with guidance and empathy in a non-judgmental environment to process these areas of need in order to better cope is not only helpful but paramount to dealing with whatever life might or has thrown your way.
(215) 234-1307 View (215) 234-1307
Photo of Christine Cloud-O'Brien, LPC, Counselor
Christine Cloud-O'Brien
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety; depression; trauma; PTSD; grief/loss; relationship problems; transition difficulties; substance abuse; or if you just feel stuck.
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety; depression; trauma; PTSD; grief/loss; relationship problems; transition difficulties; substance abuse; or if you just feel stuck.
(215) 515-5241 View (215) 515-5241
Photo of Julia A Hess, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julia A Hess
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
Life can be challenging, but you don't have to endure it alone. I utilize a client-centered, empathetic approach to counseling where you will feel validated and heard. Additionally, I apply a multicultural and feminist view to issues, to help you understand societal impacts on your mental health. I have experience working with Substance Abuse, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, life transitions, and identity issues. I work with adults ages 18 and up. I am welcoming towards those in the LGBTQIA+ community. All intersecting identities are welcomed and accepted in my sessions!
Life can be challenging, but you don't have to endure it alone. I utilize a client-centered, empathetic approach to counseling where you will feel validated and heard. Additionally, I apply a multicultural and feminist view to issues, to help you understand societal impacts on your mental health. I have experience working with Substance Abuse, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, life transitions, and identity issues. I work with adults ages 18 and up. I am welcoming towards those in the LGBTQIA+ community. All intersecting identities are welcomed and accepted in my sessions!
(215) 608-4722 View (215) 608-4722
Photo of Moran Gottesman, PsyD, Psychologist
Moran Gottesman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
Lets face it, life happens and feeling "crazy," is often the result of the situations we find outselves in! In my practice I focus on treating individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relationship difficulties, among other issues that impact the way we function in our daily lives. I approach treatment by understanding what events led to the "craziness" and work with individuals to adjust the ways in which they view and respond to situations contributing to the madness. As a result, clients often develop a view of themselves, others, and the future that is more functional.
Lets face it, life happens and feeling "crazy," is often the result of the situations we find outselves in! In my practice I focus on treating individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relationship difficulties, among other issues that impact the way we function in our daily lives. I approach treatment by understanding what events led to the "craziness" and work with individuals to adjust the ways in which they view and respond to situations contributing to the madness. As a result, clients often develop a view of themselves, others, and the future that is more functional.
(215) 987-4655 View (215) 987-4655
Photo of Stephen Boren, LCP, Psychologist
Stephen Boren
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974  (Online Only)
I am comfortable with a wide range of conditions including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties with spouses and partners, stress, phase of life issues, etc.
Hello. I am Stephen Boren, PsyD, a licensed psychologist in PA. I help clients to understand themselves better, i.e. when did your difficulties start; what prompted the issues you know struggle with. I am a very compassionate and down-to-earth therapist. I believe a comfortable relationship with your therapist is a major aspect of what makes for good outcomes. While my underlying theoretical approach is psychodynamic, I do not cling to any theory while doing therapy. In the first session, I ask clients what they would like to get out of therapy and make suggestions as well for areas of focus. With my client, I monitor progress.
I am comfortable with a wide range of conditions including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties with spouses and partners, stress, phase of life issues, etc.
Hello. I am Stephen Boren, PsyD, a licensed psychologist in PA. I help clients to understand themselves better, i.e. when did your difficulties start; what prompted the issues you know struggle with. I am a very compassionate and down-to-earth therapist. I believe a comfortable relationship with your therapist is a major aspect of what makes for good outcomes. While my underlying theoretical approach is psychodynamic, I do not cling to any theory while doing therapy. In the first session, I ask clients what they would like to get out of therapy and make suggestions as well for areas of focus. With my client, I monitor progress.
(717) 294-0299 View (717) 294-0299
Photo of Jennifer Cella-Roe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Cella-Roe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Warminster, PA 18974  (Online Only)
Do you have a history of trauma, PTSD, depression or anxiety? Give me a call so we can schedule a session and get you on your way to feeling better.
Are you looking to begin your journey to wellness through therapy? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that believes in working together with the client by using my 20+ years of experience to guide you. I can also offer clinical supervision in NJ, as I have completed all requirements. You can expect me to be an empathic and honest person, to help you make these changes so you can live a more fulfilling life. It’s time you focused on yourself and enriched your life through psychotherapy.
Do you have a history of trauma, PTSD, depression or anxiety? Give me a call so we can schedule a session and get you on your way to feeling better.
Are you looking to begin your journey to wellness through therapy? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that believes in working together with the client by using my 20+ years of experience to guide you. I can also offer clinical supervision in NJ, as I have completed all requirements. You can expect me to be an empathic and honest person, to help you make these changes so you can live a more fulfilling life. It’s time you focused on yourself and enriched your life through psychotherapy.
(609) 557-3295 View (609) 557-3295
Photo of Karen Fithian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Fithian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
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 Kathryn Graham, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
I specialize in working with adults, 18+, who have experienced trauma as a child and/or adult. I also focus on treating women struggling with Depression, Relationship Issues, Grief, Narcissistic Abuse, and Complex Life Issues. I am gender affirming, and work with people of color from different ethnic/cultural and religious backgrounds. I believe that treatment should be personalized to each person’s unique needs and situation, therefore I use a variety of treatment modalities, including Mindfulness and EMDR.
I specialize in working with adults, 18+, who have experienced trauma as a child and/or adult. I also focus on treating women struggling with Depression, Relationship Issues, Grief, Narcissistic Abuse, and Complex Life Issues. I am gender affirming, and work with people of color from different ethnic/cultural and religious backgrounds. I believe that treatment should be personalized to each person’s unique needs and situation, therefore I use a variety of treatment modalities, including Mindfulness and EMDR.
(267) 641-9658 View (267) 641-9658
Photo of Helene Burke, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Helene Burke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974  (Online Only)
Thank you for considering me as your counselor. I have experience providing group, telephonic, online, and individual counseling to help individuals thrive, not just survive. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. I focus on solution-oriented therapies to assist individuals in thriving beyond the challenges of Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Self-acceptance, Coping skill development, Work stress, and Co-Occurring Disorders.
Thank you for considering me as your counselor. I have experience providing group, telephonic, online, and individual counseling to help individuals thrive, not just survive. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. I focus on solution-oriented therapies to assist individuals in thriving beyond the challenges of Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Self-acceptance, Coping skill development, Work stress, and Co-Occurring Disorders.
(215) 585-2674 View (215) 585-2674
Photo of Alexis R. Lee - Evergreen Counseling & Wellness, LPC, NCC, LCSW, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Evergreen Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
We work with children, teens, adults, families, & couples experiencing emotional, behavioral, and/or situational difficulties, including depression, generalized anxiety, trauma, phobias, panic attacks, communication difficulties, behavior issues, anger management, ADHD, disordered eating, stress management, bullying, grief & loss, life transitions, low self-esteem, parenting, vocational issues, and gender identity exploration/issues.
Accepting New Clients as of September 2024 — Life can be challenging and it is our job to provide you with the tools to cope well with whatever difficulties/demands life may present to you. At Evergreen Counseling & Wellness, we tailor therapy to your needs and strengths to help you achieve realistic goals. We want you to feel you can handle whatever is thrown your way. We believe that establishing a healthy, supportive therapeutic relationship & providing an environment where you feel safe and able to openly express yourself without feeling judged is critical to heal and grow.
We work with children, teens, adults, families, & couples experiencing emotional, behavioral, and/or situational difficulties, including depression, generalized anxiety, trauma, phobias, panic attacks, communication difficulties, behavior issues, anger management, ADHD, disordered eating, stress management, bullying, grief & loss, life transitions, low self-esteem, parenting, vocational issues, and gender identity exploration/issues.
Accepting New Clients as of September 2024 — Life can be challenging and it is our job to provide you with the tools to cope well with whatever difficulties/demands life may present to you. At Evergreen Counseling & Wellness, we tailor therapy to your needs and strengths to help you achieve realistic goals. We want you to feel you can handle whatever is thrown your way. We believe that establishing a healthy, supportive therapeutic relationship & providing an environment where you feel safe and able to openly express yourself without feeling judged is critical to heal and grow.
(215) 642-8058 View (215) 642-8058
Photo of Lauren DeSouza, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren DeSouza
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
Sometimes life challenges can be difficult to cope with and making a choice to seek therapy can be scary in itself. Each person is unique in their own way, and I recognize the importance of "meeting you where you are at." I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I specialize in treating adolescents and adults struggling with Addiction, Co-Occurring Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Mood Disorders, and Adjustment/Transition difficulties.
Sometimes life challenges can be difficult to cope with and making a choice to seek therapy can be scary in itself. Each person is unique in their own way, and I recognize the importance of "meeting you where you are at." I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I specialize in treating adolescents and adults struggling with Addiction, Co-Occurring Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Mood Disorders, and Adjustment/Transition difficulties.
(215) 977-4471 View (215) 977-4471
Photo of Derek Pendleton, LCSW, ACSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derek Pendleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
(267) 800-2903 View (267) 800-2903
Photo of Teresa Ann Glatthorn, MA, PsyD, RPT-S, Psychologist
Teresa Ann Glatthorn
Psychologist, MA, PsyD, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warminster, PA 18974  (Online Only)
As a holistic psychologist and interfaith minister, I understand clients' situations in the context of mind, body and spirit. I provide psychotherapy to individuals in a relaxed and respectful atmosphere. My clients have healed from depression, anxiety, trauma, life changes, divorce, parenting challenges, grief, and stress. I offer alternative healing with a variety of psychotherapy approaches for a quicker, more lasting healing. It is an honor to empower people to return to self-understanding, wellness and joy. My journey has taught me that each life challenge is an opportunity to grow.
As a holistic psychologist and interfaith minister, I understand clients' situations in the context of mind, body and spirit. I provide psychotherapy to individuals in a relaxed and respectful atmosphere. My clients have healed from depression, anxiety, trauma, life changes, divorce, parenting challenges, grief, and stress. I offer alternative healing with a variety of psychotherapy approaches for a quicker, more lasting healing. It is an honor to empower people to return to self-understanding, wellness and joy. My journey has taught me that each life challenge is an opportunity to grow.
(215) 672-6627 View (215) 672-6627
Photo of Amy Joseph, MS, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Joseph
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warminster, PA 18974  (Online Only)
I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, school/social stress, adjustment/life transitions, narcissistic abuse, family, marital & relationship matters, grief, self-esteem, anger management & addiction/recovery concerns.
The fact that you’re reading this means that you're ready to feel better. It takes courage to reach out to a therapist and means that you have hope that things can be better. Hope is what fuels the work of therapy and together we can help you to manage anxiety, depression and stress so that you can live your happiest life. Therapy is such a rewarding process and I know firsthand that it works and that YOU are so worth it. Being a therapist is my calling, my passion and my purpose and it would be my honor to travel with you on your journey to your Apogee, to your highest self, your journey to YOU!
I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, school/social stress, adjustment/life transitions, narcissistic abuse, family, marital & relationship matters, grief, self-esteem, anger management & addiction/recovery concerns.
The fact that you’re reading this means that you're ready to feel better. It takes courage to reach out to a therapist and means that you have hope that things can be better. Hope is what fuels the work of therapy and together we can help you to manage anxiety, depression and stress so that you can live your happiest life. Therapy is such a rewarding process and I know firsthand that it works and that YOU are so worth it. Being a therapist is my calling, my passion and my purpose and it would be my honor to travel with you on your journey to your Apogee, to your highest self, your journey to YOU!
(267) 291-0159 View (267) 291-0159
Photo of Kevin Meyer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
Kevin received his Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Harding University and has experience working with a diverse population of clients including children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. He also has extensive experience in treating anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, schizophrenia, co-occurring disorders, self-image struggles, intrusive thoughts, relational struggles, couples and marital therapy, as well as experience in handling and responding to crisis situations.
Kevin received his Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Harding University and has experience working with a diverse population of clients including children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. He also has extensive experience in treating anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, schizophrenia, co-occurring disorders, self-image struggles, intrusive thoughts, relational struggles, couples and marital therapy, as well as experience in handling and responding to crisis situations.
(267) 833-2955 View (267) 833-2955
Photo of Mindy Rushbrook, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy Rushbrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
Ms. Rushbrook received her Master's of Social Services from Bryn Mawr College. As a licensed clinical social worker she works with children, families, individuals and couples. Mindy takes a person centered, solutions based approach with her clients. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, grieving, loss, trauma, ADD, self esteem and family issues. Ms. Rushbrook utilizes CBT and Motivational Interviewing as well as other treatment modalities as indicated which can vary from individual to individual.
Ms. Rushbrook received her Master's of Social Services from Bryn Mawr College. As a licensed clinical social worker she works with children, families, individuals and couples. Mindy takes a person centered, solutions based approach with her clients. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, grieving, loss, trauma, ADD, self esteem and family issues. Ms. Rushbrook utilizes CBT and Motivational Interviewing as well as other treatment modalities as indicated which can vary from individual to individual.
(267) 641-4885 View (267) 641-4885
Photo of Christina Atkinson, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Atkinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974  (Online Only)
Life is too short to wake up everyday and not feel fulfilled, surrender to bad relationships, let trauma control us, allow anxiety/stress to overcome us, and feel depressed or angry all the time.
Hi! I'm here and ready to help you! I know there are a lot of choices out there for therapists/counselors and whether this is your first time looking for one or you've been through this before, it can feel overwhelming and stressful. Just as much as you are looking for the "right therapist", I am seeking the ideal client to help support, address their issues, alleviate their symptoms, and help them achieve their goals. Everyone is at a different place in their mental health journey. I want to meet you where you are in that journey and work through your struggles at a pace that feels right for you!
Life is too short to wake up everyday and not feel fulfilled, surrender to bad relationships, let trauma control us, allow anxiety/stress to overcome us, and feel depressed or angry all the time.
Hi! I'm here and ready to help you! I know there are a lot of choices out there for therapists/counselors and whether this is your first time looking for one or you've been through this before, it can feel overwhelming and stressful. Just as much as you are looking for the "right therapist", I am seeking the ideal client to help support, address their issues, alleviate their symptoms, and help them achieve their goals. Everyone is at a different place in their mental health journey. I want to meet you where you are in that journey and work through your struggles at a pace that feels right for you!
(267) 310-3055 View (267) 310-3055
Photo of Lauren Dunleavy, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Dunleavy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warminster, PA 18974
Are you someone who is feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, parenting, adolescent concerns or relationship concerns and finding it difficult to navigate daily life? Do you struggle with feeling sad, low self-esteem, or constant worry about the future? Do you feel stuck, or overwhelmed with no motivation? Your needs are multifaceted, requiring a compassionate and non-judgmental space to express your emotions, as well as practical tools to manage your symptoms. Do your goals include finding relief from mental health struggles, building resilience, and regaining a sense of control and purpose in life?
Are you someone who is feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, parenting, adolescent concerns or relationship concerns and finding it difficult to navigate daily life? Do you struggle with feeling sad, low self-esteem, or constant worry about the future? Do you feel stuck, or overwhelmed with no motivation? Your needs are multifaceted, requiring a compassionate and non-judgmental space to express your emotions, as well as practical tools to manage your symptoms. Do your goals include finding relief from mental health struggles, building resilience, and regaining a sense of control and purpose in life?
(267) 209-8827 View (267) 209-8827
1
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.