Photo of Shiri Kessel, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shiri Kessel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Sometimes life throws us curveballs, and we might feel stressed, overloaded, or struggle to make decisions. You might be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, unhealthy relationship patterns, major life decisions, professional and academic performance, or parenting issues. These challenges might be keeping you up at night or are interfering with your peace of mind. As a therapist, my primary goal is to provide a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment for my clients, to explore their thoughts and feelings.
Sometimes life throws us curveballs, and we might feel stressed, overloaded, or struggle to make decisions. You might be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, unhealthy relationship patterns, major life decisions, professional and academic performance, or parenting issues. These challenges might be keeping you up at night or are interfering with your peace of mind. As a therapist, my primary goal is to provide a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment for my clients, to explore their thoughts and feelings.
(857) 453-8522 View (857) 453-8522
Photo of Leonard Joel Sommer, PhD, Psychologist
Leonard Joel Sommer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
Anxiety and depression are usually some of the difficulties people deal with most successfully with me.
Psychotherapy, as I define it to my patients and students, is the collaborative inquiry between patient and therapist into the patient's patterns of interaction and patterns of expectation. This kind of study leads to greater personal and interpersonal freedom, which allows for the reduction or the elimination of symptoms. Psychotherapy can be of brief duration or an extended enterprise focusing on long term difficulties. The decision on which form of psychotherapy to undertake is usually based on an evaluation of 1 to 3 sessions, where a treatment plan is developed. I am interactive in my approach.
Anxiety and depression are usually some of the difficulties people deal with most successfully with me.
Psychotherapy, as I define it to my patients and students, is the collaborative inquiry between patient and therapist into the patient's patterns of interaction and patterns of expectation. This kind of study leads to greater personal and interpersonal freedom, which allows for the reduction or the elimination of symptoms. Psychotherapy can be of brief duration or an extended enterprise focusing on long term difficulties. The decision on which form of psychotherapy to undertake is usually based on an evaluation of 1 to 3 sessions, where a treatment plan is developed. I am interactive in my approach.
(781) 854-3895 x2 View (781) 854-3895 x2
Photo of Joshua Enos, LMHC, Counselor
Joshua Enos
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I have experience working with teens and adults struggling with anxiety and depression, trauma, and grief or loss.
Life is hard, and we're all in this together. I know, it’s a little cliche, but cliches exist for a reason! The approach I bring to my work is one of compassionate curiosity in which we work together to develop a therapy that works for you. Therapy is only as effective as the strength and authenticity of the relationship you develop with your counselor. I incorporate elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness and existential therapy, but largely rely on the development of our relationship to inform our work. These are stressful times and I strive to be a fellow traveler as we move forward.
I have experience working with teens and adults struggling with anxiety and depression, trauma, and grief or loss.
Life is hard, and we're all in this together. I know, it’s a little cliche, but cliches exist for a reason! The approach I bring to my work is one of compassionate curiosity in which we work together to develop a therapy that works for you. Therapy is only as effective as the strength and authenticity of the relationship you develop with your counselor. I incorporate elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness and existential therapy, but largely rely on the development of our relationship to inform our work. These are stressful times and I strive to be a fellow traveler as we move forward.
(781) 527-4706 View (781) 527-4706
Photo of Laura Curtiss Feder, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Curtiss Feder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Change is hard. People often seek psychotherapy around change. They want to change. People in their life want them to change. Or some life change is affecting them in a meaningful way. Often, it's a combination. By working together I can help you in this challenge. I frequently work with adolescents and adults struggling with addiction in themselves or in their families. Many of my patients are addressing anxiety, depression, questions or challenges regarding their sexual orientation, infertility, life transitions, traumatic experiences or eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors. A lot of my patients are college or graduate students.
Change is hard. People often seek psychotherapy around change. They want to change. People in their life want them to change. Or some life change is affecting them in a meaningful way. Often, it's a combination. By working together I can help you in this challenge. I frequently work with adolescents and adults struggling with addiction in themselves or in their families. Many of my patients are addressing anxiety, depression, questions or challenges regarding their sexual orientation, infertility, life transitions, traumatic experiences or eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors. A lot of my patients are college or graduate students.
(508) 466-6390 View (508) 466-6390
Photo of Dr. Alanna Downing, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Alanna Downing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My approach integrates a variety of evidence-based practices including psychodynamic, CBT & DBT. I have been effective at utilizing these treatment modalities to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, and other clinical concerns. Clients also come to my practice to improve relationships and navigate stressful life changes. I have in person and Telehealth availability for children and adults in Shadyside, PA.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My approach integrates a variety of evidence-based practices including psychodynamic, CBT & DBT. I have been effective at utilizing these treatment modalities to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, and other clinical concerns. Clients also come to my practice to improve relationships and navigate stressful life changes. I have in person and Telehealth availability for children and adults in Shadyside, PA.
(412) 314-2578 View (412) 314-2578
Photo of Cassie Cardoza, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor
Cassie Cardoza
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481
I am here to make the experiences of therapy and life coaching extremely easy and comfortable for you. I help individuals and couples that may be feeling stuck, lost, or confused find their way again and overcome obstacles that may be getting in their way. Together, we will identify patterns in your life that you would like to change and develop the skills necessary to change them. My background includes working with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, family conflict, estrangement/no contact, parenting, perinatal and postnatal mental health, and difficulty with self esteem.
I am here to make the experiences of therapy and life coaching extremely easy and comfortable for you. I help individuals and couples that may be feeling stuck, lost, or confused find their way again and overcome obstacles that may be getting in their way. Together, we will identify patterns in your life that you would like to change and develop the skills necessary to change them. My background includes working with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, family conflict, estrangement/no contact, parenting, perinatal and postnatal mental health, and difficulty with self esteem.
(774) 357-0877 View (774) 357-0877
Photo of Garima L Menon, PhD, Psychologist
Garima L Menon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
With over two decades of experience, I have worked with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, cross cultural concerns, & transitions in older age.
Most of us do the best we can with the resources we have. Sometimes we think no one understands our worries & fears. If open to it, we want to work with a therapist when our usual ways of relating aren't helping & we feel stuck, anxious, angry or depressed. Therapy often helps provide insight into our strengths & internal resources we already have to help navigate challenging times. In sessions, I focus on working with clients to unlock this strength to steer their lives in the direction they want. I bring curiosity, warmth, respect, & empathy to my sessions.
With over two decades of experience, I have worked with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, cross cultural concerns, & transitions in older age.
Most of us do the best we can with the resources we have. Sometimes we think no one understands our worries & fears. If open to it, we want to work with a therapist when our usual ways of relating aren't helping & we feel stuck, anxious, angry or depressed. Therapy often helps provide insight into our strengths & internal resources we already have to help navigate challenging times. In sessions, I focus on working with clients to unlock this strength to steer their lives in the direction they want. I bring curiosity, warmth, respect, & empathy to my sessions.
(617) 917-2337 View (617) 917-2337
Photo of Corinne Schuman, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Corinne Schuman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
Congratulations on taking a step toward creating change in your life. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor. I have extensive experience and offer support for people struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, difficult life transitions, family conflict, trauma, and addictions/substance abuse.
Congratulations on taking a step toward creating change in your life. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor. I have extensive experience and offer support for people struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, difficult life transitions, family conflict, trauma, and addictions/substance abuse.
(617) 206-1731 View (617) 206-1731
Photo of Maggie Jarmolowski, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggie Jarmolowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I have extensive experience working with students and adults struggling with depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress.
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" (-Mary Oliver) Hello! I've had the privilege of providing psychotherapy to clients in the Boston/Cambridge area for more than 17 years. In my practice I establish a caring, safe environment where clients can feel comfortable exploring their concerns. Whether you are new to therapy or have found therapy to be helpful in the past, I use a collaborative process that respects your comfort level and your goals for treatment.
I have extensive experience working with students and adults struggling with depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress.
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" (-Mary Oliver) Hello! I've had the privilege of providing psychotherapy to clients in the Boston/Cambridge area for more than 17 years. In my practice I establish a caring, safe environment where clients can feel comfortable exploring their concerns. Whether you are new to therapy or have found therapy to be helpful in the past, I use a collaborative process that respects your comfort level and your goals for treatment.
(617) 858-6840 View (617) 858-6840
Photo of Jessica Butler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
I have worked with many individuals and families that struggle with depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, substance abuse, and abusive relationships. In addition, I have experience working with children that are struggling with adoption. I specialize in family-systems models, attachment oriented therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. By utilizing an individualized insight-oriented approach, I can help both children and adults process emotions and achieve positive progress to reach their goals. I am a strong believer of the mind/body/spirit connection.
I have worked with many individuals and families that struggle with depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, substance abuse, and abusive relationships. In addition, I have experience working with children that are struggling with adoption. I specialize in family-systems models, attachment oriented therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. By utilizing an individualized insight-oriented approach, I can help both children and adults process emotions and achieve positive progress to reach their goals. I am a strong believer of the mind/body/spirit connection.
(339) 329-7238 View (339) 329-7238
Photo of Dr. Mitch Abblett, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Mitch Abblett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I offer services for adult and teens with concerns such as anxiety, depression or performance enhancement.
As a Boston-area psychologist for over 15 years, I focus on mindfulness-based work with teens, parents, families with whom I facilitate healthy change and growth. I have clinical experience from various settings (hospitals, outpatient clinics, residential facilities & therapeutic schools). For over a decade, I served as the Clinical Director of the Manville School at Judge Baker Children's Center in Boston - a Harvard-affiliated therapeutic school program for kids with emotional, behavioral and learning difficulties. I also recently served as the Executive Director of the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy (IMP) in Boston.
I offer services for adult and teens with concerns such as anxiety, depression or performance enhancement.
As a Boston-area psychologist for over 15 years, I focus on mindfulness-based work with teens, parents, families with whom I facilitate healthy change and growth. I have clinical experience from various settings (hospitals, outpatient clinics, residential facilities & therapeutic schools). For over a decade, I served as the Clinical Director of the Manville School at Judge Baker Children's Center in Boston - a Harvard-affiliated therapeutic school program for kids with emotional, behavioral and learning difficulties. I also recently served as the Executive Director of the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy (IMP) in Boston.
(774) 237-2098 View (774) 237-2098
Photo of Beth Gochberg Wilson, LICSW, CSAT, CCPS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Gochberg Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CSAT, CCPS
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
As a certified Sex Addiction & Partner Trauma Specialist, my role is to help you navigate the traumatic effects of relationship betrayal on your road to recovery, growth, healing & discovery. My approach is empathetic, action oriented, strength & trauma based. I'm committed to working with partners, couples & families impacted by sex addiction & betrayal trauma. As a therapist with over 35 years of experience, I work with a range of emotional & behavioral issues. My clients struggle with anxiety, depression, loss, grief, relationship & intimacy issues, marital & family problems. I offer a personalized approach tailored to your needs
As a certified Sex Addiction & Partner Trauma Specialist, my role is to help you navigate the traumatic effects of relationship betrayal on your road to recovery, growth, healing & discovery. My approach is empathetic, action oriented, strength & trauma based. I'm committed to working with partners, couples & families impacted by sex addiction & betrayal trauma. As a therapist with over 35 years of experience, I work with a range of emotional & behavioral issues. My clients struggle with anxiety, depression, loss, grief, relationship & intimacy issues, marital & family problems. I offer a personalized approach tailored to your needs
(857) 226-4283 View (857) 226-4283
Photo of Debbie Schwartz, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481  (Online Only)
My specialities include: Life Transitions, Chronic Medical Conditions, Loss and Grief, Trauma, Caregiver Stress, Depression, Anxiety, and Issues of Aging.
Welcome to my practice! Are you looking for change? Whether you are seeking help with a major transition or ways to manage the problems of every day life, choosing the right therapist is a very important decision. I provide high quality, compassionate, and confidential care. Finding a therapist for the first time can be a challenging and sometimes intimidating process. I would be pleased to consult with you over the phone at no charge to see if my services are a good fit for what you are experiencing.
My specialities include: Life Transitions, Chronic Medical Conditions, Loss and Grief, Trauma, Caregiver Stress, Depression, Anxiety, and Issues of Aging.
Welcome to my practice! Are you looking for change? Whether you are seeking help with a major transition or ways to manage the problems of every day life, choosing the right therapist is a very important decision. I provide high quality, compassionate, and confidential care. Finding a therapist for the first time can be a challenging and sometimes intimidating process. I would be pleased to consult with you over the phone at no charge to see if my services are a good fit for what you are experiencing.
(508) 669-3575 View (508) 669-3575
Photo of Anna Berestova, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Anna Berestova
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults who present various problems and concerns, such as depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I believe in the power of early interventions to help children and teens develop healthy boundaries and coping skills and have healthier and happier relationships with themselves and others.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults who present various problems and concerns, such as depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I believe in the power of early interventions to help children and teens develop healthy boundaries and coping skills and have healthier and happier relationships with themselves and others.
(781) 230-7729 View (781) 230-7729
Photo of W Rachel Krenis, MA, LMHC, Counselor
W Rachel Krenis
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am qualified and passionate about treating a variety of mental health concerns such as Anxiety and Depression, Family and Relationship Stress, Eating Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Grief and Life Transitional Support, Parenting Support, Women's Issues such as body image concerns, in addition to Substance Abuse Support.
Are you looking for culturally sensitive, creative therapy? I provide culturally sensitive support to individuals seeking virtual counseling for depression, anxiety, transitions, inner peace-finding, and life coaching and planning. I help my clients feel more comfortable within their own bodies and life. I specialize in women's issues, stress and relationship issues. I also support art therapy and helping clients create safe comfortable spaces for everyday living through home design planning. I also provide support to other mental health LMHC professionals who need supervision towards licensure.
I am qualified and passionate about treating a variety of mental health concerns such as Anxiety and Depression, Family and Relationship Stress, Eating Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Grief and Life Transitional Support, Parenting Support, Women's Issues such as body image concerns, in addition to Substance Abuse Support.
Are you looking for culturally sensitive, creative therapy? I provide culturally sensitive support to individuals seeking virtual counseling for depression, anxiety, transitions, inner peace-finding, and life coaching and planning. I help my clients feel more comfortable within their own bodies and life. I specialize in women's issues, stress and relationship issues. I also support art therapy and helping clients create safe comfortable spaces for everyday living through home design planning. I also provide support to other mental health LMHC professionals who need supervision towards licensure.
(774) 479-4199 View (774) 479-4199
Photo of Pamela Carlson Alexander, PhD, Psychologist
Pamela Carlson Alexander
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
My approach to psychotherapy is based on attachment theory which states that our first important relationships (namely, with our parents) influence how we relate to those closest to us now. As infants, we learn to do whatever is necessary, including distorting our thoughts and feelings, in order to maintain that connection. This early experience even affects brain development setting the stage for depression, anxiety and dysregulation. Fortunately, current relationships (including with a therapist) can provide a corrective experience. That is the beauty of psychotherapy - by understanding how our past affects our present we are better able to negotiate our future.
My approach to psychotherapy is based on attachment theory which states that our first important relationships (namely, with our parents) influence how we relate to those closest to us now. As infants, we learn to do whatever is necessary, including distorting our thoughts and feelings, in order to maintain that connection. This early experience even affects brain development setting the stage for depression, anxiety and dysregulation. Fortunately, current relationships (including with a therapist) can provide a corrective experience. That is the beauty of psychotherapy - by understanding how our past affects our present we are better able to negotiate our future.
(508) 882-7335 View (508) 882-7335
Photo of Bryan Daniel Koesler, PsyD, Psychologist
Bryan Daniel Koesler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating addiction; however, a lot of my experience is in working with patients with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and around grief and loss.
At the moment I am providing teletherapy for those interested in this approach. I am licensed in both Florida and Massachusetts and I am currently accepting new patients from either state. I provide therapy using an eclectic and integrative style that best suits the person’s needs. I take a collaborative, strength-based, non-judgmental, and client-centered approach throughout the work with my clients and when deciding upon which tool sets to use in the therapy.
I specialize in treating addiction; however, a lot of my experience is in working with patients with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and around grief and loss.
At the moment I am providing teletherapy for those interested in this approach. I am licensed in both Florida and Massachusetts and I am currently accepting new patients from either state. I provide therapy using an eclectic and integrative style that best suits the person’s needs. I take a collaborative, strength-based, non-judgmental, and client-centered approach throughout the work with my clients and when deciding upon which tool sets to use in the therapy.
(813) 592-8085 View (813) 592-8085
Photo of Kendra Holmgren, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kendra Holmgren
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Whether it be social or emotional struggles, challenging behaviors, trouble relating to others in positive ways, or working through fears, depression, stress, trauma, or a family crisis, I meet every child and their family where they are at. I use a strength-based approach and interactive, hands-on, and creative interventions, including play and expressive arts, in addition to talk that allow kids to communicate freely, naturally, and in ways that build confidence and a sense of mastery over their struggles.
Whether it be social or emotional struggles, challenging behaviors, trouble relating to others in positive ways, or working through fears, depression, stress, trauma, or a family crisis, I meet every child and their family where they are at. I use a strength-based approach and interactive, hands-on, and creative interventions, including play and expressive arts, in addition to talk that allow kids to communicate freely, naturally, and in ways that build confidence and a sense of mastery over their struggles.
(617) 356-0247 View (617) 356-0247
Photo of Susan Kates, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Kates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I am a clinician who specializes in many areas including grief, depression and anxiety. I am available for caregiver support and dementia. have a focus on adults over 21. We will explore together how to cope with effective strategies to address issues. Many people may face anxiety and the unexpected adventure of reshaping their life. Many need assistance and help along such an unchartered journey. I have over twenty years of experience in healthcare settings, memory care and hospice. My clinical services can assist you with depression, and loss. I am available for counseling, lectures and consultation for caregivers.
I am a clinician who specializes in many areas including grief, depression and anxiety. I am available for caregiver support and dementia. have a focus on adults over 21. We will explore together how to cope with effective strategies to address issues. Many people may face anxiety and the unexpected adventure of reshaping their life. Many need assistance and help along such an unchartered journey. I have over twenty years of experience in healthcare settings, memory care and hospice. My clinical services can assist you with depression, and loss. I am available for counseling, lectures and consultation for caregivers.
(781) 514-6070 View (781) 514-6070
Photo of Erin Kuehn, MSW, LICSW, CAGS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Kuehn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CAGS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481  (Online Only)
I access various treatment modalities including CBT, ERP, ACT, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Meditation & Yoga, & I treat a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, OCD, substance use & trauma.
Hi! I hope that you find this information helpful. Cultivating health, healing & change guides my work as a clinical social worker. As your therapist, I can provide you with a supportive & collaborative partnership to help with your current circumstances & propel you toward your goals. Through connection and compassion, you will be able to increase your self-awareness & make choices about how you want to respond to your experiences. Using various resources & strategies, you will be an active participant in your treatment and develop the skills you need to provide yourself with effective self-care.
I access various treatment modalities including CBT, ERP, ACT, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Meditation & Yoga, & I treat a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, OCD, substance use & trauma.
Hi! I hope that you find this information helpful. Cultivating health, healing & change guides my work as a clinical social worker. As your therapist, I can provide you with a supportive & collaborative partnership to help with your current circumstances & propel you toward your goals. Through connection and compassion, you will be able to increase your self-awareness & make choices about how you want to respond to your experiences. Using various resources & strategies, you will be an active participant in your treatment and develop the skills you need to provide yourself with effective self-care.
(617) 663-8814 View (617) 663-8814
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.