Depression Therapists in 08701

Photo of Christine Toler, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Toler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, doubt, guilt, grief, or all of the above, I believe I can help you.
Hi. My name is Christine Toler, Chris, and I earned my Ed.S and LPC- MHSP in the state of Tennessee, and and an LPC in New Jersey and Delaware. I have been licensed as a Professional Counselor since 2010, and a School Counselor since 2006. I started being a believer in therapy when it first helped me over forty years ago, (as a child). I thought what a wonderful way to get to the root of the problem... and get rid of it. Since then I have been working on myself as a client as well as a acquiring a license to work with clients including teens, adults and families. I focus on solution based and non-judgmental cognitive therapy.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, doubt, guilt, grief, or all of the above, I believe I can help you.
Hi. My name is Christine Toler, Chris, and I earned my Ed.S and LPC- MHSP in the state of Tennessee, and and an LPC in New Jersey and Delaware. I have been licensed as a Professional Counselor since 2010, and a School Counselor since 2006. I started being a believer in therapy when it first helped me over forty years ago, (as a child). I thought what a wonderful way to get to the root of the problem... and get rid of it. Since then I have been working on myself as a client as well as a acquiring a license to work with clients including teens, adults and families. I focus on solution based and non-judgmental cognitive therapy.
(848) 345-2565 View (848) 345-2565
Photo of Neil Schiff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neil Schiff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
If you need someone to talk with who will understand you, your depressed moods, your feelings, your detrimental behaviors, your anxiety, your relationships, your unfulfilled dreams, your nagging questions etc.. and assist YOU to understand them as well, I can help. If you want someone to talk with about the "stressful" events or disturbing interpersonal interactions of the week, I would love to guide you to process them in a more calming and positive perspective. I have been fortunate to have helped hundreds of clients via several mental health agencies and telehealth companies, and I may have availability to help you too
If you need someone to talk with who will understand you, your depressed moods, your feelings, your detrimental behaviors, your anxiety, your relationships, your unfulfilled dreams, your nagging questions etc.. and assist YOU to understand them as well, I can help. If you want someone to talk with about the "stressful" events or disturbing interpersonal interactions of the week, I would love to guide you to process them in a more calming and positive perspective. I have been fortunate to have helped hundreds of clients via several mental health agencies and telehealth companies, and I may have availability to help you too
(848) 257-5443 View (848) 257-5443
Photo of Karen Cooper, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life stressors, relationship issues, family and childhood problems, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.
Hello, my name is Karen. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor based in Hackensack, NJ. I work with adults and teens. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life stressors, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders. My treatment modalities are determined by the needs of the individual. 18+ years' experience. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe, warm, nurturing and nonjudgemental sessions along with active listening. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy have been successful.
I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life stressors, relationship issues, family and childhood problems, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.
Hello, my name is Karen. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor based in Hackensack, NJ. I work with adults and teens. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life stressors, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders. My treatment modalities are determined by the needs of the individual. 18+ years' experience. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe, warm, nurturing and nonjudgemental sessions along with active listening. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy have been successful.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Miri Taub, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miri Taub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
You will develop independence, build resilience, healing, self-esteem, and will find relief from trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD and self-doubt.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, anger, past traumas, and relationship issues? Do you deal with personal concerns, family, career and/or life difficulties? My approach is persons-centered, integrative, and collaborative. Modalities often used in our sessions are, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing, Solutions Focused Therapy, Talk Therapy, and Validation Therapy. I use a Strengths-Based Model that promotes healing, motivation, progress, and positive outcomes. It is often difficult to take the first step to reach out to explore therapy. It doesn't have to be.
You will develop independence, build resilience, healing, self-esteem, and will find relief from trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD and self-doubt.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, anger, past traumas, and relationship issues? Do you deal with personal concerns, family, career and/or life difficulties? My approach is persons-centered, integrative, and collaborative. Modalities often used in our sessions are, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing, Solutions Focused Therapy, Talk Therapy, and Validation Therapy. I use a Strengths-Based Model that promotes healing, motivation, progress, and positive outcomes. It is often difficult to take the first step to reach out to explore therapy. It doesn't have to be.
(929) 239-3931 View (929) 239-3931
Photo of Margaret Nichols - Institute for Personal Growth - Freehold Office, PhD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, Psychologist
Institute for Personal Growth - Freehold Office
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Thinking of therapy? Ask for the first session free. IPG has around 30 therapists through 3 offices in Freehold, Highland Park, and Jersey City. Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We provide individual, family, child, and relationship counseling for problems ranging from depression to life transitions to marital strife. We also have many trained sex therapists, a special focus on the LGBTQ community, transgender youth services, therapy for those involved in BDSM/kink, consensual non-monogamy, and other sexual minorities. The size and diversity of our staff means we can treat almost any client.
Thinking of therapy? Ask for the first session free. IPG has around 30 therapists through 3 offices in Freehold, Highland Park, and Jersey City. Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We provide individual, family, child, and relationship counseling for problems ranging from depression to life transitions to marital strife. We also have many trained sex therapists, a special focus on the LGBTQ community, transgender youth services, therapy for those involved in BDSM/kink, consensual non-monogamy, and other sexual minorities. The size and diversity of our staff means we can treat almost any client.
(732) 561-5586 View (732) 561-5586
Photo of Ally Kaykov, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ally Kaykov
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I have a special interest in helping adults with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, anger management, low self-esteem, insomnia and weight management, children with academic and personal adjustment, and families with their relationships.
My personal style of counseling could be best described as integrative/eclectic counseling. I incorporate various approaches and techniques to help my clients to achieve their goals. I offer my unique holistic view on therapy and life in general that utilizes comprehensive array of research and practices from both America and Europe. I believe that the best results could be achieved if my clients participate actively in our therapeutic process, both during sessions and outside them. Let me help you to achieve balance and personal happiness that you deserve and live your life to your fullest potential.
I have a special interest in helping adults with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, anger management, low self-esteem, insomnia and weight management, children with academic and personal adjustment, and families with their relationships.
My personal style of counseling could be best described as integrative/eclectic counseling. I incorporate various approaches and techniques to help my clients to achieve their goals. I offer my unique holistic view on therapy and life in general that utilizes comprehensive array of research and practices from both America and Europe. I believe that the best results could be achieved if my clients participate actively in our therapeutic process, both during sessions and outside them. Let me help you to achieve balance and personal happiness that you deserve and live your life to your fullest potential.
(732) 333-8214 View (732) 333-8214
Photo of Chaye Gewirtzman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chaye Gewirtzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I’m an experienced therapist who specializes in both individual and couples work. My approach involves creating a comfortable, non judging environment to safely explore challenging concerns and difficult emotions such as anxiety, anger, fear and depression. My goal is to work through any self defeating patterns, help process through overwhelming feelings and heal negative experiences that may be effecting you or your loved ones.
I’m an experienced therapist who specializes in both individual and couples work. My approach involves creating a comfortable, non judging environment to safely explore challenging concerns and difficult emotions such as anxiety, anger, fear and depression. My goal is to work through any self defeating patterns, help process through overwhelming feelings and heal negative experiences that may be effecting you or your loved ones.
(845) 203-2052 View (845) 203-2052
Photo of Hilary Akman, LMHC, Counselor
Hilary Akman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I use a mindful cognitive-behavioral approach that examines how our thoughts/beliefs impact anxiety and depression.
Is your anxiety or depression so severe that it is impacting your relationships, work, and everyday life? Are you having difficulty shutting off your brain to go to sleep and your thoughts are on a loop? You can break free of the self-defeating cycles by first changing your patterns of thinking. Have you tried counseling before and didn't make the progress you were hoping? Working with me is about more than just talk. When we work together to solve your daily struggles, you are empowered to make changes you want. You will have effective solutions and new skills for managing difficult emotions, thoughts, and beliefs for good!
I use a mindful cognitive-behavioral approach that examines how our thoughts/beliefs impact anxiety and depression.
Is your anxiety or depression so severe that it is impacting your relationships, work, and everyday life? Are you having difficulty shutting off your brain to go to sleep and your thoughts are on a loop? You can break free of the self-defeating cycles by first changing your patterns of thinking. Have you tried counseling before and didn't make the progress you were hoping? Working with me is about more than just talk. When we work together to solve your daily struggles, you are empowered to make changes you want. You will have effective solutions and new skills for managing difficult emotions, thoughts, and beliefs for good!
(754) 203-5332 View (754) 203-5332
Photo of Dr. Joseph Tropper, PsyD, MS, LCPC, LMHC, Counselor
Dr. Joseph Tropper
Counselor, PsyD, MS, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
My experience has put me in contact with hundreds of clients ranging from children to adults suffering from issues that include: anxiety, depression, adjustment, addictions, trauma, family challenges and much more.
If you found this page it's because you're contemplating getting help for yourself or a loved one. Congratulations on taking the next step! It takes bravery and honesty to face our challenges. The good news is your life can and will be better. With our shared commitment to your growth and success we can work together to help you live the life you've always dreamed of and that you deserve. I’m licensed in Maryland, NY and NJ. Call me for a free consult today with any questions you have.
My experience has put me in contact with hundreds of clients ranging from children to adults suffering from issues that include: anxiety, depression, adjustment, addictions, trauma, family challenges and much more.
If you found this page it's because you're contemplating getting help for yourself or a loved one. Congratulations on taking the next step! It takes bravery and honesty to face our challenges. The good news is your life can and will be better. With our shared commitment to your growth and success we can work together to help you live the life you've always dreamed of and that you deserve. I’m licensed in Maryland, NY and NJ. Call me for a free consult today with any questions you have.
(443) 221-6294 View (443) 221-6294
Photo of Eli Muhrer - Charlie Health
Charlie Health
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-nj
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-nj
(973) 319-8458 View (973) 319-8458
Photo of Gina Frigiola, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Frigiola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
I am a seasoned therapist with over 10 years of experience with people facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, anger, and life stressors.
**Accepting new clients! Evening and weekend appointments available** Everyone has a story to tell…I would like to hear yours. Your story might include sadness, pain, hurt, loss, trauma, injustice, addiction, or many other challenges that interfere with your daily functioning. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can be heard and valued. We can work together to help you sort through the difficulty, rediscover your strengths, and find the joy and peace you deserve in life. You can return your story to one of hope, recovery, and good health.
I am a seasoned therapist with over 10 years of experience with people facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, anger, and life stressors.
**Accepting new clients! Evening and weekend appointments available** Everyone has a story to tell…I would like to hear yours. Your story might include sadness, pain, hurt, loss, trauma, injustice, addiction, or many other challenges that interfere with your daily functioning. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can be heard and valued. We can work together to help you sort through the difficulty, rediscover your strengths, and find the joy and peace you deserve in life. You can return your story to one of hope, recovery, and good health.
(848) 257-9532 View (848) 257-9532
Photo of Helen Kraus, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Helen Kraus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Greetings! I'm Helen, a compassionate licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals of all ages, from children and young adults, navigate life's complexities. With extensive training and experience, I specialize in providing support for a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, and family issues.
Greetings! I'm Helen, a compassionate licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals of all ages, from children and young adults, navigate life's complexities. With extensive training and experience, I specialize in providing support for a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, and family issues.
(732) 696-7527 View (732) 696-7527
Photo of Samantha Mandala, LCSW, PMH-C, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Mandala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, LCADC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Starting therapy can be an overwhelming task, but I hope I can help make this step seem a little more manageable. I work with adolescents and adults ages 13+. I specialize in anxiety, depression, perinatal and postpartum mental health, trauma, and addictions. I don't believe therapy is "one size fits all", and I strive to work with the client to find the best interventions to help meet their goals. I utilize a strengths-based approach along with cognitive behavioral interventions and motivational strategies.
Starting therapy can be an overwhelming task, but I hope I can help make this step seem a little more manageable. I work with adolescents and adults ages 13+. I specialize in anxiety, depression, perinatal and postpartum mental health, trauma, and addictions. I don't believe therapy is "one size fits all", and I strive to work with the client to find the best interventions to help meet their goals. I utilize a strengths-based approach along with cognitive behavioral interventions and motivational strategies.
(732) 655-3542 View (732) 655-3542
Photo of Brian Kalmus, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Kalmus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking to elevate your life to the next level, I invite you to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation.
Searching for a new therapist can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re exploring therapy for the first time or have tried it in the past, beginning this journey with someone new can be intimidating. My goal is to make this transition as smooth and comfortable as possible, and yes, even enjoyable. While therapy can be challenging, it also offers moments of profound growth and self-discovery, and that can be really exciting. Since 2007, I have been dedicated to the mental health field, working extensively in Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient programs before moving into a high school-based setting.
If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking to elevate your life to the next level, I invite you to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation.
Searching for a new therapist can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re exploring therapy for the first time or have tried it in the past, beginning this journey with someone new can be intimidating. My goal is to make this transition as smooth and comfortable as possible, and yes, even enjoyable. While therapy can be challenging, it also offers moments of profound growth and self-discovery, and that can be really exciting. Since 2007, I have been dedicated to the mental health field, working extensively in Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient programs before moving into a high school-based setting.
(973) 545-7833 View (973) 545-7833
Photo of Danielle Matias, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Matias
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I am also a published author who has written about depression and anxiety.
The goal of my practice is to improve the quality of life of my clients and assist them reach their full potential and personal goals. Specializing in family and couple therapy. I also specialize in depression and anxiety. The ideal client will be dedicated to their own treatment and have a strong desire to feel better. Together with my client we work as a team to achieve the therapeutic goals and make life worth living and enjoying. I have been working in mental health for over a decade and it is my greatest passion in life.
I am also a published author who has written about depression and anxiety.
The goal of my practice is to improve the quality of life of my clients and assist them reach their full potential and personal goals. Specializing in family and couple therapy. I also specialize in depression and anxiety. The ideal client will be dedicated to their own treatment and have a strong desire to feel better. Together with my client we work as a team to achieve the therapeutic goals and make life worth living and enjoying. I have been working in mental health for over a decade and it is my greatest passion in life.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Miriam Shulman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam Shulman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety, debilitating depression, or the feeling that things in your life just aren't going right? You don't have to face these challenges alone! I offer a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your emotions, work through challenges, and develop coping strategies to improve your mental health and well-being.
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety, debilitating depression, or the feeling that things in your life just aren't going right? You don't have to face these challenges alone! I offer a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your emotions, work through challenges, and develop coping strategies to improve your mental health and well-being.
(732) 487-3265 View (732) 487-3265
Photo of Candida Wiltshire - Brightside Health, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brightside Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(848) 274-3306 View (848) 274-3306
Photo of Jonathan Frank, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Frank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
I work with clients with struggling with depression, anxiety, and various mood disorders.
Is life getting you down? Are you having difficulty adjusting to changes in your life? Do you need to learn coping skills to better your life? Prioritizing your mental health is hard! I am here to make sure you get the compassionate strengths-based care that you deserve! You deserve the therapist that meets you are where you are at and helps support you towards your goals!
I work with clients with struggling with depression, anxiety, and various mood disorders.
Is life getting you down? Are you having difficulty adjusting to changes in your life? Do you need to learn coping skills to better your life? Prioritizing your mental health is hard! I am here to make sure you get the compassionate strengths-based care that you deserve! You deserve the therapist that meets you are where you are at and helps support you towards your goals!
(551) 239-8732 View (551) 239-8732
Photo of Jaime Grunfeld, LMHC, Counselor
Jaime Grunfeld
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
By exploring your life history, past and present, I can help you gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts and feelings so you should be able to manage your anxiety, depression, improve relationships, communication and problem solving skills, develop greater self-acceptance and emotional well being.
Do you sometimes wish life could be easier? At some point in life we may feel overwhelmed by work pressure, family conflicts, relationships, financial difficulties, or any other modern life challenges. Even without a serious trigger we can sometimes feel simply exhausted. We obsessively think about the same topic, and we have difficulties falling or staying asleep. After a while we start to feel incompetent, ashamed, doubting ourselves, and totally unmotivated.
By exploring your life history, past and present, I can help you gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts and feelings so you should be able to manage your anxiety, depression, improve relationships, communication and problem solving skills, develop greater self-acceptance and emotional well being.
Do you sometimes wish life could be easier? At some point in life we may feel overwhelmed by work pressure, family conflicts, relationships, financial difficulties, or any other modern life challenges. Even without a serious trigger we can sometimes feel simply exhausted. We obsessively think about the same topic, and we have difficulties falling or staying asleep. After a while we start to feel incompetent, ashamed, doubting ourselves, and totally unmotivated.
(929) 305-0771 View (929) 305-0771
Photo of Dini Klafter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dini Klafter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Hi, thank you for visiting my page! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida, New York, and New Jersey. I work with women and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship challenges. I work closely with each client to help them achieve their goals using a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. We focus on healing, self love and acceptance, and long-term growth.
Hi, thank you for visiting my page! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida, New York, and New Jersey. I work with women and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship challenges. I work closely with each client to help them achieve their goals using a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. We focus on healing, self love and acceptance, and long-term growth.
(305) 419-3925 View (305) 419-3925
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.