Photo of Dawn Mcilwaine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Dawn Mcilwaine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I have over 20 years of experience working in behavioral health outpatient settings utilizing advanced therapeutic interventions to help those with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder as well as those struggling with substance use issues.
I have over 20 years of experience working in behavioral health outpatient settings utilizing advanced therapeutic interventions to help those with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder as well as those struggling with substance use issues.
(267) 833-4032 View (267) 833-4032
Photo of Esther Mills, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Esther Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Hello, I'm Esther Mills, a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than two decades of experience in various clinical settings, including in-home therapy and outpatient counseling. My focus is on aiding individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. I assist them in navigating their emotions, understanding coping patterns, and engaging in proactive problem-solving. While embarking on therapy may feel daunting, know that you're making a courageous and beneficial decision. You deserve a nurturing environment to foster healing and personal growth.
Hello, I'm Esther Mills, a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than two decades of experience in various clinical settings, including in-home therapy and outpatient counseling. My focus is on aiding individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. I assist them in navigating their emotions, understanding coping patterns, and engaging in proactive problem-solving. While embarking on therapy may feel daunting, know that you're making a courageous and beneficial decision. You deserve a nurturing environment to foster healing and personal growth.
(848) 800-4150 View (848) 800-4150
Photo of Katherine Tommaso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Katherine Tommaso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Whether you're grappling with complex relationship dynamics, grieving a loss, facing life's adversities, or battling cycles of anxiety and depression, remember, you're not alone on this journey.
I'm Katie Tommaso, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a wealth of experience in clinical settings, serving diverse populations. My mission is to assist individuals in overcoming life's obstacles and navigating its unpredictable twists and turns with empathy and understanding. I firmly believe that everyone possesses the potential to thrive mentally, physically, and spiritually. By emphasizing a Wellness Model and embracing a holistic approach, I empower individuals to pursue their goals with renewed motivation.
Whether you're grappling with complex relationship dynamics, grieving a loss, facing life's adversities, or battling cycles of anxiety and depression, remember, you're not alone on this journey.
I'm Katie Tommaso, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a wealth of experience in clinical settings, serving diverse populations. My mission is to assist individuals in overcoming life's obstacles and navigating its unpredictable twists and turns with empathy and understanding. I firmly believe that everyone possesses the potential to thrive mentally, physically, and spiritually. By emphasizing a Wellness Model and embracing a holistic approach, I empower individuals to pursue their goals with renewed motivation.
(848) 301-1490 View (848) 301-1490
Photo of Andrea Hall, Counselor in 08753, NJ
Andrea Hall
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Andrea has worked in a women’s holistic wellness practice serving children, adolescents, and women of all ages. That is where Andrea gained experience supporting clients through anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, and major life transitions. Andrea’s therapeutic approach is person-centered and holistic. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and mindfulness. She believes it is important to meet the client where they are and values collaboration to develop a treatment plan.
Andrea has worked in a women’s holistic wellness practice serving children, adolescents, and women of all ages. That is where Andrea gained experience supporting clients through anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, and major life transitions. Andrea’s therapeutic approach is person-centered and holistic. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and mindfulness. She believes it is important to meet the client where they are and values collaboration to develop a treatment plan.
(732) 889-5196 View (732) 889-5196
Photo of Tysheira Maddox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Tysheira Maddox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I specialize in helping individuals who struggle with adjusting to life transitions, women’s issues, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Hey hey! I am Tysheira Maddox, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of NJ, PA, and D.C. As your therapist, I will be journeying by your side as we work through your most challenging moments and the self-limiting thoughts that keep you from living the life you desire. My counseling style is warm, laid back, and sprinkled with some humor. My most common approaches that I like to use from my therapy tool kit are CBT, DBT, Narrative and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
I specialize in helping individuals who struggle with adjusting to life transitions, women’s issues, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Hey hey! I am Tysheira Maddox, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of NJ, PA, and D.C. As your therapist, I will be journeying by your side as we work through your most challenging moments and the self-limiting thoughts that keep you from living the life you desire. My counseling style is warm, laid back, and sprinkled with some humor. My most common approaches that I like to use from my therapy tool kit are CBT, DBT, Narrative and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
(848) 208-8329 View (848) 208-8329
Photo of Yeslie Solis, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Yeslie Solis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
I have experience working in IOP/PHP level of care with clients struggling with low self-esteem, self-harm behaviors, anxiety, depression, among other mental health diagnosis.
I have immediate availability to see clients virtually in English & Spanish. Asking for help can be hard, whether it's the uncertainty, the fear, or simply not knowing what to expect with the therapy process. Throughout life we will be presented with challenges and sometimes we need someone in our corner to guide us and find hope to build a life worth living. Mind Soul Wellness was created to instill hope and purpose into individuals who are in need.
I have experience working in IOP/PHP level of care with clients struggling with low self-esteem, self-harm behaviors, anxiety, depression, among other mental health diagnosis.
I have immediate availability to see clients virtually in English & Spanish. Asking for help can be hard, whether it's the uncertainty, the fear, or simply not knowing what to expect with the therapy process. Throughout life we will be presented with challenges and sometimes we need someone in our corner to guide us and find hope to build a life worth living. Mind Soul Wellness was created to instill hope and purpose into individuals who are in need.
(732) 344-4365 View (732) 344-4365
Photo of Jenny Choi: Couples, Adults, Teens and Kids, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Jenny Choi: Couples, Adults, Teens and Kids
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, conflict, and addiction. I combine my belief in your unique strengths to adjust and heal with methods like mindfulness, coping skills, DBT-based emotion regulation, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. With couples, I use Gottman Method couples counseling to increase emotional connection and resolve conflict. I also draw on my addiction treatment background to support clients and family members on recovery journeys. Healing doesn’t have to be lonely. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, conflict, and addiction. I combine my belief in your unique strengths to adjust and heal with methods like mindfulness, coping skills, DBT-based emotion regulation, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. With couples, I use Gottman Method couples counseling to increase emotional connection and resolve conflict. I also draw on my addiction treatment background to support clients and family members on recovery journeys. Healing doesn’t have to be lonely. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(973) 858-5973 View (973) 858-5973
Photo of Marianne P Romagnoli, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Marianne P Romagnoli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
Managing stress, relationships, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and incorporating better self-care are issues with which I assist clients.
It’s no secret that the world is full of fearful and anxious moments. Whether in our own circle of family and friends or across the world, the effects of such stress is palatable in our lives, We are all seeking support and encouragement and a space where we believe we can be heard. Through the counseling process you can find your strengths, learn and incorporate tools that will help you navigate life and feel better about yourself and your interactions with others in a very holistic way. The integration of body mind and spirit is a hallmark of my approach to counseling.
Managing stress, relationships, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and incorporating better self-care are issues with which I assist clients.
It’s no secret that the world is full of fearful and anxious moments. Whether in our own circle of family and friends or across the world, the effects of such stress is palatable in our lives, We are all seeking support and encouragement and a space where we believe we can be heard. Through the counseling process you can find your strengths, learn and incorporate tools that will help you navigate life and feel better about yourself and your interactions with others in a very holistic way. The integration of body mind and spirit is a hallmark of my approach to counseling.
(717) 259-2623 View (717) 259-2623
Photo of Jeanne Farabaugh, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Jeanne Farabaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
With over 15 years of experience, I've counseled couples, families, and individuals navigating challenges such as Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Chronic Fatigue, Self-Confidence, and low Self-Esteem, stemming from everyday life stressors.
Through a compassionate and attentive demeanor, coupled with my innate listening skills, I foster heartfelt empathy that ensures my clients feel respected, heard, and understood. While specializing in Couples Counseling, Relationship Issues, and Family Therapy, I also extend support for various other concerns. Within the trusting therapeutic relationship, my clients address feelings of Disconnectedness, Relationship Breakdowns, Conflict Resolution, Infidelity, Betrayal, Loss, and beyond. As a result, they emerge from therapy as rejuvenated individuals, empowered to attain the fulfilling life they aspire to.
With over 15 years of experience, I've counseled couples, families, and individuals navigating challenges such as Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Chronic Fatigue, Self-Confidence, and low Self-Esteem, stemming from everyday life stressors.
Through a compassionate and attentive demeanor, coupled with my innate listening skills, I foster heartfelt empathy that ensures my clients feel respected, heard, and understood. While specializing in Couples Counseling, Relationship Issues, and Family Therapy, I also extend support for various other concerns. Within the trusting therapeutic relationship, my clients address feelings of Disconnectedness, Relationship Breakdowns, Conflict Resolution, Infidelity, Betrayal, Loss, and beyond. As a result, they emerge from therapy as rejuvenated individuals, empowered to attain the fulfilling life they aspire to.
(856) 804-2366 View (856) 804-2366
Photo of Diana Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Diana Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
In a relaxed, nonjudgemental environment, I will help you find peace with your past, take control of your future, be mindful of the present. Together we will develop an empowering personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Focus will be on challenging your belief systems, gaining insight into self-destructive behavior patterns, learn alternative skills & techniques for coping with stress, anxiety, depression, parenting, relationships, and managing your emotions. I have extensive experience helping those with addictive/obsessive thoughts/ behaviors, toxic relationships and emotional eating. You have the power to thrive, not just survive! In addition to office visits, video conferencing / phone counseling available.
In a relaxed, nonjudgemental environment, I will help you find peace with your past, take control of your future, be mindful of the present. Together we will develop an empowering personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Focus will be on challenging your belief systems, gaining insight into self-destructive behavior patterns, learn alternative skills & techniques for coping with stress, anxiety, depression, parenting, relationships, and managing your emotions. I have extensive experience helping those with addictive/obsessive thoughts/ behaviors, toxic relationships and emotional eating. You have the power to thrive, not just survive! In addition to office visits, video conferencing / phone counseling available.
(973) 685-6961 View (973) 685-6961
We Level Up NJ Addiction Rehab & Detox Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.
(609) 418-4013 View (609) 418-4013
Photo of Elysian Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Elysian Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
, NCC, LPC specializes in working with children, teens, and families who are experiencing a variety of concerns, such as ADHD, Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting, and school concerns.
Elysian Counseling believes it is essential to work through past traumas and to look at how community and family systems develop identity and, at times, may perpetuate behaviors that keep people in a cycle of self-defeat, poor choices, and a feeling of being stuck. We use an integrative approach with a look at the root causes of the issues you may be experiencing. Together we build a safe and strong therapeutic alliance, and explore techniques tailored to your needs and goals to achieve optimum wellness. See our counselor bios below or Visit: https://elysiancounseling.clientsecure.me/
, NCC, LPC specializes in working with children, teens, and families who are experiencing a variety of concerns, such as ADHD, Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting, and school concerns.
Elysian Counseling believes it is essential to work through past traumas and to look at how community and family systems develop identity and, at times, may perpetuate behaviors that keep people in a cycle of self-defeat, poor choices, and a feeling of being stuck. We use an integrative approach with a look at the root causes of the issues you may be experiencing. Together we build a safe and strong therapeutic alliance, and explore techniques tailored to your needs and goals to achieve optimum wellness. See our counselor bios below or Visit: https://elysiancounseling.clientsecure.me/
(640) 344-6696 View (640) 344-6696
Photo of Alexia Totoro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Alexia Totoro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Greetings, I'm Alexia Totoro, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over a decade of involvement in mental and behavioral health. Throughout my journey, I've accumulated diverse experiences driven by my passion for empowering individuals to discover their truest selves.
Greetings, I'm Alexia Totoro, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over a decade of involvement in mental and behavioral health. Throughout my journey, I've accumulated diverse experiences driven by my passion for empowering individuals to discover their truest selves.
(848) 216-7301 View (848) 216-7301
Photo of Chenelle Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Chenelle Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I'm Chenelle Williams, holding licenses as an LPC, LCADC, and CCS in New Jersey, backed by 8 years of professional practice. My expertise lies in aiding clients with stress, anxiety, addiction, relationship concerns, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. It's crucial for clients to feel comfortable, regardless of life's circumstances, when entering therapy. My aim is to offer precisely that to everyone I have the privilege of assisting. I firmly believe that you are the architect of your narrative, brimming with strengths that can guide you through challenges.
I'm Chenelle Williams, holding licenses as an LPC, LCADC, and CCS in New Jersey, backed by 8 years of professional practice. My expertise lies in aiding clients with stress, anxiety, addiction, relationship concerns, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. It's crucial for clients to feel comfortable, regardless of life's circumstances, when entering therapy. My aim is to offer precisely that to everyone I have the privilege of assisting. I firmly believe that you are the architect of your narrative, brimming with strengths that can guide you through challenges.
(848) 800-2497 View (848) 800-2497
Photo of Lyn Deluca, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Lyn Deluca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I'm Lyn, and for the last two decades, I've immersed myself in clinical social work, licensed in both New York and New Jersey. My journey is deeply tied to a turbulent family background, spurring a quest for personal development and a more hopeful tomorrow. Experiencing my own journey of healing, I gained profound insight into the vital importance of mental health care. Despite starting out on a path in education, I found myself captivated by the complexities of human psychosocial and emotional health. This epiphany led me to redirect my academic pursuits toward the field of social work.
I'm Lyn, and for the last two decades, I've immersed myself in clinical social work, licensed in both New York and New Jersey. My journey is deeply tied to a turbulent family background, spurring a quest for personal development and a more hopeful tomorrow. Experiencing my own journey of healing, I gained profound insight into the vital importance of mental health care. Despite starting out on a path in education, I found myself captivated by the complexities of human psychosocial and emotional health. This epiphany led me to redirect my academic pursuits toward the field of social work.
(848) 266-6142 View (848) 266-6142
Photo of Shannon Burdick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Shannon Burdick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Hello! I'm Shannon Burdick, LCSW, and I appreciate your interest in therapy with me. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I obtained my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work from Rutgers University. Throughout my career, I've served in numerous roles, including individual and group therapy, adult and adolescent PHP, substance use disorder treatment programs, and hospital and primary care settings. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations of all ages and cultural backgrounds. My objective is to offer a secure environment where you can freely express yourself and receive compassionate understanding.
Hello! I'm Shannon Burdick, LCSW, and I appreciate your interest in therapy with me. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I obtained my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work from Rutgers University. Throughout my career, I've served in numerous roles, including individual and group therapy, adult and adolescent PHP, substance use disorder treatment programs, and hospital and primary care settings. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations of all ages and cultural backgrounds. My objective is to offer a secure environment where you can freely express yourself and receive compassionate understanding.
(848) 999-3277 View (848) 999-3277
Photo of Dawn McIlwaine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Dawn McIlwaine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I'm Dawn McIlwaine, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University in 2001, and I bring over 20 years of experience in behavioral health outpatient settings. Throughout my career, I've primarily focused on providing direct care to individuals grappling with mental health and addiction challenges.
I'm Dawn McIlwaine, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University in 2001, and I bring over 20 years of experience in behavioral health outpatient settings. Throughout my career, I've primarily focused on providing direct care to individuals grappling with mental health and addiction challenges.
(848) 305-1773 View (848) 305-1773
Photo of Jennifer Constanos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Jennifer Constanos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Hi! I'm Jen Constanos, a seasoned licensed clinical social worker practicing in NJ, NY, and PA. I earned both my bachelor's and master's degrees in social work from Monmouth University. With 16 years of diverse experience across various settings, I'm dedicated to supporting clients through challenging emotions, fostering stronger connections, and empowering them to enact meaningful change in their lives. When I'm not in the therapy room, you'll likely find me cozied up on the couch with a good book and a cup of coffee, provided my kids and dogs give me the chance on rainy days!
Hi! I'm Jen Constanos, a seasoned licensed clinical social worker practicing in NJ, NY, and PA. I earned both my bachelor's and master's degrees in social work from Monmouth University. With 16 years of diverse experience across various settings, I'm dedicated to supporting clients through challenging emotions, fostering stronger connections, and empowering them to enact meaningful change in their lives. When I'm not in the therapy room, you'll likely find me cozied up on the couch with a good book and a cup of coffee, provided my kids and dogs give me the chance on rainy days!
(848) 305-1971 View (848) 305-1971
Photo of Antoniette Richburg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Antoniette Richburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Welcome! I am Antoniette Richburg. I have an MSW and LCSW. As a social worker I worked in various industries such as Addictions, Domestic Violence, Developmental Disabilities. I began my clinical journey in 2007 as hospice Social Work. After 11 yrs. in that industry, I crossed over the provide private in-home counseling and psychotherapy to senior or homebound population. I opened my own practice in 2018 and began work with a wider range of clientele from ages 25 up to Centenarians. I help those truly seeking change in their life develop the tools unique to their needs, personality and circumstances.
Welcome! I am Antoniette Richburg. I have an MSW and LCSW. As a social worker I worked in various industries such as Addictions, Domestic Violence, Developmental Disabilities. I began my clinical journey in 2007 as hospice Social Work. After 11 yrs. in that industry, I crossed over the provide private in-home counseling and psychotherapy to senior or homebound population. I opened my own practice in 2018 and began work with a wider range of clientele from ages 25 up to Centenarians. I help those truly seeking change in their life develop the tools unique to their needs, personality and circumstances.
(732) 538-8894 View (732) 538-8894
Photo of Rashidah Hansen, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Rashidah Hansen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
Here at Ocean Integrative Counseling I will partner with you on your mental health journey. We can all benefit from having someone to talk to at times when life becomes overwhelming, or when we feel stuck or need a change. I provide a nurturing environment for you to identify your goals and make positive changes in your life.
Here at Ocean Integrative Counseling I will partner with you on your mental health journey. We can all benefit from having someone to talk to at times when life becomes overwhelming, or when we feel stuck or need a change. I provide a nurturing environment for you to identify your goals and make positive changes in your life.
(848) 257-9354 View (848) 257-9354
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.