Photo of Zemi Moore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zemi Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
Have you ever found yourself wondering: why does this keep happening? Perhaps your relationships all tend to end the same or your friendships never seem as close as you thought they were. Or no matter what you do you can't seem to shake this feeling of worry or sadness. I am dedicated to helping you in understanding your depression, anxiety, adult ADHD, relationship distress/sexual difficulties, gender identity issues, & parent-child relationships (just to name a few) and assisting you in making the changes to improve.
Have you ever found yourself wondering: why does this keep happening? Perhaps your relationships all tend to end the same or your friendships never seem as close as you thought they were. Or no matter what you do you can't seem to shake this feeling of worry or sadness. I am dedicated to helping you in understanding your depression, anxiety, adult ADHD, relationship distress/sexual difficulties, gender identity issues, & parent-child relationships (just to name a few) and assisting you in making the changes to improve.
(484) 361-4210 View (484) 361-4210
Photo of Charles Blonstein - Charles H Blonstein, PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Charles H Blonstein, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I serve as "guide" through a maze of "Interpersonal Difficulties" (inadequacy, intimacy, infidelity, anxiety, trauma, depression, grieving, shame, arguments, anger, jealousy, etc.
I specialize in helping couples and individuals develop "connection" in their marriages and relationships. To illustrate, your partner seems "distant" lately- so you seek reassurance. Instead of providing comfort, he or she "pulls away" in anticipation of triggering an argument. In turn, your insecurity grows yet bigger. Over time, the more one mate seeks "closeness," the more the other "distances." Partners become "stuck" in painful "circles" such as "Pursue-Withdraw." Both are hurt by each others "criticism" or "coldness"- and unintentionally trigger their mates' invisible "raw spots." Even if identified, "vulnerabilities" are difficult to discuss constructively without a "translator" (therapist).
I serve as "guide" through a maze of "Interpersonal Difficulties" (inadequacy, intimacy, infidelity, anxiety, trauma, depression, grieving, shame, arguments, anger, jealousy, etc.
I specialize in helping couples and individuals develop "connection" in their marriages and relationships. To illustrate, your partner seems "distant" lately- so you seek reassurance. Instead of providing comfort, he or she "pulls away" in anticipation of triggering an argument. In turn, your insecurity grows yet bigger. Over time, the more one mate seeks "closeness," the more the other "distances." Partners become "stuck" in painful "circles" such as "Pursue-Withdraw." Both are hurt by each others "criticism" or "coldness"- and unintentionally trigger their mates' invisible "raw spots." Even if identified, "vulnerabilities" are difficult to discuss constructively without a "translator" (therapist).
(215) 970-2897 View (215) 970-2897
Photo of Chelsie Musisko, LPC, CCTP, CAIMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chelsie Musisko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CAIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
Facing the challenges of stress, depression, or anxiety? Your well-being is my priority.
Are you feeling the weight of stress, depression, or anxiety? I'm here to help. I understand that you may be seeking support to cope with the daily struggles of life. You're looking for someone who can provide guidance and practical solutions, someone who truly comprehends the challenges you face. Your goal is clear - to lead a happier, more fulfilling life. Let's work together to make that a reality.
Facing the challenges of stress, depression, or anxiety? Your well-being is my priority.
Are you feeling the weight of stress, depression, or anxiety? I'm here to help. I understand that you may be seeking support to cope with the daily struggles of life. You're looking for someone who can provide guidance and practical solutions, someone who truly comprehends the challenges you face. Your goal is clear - to lead a happier, more fulfilling life. Let's work together to make that a reality.
(412) 455-8608 View (412) 455-8608
Photo of Lisa Hurwitz, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lisa Hurwitz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Are you a parent of a struggling TEEN who needs support or an ADULT who feels stuck and unsure of your path? I can help! I never forgot what it is like to be a teen, and I am pretty sure I am now an adult who also knows grief, anxiety, and depression. I understand what it is like to be out of the box and find a place in the world. I, too, feel I am out of the box, as are my techniques. I believe laughter should find its place even in the darkest places and weave humor wherever it may fit. I am also well versed in all methods, such as CBT, DBT, ACT, etc., but the connection between therapist and client is essential for growth.
Are you a parent of a struggling TEEN who needs support or an ADULT who feels stuck and unsure of your path? I can help! I never forgot what it is like to be a teen, and I am pretty sure I am now an adult who also knows grief, anxiety, and depression. I understand what it is like to be out of the box and find a place in the world. I, too, feel I am out of the box, as are my techniques. I believe laughter should find its place even in the darkest places and weave humor wherever it may fit. I am also well versed in all methods, such as CBT, DBT, ACT, etc., but the connection between therapist and client is essential for growth.
(215) 798-5543 View (215) 798-5543
Photo of Kate D'Amica Hostetter, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate D'Amica Hostetter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
I have worked with people struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, mood disorders and life transitions.
Have you been struggling to understand your emotions, cope with changes or reduce depression, anxiety or guilt? Through encouragement and empowerment, we will work to reduce and heal the challenges you face. Having supported a wide variety of clients, I am passionate about working with both men and women to find and maintain freedom from their eating and co-occurring disorders by gently confronting barriers, building on strengths and challenging unhelpful relational and thought patterns. It is never too late to seek help and make change.
I have worked with people struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, mood disorders and life transitions.
Have you been struggling to understand your emotions, cope with changes or reduce depression, anxiety or guilt? Through encouragement and empowerment, we will work to reduce and heal the challenges you face. Having supported a wide variety of clients, I am passionate about working with both men and women to find and maintain freedom from their eating and co-occurring disorders by gently confronting barriers, building on strengths and challenging unhelpful relational and thought patterns. It is never too late to seek help and make change.
(757) 568-7853 View (757) 568-7853
Photo of Rachel Wolff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Wolff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Welcome! I’m Rachel, a licensed psychotherapist dedicated to helping teens, college students, and adults on their journeys towards well-being and personal growth. The worlds of adolescence and early adulthood can feel exciting, overwhelming, confusing, and empowering all at the same time. During these complicated and transformative years, it can be helpful to have extra support and guidance. I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies for overcoming challenges related to interpersonal issues, anxiety, self-esteem, intense emotions, post-traumatic stress, grief and loss, depression, and life transitions.
Welcome! I’m Rachel, a licensed psychotherapist dedicated to helping teens, college students, and adults on their journeys towards well-being and personal growth. The worlds of adolescence and early adulthood can feel exciting, overwhelming, confusing, and empowering all at the same time. During these complicated and transformative years, it can be helpful to have extra support and guidance. I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies for overcoming challenges related to interpersonal issues, anxiety, self-esteem, intense emotions, post-traumatic stress, grief and loss, depression, and life transitions.
(215) 372-8759 View (215) 372-8759
Photo of Ray J Salas, MHSCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ray J Salas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Our practice addresses many types of addictions as well as other life problems such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and relationship issues.
For me one thing is certain, people matter. Throughout my professional career I have had the opportunity to see people who've wanted to improve their life do so, with help. Change occurs through a relationship and I'd like to invite you into a relationship that will offer insight and an opportunity to regain a true sense of self. Are you tired of life not making sense? Do you wonder why you engage in certain behaviors that hurt you or your loved ones? Let's explore together and get you the help you deserve.
Our practice addresses many types of addictions as well as other life problems such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and relationship issues.
For me one thing is certain, people matter. Throughout my professional career I have had the opportunity to see people who've wanted to improve their life do so, with help. Change occurs through a relationship and I'd like to invite you into a relationship that will offer insight and an opportunity to regain a true sense of self. Are you tired of life not making sense? Do you wonder why you engage in certain behaviors that hurt you or your loved ones? Let's explore together and get you the help you deserve.
(484) 551-5168 View (484) 551-5168
Photo of Asher Eli Volkens, MS
Asher Eli Volkens
MS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I have 20 years experience in the field of psychology. I have worked as a therapist in private practice, prisons, and clinics in the Philadelphia area. I am a United States Veteran, who served my country honorably, and now honorably serves the community. I specialize in couples and family therapy, religious abuse, depression and anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I strive to support the Client to achieve their goals and live healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives.
I have 20 years experience in the field of psychology. I have worked as a therapist in private practice, prisons, and clinics in the Philadelphia area. I am a United States Veteran, who served my country honorably, and now honorably serves the community. I specialize in couples and family therapy, religious abuse, depression and anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I strive to support the Client to achieve their goals and live healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives.
(267) 458-5485 View (267) 458-5485
Photo of Lauren Bittner - Nourish Therapy & Wellness, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nourish Therapy & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Our practice has a team of therapists who specialize in working with trauma, life stressors, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, neurodivergence, self-esteem, family support and self discovery.
Are you seeking change and encouragement? A supportive, accepting, and accountable relationship with your therapist is crucial for achieving positive transformation. It's time to break free from what has held you back and caused pain. Our team consists of down-to-earth, relatable therapists who are ready to help you heal. We offer a wide range of services for children, adolescents, and adults, including traditional talk therapy, EMDR, somatic bodywork, and dance movement therapy. Additionally, Nourish provides EMDR intensives. Reach out today to connect!
Our practice has a team of therapists who specialize in working with trauma, life stressors, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, neurodivergence, self-esteem, family support and self discovery.
Are you seeking change and encouragement? A supportive, accepting, and accountable relationship with your therapist is crucial for achieving positive transformation. It's time to break free from what has held you back and caused pain. Our team consists of down-to-earth, relatable therapists who are ready to help you heal. We offer a wide range of services for children, adolescents, and adults, including traditional talk therapy, EMDR, somatic bodywork, and dance movement therapy. Additionally, Nourish provides EMDR intensives. Reach out today to connect!
(215) 709-2160 View (215) 709-2160
Photo of Neal King, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neal King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Together we will improve reactions to triggers of anxiety, depression and the unhelpful thinking styles that ensue.
Licensed in PA and NJ - Accepting Telehealth Let’s take a direct, head-on approach to managing ANXIETY and STRESS – as that is known to be the trigger to many other ailments. I am on a personal mission to HELP TEENS and ADULTS GAIN INSIGHT into their anxious triggers that are self-limiting their incredible potential. I am a strength-based therapist with emphasis on mindfulness and stress management as it relates to improving your daily interactions and functioning. Let's learn and use effective problem-solving and cognitive restructuring skills; so your confidence and capabilities toward solutions will become part of you.
Together we will improve reactions to triggers of anxiety, depression and the unhelpful thinking styles that ensue.
Licensed in PA and NJ - Accepting Telehealth Let’s take a direct, head-on approach to managing ANXIETY and STRESS – as that is known to be the trigger to many other ailments. I am on a personal mission to HELP TEENS and ADULTS GAIN INSIGHT into their anxious triggers that are self-limiting their incredible potential. I am a strength-based therapist with emphasis on mindfulness and stress management as it relates to improving your daily interactions and functioning. Let's learn and use effective problem-solving and cognitive restructuring skills; so your confidence and capabilities toward solutions will become part of you.
(267) 613-9109 View (267) 613-9109
Photo of Linda Case, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Case
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
"Accepting new clients" Are you struggling with stress that is creating anxiety, depression, conflicted relationships or job stress? I can help. I provide a safe and supportive environment to uncover limiting beliefs and behaviors that are preventing you from living your optimal life.
"Accepting new clients" Are you struggling with stress that is creating anxiety, depression, conflicted relationships or job stress? I can help. I provide a safe and supportive environment to uncover limiting beliefs and behaviors that are preventing you from living your optimal life.
(267) 592-6957 View (267) 592-6957
Photo of Kyra Woodworth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyra Woodworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
Stories matter. More specifically, your story matters and, as a therapist, it is a privilege to hold your story. Furthermore, you are the expert in your own life. I see my role as creating a safe space to assist you in exploring your life, your story, your struggles, your challenges; starting wherever you are! My approach to therapy focuses on building a relationship that is warm, authentic, and compassionate. I support adolescents and young adults experiencing transition or life changes, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, or are affected by trauma. My approach is integrative, trauma-formed and draws on different modalities.
Stories matter. More specifically, your story matters and, as a therapist, it is a privilege to hold your story. Furthermore, you are the expert in your own life. I see my role as creating a safe space to assist you in exploring your life, your story, your struggles, your challenges; starting wherever you are! My approach to therapy focuses on building a relationship that is warm, authentic, and compassionate. I support adolescents and young adults experiencing transition or life changes, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, or are affected by trauma. My approach is integrative, trauma-formed and draws on different modalities.
(267) 508-7909 View (267) 508-7909
Photo of Denise Villega, MS, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denise Villega
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Hi There! I am so glad that you are taking the time to get your needs met by searching for your perfect support team in a therapist. We are all deserving of support, wouldn't you agree? It is rare that we do what we need for ourselves, and I love enabling people to meet their needs through a therapeutic relationship. Through my EMDR Certification, I specialize in supporting people who have experienced adverse life events. If you have suffered abuse, relational hardship, grief and loss, work-stressors, mood issues, anxiety or depression, and many more, I would love to support you in the healing relationship that therapy offers.
Hi There! I am so glad that you are taking the time to get your needs met by searching for your perfect support team in a therapist. We are all deserving of support, wouldn't you agree? It is rare that we do what we need for ourselves, and I love enabling people to meet their needs through a therapeutic relationship. Through my EMDR Certification, I specialize in supporting people who have experienced adverse life events. If you have suffered abuse, relational hardship, grief and loss, work-stressors, mood issues, anxiety or depression, and many more, I would love to support you in the healing relationship that therapy offers.
(223) 204-9319 View (223) 204-9319
Photo of Ariana Zeno Individual And Couples Counseling, LCSW, MSW, MCP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ariana Zeno Individual And Couples Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MCP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
You may find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with unsatisfying relationships, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself and others. Together we will work on co-creating an environment most conducive to what you need to feel safe and heard to heal and grow. My approach is compassionate, humorous and committed to helping you to live your life more fully. I enjoy working with adults and couples. I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, first responders, and queer folks exploring questions of gender identity and sexuality. Expertise working with parents/families of transgender youth.
You may find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with unsatisfying relationships, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself and others. Together we will work on co-creating an environment most conducive to what you need to feel safe and heard to heal and grow. My approach is compassionate, humorous and committed to helping you to live your life more fully. I enjoy working with adults and couples. I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, first responders, and queer folks exploring questions of gender identity and sexuality. Expertise working with parents/families of transgender youth.
(215) 660-3937 View (215) 660-3937
Photo of Tuera Holland - Sacred Sojourner Counseling, LLC, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sacred Sojourner Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
Tuera’s clinical experience includes assisting clients experiencing anxiety, depression, race-based trauma, LGBTQIA concerns, eating concerns and disorders, suicidal ideation, nonsuicidal self-injury, PTSD, self-image concerns, academic distress, work-related stress, family conflict, relationship concerns and isolation.
Tuera Holland (she/her), founder of Sacred Sojourner Counseling, LLC, is a master’s level clinician licensed in Pennsylvania and New Jersey providing individual, relationship, marriage, premarital, pre-engagement, family, and group counseling. She acquired her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy & Practice with the goal of providing psychotherapy to populations experiencing complex and ambient trauma as a result of marginalization. Tuera is trained in trauma-informed care and especially cognizant of the ways in which one’s social environment impacts their health and development.
Tuera’s clinical experience includes assisting clients experiencing anxiety, depression, race-based trauma, LGBTQIA concerns, eating concerns and disorders, suicidal ideation, nonsuicidal self-injury, PTSD, self-image concerns, academic distress, work-related stress, family conflict, relationship concerns and isolation.
Tuera Holland (she/her), founder of Sacred Sojourner Counseling, LLC, is a master’s level clinician licensed in Pennsylvania and New Jersey providing individual, relationship, marriage, premarital, pre-engagement, family, and group counseling. She acquired her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy & Practice with the goal of providing psychotherapy to populations experiencing complex and ambient trauma as a result of marginalization. Tuera is trained in trauma-informed care and especially cognizant of the ways in which one’s social environment impacts their health and development.
(610) 379-3529 View (610) 379-3529
Photo of Anna D Passyn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna D Passyn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
For over 15 years I’ve worked with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, and difficult life transitions.
The phrase “too much” continues to run through your head. Too many people are asking too much of you, your time, your energy. The demands leave you overwhelmed and anxious, maybe a little crabby. Worse, there is the nagging sense that others “get it” and that you’re not only tired, but also alone; it really is too much. As hard as your experience has been – connecting, parenting, partnering, working – having a companion on this part of your journey will make carrying the load easier. You know what you love, what is important to you, let’s work together to figure out how best to get you closer to what you care about most.
For over 15 years I’ve worked with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, and difficult life transitions.
The phrase “too much” continues to run through your head. Too many people are asking too much of you, your time, your energy. The demands leave you overwhelmed and anxious, maybe a little crabby. Worse, there is the nagging sense that others “get it” and that you’re not only tired, but also alone; it really is too much. As hard as your experience has been – connecting, parenting, partnering, working – having a companion on this part of your journey will make carrying the load easier. You know what you love, what is important to you, let’s work together to figure out how best to get you closer to what you care about most.
(267) 500-8775 View (267) 500-8775
Photo of Dr. Whitney Quinlan, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Whitney Quinlan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’m so glad you’re here! Are you feeling overwhelmed by daily life stresses, relationship issues, or recent changes? Do you want to start to feel better soon? There are many aspects of our lives, our stories, our families, and our circumstances that we may not have chosen and may not be able to change. However, there ARE ways to work through these very important aspects of our lives. Therapy is a wonderful and fulfilling way to do just that. I provide services for life transitions, anxiety, depression, marital and premarital therapy, trying to conceive, pregnancy, and postpartum experiences, and other mental health concerns.
I’m so glad you’re here! Are you feeling overwhelmed by daily life stresses, relationship issues, or recent changes? Do you want to start to feel better soon? There are many aspects of our lives, our stories, our families, and our circumstances that we may not have chosen and may not be able to change. However, there ARE ways to work through these very important aspects of our lives. Therapy is a wonderful and fulfilling way to do just that. I provide services for life transitions, anxiety, depression, marital and premarital therapy, trying to conceive, pregnancy, and postpartum experiences, and other mental health concerns.
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Photo of Lauren Sandulli - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals. We believe you're best served by a therapist passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to helping therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. Working with us, you'll get results.
We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals. We believe you're best served by a therapist passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to helping therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. Working with us, you'll get results.
(267) 214-6496 View (267) 214-6496
Photo of Kelsey Irving, LPC, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsey Irving
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the constant chatter in your mind? The “what-ifs” and worst-case scenarios can be really draining. Let’s break that cycle of anxious thoughts and start focusing on choices that bring more joy into your life. Our daily decisions shape our lives, so let’s think about whether you’re making choices based on fear or on what truly matters to you. As an OCD specialist, I believe in building a strong, trusting relationship with my clients right from the start. We’ll work together in a collaborative and supportive way throughout the therapy process, focusing on what works best for you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the constant chatter in your mind? The “what-ifs” and worst-case scenarios can be really draining. Let’s break that cycle of anxious thoughts and start focusing on choices that bring more joy into your life. Our daily decisions shape our lives, so let’s think about whether you’re making choices based on fear or on what truly matters to you. As an OCD specialist, I believe in building a strong, trusting relationship with my clients right from the start. We’ll work together in a collaborative and supportive way throughout the therapy process, focusing on what works best for you.
(603) 326-4334 View (603) 326-4334
Photo of Emily Masko, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Masko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I am taking new clients! I can generally schedule new clients for a session within 2 business days. I offer both telehealth sessions as well as outdoor, nature therapy sessions in which we can talk on a park bench or walk along a trail. If you have been struggling to find a therapist, please reach out. Working together, we will explore who you are and create your vision of a healthy, happy life.
I am taking new clients! I can generally schedule new clients for a session within 2 business days. I offer both telehealth sessions as well as outdoor, nature therapy sessions in which we can talk on a park bench or walk along a trail. If you have been struggling to find a therapist, please reach out. Working together, we will explore who you are and create your vision of a healthy, happy life.
(215) 437-3849 View (215) 437-3849
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.