Therapists in 22030
Nadia Mihai
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I have expertise in treating low self-esteem, depression, behavioral problems, ADHD, and anxiety.
I hold a strong belief in the transformative power of therapy and am deeply passionate about guiding individuals to overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. Utilizing a blend of empathy, active listening, and evidence-based techniques, I am committed to establishing a safe and supportive space. My goal is to empower clients to delve into their feelings and embark on a journey toward lasting change. With dedication, I aim to assist people in leading fulfilling and joyful lives.
I have expertise in treating low self-esteem, depression, behavioral problems, ADHD, and anxiety.
I hold a strong belief in the transformative power of therapy and am deeply passionate about guiding individuals to overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. Utilizing a blend of empathy, active listening, and evidence-based techniques, I am committed to establishing a safe and supportive space. My goal is to empower clients to delve into their feelings and embark on a journey toward lasting change. With dedication, I aim to assist people in leading fulfilling and joyful lives.
Karyn Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Hello! I work with adults, including older adults and their families, challenged by life's interruptions and stress--how can you cope? Yes, you can endure. I offer experience with aging, caregiving, life transitions, depression/anxiety, pandemic related stress, illness and disability, cognitive/neuro impairment, death and dying, care/resource planning, loss and grief, trauma and relationship/conflict resolution. I use interventions (CBT, solution focused, relational, etc...) tailored to best meet your needs. I use a person centered and strengths based approach to offer hope in your efforts to thrive.
Hello! I work with adults, including older adults and their families, challenged by life's interruptions and stress--how can you cope? Yes, you can endure. I offer experience with aging, caregiving, life transitions, depression/anxiety, pandemic related stress, illness and disability, cognitive/neuro impairment, death and dying, care/resource planning, loss and grief, trauma and relationship/conflict resolution. I use interventions (CBT, solution focused, relational, etc...) tailored to best meet your needs. I use a person centered and strengths based approach to offer hope in your efforts to thrive.
Chan Young Park
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, family, and married couples with different backgrounds and various issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger control, addiction, trauma, marital conflicts, spiritual issues, relational issues, grief, life transitions, trans-generational issues, identity issues, etc.
Sometimes the process of finding a therapist can be a challenge. If you are on this journey, I am here to listen your unique experiences and help you cope with mental health challenges by providing you with a holistic therapeutic experience and by showing empathy to see your world like how you see it. I believe that being accepting, non-judgmental, understanding, and listening are few of the most important skills as a therapist.
I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, family, and married couples with different backgrounds and various issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger control, addiction, trauma, marital conflicts, spiritual issues, relational issues, grief, life transitions, trans-generational issues, identity issues, etc.
Sometimes the process of finding a therapist can be a challenge. If you are on this journey, I am here to listen your unique experiences and help you cope with mental health challenges by providing you with a holistic therapeutic experience and by showing empathy to see your world like how you see it. I believe that being accepting, non-judgmental, understanding, and listening are few of the most important skills as a therapist.
Danielle M Causley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I offer both individual and group therapy to give your child the skills they need to navigate life and manage anxiety and depression.
Are you concerned that your child is worrying too much or their sadness is overwhelming them? It is painful to see your child nervous, isolated, unhappy, and alone. You may be worried that your teen is hurting but they will not open up to you. You know your teen should be active and engaged in a social life but they spend most of their time at home or on their electronic devices. Maybe your home life has become stressful and consumed with conflict and stress. You are sure that therapy is a good idea but you have no idea on how to convince them to try it out.
I offer both individual and group therapy to give your child the skills they need to navigate life and manage anxiety and depression.
Are you concerned that your child is worrying too much or their sadness is overwhelming them? It is painful to see your child nervous, isolated, unhappy, and alone. You may be worried that your teen is hurting but they will not open up to you. You know your teen should be active and engaged in a social life but they spend most of their time at home or on their electronic devices. Maybe your home life has become stressful and consumed with conflict and stress. You are sure that therapy is a good idea but you have no idea on how to convince them to try it out.
Virginia Therapy & Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
We are a group of highly skilled therapists who work with adolescents, adults, couples & families who struggle with relationship issues, family conflict, anxiety, OCD, self esteem, life transitions, coping skills, PTSD, chronic illness, spirituality, depression, grief, and more. We provide compassionate, holistic, culturally-sensitive care, and embrace diversity and inclusivity. Whether you're looking to develop skills, or for someone to listen and care about what you're going through, one of our therapists is bound to be a good fit. We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about us. We look forward to working with you!
We are a group of highly skilled therapists who work with adolescents, adults, couples & families who struggle with relationship issues, family conflict, anxiety, OCD, self esteem, life transitions, coping skills, PTSD, chronic illness, spirituality, depression, grief, and more. We provide compassionate, holistic, culturally-sensitive care, and embrace diversity and inclusivity. Whether you're looking to develop skills, or for someone to listen and care about what you're going through, one of our therapists is bound to be a good fit. We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about us. We look forward to working with you!
Jack Allen Merenda
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I've been a licensed clinical psychologist since 1994, and have counseled people with a wide range of life challenges, including: anxiety, stress, depression, self-image, men's issues, having a family member with special needs, spirituality, and major life transitions. I employ an individualized blend of therapeutic skills, to explore your life challenge through compassionate listening and meaningful interaction, with the goal towards deeper understanding which guides effective action planning and follow-through.
I've been a licensed clinical psychologist since 1994, and have counseled people with a wide range of life challenges, including: anxiety, stress, depression, self-image, men's issues, having a family member with special needs, spirituality, and major life transitions. I employ an individualized blend of therapeutic skills, to explore your life challenge through compassionate listening and meaningful interaction, with the goal towards deeper understanding which guides effective action planning and follow-through.
Marigold Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, women’s issues, relationship difficulties, and adjustment issues.
Life can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate at times. These challenges can often lead to feelings of hopelessness and anxiety. Therapy can empower you and provide you with the tools needed to manage your obstacles. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over fifteen years of experience providing counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I value establishing a safe and open counseling environment for clients to feel heard and accepted.
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, women’s issues, relationship difficulties, and adjustment issues.
Life can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate at times. These challenges can often lead to feelings of hopelessness and anxiety. Therapy can empower you and provide you with the tools needed to manage your obstacles. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over fifteen years of experience providing counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I value establishing a safe and open counseling environment for clients to feel heard and accepted.
Daniel Scrafford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples in a relaxed, safe, and caring environment. People enter my office because they feel stuck or lost. Clients recognize that they are unhappy and often know what makes them unhappy, but they don't know how to change. Many people in these situations are feeling depressed, anxious, and may be involved with self-defeating behaviors. Together, we examine these issues with non-judgmental dialogue.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples in a relaxed, safe, and caring environment. People enter my office because they feel stuck or lost. Clients recognize that they are unhappy and often know what makes them unhappy, but they don't know how to change. Many people in these situations are feeling depressed, anxious, and may be involved with self-defeating behaviors. Together, we examine these issues with non-judgmental dialogue.
Andrea Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Waitlist for new clients
I currently practice with adults facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, separation and divorce, fertility, pregnancy & infant loss, self esteem, grief, trauma, emotional aspects of illness and disease, medical and surgical weight loss, career & family balance, life transitions and LGBTQIA+.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I work from a strengths based perspective and assist clients in facing life challenges in realistic ways through a combination of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential, safe environment for exploration and change.
I currently practice with adults facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, separation and divorce, fertility, pregnancy & infant loss, self esteem, grief, trauma, emotional aspects of illness and disease, medical and surgical weight loss, career & family balance, life transitions and LGBTQIA+.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I work from a strengths based perspective and assist clients in facing life challenges in realistic ways through a combination of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential, safe environment for exploration and change.
Laveena Khanchandani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Her specialty areas include: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, attachment, & autism spectrum disorders.
Seeking therapy can often be a difficult decision and can create anxiety and ambiguity about what the process will entail. However, Dr. Khanchandani functions from the foundation for a positive experience in therapy which first begins with establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. Doing so, can encourage positive growth towards goals. Therapy is facilitated with transparency about what to expect from the process and goals are formulated collaboratively. Interventions are recommended based on individual's goals and needs. Effective and open communication is encouraged about therapeutic process and progress on goals
Her specialty areas include: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, attachment, & autism spectrum disorders.
Seeking therapy can often be a difficult decision and can create anxiety and ambiguity about what the process will entail. However, Dr. Khanchandani functions from the foundation for a positive experience in therapy which first begins with establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. Doing so, can encourage positive growth towards goals. Therapy is facilitated with transparency about what to expect from the process and goals are formulated collaboratively. Interventions are recommended based on individual's goals and needs. Effective and open communication is encouraged about therapeutic process and progress on goals
Melissa Addessi
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030 (Online Only)
I have experience working with adults and teens who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, social anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Seeking a compassionate guide for your journey? Look no further. I offer empathetic, judgment-free support to help you navigate challenges and embark on transformation. My person-centered approach ensures a tailored experience. By actively listening and asking thoughtful questions, I empower you to discover solutions that resonate with your unique needs, fostering autonomy. Using cognitive-behavioral therapy, I assist in gaining control over thoughts and behaviors. Together, we reshape negative patterns, cultivating a positive mindset. Mindfulness enhances self-awareness, providing tools for stress management.
I have experience working with adults and teens who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, social anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Seeking a compassionate guide for your journey? Look no further. I offer empathetic, judgment-free support to help you navigate challenges and embark on transformation. My person-centered approach ensures a tailored experience. By actively listening and asking thoughtful questions, I empower you to discover solutions that resonate with your unique needs, fostering autonomy. Using cognitive-behavioral therapy, I assist in gaining control over thoughts and behaviors. Together, we reshape negative patterns, cultivating a positive mindset. Mindfulness enhances self-awareness, providing tools for stress management.
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Valeria Cuzzi
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCr
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I apply cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, positive psychology, and psychodynamic approaches in English and Spanish to work with trauma disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, relationship issues, self-esteem, and phase-of-life problems.
I firmly advocate that treatment isn't a one-size-fits-all solution; it must be customized for each individual's unique needs. Establishing genuine trust and creating a safe space are paramount for clients seeking to enhance their well-being. My focus is on fostering room for vulnerability, genuineness, and empathy. Life brings both rewards and challenges that can be overwhelming. Together, we can navigate the curveballs, develop coping skills, heal past traumas, and build healthier patterns to face any obstacle.
I apply cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, positive psychology, and psychodynamic approaches in English and Spanish to work with trauma disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, relationship issues, self-esteem, and phase-of-life problems.
I firmly advocate that treatment isn't a one-size-fits-all solution; it must be customized for each individual's unique needs. Establishing genuine trust and creating a safe space are paramount for clients seeking to enhance their well-being. My focus is on fostering room for vulnerability, genuineness, and empathy. Life brings both rewards and challenges that can be overwhelming. Together, we can navigate the curveballs, develop coping skills, heal past traumas, and build healthier patterns to face any obstacle.
Julie Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I provide counseling services to children, at risk youth, young adults, adults, and couples who are facing challenges to include substance use, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, eating disorders, ADHD, relationship obstacles, balance of life, grief/loss, anger, and self-esteem issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia. I earned my Masters Degree in Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University and my Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland. I have been working in the clinical field since 1999. My passion is working directly with people who are experiencing challenges and assisting them through difficult times. I believe in the strength of individuals to overcome obstacles in life but recognize that everyone needs support through these times. A variety of evidence based practices assist clients in reaching their goals and living a fuller life.
I provide counseling services to children, at risk youth, young adults, adults, and couples who are facing challenges to include substance use, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, eating disorders, ADHD, relationship obstacles, balance of life, grief/loss, anger, and self-esteem issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia. I earned my Masters Degree in Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University and my Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland. I have been working in the clinical field since 1999. My passion is working directly with people who are experiencing challenges and assisting them through difficult times. I believe in the strength of individuals to overcome obstacles in life but recognize that everyone needs support through these times. A variety of evidence based practices assist clients in reaching their goals and living a fuller life.
Laura Grandy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Laura specializes in working with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, gender, sexuality, learning differences, trauma, and body image issues.
Whether you are seeking therapy to find concrete solutions to problems that feel unmanageable, heal from past experiences, explore gender and sexuality issues, or better understand yourself and your story, Laura would be honored to be a part of your process. Laura believes every client is unique, and therefore, has an eclectic person-centered approach in working with clients. Laura uses dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, creative art therapies, and mindfulness strategies to help those in her care meet their needs, reach their treatment goals, and create change.
Laura specializes in working with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, gender, sexuality, learning differences, trauma, and body image issues.
Whether you are seeking therapy to find concrete solutions to problems that feel unmanageable, heal from past experiences, explore gender and sexuality issues, or better understand yourself and your story, Laura would be honored to be a part of your process. Laura believes every client is unique, and therefore, has an eclectic person-centered approach in working with clients. Laura uses dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, creative art therapies, and mindfulness strategies to help those in her care meet their needs, reach their treatment goals, and create change.
Jackie Sargent
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, LCPAT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I specialize in women’s issues, attachment, trauma-based disorders, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
The journey towards healing is a path marked by resilience and courage. It is one of self-discovery, growth, and transformation—a voyage of understanding and mending wounds, both seen and unseen. My name is Jackie, and I am here, ready and willing to walk beside you on this meaningful journey towards healing. I am a trauma-informed board certified art therapist and licensed professional counselor with over 13 years of clinical and supervisory experience. I integrate art therapy, sand tray therapy, and IFS into my practice. As such, I am dedicated to a therapeutic intervention that is rooted in nurturance and creative expression.
I specialize in women’s issues, attachment, trauma-based disorders, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
The journey towards healing is a path marked by resilience and courage. It is one of self-discovery, growth, and transformation—a voyage of understanding and mending wounds, both seen and unseen. My name is Jackie, and I am here, ready and willing to walk beside you on this meaningful journey towards healing. I am a trauma-informed board certified art therapist and licensed professional counselor with over 13 years of clinical and supervisory experience. I integrate art therapy, sand tray therapy, and IFS into my practice. As such, I am dedicated to a therapeutic intervention that is rooted in nurturance and creative expression.
Veritas Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Break Free from sadness and stress! Veritas Counseling is a general counseling practice treating many of life's issues: anxiety, depression, couples counseling, family therapy, postpartum, child behaviors, parent coaching, trauma, PTSD, autism, ADHD, stress management, grief, death, and career counseling. We do not participate with any insurance companies, but we will give you a detailed receipt to submit to your insurance for reimbursement of fees. We also accept all HSA/FSA funds, so if you have HSA money saved you can use it for counseling! Upon client request we also offer Catholic and Christian counseling.
Break Free from sadness and stress! Veritas Counseling is a general counseling practice treating many of life's issues: anxiety, depression, couples counseling, family therapy, postpartum, child behaviors, parent coaching, trauma, PTSD, autism, ADHD, stress management, grief, death, and career counseling. We do not participate with any insurance companies, but we will give you a detailed receipt to submit to your insurance for reimbursement of fees. We also accept all HSA/FSA funds, so if you have HSA money saved you can use it for counseling! Upon client request we also offer Catholic and Christian counseling.
Maureen Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
With more than twenty years of experience, I have had the opportunity and privilege to participate in the hard work that individuals, couples and families have done to lead fuller and more satisfying lives. I work with adults and families dealing with anxiety, depression, adoption, trauma, divorce, deployment, grief and loss. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Practitioner. In addition to therapy, I provide individual and group Clinical Supervision for Licensure.
With more than twenty years of experience, I have had the opportunity and privilege to participate in the hard work that individuals, couples and families have done to lead fuller and more satisfying lives. I work with adults and families dealing with anxiety, depression, adoption, trauma, divorce, deployment, grief and loss. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Practitioner. In addition to therapy, I provide individual and group Clinical Supervision for Licensure.
Ebone' Brogdon - Rivers Of Hope Counseling
Resident in Counseling, MS, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030 (Online Only)
I work with all age groups addressing a vast array of issues including anxiety; depression; trauma; substance use; cognitive impairments; personality disorders; adjustment; life transitions & stressors; self-esteem & confidence; mood & behavioral concerns; and more!.
Before I tell you about me, I would like to congratulate you on taking the first or extra step toward your healing journey. Finding a provider that best suits you and your needs can be difficult, and sometimes scary. But here you are, executing one of the most difficult parts of this process, and together we can continue to overcome obstacles and challenges to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness. I am a Resident in Counseling in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I have a genuine passion for my profession, helping people navigate through life in a manner that is most authentic and helpful to them.
I work with all age groups addressing a vast array of issues including anxiety; depression; trauma; substance use; cognitive impairments; personality disorders; adjustment; life transitions & stressors; self-esteem & confidence; mood & behavioral concerns; and more!.
Before I tell you about me, I would like to congratulate you on taking the first or extra step toward your healing journey. Finding a provider that best suits you and your needs can be difficult, and sometimes scary. But here you are, executing one of the most difficult parts of this process, and together we can continue to overcome obstacles and challenges to help you achieve optimal mental health and wellness. I am a Resident in Counseling in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I have a genuine passion for my profession, helping people navigate through life in a manner that is most authentic and helpful to them.
Cynthia Turner
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSW, LSATP, MAC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I love what I do! I get to help you turn your insights into action for addictions, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. We may use individual, family, or group therapy, relapse prevention, education, medication, or MAT/MOUD. Our Dual Diagnosis Recovery Program is for people struggling with both a mental health and drug/alcohol issue. We know that recovery does not always mean abstinence. Take the Alcohol Moderation Assessment to help you determine your relationship with alcohol and learn how to get your life back in balance.
I love what I do! I get to help you turn your insights into action for addictions, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. We may use individual, family, or group therapy, relapse prevention, education, medication, or MAT/MOUD. Our Dual Diagnosis Recovery Program is for people struggling with both a mental health and drug/alcohol issue. We know that recovery does not always mean abstinence. Take the Alcohol Moderation Assessment to help you determine your relationship with alcohol and learn how to get your life back in balance.
Dr. Kelly Kit
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Her areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, identity development, family of origin issues, life transitions, pregnancy/fertility-related issues, relationship concerns, perfectionism, self-esteem development, LGBTQ support, and issues of acculturation.
Dr. Kelly Kit, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with adolescents and adults. Since 2010, she has provided individual, group, and family therapy. She practices from a strength's based approach, utilizing insight-based therapy along with cognitive-behavioral techniques to promote growth in clients. Dr. Kit takes an integrative approach to therapy in order to meet each client's needs by using solution-focused, multi-cultural, attachment-based, and client-centered therapies.
Her areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, identity development, family of origin issues, life transitions, pregnancy/fertility-related issues, relationship concerns, perfectionism, self-esteem development, LGBTQ support, and issues of acculturation.
Dr. Kelly Kit, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with adolescents and adults. Since 2010, she has provided individual, group, and family therapy. She practices from a strength's based approach, utilizing insight-based therapy along with cognitive-behavioral techniques to promote growth in clients. Dr. Kit takes an integrative approach to therapy in order to meet each client's needs by using solution-focused, multi-cultural, attachment-based, and client-centered therapies.
See more therapy options for 22030
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.