Photo of Mend Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49503, MI
Mend Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Accepting Clients In-Person & Online - It could be long-term depression or recent development in your life. You could be severely depressed or mildly so. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, lost, or empty. Maybe what used to work for you doesn't anymore. You're trying to make changes but it doesn't seem to be working. Maybe you're always feeling tired, exhausted, or generally bad about yourself. Perhaps you're high strung and having difficulty calming down. At Mend Counseling you will be met wherever you're at in order to find a new way forward. Therapy can truly help you find more meaning and happiness in your life.
Accepting Clients In-Person & Online - It could be long-term depression or recent development in your life. You could be severely depressed or mildly so. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, lost, or empty. Maybe what used to work for you doesn't anymore. You're trying to make changes but it doesn't seem to be working. Maybe you're always feeling tired, exhausted, or generally bad about yourself. Perhaps you're high strung and having difficulty calming down. At Mend Counseling you will be met wherever you're at in order to find a new way forward. Therapy can truly help you find more meaning and happiness in your life.
(616) 545-8563 View (616) 545-8563
Photo of Kimberly Sue Lichon-Tufer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Kimberly Sue Lichon-Tufer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I have also worked with children and adults regarding challenges with trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief and loss, peer pressure, bullying, and many others.
My passion is helping others find ways to manage their challenges in this ever-changing journey we call life. For over 27 years I have worked with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families in a variety of settings; including home, school, office, and in the community. I pride myself in building therapeutic relationships with each individual I work with. By achieving this, I believe we can then work together to help identify what is challenging you currently to get you to the life you choose to live successfully.
I have also worked with children and adults regarding challenges with trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief and loss, peer pressure, bullying, and many others.
My passion is helping others find ways to manage their challenges in this ever-changing journey we call life. For over 27 years I have worked with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families in a variety of settings; including home, school, office, and in the community. I pride myself in building therapeutic relationships with each individual I work with. By achieving this, I believe we can then work together to help identify what is challenging you currently to get you to the life you choose to live successfully.
(616) 201-3474 View (616) 201-3474
Photo of Jim Rossi, Psychologist in 49503, MI
Jim Rossi
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I enjoy working with individuals struggling with chronic illness, eating disorders, weight loss, anxiety, depression, interpersonal concerns, and general life stress. I understand that it can be extremely stressful to manage emotional or physical health concerns in our fast paced, high pressure society. Throughout my training, I have admired the people I have worked with who are making transitions and want to examine themselves, their past, and their interpersonal environment to make changes that work for them.
I enjoy working with individuals struggling with chronic illness, eating disorders, weight loss, anxiety, depression, interpersonal concerns, and general life stress. I understand that it can be extremely stressful to manage emotional or physical health concerns in our fast paced, high pressure society. Throughout my training, I have admired the people I have worked with who are making transitions and want to examine themselves, their past, and their interpersonal environment to make changes that work for them.
(616) 326-3249 View (616) 326-3249
Photo of Brelin Tasker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Brelin Tasker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I am passionate about providing spaces to adolescents and young adults of various backgrounds, cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identities who struggle with disordered eating, body image, self esteem, LGBTQ+ concerns, anxiety, depression, life changes, and familial conflict.
Accepting new clients in May 2024! Whether this is your first time reaching out to a therapist, or a process you’ve been through before, I am happy you’re here and making this first step. My primary goal as a therapist is to hold space to process, heal, explore, and rebuild the relationship one has with themselves. I view the relationship between therapist and client as a partnership and aim to support those who are ready to actively engage in their healing.
I am passionate about providing spaces to adolescents and young adults of various backgrounds, cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identities who struggle with disordered eating, body image, self esteem, LGBTQ+ concerns, anxiety, depression, life changes, and familial conflict.
Accepting new clients in May 2024! Whether this is your first time reaching out to a therapist, or a process you’ve been through before, I am happy you’re here and making this first step. My primary goal as a therapist is to hold space to process, heal, explore, and rebuild the relationship one has with themselves. I view the relationship between therapist and client as a partnership and aim to support those who are ready to actively engage in their healing.
(616) 585-0123 View (616) 585-0123
Photo of Breanne Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Breanne Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CBIS
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
My knowledge and experience includes anxiety management, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, family changes/adjustment, stress management, career guidance, educational stress, social behaviors, postnatal mood, development disabilities, sensory processing, ADHD, foster care, divorce, physical/sexual/emotional trauma, and elderly care.
NEW Patient email: captivebeliefs@gmail.com with availability, needs, and insurance plan. I believe that everyone deserves the support they need to release emotions and regain control. My specialities include anxiety, depression, and relationships. I have over 10 years of experience assessing mood, personalities, and family systems. My approach guides clients in managing areas of need such as life changes, emotional regulation, and family/social stressors. While I maintain the utmost professionalism in my practice, I offer a compassionate and approachable style.
My knowledge and experience includes anxiety management, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, family changes/adjustment, stress management, career guidance, educational stress, social behaviors, postnatal mood, development disabilities, sensory processing, ADHD, foster care, divorce, physical/sexual/emotional trauma, and elderly care.
NEW Patient email: captivebeliefs@gmail.com with availability, needs, and insurance plan. I believe that everyone deserves the support they need to release emotions and regain control. My specialities include anxiety, depression, and relationships. I have over 10 years of experience assessing mood, personalities, and family systems. My approach guides clients in managing areas of need such as life changes, emotional regulation, and family/social stressors. While I maintain the utmost professionalism in my practice, I offer a compassionate and approachable style.
(231) 432-5526 View (231) 432-5526
Photo of Renee Braune, Pre-Licensed Professional in 49503, MI
Renee Braune
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
I work with clients to treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
Hey there! Reaching out for help can be scary and I am proud of you for taking that step. I consider it a privilege to help people on their journey. An important part of the therapeutic process is the relationship between client and therapist and I strive to cultivate a nurturing and supportive therapeutic environment. Everyone wants to feel heard and understood, and providing that is the foundation of our work together. My diverse and unique experiences make me a strong ally for change and healing. I provide a compassionate, yet direct approach to therapy which helps my clients feel supported on their journey.
I work with clients to treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
Hey there! Reaching out for help can be scary and I am proud of you for taking that step. I consider it a privilege to help people on their journey. An important part of the therapeutic process is the relationship between client and therapist and I strive to cultivate a nurturing and supportive therapeutic environment. Everyone wants to feel heard and understood, and providing that is the foundation of our work together. My diverse and unique experiences make me a strong ally for change and healing. I provide a compassionate, yet direct approach to therapy which helps my clients feel supported on their journey.
(989) 467-7548 View (989) 467-7548
Photo of Morgan Earley, Independent Mental Health Practitioner in 49503, MI
Morgan Earley
Independent Mental Health Practitioner, LIMHP, LPC, CPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
I work with teens and adults who present with many concerns to include anxiety, PTSD, depression, parenting concerns, attachment concerns and general life transitions.
Are you looking for a non-judgemental space to decompress and process through life's tough stuff? Are you seeking tools and tips for when things just feel too messy? When we are experiencing anxiety, depression, or any other intolerable feeling, it can be difficult to manage on our own. I offer a comfortable, non-assuming space to sort through any of life's complexities you or your family is experiencing.
I work with teens and adults who present with many concerns to include anxiety, PTSD, depression, parenting concerns, attachment concerns and general life transitions.
Are you looking for a non-judgemental space to decompress and process through life's tough stuff? Are you seeking tools and tips for when things just feel too messy? When we are experiencing anxiety, depression, or any other intolerable feeling, it can be difficult to manage on our own. I offer a comfortable, non-assuming space to sort through any of life's complexities you or your family is experiencing.
(531) 208-1787 View (531) 208-1787
Photo of Jenny London, Counselor in 49503, MI
Jenny London
Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Working together in a collaborative, non-judgmental and client centered manner helps create change and growth. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, self worth/self esteem problems, addiction, or have difficulty managing your relationships, I can work with you to identify healthy ways in which to cope and better manage your emotions. Together we can identify ways to help make healthy lifestyle changes both emotionally and physically. I encourage a holistic (mind, body, spirit approach to treatment. As you become more aware of your strengths you become more confident in yourself and your abilities.
Working together in a collaborative, non-judgmental and client centered manner helps create change and growth. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, self worth/self esteem problems, addiction, or have difficulty managing your relationships, I can work with you to identify healthy ways in which to cope and better manage your emotions. Together we can identify ways to help make healthy lifestyle changes both emotionally and physically. I encourage a holistic (mind, body, spirit approach to treatment. As you become more aware of your strengths you become more confident in yourself and your abilities.
(616) 522-5569 View (616) 522-5569
Photo of Moriah VanOrder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Moriah VanOrder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
Together, we'll work through your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, unravelling the roots of your depression and anxiety.
Imagine waking up every morning, your mind clouded with a heavy fog of doubt, sadness, and fear. The weight of the world feels like an anchor, making every step forward seem impossible. For many people, this is an all-too-familiar struggle. But you're not alone in this journey. I'm here to extend a compassionate hand to help you find your way out of the darkness. You are the expert of your own experiences and have the tools to work through the issues life throws at you. I believe that healing begins with understanding.
Together, we'll work through your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, unravelling the roots of your depression and anxiety.
Imagine waking up every morning, your mind clouded with a heavy fog of doubt, sadness, and fear. The weight of the world feels like an anchor, making every step forward seem impossible. For many people, this is an all-too-familiar struggle. But you're not alone in this journey. I'm here to extend a compassionate hand to help you find your way out of the darkness. You are the expert of your own experiences and have the tools to work through the issues life throws at you. I believe that healing begins with understanding.
(269) 399-3767 View (269) 399-3767
Photo of Courtney Kozarian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Courtney Kozarian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I believe every person has a unique story, influenced by all of the situations and life experiences that have led up to this moment. My goal as a therapist is to build a warm and trusting relationship with you in order to support and encourage your personal growth and change. With both my personal and professional experience with blended families, non-monogamous relationships and anxiety/depression, I understand how difficult it can be to find a therapist who can provide a non-judgmental space to navigate your deepest thoughts and feelings. It is my goal to provide a space that is safe and welcoming for every client.
I believe every person has a unique story, influenced by all of the situations and life experiences that have led up to this moment. My goal as a therapist is to build a warm and trusting relationship with you in order to support and encourage your personal growth and change. With both my personal and professional experience with blended families, non-monogamous relationships and anxiety/depression, I understand how difficult it can be to find a therapist who can provide a non-judgmental space to navigate your deepest thoughts and feelings. It is my goal to provide a space that is safe and welcoming for every client.
(616) 580-1857 View (616) 580-1857
Photo of Compassionate Christian Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49503, MI
Compassionate Christian Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LMSW, Phd , PA
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
As compassionate therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential. Our caring multidisciplinary team is ready to guide you through depression, anxiety, anger, mood issues, trauma, relationship conflict, or other life stressors. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a person-centered approach tailored to your needs to help you reach the personal or relational growth you deserve. We hope that you come to know the unique person that God has created you to be in order to live your life in abundance.
As compassionate therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential. Our caring multidisciplinary team is ready to guide you through depression, anxiety, anger, mood issues, trauma, relationship conflict, or other life stressors. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a person-centered approach tailored to your needs to help you reach the personal or relational growth you deserve. We hope that you come to know the unique person that God has created you to be in order to live your life in abundance.
(616) 344-5204 View (616) 344-5204
Photo of Kaitlin Mackenzie Delehanty, Limited Licensed Psychologist in 49503, MI
Kaitlin Mackenzie Delehanty
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Not Verified Not Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I specialize in treating anxiety-based disorders, depression, relational stressors, and self-development in both children and adult populations.
I am a strong believer in the power of human connection and communication and have witnessed the power of this connection in fostering growth, healing, and reaching one’s goals in life. I strive to provide a warm and nurturing relationship with clients, where they feel safe to explore their experiences and patterns through this connection. I provide thoughtful and effective treatment plans by using evidence-based interventions tailored to each individual. I believe therapy should be collaborative, supportive, and playful!
I specialize in treating anxiety-based disorders, depression, relational stressors, and self-development in both children and adult populations.
I am a strong believer in the power of human connection and communication and have witnessed the power of this connection in fostering growth, healing, and reaching one’s goals in life. I strive to provide a warm and nurturing relationship with clients, where they feel safe to explore their experiences and patterns through this connection. I provide thoughtful and effective treatment plans by using evidence-based interventions tailored to each individual. I believe therapy should be collaborative, supportive, and playful!
(616) 537-2963 View (616) 537-2963
Photo of Trisha Waun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Trisha Waun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I warmly welcome adults, adolescent youth and families with a wide variety of symptoms, challenges and diagnoses to therapy. I have expertise in providing care for those experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, self-harm and suicidal ideation, relationship issues and adjustment related concerns. Regardless of where you find yourself in life or what you might be facing, I'm here to hold safe space for you and whatever you might need. We will work together to build trust, set achievable goals and help you towards healing and growth. https://www.telebehavioralhealth.us/request-appointment
I warmly welcome adults, adolescent youth and families with a wide variety of symptoms, challenges and diagnoses to therapy. I have expertise in providing care for those experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, self-harm and suicidal ideation, relationship issues and adjustment related concerns. Regardless of where you find yourself in life or what you might be facing, I'm here to hold safe space for you and whatever you might need. We will work together to build trust, set achievable goals and help you towards healing and growth. https://www.telebehavioralhealth.us/request-appointment
(616) 344-6364 View (616) 344-6364
Photo of Susie Kim-VanderGriend, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Susie Kim-VanderGriend
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
birthing trauma, miscarriage, infertility, NICU, medical issues), Postpartum Mood Anxiety Disorders (including anxiety, depression, OCD), and motherhood challenges.
Life can be complicated with challenging experiences, thoughts, feelings and even body sensations and my hope is that you are not holding it all alone. As a therapist, I strive to provide a secure space for you to engage in a non-judgmental, collaborative relationship. I believe in the strength and healing power that resides in the core of each person. Whatever challenges you are facing, I seek to come alongside you in the therapy space to facilitate healing and growth. I trust that together, we can work to make sense of what is happening - now and in the past to lead more empowered and fulfilled lives moving forward.
birthing trauma, miscarriage, infertility, NICU, medical issues), Postpartum Mood Anxiety Disorders (including anxiety, depression, OCD), and motherhood challenges.
Life can be complicated with challenging experiences, thoughts, feelings and even body sensations and my hope is that you are not holding it all alone. As a therapist, I strive to provide a secure space for you to engage in a non-judgmental, collaborative relationship. I believe in the strength and healing power that resides in the core of each person. Whatever challenges you are facing, I seek to come alongside you in the therapy space to facilitate healing and growth. I trust that together, we can work to make sense of what is happening - now and in the past to lead more empowered and fulfilled lives moving forward.
(616) 208-3196 View (616) 208-3196
Photo of Dana Evans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Dana Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that the transition to parenthood is a life-changing experience, and the child-bearing years can bring about many unique challenges and changes. Supporting parents and families through life transitions is my passion. Whether you are experiencing postpartum depression and/or anxiety, experiencing infertility or perinatal loss, parenting through adoption or foster care, or maybe just struggling to adjust to parenthood in general, I am able to provide a safe and comforting space for you to process your experiences.
I understand that the transition to parenthood is a life-changing experience, and the child-bearing years can bring about many unique challenges and changes. Supporting parents and families through life transitions is my passion. Whether you are experiencing postpartum depression and/or anxiety, experiencing infertility or perinatal loss, parenting through adoption or foster care, or maybe just struggling to adjust to parenthood in general, I am able to provide a safe and comforting space for you to process your experiences.
(616) 201-1398 View (616) 201-1398
Photo of Axel Francisco Hettinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Axel Francisco Hettinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
Axel enjoys working with those who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and gender identity exploration.
Axel Hettinger (he/him) specializes in client-focused therapeutic techniques. His work incorporates the arts and any special interests clients may have. Axel is a queer therapist who strives to create a welcoming, affirming and warm environment for all clients, and specifically works with LGBTQIA+ clients seeking gender-affirming care. For several years he’s worked with adolescents as a counselor, mentor, and community organizer. Axel is a regular collaborator and facilitator with the Grand Rapids Pride Center and speaks at Universities and schools to promote cultural understanding of underserved communities.
Axel enjoys working with those who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and gender identity exploration.
Axel Hettinger (he/him) specializes in client-focused therapeutic techniques. His work incorporates the arts and any special interests clients may have. Axel is a queer therapist who strives to create a welcoming, affirming and warm environment for all clients, and specifically works with LGBTQIA+ clients seeking gender-affirming care. For several years he’s worked with adolescents as a counselor, mentor, and community organizer. Axel is a regular collaborator and facilitator with the Grand Rapids Pride Center and speaks at Universities and schools to promote cultural understanding of underserved communities.
(616) 208-5761 View (616) 208-5761
Photo of Sam Lemmer, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49503, MI
Sam Lemmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
My goal is to provide a safe place to explore themes such as gender and racial identity, honoring neurodivergence and chronic conditions, depression and loneliness, anxiety and rumination, pattern recognition and change, and maintaining or reclaiming a sense of self in relational roles.
Vulnerability: while rewarding, can be daunting. It isn’t easy to let someone into your internal landscape and I value the possibility of learning yours. My name is Sam and I work with clients to become intimately comfortable with the buried and beautifully impactful aspects of themselves. Often, the relationship to yourself contributes to how your days unfold in the world around you. When was the last time you heard or nurtured the parts of yourself that long for you? In doing so, a gateway opens up to a sense of self-worth that will allow you to experience yourself and your environment with a new lens.
My goal is to provide a safe place to explore themes such as gender and racial identity, honoring neurodivergence and chronic conditions, depression and loneliness, anxiety and rumination, pattern recognition and change, and maintaining or reclaiming a sense of self in relational roles.
Vulnerability: while rewarding, can be daunting. It isn’t easy to let someone into your internal landscape and I value the possibility of learning yours. My name is Sam and I work with clients to become intimately comfortable with the buried and beautifully impactful aspects of themselves. Often, the relationship to yourself contributes to how your days unfold in the world around you. When was the last time you heard or nurtured the parts of yourself that long for you? In doing so, a gateway opens up to a sense of self-worth that will allow you to experience yourself and your environment with a new lens.
(616) 236-2946 View (616) 236-2946
Photo of Karla Gossens, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49503, MI
Karla [Kantola] Gossens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I have experience working with wide range of adults and specialize in complex trauma, adult attachment, anxiety & depression, self-esteem, life transitions, and religious wounds.
You know all the right things about mental health, but your emotions still feel overwhelming. People often comment about how well-adjusted your are or compliment you on your success, but in truth, you don't feel this way. You feel stuck in your mind and struggle to process what you feel so that your can heal. It's even possible that you have tried therapy before, but you weren't able to achieve the change you wanted. If you relate to this, I can help you better understand what is going on and we can work together to get back to your most natural self.
I have experience working with wide range of adults and specialize in complex trauma, adult attachment, anxiety & depression, self-esteem, life transitions, and religious wounds.
You know all the right things about mental health, but your emotions still feel overwhelming. People often comment about how well-adjusted your are or compliment you on your success, but in truth, you don't feel this way. You feel stuck in your mind and struggle to process what you feel so that your can heal. It's even possible that you have tried therapy before, but you weren't able to achieve the change you wanted. If you relate to this, I can help you better understand what is going on and we can work together to get back to your most natural self.
(231) 201-3648 View (231) 201-3648
Photo of Bethany Christian Services - Grand Rapids, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49503, MI
Bethany Christian Services - Grand Rapids
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Are you or your family going through a difficult time? Maybe you are experiencing relational challenges, feeling anxious or depressed, struggling to make sense of traumatic experiences, or worrying about your child's emotional or social functioning. At Bethany, we have an expert team of trauma-informed, culturally responsive counseling and psychiatric professionals who will walk alongside you in the pursuit of personal and relational wellbeing. As a community rooted in hope, our clinicians create an inclusive space that is open to all. No matter what you are facing, we are here to help.
Are you or your family going through a difficult time? Maybe you are experiencing relational challenges, feeling anxious or depressed, struggling to make sense of traumatic experiences, or worrying about your child's emotional or social functioning. At Bethany, we have an expert team of trauma-informed, culturally responsive counseling and psychiatric professionals who will walk alongside you in the pursuit of personal and relational wellbeing. As a community rooted in hope, our clinicians create an inclusive space that is open to all. No matter what you are facing, we are here to help.
(616) 523-3525 View (616) 523-3525
Photo of Kelly Kieft, Pre-Licensed Professional in 49503, MI
Kelly Kieft
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
My imagination is captivated by how intricate and interconnected our stories are with the world around us, both in our intimate relationships and in the culture and society in which we live. Oftentimes these stories can weave patterns of disconnection between oneself and others, leaving us feeling stuck, and in need of care and tending. In my work, I offer a heartfelt and empathic space to explore your experience in the world. Whether it’s finding self-acceptance, moving through anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges, I meet you where you’re at and help you find your inner resources for healing.
My imagination is captivated by how intricate and interconnected our stories are with the world around us, both in our intimate relationships and in the culture and society in which we live. Oftentimes these stories can weave patterns of disconnection between oneself and others, leaving us feeling stuck, and in need of care and tending. In my work, I offer a heartfelt and empathic space to explore your experience in the world. Whether it’s finding self-acceptance, moving through anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges, I meet you where you’re at and help you find your inner resources for healing.
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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.