Photo of Jann Dodd, Psychologist in 77005, TX
Jann Dodd
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or career challenges, I integrate the science of psychology and the treatment of complex human problems to promote emotional wellness.
TEXAS Telehealth Provider. Everyone thinks you are fine, but no one can tell that you're struggling inside. It is possible to heal your mind, cope with stressful situations, and enhance your relationships and career to unlock your true potential. There are times when life's stressors can feel overwhelming and debilitating. I provide a warm and safe environment to help you feel seen, heard, and understood to learn new ways of seeing yourself and your strengths. I will teach you skills for long-lasting change that will contribute to a happier and healthier future.
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or career challenges, I integrate the science of psychology and the treatment of complex human problems to promote emotional wellness.
TEXAS Telehealth Provider. Everyone thinks you are fine, but no one can tell that you're struggling inside. It is possible to heal your mind, cope with stressful situations, and enhance your relationships and career to unlock your true potential. There are times when life's stressors can feel overwhelming and debilitating. I provide a warm and safe environment to help you feel seen, heard, and understood to learn new ways of seeing yourself and your strengths. I will teach you skills for long-lasting change that will contribute to a happier and healthier future.
(832) 536-7185 View (832) 536-7185
Photo of Wale Okerayi, Counselor in 77005, TX
Wale Okerayi
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, EdM, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
I have experience working with multicultural and identity issues, race issues, gender and sexuality, body image, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Everyone needs a safe space to talk about life's difficult moments. Creating that safe/non-judgemental space is my primary goal in every session. Using a supportive and collaborative approach, I aim to help you develop insight and awareness into your struggles in order to foster healing and growth. I believe in meeting you where you are and walking beside you throughout your journey of enlightenment.
I have experience working with multicultural and identity issues, race issues, gender and sexuality, body image, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Everyone needs a safe space to talk about life's difficult moments. Creating that safe/non-judgemental space is my primary goal in every session. Using a supportive and collaborative approach, I aim to help you develop insight and awareness into your struggles in order to foster healing and growth. I believe in meeting you where you are and walking beside you throughout your journey of enlightenment.
(646) 759-9658 View (646) 759-9658
Photo of Erin R Whitney, Licensed Professional Counselor in 77005, TX
Erin R Whitney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Only the strongest and most courageous know when it is time to get help. Together we can work through nearly any difficulty. I personalize my counseling and coaching practices based on your or your family's needs, using effective, yet gentle and powerful, proven methods. With 25+ years in practice working with people who have depression, anxiety, OCD, childhood/teen behavioral concerns, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorders, and adjustments to significant life changes, I have the experience to meet your needs . Not sure if counseling or coaching is right for you? Please call me for a free consultation. Warmest regards, Erin
Only the strongest and most courageous know when it is time to get help. Together we can work through nearly any difficulty. I personalize my counseling and coaching practices based on your or your family's needs, using effective, yet gentle and powerful, proven methods. With 25+ years in practice working with people who have depression, anxiety, OCD, childhood/teen behavioral concerns, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorders, and adjustments to significant life changes, I have the experience to meet your needs . Not sure if counseling or coaching is right for you? Please call me for a free consultation. Warmest regards, Erin
(832) 850-2262 View (832) 850-2262
Photo of Joan Lipuscek, Marriage & Family Therapist in 77005, TX
Joan Lipuscek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
My specialties include counseling children and teenagers with ADD/ADHD, depression, behavioral issues, anxiety, school trouble, learning disabilities, adjustment problems, grief and loss, eating disorders, LGBT concerns, self-mutilation, abuse issues, self-mutilation and trauma.
My primary therapeutic focus is to help children, adults and families work through identified problems as quickly as possible in order to achieve their stated goals. I respect each family's unique story and approach the therapeutic relationship without judgment or preconceived ideas. Throughout the process of therapy, a supportive and safe space is created where families and children can identify events, issues and behavioral patterns they would like to change. My aim is to help you achieve lasting positive results.
My specialties include counseling children and teenagers with ADD/ADHD, depression, behavioral issues, anxiety, school trouble, learning disabilities, adjustment problems, grief and loss, eating disorders, LGBT concerns, self-mutilation, abuse issues, self-mutilation and trauma.
My primary therapeutic focus is to help children, adults and families work through identified problems as quickly as possible in order to achieve their stated goals. I respect each family's unique story and approach the therapeutic relationship without judgment or preconceived ideas. Throughout the process of therapy, a supportive and safe space is created where families and children can identify events, issues and behavioral patterns they would like to change. My aim is to help you achieve lasting positive results.
(281) 369-4612 View (281) 369-4612
Photo of Rachel Tamer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77005, TX
Rachel Tamer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
Welcome! You have taken a courageous step by seeking out support and acknowledging the growth you can achieve through therapy. I provide counseling to help individuals meet their goals, improve connections with others, and grow into their best self. You are your own best expert. As your therapist, I am dedicated to assisting you. I specialize in addressing issues around anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, boundary setting, and managing environmental stressors. Together, we will create an experience where you are empowered to create the life you envision for yourself.
Welcome! You have taken a courageous step by seeking out support and acknowledging the growth you can achieve through therapy. I provide counseling to help individuals meet their goals, improve connections with others, and grow into their best self. You are your own best expert. As your therapist, I am dedicated to assisting you. I specialize in addressing issues around anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, boundary setting, and managing environmental stressors. Together, we will create an experience where you are empowered to create the life you envision for yourself.
(512) 994-2751 View (512) 994-2751
Photo of Krisztina Petho-Robertson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 77005, TX
Krisztina Petho-Robertson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CIMHP, ICCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Now accepting new clients! My primary therapeutic goal is to approach each individual in a unique way. While helping clients develop healthy coping strategies and achieve personal growth and positive change, I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping clients in coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, stress, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting, grief and loss, abuse and neglect, domestic violence, addictions, bipolar disorders, and more. I see pre-teens, adolescents, families, and adults struggling with behavioral, emotional, or relational issues.
Now accepting new clients! My primary therapeutic goal is to approach each individual in a unique way. While helping clients develop healthy coping strategies and achieve personal growth and positive change, I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping clients in coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, stress, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting, grief and loss, abuse and neglect, domestic violence, addictions, bipolar disorders, and more. I see pre-teens, adolescents, families, and adults struggling with behavioral, emotional, or relational issues.
(832) 981-4682 View (832) 981-4682
Photo of Allison Marek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77005, TX
Allison Marek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CDWF
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
My clients are bright teens, brilliant young adults, and some of the most loving parents and passionate professionals I know In fact, many of my clients are therapists nurses, or other "helpers" themselves. Some people start therapy seeking relief from anxiety or depression, recovery from an eating disorder, healing from a past hurt, or guidance for a specific issue in the present. In our work together, you will build new skills that foster authenticity, connection and resilience so that you can let go of perfectionism, avoidance, and any other armor that's keeping you stuck in harmful patterns.
My clients are bright teens, brilliant young adults, and some of the most loving parents and passionate professionals I know In fact, many of my clients are therapists nurses, or other "helpers" themselves. Some people start therapy seeking relief from anxiety or depression, recovery from an eating disorder, healing from a past hurt, or guidance for a specific issue in the present. In our work together, you will build new skills that foster authenticity, connection and resilience so that you can let go of perfectionism, avoidance, and any other armor that's keeping you stuck in harmful patterns.
(832) 784-8873 View (832) 784-8873
Photo of Ashley Bendickson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 77005, TX
Ashley Bendickson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
I am experienced in treating a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, family and relationship problems, sexuality, coping with life change, nutrition, compassion fatigue, exploring spiritual/religious concerns, cultivating emotional maturity, leadership and career development, communication, assertiveness, and boundary setting.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and have been providing counseling services since 2017. I work with individuals (18+) and couples to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Counseling provides the groundwork to process challenges, develop new skills, access inner strength, gain confidence, heal, and flourish. My focus is to empower you to reach your goals by exploring beneath the surface, while helping you to develop skills to address your concerns . I will work with you to customize a holistic treatment plan to fit your needs.
I am experienced in treating a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, family and relationship problems, sexuality, coping with life change, nutrition, compassion fatigue, exploring spiritual/religious concerns, cultivating emotional maturity, leadership and career development, communication, assertiveness, and boundary setting.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and have been providing counseling services since 2017. I work with individuals (18+) and couples to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Counseling provides the groundwork to process challenges, develop new skills, access inner strength, gain confidence, heal, and flourish. My focus is to empower you to reach your goals by exploring beneath the surface, while helping you to develop skills to address your concerns . I will work with you to customize a holistic treatment plan to fit your needs.
(346) 536-9485 View (346) 536-9485
Photo of Wendy L Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77005, TX
Wendy L Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005
Waitlist for new clients
My client base is adult women. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, grief and loss, divorce, abusive relationships, parenting children with learning differences, life transitions, health issues, high risk pregnancy, end of life issues and death. My approach is supportive, insight oriented and empowering. Women often do not acknowledge their unique challenges and assign misplaced emotions and shame to their individual journeys. My goal is to help my clients heal, find meaning and strength in their experiences so that they can fully and authentically embrace the future.
My client base is adult women. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, grief and loss, divorce, abusive relationships, parenting children with learning differences, life transitions, health issues, high risk pregnancy, end of life issues and death. My approach is supportive, insight oriented and empowering. Women often do not acknowledge their unique challenges and assign misplaced emotions and shame to their individual journeys. My goal is to help my clients heal, find meaning and strength in their experiences so that they can fully and authentically embrace the future.
(713) 338-9153 View (713) 338-9153
Photo of Giselle V Ontra, Marriage & Family Therapist in 77005, TX
Giselle V Ontra
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
From problem solving to navigating emotional turmoil to providing a new perspective, I help my clients identify the causes of their anxiety and depression so that they can heal and move forward.
What makes building and maintaining a personal relationship so difficult? It can be many things. Past and present experiences, patterns that you can't seem to break out of, childhood traumas, family influences, abuse (sexual, emotional or physical), post-traumatic stress issues, or your own expectations and anxieties. All of these factors can affect your relationships with family, friends and romantic partners.
From problem solving to navigating emotional turmoil to providing a new perspective, I help my clients identify the causes of their anxiety and depression so that they can heal and move forward.
What makes building and maintaining a personal relationship so difficult? It can be many things. Past and present experiences, patterns that you can't seem to break out of, childhood traumas, family influences, abuse (sexual, emotional or physical), post-traumatic stress issues, or your own expectations and anxieties. All of these factors can affect your relationships with family, friends and romantic partners.
(281) 918-8798 View (281) 918-8798
Photo of Kristin K Anderson, Psychologist in 77005, TX
Kristin K Anderson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West University Place, TX 77005  (Online Only)
My specialties include life enhancement, depression, grief, stress, sexuality, trauma, and relationship issues.
As a licensed psychologist for over three decades, I draw from a wealth of experience and understanding to help you improve your life. I emphasize the connection between a healthy mind, a healthy body, and a healthy life. I work with you to utilize strengths while improving weaknesses. My goal is to help you achieve personal growth that can improve all aspects of your life.
My specialties include life enhancement, depression, grief, stress, sexuality, trauma, and relationship issues.
As a licensed psychologist for over three decades, I draw from a wealth of experience and understanding to help you improve your life. I emphasize the connection between a healthy mind, a healthy body, and a healthy life. I work with you to utilize strengths while improving weaknesses. My goal is to help you achieve personal growth that can improve all aspects of your life.
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Photo of Santhi Periasamy, Psychologist in 77005, TX
Santhi Periasamy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
I've treated various presenting issues, including depression, eating/body image concerns, PTSD/trauma, anxiety, sexual issues, academic/career difficulties, multicultural concerns, family conflicts, difficult life transitions, intimate relationship stress, and substance issues.
Therapy is an investment in your personal growth and a dedication to your overall well-being. Therapy can help us identify our strengths and personal successes, and help to explore our areas of growth. I work to provide a trusting, warm, open, and supportive relationship for my clients. Understanding our past and our current life patterns fosters internal growth, so we can understand ourselves on a deeper level, create emotional well-being, and move towards contentment with ourselves and our lives. The therapeutic relationship is a partnership between the client and the therapist, and is based on trust, and respect.
I've treated various presenting issues, including depression, eating/body image concerns, PTSD/trauma, anxiety, sexual issues, academic/career difficulties, multicultural concerns, family conflicts, difficult life transitions, intimate relationship stress, and substance issues.
Therapy is an investment in your personal growth and a dedication to your overall well-being. Therapy can help us identify our strengths and personal successes, and help to explore our areas of growth. I work to provide a trusting, warm, open, and supportive relationship for my clients. Understanding our past and our current life patterns fosters internal growth, so we can understand ourselves on a deeper level, create emotional well-being, and move towards contentment with ourselves and our lives. The therapeutic relationship is a partnership between the client and the therapist, and is based on trust, and respect.
(713) 942-7793 View (713) 942-7793
Photo of Becky Dodds, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in 77005, TX
Becky Dodds
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Every one of us will experience crisis in our lifetime. These intense times of difficulty may be easy to name: relationship strife, a significant loss, or traumatic events. Other times you may be living with the gnawing sense that the life you’ve built doesn’t serve who you truly are. You may be experiencing anxiety and depression, unfulfilling relationships, or a resurfacing of unmet grief or trauma. No matter what distress has arrived at your door, it’s possible that you feel lost and confused and wonder what you can do. You’re not alone. I’ve been there, and so has almost everyone you know.
Every one of us will experience crisis in our lifetime. These intense times of difficulty may be easy to name: relationship strife, a significant loss, or traumatic events. Other times you may be living with the gnawing sense that the life you’ve built doesn’t serve who you truly are. You may be experiencing anxiety and depression, unfulfilling relationships, or a resurfacing of unmet grief or trauma. No matter what distress has arrived at your door, it’s possible that you feel lost and confused and wonder what you can do. You’re not alone. I’ve been there, and so has almost everyone you know.
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Photo of Stacy Bernstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77005, TX
Stacy Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to working with individual adults of all ages who are struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, and grief, among many other life challenges. By exploring and processing thoughts, feelings and behaviors together, we can work to promote change and enhance your quality of life. I have a special interest in working with adults navigating major life stage transitions, such as with chronic illness and changes that come with aging. I address these concerns, which can include anxiety, grief, dementia, end-of-life issues, and caregiving, in ways that embody compassion, dignity, and respect.
I am dedicated to working with individual adults of all ages who are struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, and grief, among many other life challenges. By exploring and processing thoughts, feelings and behaviors together, we can work to promote change and enhance your quality of life. I have a special interest in working with adults navigating major life stage transitions, such as with chronic illness and changes that come with aging. I address these concerns, which can include anxiety, grief, dementia, end-of-life issues, and caregiving, in ways that embody compassion, dignity, and respect.
(832) 841-4268 View (832) 841-4268
Photo of Beautiful Balance, PLLC. - Dr. Mia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77005, TX
Beautiful Balance, PLLC. - Dr. Mia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSWS
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
Strengths-based, solution-focused clinicians, who assists and supports those experiencing anxiety, depression, life adjustments, relationship challenges, racial trauma and self-esteem issues.
Currently accepting day time appointments ONLY however, my LMSW Supervisee's are accepting clients at a cash only rate of $35 p/hr. openpathcollective.org/clinicians/tamitra-pannell and openpathcollective.org/clinicians/cherrelle-reed
Strengths-based, solution-focused clinicians, who assists and supports those experiencing anxiety, depression, life adjustments, relationship challenges, racial trauma and self-esteem issues.
Currently accepting day time appointments ONLY however, my LMSW Supervisee's are accepting clients at a cash only rate of $35 p/hr. openpathcollective.org/clinicians/tamitra-pannell and openpathcollective.org/clinicians/cherrelle-reed
(469) 457-3882 View (469) 457-3882
Photo of Ashlee Knight, Counselor in 77005, TX
Ashlee Knight
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005
Within my work with individuals and couples, I specialize in: relationship issues, anxiety & depression, couples therapy, trauma healing, grief & loss, identity development, eating disorders, substance dependency, and boundary work with dysfunctional families.
Are you frustrated by the quality of the relationships in your life? I help individuals and couples seeking reconnection, conflict management, communication skills, deeper intimacy, and a general sense of understanding how their past impacts their current relational patterns. Relational healing and emotional connectivity makes our experience of partnership much more fulfilling, which impacts every other area of our lives. Utilizing Emotionally Focused Therapy and trauma-informed & attachment based techniques, our work together can transform your understanding of each other as well as the quality of your life together.
Within my work with individuals and couples, I specialize in: relationship issues, anxiety & depression, couples therapy, trauma healing, grief & loss, identity development, eating disorders, substance dependency, and boundary work with dysfunctional families.
Are you frustrated by the quality of the relationships in your life? I help individuals and couples seeking reconnection, conflict management, communication skills, deeper intimacy, and a general sense of understanding how their past impacts their current relational patterns. Relational healing and emotional connectivity makes our experience of partnership much more fulfilling, which impacts every other area of our lives. Utilizing Emotionally Focused Therapy and trauma-informed & attachment based techniques, our work together can transform your understanding of each other as well as the quality of your life together.
(206) 457-1478 View (206) 457-1478
Photo of Juliet Walters Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 77005, TX
Juliet Walters Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
I work with couples where one or both individuals suffer from anxiety and are ready to move from stuck and afraid to freedom and peace. This can be from a trauma that keeps them from showing up authentically in their world. It can be from the pressure of being a church, community or business leader who feel they must save face or suffer in silence. It could also be those constantly struggling through systemic and multigenerational trauma, depression or PTSD. I even help couples in their intimate relationship that they want to strengthen, transform, and save.
I work with couples where one or both individuals suffer from anxiety and are ready to move from stuck and afraid to freedom and peace. This can be from a trauma that keeps them from showing up authentically in their world. It can be from the pressure of being a church, community or business leader who feel they must save face or suffer in silence. It could also be those constantly struggling through systemic and multigenerational trauma, depression or PTSD. I even help couples in their intimate relationship that they want to strengthen, transform, and save.
(512) 601-5613 View (512) 601-5613
Photo of Kristina Tutt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77005, TX
Kristina Tutt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I am a trauma-informed therapist who is trained in EMDR, an extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and panic disorders.
The path from growing up quietly queer in a small Midwestern town to living as an out lesbian in the 4th largest city in the country has informed my work within the LGBTQ+ community. I believe that knowledge is an integral part of building acceptance and pride in oneself and the community, and I am eager to continue working with people in all stages of the coming out process. Most recently, my focus has been on HIV prevention and treatment; I am passionate about working with clients who are at high risk for exposure, entering treatment, or working to maintain viral suppression.
I am a trauma-informed therapist who is trained in EMDR, an extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and panic disorders.
The path from growing up quietly queer in a small Midwestern town to living as an out lesbian in the 4th largest city in the country has informed my work within the LGBTQ+ community. I believe that knowledge is an integral part of building acceptance and pride in oneself and the community, and I am eager to continue working with people in all stages of the coming out process. Most recently, my focus has been on HIV prevention and treatment; I am passionate about working with clients who are at high risk for exposure, entering treatment, or working to maintain viral suppression.
(713) 987-3708 View (713) 987-3708
Photo of Casie Weihe, Licensed Professional Counselor in 77005, TX
Casie Weihe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
There's Instagram motherhood... and then there's reality. When people ask how you're doing, do you choke back the pain and force a smile? Pretend like everything is great when it's not? Maybe you're actually feeling depressed, anxious, or irritable. Or you're having scary and intrusive thoughts. Maybe you've had a traumatic birth, are having difficulty adjusting to parenthood or bonding with your baby, or are experiencing loss and grief. If you feel alone and unsupported in navigating the challenges of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting, then I want you to know it doesn't have to be that way! With help, this will get better.
There's Instagram motherhood... and then there's reality. When people ask how you're doing, do you choke back the pain and force a smile? Pretend like everything is great when it's not? Maybe you're actually feeling depressed, anxious, or irritable. Or you're having scary and intrusive thoughts. Maybe you've had a traumatic birth, are having difficulty adjusting to parenthood or bonding with your baby, or are experiencing loss and grief. If you feel alone and unsupported in navigating the challenges of pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting, then I want you to know it doesn't have to be that way! With help, this will get better.
(936) 209-7463 View (936) 209-7463
Photo of Jeanie Low, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 77005, TX
Jeanie Low
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
You are here because you have an interest in making an investment in your mental health. This is the first step to help you achieve balance, confidence and the right tools to prepare for what life tosses at you. Jeanie Low, LCSW is a service-oriented counselor who provides therapeutic assistance for individuals, families, and couples in a compassionate and knowledgeable environment. She also facilities groups for women, adolescents, children and families. The participants gain insight, beneficial tools and skills that nurture physical, psychological and spiritual growth.
You are here because you have an interest in making an investment in your mental health. This is the first step to help you achieve balance, confidence and the right tools to prepare for what life tosses at you. Jeanie Low, LCSW is a service-oriented counselor who provides therapeutic assistance for individuals, families, and couples in a compassionate and knowledgeable environment. She also facilities groups for women, adolescents, children and families. The participants gain insight, beneficial tools and skills that nurture physical, psychological and spiritual growth.
(281) 609-7327 View (281) 609-7327
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.