Photo of Joe Cannava, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Joe Cannava
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, CDCS, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Soldotna, AK 99669
I specialize in helping adults, elders, and teens better manage stress, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, depression, addiction, parenting, marriage, chronic health problems, elders, retirement/senior issues, teen and young adult issues, workplace stress, psychotic disorders, behavior problems, and much more.
It is a privilege to hear your story, to help you understand where you come from and how that may be impacting you today. Using tools brought in from CBT, DBT, and Gestalt, I tailor my approach around you, working to meet your strengths, your unique needs, and your goals, helping you make the changes you want to see in your life as you move forward. I believe that the relationship a person builds with their counselor is crucial to the process, so I work hard to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for you.
I specialize in helping adults, elders, and teens better manage stress, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, depression, addiction, parenting, marriage, chronic health problems, elders, retirement/senior issues, teen and young adult issues, workplace stress, psychotic disorders, behavior problems, and much more.
It is a privilege to hear your story, to help you understand where you come from and how that may be impacting you today. Using tools brought in from CBT, DBT, and Gestalt, I tailor my approach around you, working to meet your strengths, your unique needs, and your goals, helping you make the changes you want to see in your life as you move forward. I believe that the relationship a person builds with their counselor is crucial to the process, so I work hard to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for you.
(844) 851-2595 View (844) 851-2595
Photo of Alaska Art Therapy and Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Alaska Art Therapy and Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Juneau, AK 99801
Ever find yourself going around and around with a problem, talking about it but not seeming to get that problem solved? An alternative form of therapy: art therapy, may help. People of all ages and families can benefit from using art and play therapy. Problems that may respond well to the use of art and play therapy include depression, anxiety, childhood behavioral issues, difficulties in parenting, trauma, life transitions, and substance use disorder. Make today the day that you start today on your path to wellness. Face to face sessions available in my extra large office. Tele-health sessions are also available.
Ever find yourself going around and around with a problem, talking about it but not seeming to get that problem solved? An alternative form of therapy: art therapy, may help. People of all ages and families can benefit from using art and play therapy. Problems that may respond well to the use of art and play therapy include depression, anxiety, childhood behavioral issues, difficulties in parenting, trauma, life transitions, and substance use disorder. Make today the day that you start today on your path to wellness. Face to face sessions available in my extra large office. Tele-health sessions are also available.
(888) 497-2151 View (888) 497-2151
Photo of Julia Q Coyle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Julia Q Coyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, CG-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99508
Anxiety, depression grief, loneliness and insecurity are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we experience in the context of living our lives.
My primary goal is to assist you in healing from difficult emotional experiences. I focus on helping you become aware of your inner strengths and resources. I provide a safe, neutral space, where you can feel comfortable telling your story. I will be there for you during your journey. My aim is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward toward the life you want. I work from a trauma informed model. I will use a variety of therapeutic tools and resources to help you on your road to healing.
Anxiety, depression grief, loneliness and insecurity are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we experience in the context of living our lives.
My primary goal is to assist you in healing from difficult emotional experiences. I focus on helping you become aware of your inner strengths and resources. I provide a safe, neutral space, where you can feel comfortable telling your story. I will be there for you during your journey. My aim is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward toward the life you want. I work from a trauma informed model. I will use a variety of therapeutic tools and resources to help you on your road to healing.
(907) 331-6167 View (907) 331-6167
Photo of Mara Cramer, Counselor in Alaska
Mara Cramer
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99508
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, family relationships, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, and life transitions. My approach is eclectic, tailored to each individual, and uses strategies, techniques and tools that best fit the needs and preferences of each client.
As a therapist, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, family relationships, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, and life transitions. My approach is eclectic, tailored to each individual, and uses strategies, techniques and tools that best fit the needs and preferences of each client.
(907) 312-2729 View (907) 312-2729
Photo of Ann Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Ann Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palmer, AK 99645
My treatment specialization includes Depression and Anxiety, Trauma Recovery, eating and image disorders, blended families, adoption issues, marital and relationship issues, behavioral issues.
I have been providing solution-focused mental health services to individuals, couples and families for 20 years. I provide a comfortable, confidential, and supportive atmosphere, I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for. I accept most insurances. I am unable to accept Medicaid and Denali Kid Care at this time.
My treatment specialization includes Depression and Anxiety, Trauma Recovery, eating and image disorders, blended families, adoption issues, marital and relationship issues, behavioral issues.
I have been providing solution-focused mental health services to individuals, couples and families for 20 years. I provide a comfortable, confidential, and supportive atmosphere, I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for. I accept most insurances. I am unable to accept Medicaid and Denali Kid Care at this time.
(907) 341-3028 View (907) 341-3028
Photo of Jeremy Bradford Setters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Jeremy Bradford Setters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Please read if you or your loved one struggles with attention and focus.My name is Jeremy Setters and I am one of the first in Las Vegas to be utilizing drug free FDA Approved prescribed ADHD treatment. I also specialize in depression and PTSD, and youth defiance. For over eight (8) years, these are all issues I've helped people overcome. I pride myself with helping over 200 clients, ages 3-83, find the strength within to make positive changes in their lives.
Please read if you or your loved one struggles with attention and focus.My name is Jeremy Setters and I am one of the first in Las Vegas to be utilizing drug free FDA Approved prescribed ADHD treatment. I also specialize in depression and PTSD, and youth defiance. For over eight (8) years, these are all issues I've helped people overcome. I pride myself with helping over 200 clients, ages 3-83, find the strength within to make positive changes in their lives.
(725) 224-7615 View (725) 224-7615
Angela Brown
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairbanks, AK 99701
Some of the issues that I focus on are anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, sexuality, gender orientation, relationship struggles, life transitions, addiction and co-occurring mental health issues.
Sometimes life can be difficult, and we need a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space to work through our struggles. My purpose as a counselor is to support you along the path to making positive changes in your life. It is not uncommon to feel stuck at times. I offer encouragement, hope, understanding, and added tools to assist you in achieving your goals.
Some of the issues that I focus on are anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, sexuality, gender orientation, relationship struggles, life transitions, addiction and co-occurring mental health issues.
Sometimes life can be difficult, and we need a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space to work through our struggles. My purpose as a counselor is to support you along the path to making positive changes in your life. It is not uncommon to feel stuck at times. I offer encouragement, hope, understanding, and added tools to assist you in achieving your goals.
(907) 251-1053 View (907) 251-1053
Photo of Emily Bass, Social Worker Associate in Alaska
Emily Bass
Social Worker Associate, LICSWA, PCC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
When it comes to grief, depression, and end-of-life/caregiving, I help clients to see a way through it.
I believe what people need to be well in life is to feel heard, understood, and accepted for who they are. I provide this to my clients through active and reflective listening, powerful questioning to provoke deeper thinking about one's challenges, and manageable practices to help you understand your own thoughts and beliefs about your challenges. When struggling with challenging issues such as end-of-life, grief, and depression, life can feel heavy and unmanageable. Clarifying one's needs and values can be a good starting point for creating goals to work toward. Having measurable goals provides purpose when things seem hopeless.
When it comes to grief, depression, and end-of-life/caregiving, I help clients to see a way through it.
I believe what people need to be well in life is to feel heard, understood, and accepted for who they are. I provide this to my clients through active and reflective listening, powerful questioning to provoke deeper thinking about one's challenges, and manageable practices to help you understand your own thoughts and beliefs about your challenges. When struggling with challenging issues such as end-of-life, grief, and depression, life can feel heavy and unmanageable. Clarifying one's needs and values can be a good starting point for creating goals to work toward. Having measurable goals provides purpose when things seem hopeless.
(888) 507-6531 View (888) 507-6531
Photo of Tracy Follett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Tracy Follett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99508
I have had the privilege of working with individuals who seek therapeutic services for a range of issues including traumatic exposure, depression, anxiety and a myriad of adjustment issues, including, but not limited to: divorce, adoption, new family members, and school and work related challenges.
I have experience working with pre-teens and adolescents in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and adults in outpatient settings. Part of my approach to the therapeutic process is to develop a trusting relationship with my clients. It is through the development of this relationship that growth and change happen as we work toward a common goal; to feel empowered to ignite a change for themselves. I work to help clients make sense of circumstances that have been confusing or upsetting, I also help them develop insight into how they relate to others, how they see themselves, and how their choices affect themselves and others.
I have had the privilege of working with individuals who seek therapeutic services for a range of issues including traumatic exposure, depression, anxiety and a myriad of adjustment issues, including, but not limited to: divorce, adoption, new family members, and school and work related challenges.
I have experience working with pre-teens and adolescents in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and adults in outpatient settings. Part of my approach to the therapeutic process is to develop a trusting relationship with my clients. It is through the development of this relationship that growth and change happen as we work toward a common goal; to feel empowered to ignite a change for themselves. I work to help clients make sense of circumstances that have been confusing or upsetting, I also help them develop insight into how they relate to others, how they see themselves, and how their choices affect themselves and others.
(855) 979-9080 View (855) 979-9080
Photo of Audra York, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Audra York
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503
Waitlist for new clients
www.audrayorktherapy.com, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S) specializing in the areas of trauma (sexual abuse, physical abuse, child maltreatment), anxiety, depression, self-esteem & identity, LGBTQ+, and perinatal mental health. I see children ages 3 & up, teens, adults, and families. I use evidence-based, trauma-informed therapy: I am 1 of the 4 nationally certified TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) counselor in Alaska, am a certified EMDR provider, Filial Play therapist, Expressive Arts Therapy certified, PSI certified, and Yoga teacher.
www.audrayorktherapy.com, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S) specializing in the areas of trauma (sexual abuse, physical abuse, child maltreatment), anxiety, depression, self-esteem & identity, LGBTQ+, and perinatal mental health. I see children ages 3 & up, teens, adults, and families. I use evidence-based, trauma-informed therapy: I am 1 of the 4 nationally certified TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) counselor in Alaska, am a certified EMDR provider, Filial Play therapist, Expressive Arts Therapy certified, PSI certified, and Yoga teacher.
(907) 331-6737 View (907) 331-6737
Photo of Damito Owen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Damito Owen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503
One of my passions is to encourage the strengthening of healthy relationships. This could be healthy relationship with oneself, your loved ones, others in your community or even your finances. Sometimes the stressors of life can interfere with us experiencing life on our own terms. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, work stress, financial stress, trauma, or addiction issues, together we can explore ways for you to reach your goals.
One of my passions is to encourage the strengthening of healthy relationships. This could be healthy relationship with oneself, your loved ones, others in your community or even your finances. Sometimes the stressors of life can interfere with us experiencing life on our own terms. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, work stress, financial stress, trauma, or addiction issues, together we can explore ways for you to reach your goals.
(907) 308-6432 View (907) 308-6432
Photo of Robert M Sawin III, Pre-Licensed Professional in Alaska
Robert M Sawin III
Pre-Licensed Professional, CT
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99515
Working through feelings of depression, anxiety, and the deep impact of past experiences.
Navigating life's complexities can often leave us feeling overwhelmed, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. I am committed to helping foster a space of empathy, understanding, and respect. My approach centers around listening to your experiences and feelings, aiming to connect with your underlying needs. In a supportive space, we can explore strategies that resonate with your unique situation, facilitating a journey toward healing and growth.
Working through feelings of depression, anxiety, and the deep impact of past experiences.
Navigating life's complexities can often leave us feeling overwhelmed, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. I am committed to helping foster a space of empathy, understanding, and respect. My approach centers around listening to your experiences and feelings, aiming to connect with your underlying needs. In a supportive space, we can explore strategies that resonate with your unique situation, facilitating a journey toward healing and growth.
(855) 979-7890 View (855) 979-7890
Photo of Colleen Nusbaum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Colleen Nusbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDCI, LPC Sup
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Soldotna, AK 99669
I have worked with individual’s ages two years to 90 years old with depression, anxiety, intellectual/physical disabilities, military individuals/families, child welfare, co-occurring substance use disorders, children, couples, severe mental illness, mood disorders, brain injury, divorce, suicide, self harm, trauma, and provided expert testimony in courts.
I was born in Anchorage, Alaska and have lived on the Kenai Peninsula with my mother, husband and two daughters since 2005. Since 2010, I’ve dedicated myself to mental/behavioral health challenges and teamed with my clients in order to help them achieve healthy/balanced personal lives and relationships. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and member of the Kenai Peninsula Community, I’m deeply committed to being there when you need me most—helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. I work with all ages from 2 years to our elders. I'm here for you, get in touch and book your session today...
I have worked with individual’s ages two years to 90 years old with depression, anxiety, intellectual/physical disabilities, military individuals/families, child welfare, co-occurring substance use disorders, children, couples, severe mental illness, mood disorders, brain injury, divorce, suicide, self harm, trauma, and provided expert testimony in courts.
I was born in Anchorage, Alaska and have lived on the Kenai Peninsula with my mother, husband and two daughters since 2005. Since 2010, I’ve dedicated myself to mental/behavioral health challenges and teamed with my clients in order to help them achieve healthy/balanced personal lives and relationships. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and member of the Kenai Peninsula Community, I’m deeply committed to being there when you need me most—helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. I work with all ages from 2 years to our elders. I'm here for you, get in touch and book your session today...
(907) 394-4442 View (907) 394-4442
Photo of Autumn Collings, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alaska
Autumn Collings
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Soldotna, AK 99669
I work with individuals across the life span who are struggling with a wide array of difficulties. From adults dealing with anxiety and depression, to kids and teens struggling with low self esteem and experiences of trauma, I partner with clients on their individual path to healing and wholeness. I am passionate about creating an inclusive space for all, and connecting with clients in a way that allows for an authentic and meaningful relationship.
I work with individuals across the life span who are struggling with a wide array of difficulties. From adults dealing with anxiety and depression, to kids and teens struggling with low self esteem and experiences of trauma, I partner with clients on their individual path to healing and wholeness. I am passionate about creating an inclusive space for all, and connecting with clients in a way that allows for an authentic and meaningful relationship.
(907) 531-6047 View (907) 531-6047
Photo of Brad Ohs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Brad Ohs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palmer, AK 99645
I am dedicated to helping people overcome personal challenges, establish healthy balance and achieve lasting change through mindfulness-based approaches. These practices are very helpful for clients faced with issues such as anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, relationship/family issues, stress-related physical problems and life transitions. I have provided counseling services for over 35 years to children, teens, and adults and customize therapy to meet your specific needs and goals. To that end I have trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques, in the belief that no one size fits all.
I am dedicated to helping people overcome personal challenges, establish healthy balance and achieve lasting change through mindfulness-based approaches. These practices are very helpful for clients faced with issues such as anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, relationship/family issues, stress-related physical problems and life transitions. I have provided counseling services for over 35 years to children, teens, and adults and customize therapy to meet your specific needs and goals. To that end I have trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques, in the belief that no one size fits all.
(907) 331-6790 View (907) 331-6790
Photo of L. Hay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
L. Hay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairbanks, AK 99708
In my psychotherapy practice with adolescents, men, women and families the focus is typically on issues such as behavioral concerns, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD and anger. I believe that everyone is entitled to be treated with respect and honesty and that therapy should start where the client is at. Additionally, each client has their own ways of gaining insight and implementing new patterns into their lives and will have their own pace at which they discover the strengths within themselves. I like to work with the client to discover what is most effective for them and go from there.
In my psychotherapy practice with adolescents, men, women and families the focus is typically on issues such as behavioral concerns, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD and anger. I believe that everyone is entitled to be treated with respect and honesty and that therapy should start where the client is at. Additionally, each client has their own ways of gaining insight and implementing new patterns into their lives and will have their own pace at which they discover the strengths within themselves. I like to work with the client to discover what is most effective for them and go from there.
(907) 331-6775 View (907) 331-6775
Photo of Lynne (Ann) Kelsey, LPC Supervisor AK-Psychodynami, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Lynne (Ann) Kelsey, LPC Supervisor AK-Psychodynami
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EMDR, DBT, CBT
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
Life coaching for relationships, performance, sports, spiritual quest Christian or other spiritual path, addictions, intimacy, sex, mood: depression, postnatal, prenatal, and anxiety, disabilities, and addictions, stress reduction, communication at work or home, Animal assisted and Equine.
Respectful, supportive, positive CBT THERAPY, insight oriented, life coaching, wellness consulting, communication/problem solving and symptom mgt. for performance techniques with results. Regain control, improve relationships, communication, problem solving, work/career or sport. Brief intensive skill building tools for success. Strength based, personality specific Goal and objective setting. Be independent, yet patient; journal and homework", appreciation for incremental gains. Your individual uniqueness, intuition and inner guidance system are valued, so fine tune those To work well for you. Mind, body, spirit appreciated. Disabilities infant mental health young children. couples, marital, sex counseling, addictions, porn, horse therapy. Trauma specialist, anxiety, depression.
Life coaching for relationships, performance, sports, spiritual quest Christian or other spiritual path, addictions, intimacy, sex, mood: depression, postnatal, prenatal, and anxiety, disabilities, and addictions, stress reduction, communication at work or home, Animal assisted and Equine.
Respectful, supportive, positive CBT THERAPY, insight oriented, life coaching, wellness consulting, communication/problem solving and symptom mgt. for performance techniques with results. Regain control, improve relationships, communication, problem solving, work/career or sport. Brief intensive skill building tools for success. Strength based, personality specific Goal and objective setting. Be independent, yet patient; journal and homework", appreciation for incremental gains. Your individual uniqueness, intuition and inner guidance system are valued, so fine tune those To work well for you. Mind, body, spirit appreciated. Disabilities infant mental health young children. couples, marital, sex counseling, addictions, porn, horse therapy. Trauma specialist, anxiety, depression.
(907) 318-7841 View (907) 318-7841
Photo of Garrick Fuller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Garrick Fuller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Nome, AK 99762
I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy to individuals committed to exploring their maladaptive behaviors and concerning emotional experiences. Psychodynamic therapy emphasizes the relationship between the therapist and client as the core of the healing process. Working in therapy with me is going beyond the symptoms and moving deeper to what fuels the anxiety, depression, anger, etc. We hope to arrive at a goal of better understanding you as a person and what fuels your thoughts, feelings, desires and hopes. I work with the client to develop a goal, while always keeping in mind the goal of long-term emotional growth and stability.
I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy to individuals committed to exploring their maladaptive behaviors and concerning emotional experiences. Psychodynamic therapy emphasizes the relationship between the therapist and client as the core of the healing process. Working in therapy with me is going beyond the symptoms and moving deeper to what fuels the anxiety, depression, anger, etc. We hope to arrive at a goal of better understanding you as a person and what fuels your thoughts, feelings, desires and hopes. I work with the client to develop a goal, while always keeping in mind the goal of long-term emotional growth and stability.
(786) 827-5227 View (786) 827-5227
Photo of Stephanie Turner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Stephanie Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and Cognitive Processing. I combine these modalities with my years of schooling, counseling experience, and life experience to help you obtain the skills to live your best life. I combine traditional talk therapy with therapeutic techniques and humor. I believe in an empathic and non-judgmental approach to therapy. My specialty areas: trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client’s individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for.
I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and Cognitive Processing. I combine these modalities with my years of schooling, counseling experience, and life experience to help you obtain the skills to live your best life. I combine traditional talk therapy with therapeutic techniques and humor. I believe in an empathic and non-judgmental approach to therapy. My specialty areas: trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client’s individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for.
(907) 202-7233 View (907) 202-7233
Photo of Mary E Kuepper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Mary E Kuepper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654
I am passionate about working with families. Whether dealing with behavioral issues in children, depressed or anxious teens, frustrated and concerned parents, or overwhelmed Mama's, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to build a better life. Through individual, family or child therapy sessions, I help people gain skills to better manage emotions, cope with challenging feelings, and build better relationships. My style is warm, non judgmental and down to earth, with a healthy dose of humor.
I am passionate about working with families. Whether dealing with behavioral issues in children, depressed or anxious teens, frustrated and concerned parents, or overwhelmed Mama's, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to build a better life. Through individual, family or child therapy sessions, I help people gain skills to better manage emotions, cope with challenging feelings, and build better relationships. My style is warm, non judgmental and down to earth, with a healthy dose of humor.
(907) 313-7965 View (907) 313-7965

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.