Photo of Justin Vassi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Justin Vassi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33434
I am committed to providing the highest quality of services for individuals searching for positive changes in their life. We will work together to develop a positive plan to challenge obstacles in your life. I have extensive experience treating individuals managing anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Asperger's Syndrome, and social issues. I have over 18 years of clinical experience working with adolescents, adults, elders and individuals with developmental disabilities.
I am committed to providing the highest quality of services for individuals searching for positive changes in their life. We will work together to develop a positive plan to challenge obstacles in your life. I have extensive experience treating individuals managing anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Asperger's Syndrome, and social issues. I have over 18 years of clinical experience working with adolescents, adults, elders and individuals with developmental disabilities.
(561) 693-3589 View (561) 693-3589
Photo of Elizabeth Ann Pankey-Warren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Elizabeth Ann Pankey-Warren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, M Div, LCSW, ERYT500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33432
As a certified Emotionally Focused (EFT) therapist for individuals, couples and families. I provide a safe, nurturing space so that clients can look within and process, let go, heal and grow in life changing ways. I focus on individual struggles with anxiety, depression, grief, self esteem, trauma resolution; marriage and family issues, including conflict between partners and parents and children; personal and spiritual growth including meditation and breath work. I help clients resolve shame so they break negative cycles and live out of a deeper, truer inner awareness.
As a certified Emotionally Focused (EFT) therapist for individuals, couples and families. I provide a safe, nurturing space so that clients can look within and process, let go, heal and grow in life changing ways. I focus on individual struggles with anxiety, depression, grief, self esteem, trauma resolution; marriage and family issues, including conflict between partners and parents and children; personal and spiritual growth including meditation and breath work. I help clients resolve shame so they break negative cycles and live out of a deeper, truer inner awareness.
(561) 935-6633 View (561) 935-6633
Photo of Maria Sue Butler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Maria Sue Butler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, DOAM
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
We offer effective skills building interventions against depression.
Tool Box for Life and Relational Skills When clients graduate from treatment, they take with them a box full of "tools", such as effective anger management techniques, avoiding confrontations that lead to negative expressions of anger, resolving conflict peacefully and quietly, making the right decisions in every aspect of life, and perseverance to always build skills against life's problems and apply them consistently. Skill development is relational. No one lives in isolation; everyone maintains many types of relationships. Treatment provides chances to improve all relationships by communicating effectively, listening without making assumptions, and avoiding miscommunication that brings on anger and/or conflict.
We offer effective skills building interventions against depression.
Tool Box for Life and Relational Skills When clients graduate from treatment, they take with them a box full of "tools", such as effective anger management techniques, avoiding confrontations that lead to negative expressions of anger, resolving conflict peacefully and quietly, making the right decisions in every aspect of life, and perseverance to always build skills against life's problems and apply them consistently. Skill development is relational. No one lives in isolation; everyone maintains many types of relationships. Treatment provides chances to improve all relationships by communicating effectively, listening without making assumptions, and avoiding miscommunication that brings on anger and/or conflict.
(954) 651-9806 View (954) 651-9806
Photo of Scott M. Costanza, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Scott M. Costanza
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
For many people the fast pace and stress of different areas of their life including careers, financial issues, children, partners and parents can become overwhelming and lead to anxiety, depression, and other issues. Dr. Costanza has been helping people better understand and master the ways in which these issues interact and affect their emotional health. Many people use therapy effectively to set and achieve personal or professional goals, improve their interpersonal relationships, and understand how their past is affecting their present.
For many people the fast pace and stress of different areas of their life including careers, financial issues, children, partners and parents can become overwhelming and lead to anxiety, depression, and other issues. Dr. Costanza has been helping people better understand and master the ways in which these issues interact and affect their emotional health. Many people use therapy effectively to set and achieve personal or professional goals, improve their interpersonal relationships, and understand how their past is affecting their present.
(561) 264-5645 View (561) 264-5645
Photo of Alexander Kay And Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Alexander Kay And Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Hello there! A. Kay and associates specialize in treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar and various addictions. Having worked in the hospitals for many years, we utilize only evidence based treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, EMDR etc.). Unprocessed traumas can have a debilitating effect on one's life, we are using a state of the art EMDR technique (paired with 'Light Bar') to effectively treat past traumas. Couples/marital therapy is our other specialty; effective communication and clinical negotiations are skills that can be learned to save the marriage.
Hello there! A. Kay and associates specialize in treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar and various addictions. Having worked in the hospitals for many years, we utilize only evidence based treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, EMDR etc.). Unprocessed traumas can have a debilitating effect on one's life, we are using a state of the art EMDR technique (paired with 'Light Bar') to effectively treat past traumas. Couples/marital therapy is our other specialty; effective communication and clinical negotiations are skills that can be learned to save the marriage.
(561) 513-5030 View (561) 513-5030
Photo of Alessana Fordin, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Alessana Fordin
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33434
Are you struggling with relationship issues? Do you want to make changes in your life, but are unable to? You can overcome depression, anxiety and learn how to manage anger--if these are issues concerning you. Find out what's stopping you from being able to experience a satisfying, fulfilled and joyful life. As a psychotherapist with extensive training, I take a comprehensive and integrative approach that will be specifically geared to your own unique needs. Please log on to my website www.lotuscounseling.com for more information.
Are you struggling with relationship issues? Do you want to make changes in your life, but are unable to? You can overcome depression, anxiety and learn how to manage anger--if these are issues concerning you. Find out what's stopping you from being able to experience a satisfying, fulfilled and joyful life. As a psychotherapist with extensive training, I take a comprehensive and integrative approach that will be specifically geared to your own unique needs. Please log on to my website www.lotuscounseling.com for more information.
(561) 693-1735 View (561) 693-1735
Photo of Staci Weiner, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Staci Weiner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Are you at a point in your life where you are ready for a change? Is it time to improve your ability to tackle life's challenges and improve your personal relationships? Maybe you or someone you know struggles with depression or anxiety. Or perhaps you are finding that it is difficult to find happiness in your everyday life. You are not alone. I can help you recognize how your negative thoughts are impacting your feelings and behavior, resulting in a more positive way of thinking. While it might feel like this time is overwhelming and unbearable, I would like to help you make this journey less painful and lead you to greater peace.
Are you at a point in your life where you are ready for a change? Is it time to improve your ability to tackle life's challenges and improve your personal relationships? Maybe you or someone you know struggles with depression or anxiety. Or perhaps you are finding that it is difficult to find happiness in your everyday life. You are not alone. I can help you recognize how your negative thoughts are impacting your feelings and behavior, resulting in a more positive way of thinking. While it might feel like this time is overwhelming and unbearable, I would like to help you make this journey less painful and lead you to greater peace.
(561) 418-6340 View (561) 418-6340
Photo of Kay Rubin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Kay Rubin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33432  (Online Only)
Rubin specializes in Couples/Marriage counseling, Anxiety, Depression, Anger Management, Bipolar/Mood disorders, LGBTQ, College Related Issues and Geriatric.
Dr. Kay Rubin received her Ph.D. from Barry University and received her Master’s degree from Alfred University. Dr. Rubin has been working at Miami-Dade College as a Psychology professor for the past 15 years teaching higher education classes with a specialty in the development and implementation of innovative psychology curriculums and creative teaching strategies that fully engage students in the learning process. Dr. Rubin's clinical history entails adolescents, young adults, adults, and seniors from diverse backgrounds. She prides herself on tailoring her therapeutic approaches to each individual for best outcome practices.
Rubin specializes in Couples/Marriage counseling, Anxiety, Depression, Anger Management, Bipolar/Mood disorders, LGBTQ, College Related Issues and Geriatric.
Dr. Kay Rubin received her Ph.D. from Barry University and received her Master’s degree from Alfred University. Dr. Rubin has been working at Miami-Dade College as a Psychology professor for the past 15 years teaching higher education classes with a specialty in the development and implementation of innovative psychology curriculums and creative teaching strategies that fully engage students in the learning process. Dr. Rubin's clinical history entails adolescents, young adults, adults, and seniors from diverse backgrounds. She prides herself on tailoring her therapeutic approaches to each individual for best outcome practices.
(561) 556-4150 View (561) 556-4150
Photo of Leonard J. Ferrante, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Leonard J. Ferrante
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33434
If you are burdened with self-defeating thoughts, depression, or guilt, inhibited by anxiety, challenged by your children, or when relationships do not yield the pleasure you desire, then the path to psychological health and satisfying relationships begins with a phone call.
When family and friends are not enough, allow me to help you find the answers. With 30 years of combined clinical training and experience in Florida & New York at Maimonides Medical Center in Adult & Child Psychiatry, Syosset Central School District, and in private practice with specialties in Psychoanalysis and Child Psychology, I have been helping adults and children improve their emotional well-being. As a Nationally Certified School Psychologist I also administer psycho-educational tests to find solutions to academic problems that may lead to educational interventions and accommodations for public and private schools, and college entrance examinations.
If you are burdened with self-defeating thoughts, depression, or guilt, inhibited by anxiety, challenged by your children, or when relationships do not yield the pleasure you desire, then the path to psychological health and satisfying relationships begins with a phone call.
When family and friends are not enough, allow me to help you find the answers. With 30 years of combined clinical training and experience in Florida & New York at Maimonides Medical Center in Adult & Child Psychiatry, Syosset Central School District, and in private practice with specialties in Psychoanalysis and Child Psychology, I have been helping adults and children improve their emotional well-being. As a Nationally Certified School Psychologist I also administer psycho-educational tests to find solutions to academic problems that may lead to educational interventions and accommodations for public and private schools, and college entrance examinations.
(561) 479-4600 View (561) 479-4600
Photo of Lotus Counseling Center, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Lotus Counseling Center
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33434
At Lotus Counseling Center, we understand the challenges of navigating relationship difficulties, the desire for life changes, and the obstacles that may seem insurmountable. Whether you're grappling with depression or anxiety or seeking ways to manage anger, we're here to guide you through. Uncover what's holding you back from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. Our skilled psychotherapists in Boca Raton can help you pinpoint those parts of your life that you can change and tailor their approach to your needs. For more insight into how we can assist you, please visit our website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
At Lotus Counseling Center, we understand the challenges of navigating relationship difficulties, the desire for life changes, and the obstacles that may seem insurmountable. Whether you're grappling with depression or anxiety or seeking ways to manage anger, we're here to guide you through. Uncover what's holding you back from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. Our skilled psychotherapists in Boca Raton can help you pinpoint those parts of your life that you can change and tailor their approach to your needs. For more insight into how we can assist you, please visit our website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
(786) 655-4233 View (786) 655-4233
Photo of Cindy Camaraza- Author, Holistic Psychotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Cindy Camaraza- Author, Holistic Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, License, MFT, MS, CHHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487  (Online Only)
Whether it is a challenging Divorce, Behavioral Issues with your Child, Personal Childhood Trauma, Anxiety, Depression or Family Conflicts that are keeping you away from Optimal Living, together, we will clear the path and pave the way to the life you have always imagined and deserve.
Now Accepting New Clients! Welcome! I am a Seasoned Holistic Psychotherapist. AUTHOR and Founder of www.simplycindy.com, with over 10 years of experience..Connection is KEY! In any therapeutic process there MUST exist a deep level of Trust . I am here to support you! Finally at the point to try a powerful and unique approach to therapy that will not only heal from the root but will do so in half the time of traditional talk therapies?If you keep doing what you have always done, you will keep getting what you have always gotten. My Integrative approach to therapy includes CBT, DBT, Solution focused therapy and more.
Whether it is a challenging Divorce, Behavioral Issues with your Child, Personal Childhood Trauma, Anxiety, Depression or Family Conflicts that are keeping you away from Optimal Living, together, we will clear the path and pave the way to the life you have always imagined and deserve.
Now Accepting New Clients! Welcome! I am a Seasoned Holistic Psychotherapist. AUTHOR and Founder of www.simplycindy.com, with over 10 years of experience..Connection is KEY! In any therapeutic process there MUST exist a deep level of Trust . I am here to support you! Finally at the point to try a powerful and unique approach to therapy that will not only heal from the root but will do so in half the time of traditional talk therapies?If you keep doing what you have always done, you will keep getting what you have always gotten. My Integrative approach to therapy includes CBT, DBT, Solution focused therapy and more.
(561) 462-8740 View (561) 462-8740
Photo of Geffen Godder, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Geffen Godder
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Geffen Godder is a Florida and New York State licensed psychologist who works with children, adolescents, young adults and families, both in-person and virtually. She specializes in working with clients experiencing difficulties with life transitions, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, and parenting concerns. For over 20 years, using an integrative approach, Dr. Godder has worked collaboratively with her clients to gain greater insight into their underlying concerns as well as to build healthy and effective coping skills to manage their daily stressors.
Dr. Geffen Godder is a Florida and New York State licensed psychologist who works with children, adolescents, young adults and families, both in-person and virtually. She specializes in working with clients experiencing difficulties with life transitions, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, and parenting concerns. For over 20 years, using an integrative approach, Dr. Godder has worked collaboratively with her clients to gain greater insight into their underlying concerns as well as to build healthy and effective coping skills to manage their daily stressors.
(561) 430-2158 View (561) 430-2158
Photo of Joanna Saint Jacques, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Joanna Saint Jacques
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33434
Joanna has experience with diverse populations and issues, including adults, children/adolescents, veterans, and families dealing with homelessness, acute mental illness, depression, life stressors and trauma.
Joanna Saint Jacques is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree from the University of Central Florida. Joanna has experience using psychodynamic skills including cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. Joanna uses client-centered and solution-focused interventions, and helps with exploring healthy coping mechanisms.
Joanna has experience with diverse populations and issues, including adults, children/adolescents, veterans, and families dealing with homelessness, acute mental illness, depression, life stressors and trauma.
Joanna Saint Jacques is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree from the University of Central Florida. Joanna has experience using psychodynamic skills including cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. Joanna uses client-centered and solution-focused interventions, and helps with exploring healthy coping mechanisms.
(954) 417-1542 View (954) 417-1542
Photo of Amanda Werdann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Amanda Werdann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33434
Amanda provides psychotherapy to individuals, groups, and families. Specialized areas include mood dysregulation, stress, depression, low self-esteem, anger, anxiety, panic disorders, substance abuse, life adjustments, relationship issues, memory, and cognitive impairment.
Amanda provides psychotherapy to individuals, groups, and families. Specialized areas include mood dysregulation, stress, depression, low self-esteem, anger, anxiety, panic disorders, substance abuse, life adjustments, relationship issues, memory, and cognitive impairment.
(954) 420-6455 View (954) 420-6455
Photo of Les M Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Les M Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Waitlist for new clients
If you or someone you love needs assistance with any of the following: attention & concentration - disciplinary problems - school/academic problems - parenting skills - depression & anxiety - coping skills - relationship or marital issues - personal growth & life coaching, please call or e-mail for a free 15 minute phone consultation.
I have thirty-five years of experience in the field of education and counseling. I earned my Master's Degree at Bradley University where I was named The Merle Kaufman Scholar, awarded for outstanding achievement in the College of Education. I did additional graduate work at Nova Southeastern University and have attended and/or facilitated dozens of seminars. My areas of study focused on speech and hearing sciences, learning disabilities, counseling psychology, marriage and family therapy, and human sexuality.
If you or someone you love needs assistance with any of the following: attention & concentration - disciplinary problems - school/academic problems - parenting skills - depression & anxiety - coping skills - relationship or marital issues - personal growth & life coaching, please call or e-mail for a free 15 minute phone consultation.
I have thirty-five years of experience in the field of education and counseling. I earned my Master's Degree at Bradley University where I was named The Merle Kaufman Scholar, awarded for outstanding achievement in the College of Education. I did additional graduate work at Nova Southeastern University and have attended and/or facilitated dozens of seminars. My areas of study focused on speech and hearing sciences, learning disabilities, counseling psychology, marriage and family therapy, and human sexuality.
(954) 543-1815 View (954) 543-1815
Photo of Katie Greenspoon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Katie Greenspoon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33496
I specialize in providing therapy for adults and children of varied needs, including anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder traits, mood disorders, learning disabilities, social skills deficiencies, aspergers and autism spectrum disorders.
I have over 15 years of clinical experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, college students, and adults. I am currently in my 3rd year of a doctoral program to receive my DSW in August 2024. My specialization is in helping people reach their "best selves" in developing improved daily living skills in order to push through any 'road blocks' in ones personal development. My training and experience started in 2004 at New York University's Masters Program and carried through to my many years of private practice in South Florida. I provide a solution focused therapy in order to reach attainable goals.
I specialize in providing therapy for adults and children of varied needs, including anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder traits, mood disorders, learning disabilities, social skills deficiencies, aspergers and autism spectrum disorders.
I have over 15 years of clinical experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, college students, and adults. I am currently in my 3rd year of a doctoral program to receive my DSW in August 2024. My specialization is in helping people reach their "best selves" in developing improved daily living skills in order to push through any 'road blocks' in ones personal development. My training and experience started in 2004 at New York University's Masters Program and carried through to my many years of private practice in South Florida. I provide a solution focused therapy in order to reach attainable goals.
(561) 475-5046 View (561) 475-5046
Photo of Alessana Fordin, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Alessana Fordin
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33434
If you're facing challenges within your relationships or want to enact positive changes in your life but find yourself stuck, there's a path forward. Overcoming feelings of depression and anxiety, along with learning to manage anger effectively, are entirely within your reach. Break away the barriers that prevent you from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. As a highly trained psychotherapist, I employ a holistic and personalized approach tailored to your individual needs. For further details, I invite you to visit my website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
If you're facing challenges within your relationships or want to enact positive changes in your life but find yourself stuck, there's a path forward. Overcoming feelings of depression and anxiety, along with learning to manage anger effectively, are entirely within your reach. Break away the barriers that prevent you from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. As a highly trained psychotherapist, I employ a holistic and personalized approach tailored to your individual needs. For further details, I invite you to visit my website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
(305) 834-4115 View (305) 834-4115
Photo of Sunni Days Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Sunni Days Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, LMHC, CFMHE, certifi, CCCE
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression/ anxiety and grief counseling to parenting support and couples counseling.
I specialize in solution focused therapy.My goal is to assist clients in changing unhealthy patterns and thoughts to overcome challenges in their lives. . I work with children, families, couples and individuals.
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression/ anxiety and grief counseling to parenting support and couples counseling.
I specialize in solution focused therapy.My goal is to assist clients in changing unhealthy patterns and thoughts to overcome challenges in their lives. . I work with children, families, couples and individuals.
(561) 445-9040 View (561) 445-9040
Photo of Linda Wechter-Ashkin, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Linda Wechter-Ashkin
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Hello wonderful community! As a licensed psychologist, I'm on a mission to create a safe space for positive mental health and growth. I have a background as an educational psychologist, a certified and licensed school psychologist, a life coach and certified love and respect marriage mentor. I provide solution-based therapy for children and adults going through transitions that cause stress, anxiety, depression, and anger. I offer gifted testing as well as educational, and neuropsychological testing followed by comprehensive treatment plans for children and adults experiencing academic, cognitive or behavioral underachievement.
Hello wonderful community! As a licensed psychologist, I'm on a mission to create a safe space for positive mental health and growth. I have a background as an educational psychologist, a certified and licensed school psychologist, a life coach and certified love and respect marriage mentor. I provide solution-based therapy for children and adults going through transitions that cause stress, anxiety, depression, and anger. I offer gifted testing as well as educational, and neuropsychological testing followed by comprehensive treatment plans for children and adults experiencing academic, cognitive or behavioral underachievement.
(561) 404-9694 View (561) 404-9694
Photo of Brenda Okyn, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Brenda Okyn
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33427
How do you handle stress? Do you suffer from anxiety? Depression? Bereavement? Poor self-esteem? Parenting issues? Divorce issues? Bi-Polar? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I can assist you in finding solutions by alleviating emotional pain, and empowering you with the capacity to resolve problems in a caring, safe, and trusted environment where your innermost thoughts can be expressed without fear of judgment.
How do you handle stress? Do you suffer from anxiety? Depression? Bereavement? Poor self-esteem? Parenting issues? Divorce issues? Bi-Polar? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I can assist you in finding solutions by alleviating emotional pain, and empowering you with the capacity to resolve problems in a caring, safe, and trusted environment where your innermost thoughts can be expressed without fear of judgment.
(954) 266-0635 View (954) 266-0635

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.