Photo of Lynne Healey, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Lynne Healey
Counselor, LMHC, CAP, QS, MPS
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33434  (Online Only)
We are here to offer motivated clients a place to grow and flourish in a safe and nurturing environment. We speciliaze in trauma and related issues such as depression, addiction and grief and loss. Every client helps develop their own unique plan which incorporates innovative therapies to address the mind, body and soul. Therapy is creative and never boring. We incorporate creative arts, music, pets and specialized trauma protocols as appropriate to each individuals needs. We accept adults. We offer online therapy sessions.
We are here to offer motivated clients a place to grow and flourish in a safe and nurturing environment. We speciliaze in trauma and related issues such as depression, addiction and grief and loss. Every client helps develop their own unique plan which incorporates innovative therapies to address the mind, body and soul. Therapy is creative and never boring. We incorporate creative arts, music, pets and specialized trauma protocols as appropriate to each individuals needs. We accept adults. We offer online therapy sessions.
(561) 769-2635 x561 View (561) 769-2635 x561
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 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 Sandra Eisner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Sandra Eisner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433
I believe that it is never too late to feel better and improve your quality of life. I have more than 30 years of experience working with adults and adolescents in individual, group, and family counseling, I was trained at Columbia University School of Social Work in New York. I provide tools to help significantly decrease or alleviate feelings and struggles such as depression, anxiety, anger, obsessive compulsive symptoms, relationship, family and marital problems, abuse, addiction, work related difficulties, transitional, and adjustment issues. I strive to improve coping, communication, interpersonal, conflict resolution, problem solving skills and growth.
I believe that it is never too late to feel better and improve your quality of life. I have more than 30 years of experience working with adults and adolescents in individual, group, and family counseling, I was trained at Columbia University School of Social Work in New York. I provide tools to help significantly decrease or alleviate feelings and struggles such as depression, anxiety, anger, obsessive compulsive symptoms, relationship, family and marital problems, abuse, addiction, work related difficulties, transitional, and adjustment issues. I strive to improve coping, communication, interpersonal, conflict resolution, problem solving skills and growth.
(561) 948-4879 View (561) 948-4879
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 James Pontius, Ph.D., Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
James Pontius, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432  (Online Only)
I work toward helping clients feel emotionally safe in therapy. It is very important that people feel validated, understood, accepted, and not judged for having their difficulties. I have been in private practice for over 35 years. I work with a wide variety of people, including individuals and couples. I have particular interests in helping people with depression (including Bipolar Disorder), anxiety (i.e.,panic, generalized & social anxiety, PTSD, OCD, etc), relationship difficulties, and addictions. I am a provider for numerous managed care companies, and have been on medical staffs of various hospitals for many years.
I work toward helping clients feel emotionally safe in therapy. It is very important that people feel validated, understood, accepted, and not judged for having their difficulties. I have been in private practice for over 35 years. I work with a wide variety of people, including individuals and couples. I have particular interests in helping people with depression (including Bipolar Disorder), anxiety (i.e.,panic, generalized & social anxiety, PTSD, OCD, etc), relationship difficulties, and addictions. I am a provider for numerous managed care companies, and have been on medical staffs of various hospitals for many years.
(561) 559-7447 View (561) 559-7447
Photo of Lindsay Schaeffer Cooke, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Lindsay Schaeffer Cooke
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Are you feeling lost, down, in a rut, self-destructive or confused? Maybe you're feeling discontent, grief, sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety or disappointment about something you cannot get past. I see this as an opportunity to motivate change. Although times like this can be painful, they are opportunities to take an introspective look at your life and challenge yourself for growth and healing. Oftentimes, this provides the opportunity to find the balance and serenity you crave. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in treatment of addictions, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues & mood disorders here to help.
Are you feeling lost, down, in a rut, self-destructive or confused? Maybe you're feeling discontent, grief, sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety or disappointment about something you cannot get past. I see this as an opportunity to motivate change. Although times like this can be painful, they are opportunities to take an introspective look at your life and challenge yourself for growth and healing. Oftentimes, this provides the opportunity to find the balance and serenity you crave. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in treatment of addictions, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues & mood disorders here to help.
(561) 468-3966 View (561) 468-3966
Photo of Irving M Nadler, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Irving M Nadler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431  (Online Only)
My specialties include depression, anxiety/stress, relationship issues, couple therapy, anger management, medical issues, weight management, smoking cessation, and substance abuse.
Life can be tough. Would you like to diminish emotional pain, improve your health, improve the quality of your relationships, stop feeling overwhelmed and take care of business? I help people find more happiness in their lives, despite unfortunate circumstances such as psychological predispositions, loss of health, loss of wealth, marital conflict, work problems. In addition, some people sabotage their happiness and health. Let me help you follow your dreams in a tranquil, safe and ethical environmnent. Prospective clients - call for a 20-minute free telephone consultation
My specialties include depression, anxiety/stress, relationship issues, couple therapy, anger management, medical issues, weight management, smoking cessation, and substance abuse.
Life can be tough. Would you like to diminish emotional pain, improve your health, improve the quality of your relationships, stop feeling overwhelmed and take care of business? I help people find more happiness in their lives, despite unfortunate circumstances such as psychological predispositions, loss of health, loss of wealth, marital conflict, work problems. In addition, some people sabotage their happiness and health. Let me help you follow your dreams in a tranquil, safe and ethical environmnent. Prospective clients - call for a 20-minute free telephone consultation
(561) 739-2361 View (561) 739-2361
Photo of Eitan Turk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Eitan Turk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Life can be challenging. But sometimes life is more difficult than it should be. At times it may seem that however hard we try, we are unable to live the life we want. It may feel as if there is an invisible wall that gets between us and our hopes, aspirations, and goals. This "wall" may be caused by depression, anxiety, family issues or trauma, among other things. Fortunately, it is possible to free ourselves of these impediments and live the life we want for ourselves.
Life can be challenging. But sometimes life is more difficult than it should be. At times it may seem that however hard we try, we are unable to live the life we want. It may feel as if there is an invisible wall that gets between us and our hopes, aspirations, and goals. This "wall" may be caused by depression, anxiety, family issues or trauma, among other things. Fortunately, it is possible to free ourselves of these impediments and live the life we want for ourselves.
(786) 713-1194 View (786) 713-1194
Photo of Samantha Mackson, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Samantha Mackson
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486
Clients who seek my services often struggle with anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, life transitions, and general life issues. I am able to strongly connect with my clients of all ages, from children to older adults. I specialize in working with pre-teens, teens, and young adults coping with life stressors characteristic of their life phase. My youth serves as an advantage for children and teenage clients who find it easy to trust and relate to me. I am additionally able to connect with my adult clients through my open and casual approach to therapy. Positive rapport with my clients is my priority.
Clients who seek my services often struggle with anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, life transitions, and general life issues. I am able to strongly connect with my clients of all ages, from children to older adults. I specialize in working with pre-teens, teens, and young adults coping with life stressors characteristic of their life phase. My youth serves as an advantage for children and teenage clients who find it easy to trust and relate to me. I am additionally able to connect with my adult clients through my open and casual approach to therapy. Positive rapport with my clients is my priority.
(786) 755-0778 View (786) 755-0778
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 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 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 ReachLink in Boca Raton, FL
ReachLink
LCSW, MA, QS, IOP, OP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
We can help with Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, PTSD, Stress, Family, Self Harm, Eating Disorders, Tech Addiction, Relationships, OCD, ADHD and more.
ReachLink uses technology to improve lives. We provide effective, affordable behavioral health care and aspire to enable access to care for all people. ReachLink works with many different populations using our tele-behavioral health platform to help individuals reach their goals, conveniently and effectively.
We can help with Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, PTSD, Stress, Family, Self Harm, Eating Disorders, Tech Addiction, Relationships, OCD, ADHD and more.
ReachLink uses technology to improve lives. We provide effective, affordable behavioral health care and aspire to enable access to care for all people. ReachLink works with many different populations using our tele-behavioral health platform to help individuals reach their goals, conveniently and effectively.
(561) 609-0663 View (561) 609-0663
Photo of Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Dr. Robert Heller, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Dr. Robert Heller
Psychologist, EdD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Suffering from anxiety, depression, anger, fear, or worry? Problems with relationships? Seeking relief from chronic health issues? With over 38 years of clinical experience with hundreds of clients and advanced training with some of the world's top leaders in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Hypnosis and EMDR, I can provide you with tools and skills you can use NOW to overcome life's toughest challenges so you can lead a healthier, happier and more satisfying life. Call Dr. Robert Heller at 561-451-2731 for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, email drrobertheller at gmail.com or visit www.cognitivetherapyfl.com. Licensed in FL, MA, NC
Suffering from anxiety, depression, anger, fear, or worry? Problems with relationships? Seeking relief from chronic health issues? With over 38 years of clinical experience with hundreds of clients and advanced training with some of the world's top leaders in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Hypnosis and EMDR, I can provide you with tools and skills you can use NOW to overcome life's toughest challenges so you can lead a healthier, happier and more satisfying life. Call Dr. Robert Heller at 561-451-2731 for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, email drrobertheller at gmail.com or visit www.cognitivetherapyfl.com. Licensed in FL, MA, NC
(561) 287-6059 View (561) 287-6059
Photo of Mark Alper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Mark Alper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33431
By creating an open, trusting and collaborative partnership, I can help you to make conscious choices and practical behavioral changes that facilitate improved self-esteem; relieve anxiety, depression and social problems; change self-defeating patterns; overcome fears of intimacy and enhance the quality of relationships.
Choosing a therapist can seem like a daunting task. I believe the most important element of my job is to create a safe, nonjudgemental environment that helps you to explore feelings, history and conflicts. If I accomplish this task, you will be able to achieve a new level of understanding and resolution. It has been my good fortune to experience the personal growth of my clients throughout my many years of practice. I hope to engage in this type of relationship with you.
By creating an open, trusting and collaborative partnership, I can help you to make conscious choices and practical behavioral changes that facilitate improved self-esteem; relieve anxiety, depression and social problems; change self-defeating patterns; overcome fears of intimacy and enhance the quality of relationships.
Choosing a therapist can seem like a daunting task. I believe the most important element of my job is to create a safe, nonjudgemental environment that helps you to explore feelings, history and conflicts. If I accomplish this task, you will be able to achieve a new level of understanding and resolution. It has been my good fortune to experience the personal growth of my clients throughout my many years of practice. I hope to engage in this type of relationship with you.
(561) 861-3254 View (561) 861-3254
Photo of Rise Hannah Page, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Rise Hannah Page
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, CCDC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Risé Hannah Page has an office in Downtown Rockville, Md. where we are meeting virtually, taking a walk and talk to the local park or meeting in the office and I have a satellite office in Boca Raton, Fl. for virtual appts. Only. I see adults for individual to concentrate on what is currently happening to you with issues ranging from: depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, alcoholism and addictions. I have experienced life challenges and made a decision to work with people who want to turn their lives around. I will not give up on you and I believe that anyone who wants to make changes can change.
Risé Hannah Page has an office in Downtown Rockville, Md. where we are meeting virtually, taking a walk and talk to the local park or meeting in the office and I have a satellite office in Boca Raton, Fl. for virtual appts. Only. I see adults for individual to concentrate on what is currently happening to you with issues ranging from: depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, alcoholism and addictions. I have experienced life challenges and made a decision to work with people who want to turn their lives around. I will not give up on you and I believe that anyone who wants to make changes can change.
(407) 505-5343 View (407) 505-5343
Photo of Janette Pellus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Janette Pellus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33428
Life has shown me we do not have control over all situations in our lives, but finding meaning and purpose in these experiences can provide a framework for personal growth and development. I attempt to empower others to safely explore their thoughts and feelings, to understand the root of their problems, and to experience a higher self-awareness and self-acceptance. I treat Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar DO, OCD, PTSD, and Panic DO. I accept Aetna, Cigna, Oscar, United Healthcare and Medicare. I am currently credentialing with BCBS and Humana and can provide visits virtually for ease, safety and comfort.
Life has shown me we do not have control over all situations in our lives, but finding meaning and purpose in these experiences can provide a framework for personal growth and development. I attempt to empower others to safely explore their thoughts and feelings, to understand the root of their problems, and to experience a higher self-awareness and self-acceptance. I treat Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar DO, OCD, PTSD, and Panic DO. I accept Aetna, Cigna, Oscar, United Healthcare and Medicare. I am currently credentialing with BCBS and Humana and can provide visits virtually for ease, safety and comfort.
(561) 342-8822 View (561) 342-8822
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
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.