Photo of Linda B Sherby, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Linda B Sherby
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
If you have kept silent, developing symptoms such as depression or anxiety, or become involved in one dissatisfying relationship after another, these are not chance happenings.
I am a psychotherapist: more specifically, a psychologist and a psychoanalyst. I have seen hundreds and hundreds of patients over the course of my forty plus year career. Every one of them has a story to tell, a story that despite its often gut-wrentching pain is beautiful, both in its uniqueness and its complexity. It is a story that the person may never have dared to tell before finding the safety of my office, perhaps feeling too inconsequential or guilty or ashamed.
If you have kept silent, developing symptoms such as depression or anxiety, or become involved in one dissatisfying relationship after another, these are not chance happenings.
I am a psychotherapist: more specifically, a psychologist and a psychoanalyst. I have seen hundreds and hundreds of patients over the course of my forty plus year career. Every one of them has a story to tell, a story that despite its often gut-wrentching pain is beautiful, both in its uniqueness and its complexity. It is a story that the person may never have dared to tell before finding the safety of my office, perhaps feeling too inconsequential or guilty or ashamed.
(561) 693-3614 View (561) 693-3614
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 Melissa Nicole Vance, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Melissa Nicole Vance
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults of all ages who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, mood dysregulation, coping skills, healthy relationships, co-dependency, self-esteem and emotion management.
I am a fully Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) for the state of Florida and graduated with my masters in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University in 2014. I have 8yrs experience working in the healthcare field and have since worked in various settings to include child welfare, community based health, private practice, hospital and school settings.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults of all ages who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, mood dysregulation, coping skills, healthy relationships, co-dependency, self-esteem and emotion management.
I am a fully Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) for the state of Florida and graduated with my masters in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University in 2014. I have 8yrs experience working in the healthcare field and have since worked in various settings to include child welfare, community based health, private practice, hospital and school settings.
(561) 933-7148 View (561) 933-7148
Photo of Tiffany Graham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Tiffany Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33432
My specialties includes: Abandonment, Addiction, Eating Disorders, Personality Disorders, Mental Health (Bipolar, Depression, and Anxiety), Grief/Loss, Guilt/Shame, Sexuality Concerns, Self Esteem/Body Imagine Issues, Intimacy Problem, Stress, Anger, Crisis/Trauma, Impulse Control, Codependency, Relationship/Family Conflict, and Work-related stressors.
I have over 6 years of experience working in the field of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Disorder. These opportunities have contributed to my extensive understanding, belief, and practice associated with psychotherapy. I work from a strength-based perspective, encouraging self-compassion and positive self-regard for my clients. I believe in establishing a positive working relationship with clients in order to create a healthy therapeutic rapport in order to increase a positive treatment outcome. My focus is to help others develop a healthy thought process to relieve emotional and psychological distress.
My specialties includes: Abandonment, Addiction, Eating Disorders, Personality Disorders, Mental Health (Bipolar, Depression, and Anxiety), Grief/Loss, Guilt/Shame, Sexuality Concerns, Self Esteem/Body Imagine Issues, Intimacy Problem, Stress, Anger, Crisis/Trauma, Impulse Control, Codependency, Relationship/Family Conflict, and Work-related stressors.
I have over 6 years of experience working in the field of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Disorder. These opportunities have contributed to my extensive understanding, belief, and practice associated with psychotherapy. I work from a strength-based perspective, encouraging self-compassion and positive self-regard for my clients. I believe in establishing a positive working relationship with clients in order to create a healthy therapeutic rapport in order to increase a positive treatment outcome. My focus is to help others develop a healthy thought process to relieve emotional and psychological distress.
(561) 448-6475 View (561) 448-6475
Photo of Danielle Barone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Danielle Barone, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Specializing in Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression and Grief/Loss.
I am a psychotherapist in private practice located in Boca Raton providing in person and Telehealth services in Florida as well as Telehealth services in Utah. My extensive experience includes but is not limited to working with adolescents and adults, including emotion regulation, mood disorders, bereavement, medical trauma, and clinical PTSD and suicidal ideation. Specialized individual and group therapy as well as psycho-educational groups have been my continued focus to guide individuals in processing and healing their trauma. Therapeutic approaches are individualized to the needs and sensitivity of each client.
Specializing in Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression and Grief/Loss.
I am a psychotherapist in private practice located in Boca Raton providing in person and Telehealth services in Florida as well as Telehealth services in Utah. My extensive experience includes but is not limited to working with adolescents and adults, including emotion regulation, mood disorders, bereavement, medical trauma, and clinical PTSD and suicidal ideation. Specialized individual and group therapy as well as psycho-educational groups have been my continued focus to guide individuals in processing and healing their trauma. Therapeutic approaches are individualized to the needs and sensitivity of each client.
(561) 926-9928 View (561) 926-9928
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 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 Howard Groveman, LMHC, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Howard Groveman, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433
It is time to free yourself of anxiety, depression, and fear. You can learn the skills to live more freely in the moment and achieve your goals. I am certified in EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and am well versed in CBT( Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), MBSR (Mindfulness Based Stress reduction. I have had success working with individuals and couples on overcoming a variety of challenges, such as trauma, addictions, anxiety, depression, and many other mental health challenges. Let us work together to achieve your goals.
It is time to free yourself of anxiety, depression, and fear. You can learn the skills to live more freely in the moment and achieve your goals. I am certified in EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and am well versed in CBT( Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), MBSR (Mindfulness Based Stress reduction. I have had success working with individuals and couples on overcoming a variety of challenges, such as trauma, addictions, anxiety, depression, and many other mental health challenges. Let us work together to achieve your goals.
(754) 212-8460 View (754) 212-8460
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 Tammy L Staples, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Tammy L Staples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33428
With 26 years of experience I have come to specialize in women's issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, ADHD and the LBGTQ population.
I am originally from Maine and opened my first private practice in Connecticut where I raised my two children. After some time we admitted defeat with the winters of New England and moved to Florida so my husband could follow his career as a US Marshal. I continue to love working with patients while enjoying time with my family, the beach, reading and exploring new places and cuisine. I am a licensed clinical social worker providing therapeutic services to patients 16 and older. I take a holistic and patient-centered approach to the care of my patients.
With 26 years of experience I have come to specialize in women's issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, ADHD and the LBGTQ population.
I am originally from Maine and opened my first private practice in Connecticut where I raised my two children. After some time we admitted defeat with the winters of New England and moved to Florida so my husband could follow his career as a US Marshal. I continue to love working with patients while enjoying time with my family, the beach, reading and exploring new places and cuisine. I am a licensed clinical social worker providing therapeutic services to patients 16 and older. I take a holistic and patient-centered approach to the care of my patients.
(754) 704-2080 View (754) 704-2080
Photo of Merri Schiff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Merri Schiff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33428
My passion for helping others began at a young age, volunteering in middle school. This was the start of my life long career of over 35 years working as a Social Worker with people in various scenarios; the past 19 years, primarily with elders and their adult children. I treat Depression, Anxiety and Panic Disorder, Bipolar DO, OCD and PTSD. I have joined the amazing group at Boca Raton Psychiatry and work in conjunction with the psychiatrists as part of your team. Please visit Bocaratonpsychiatry.com for more info or our second location in Delray at Delraybeachpsychiatry.com.
My passion for helping others began at a young age, volunteering in middle school. This was the start of my life long career of over 35 years working as a Social Worker with people in various scenarios; the past 19 years, primarily with elders and their adult children. I treat Depression, Anxiety and Panic Disorder, Bipolar DO, OCD and PTSD. I have joined the amazing group at Boca Raton Psychiatry and work in conjunction with the psychiatrists as part of your team. Please visit Bocaratonpsychiatry.com for more info or our second location in Delray at Delraybeachpsychiatry.com.
(954) 287-2105 View (954) 287-2105
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 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 Brad Jaffe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Brad Jaffe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
It’s a tough world — many of us suffer from anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship struggles and mood disorders. It’s important to realize that you’re not alone. Over the years, I’ve seen hundreds of patients struggling with many of these common issues. The good news is, there’s hope. I take an engaging approach to helping you understand the reality of your situation, and empower you to overcome the present to become the best version of yourself. I received my graduate degree from Columbia University, and trained/worked at the prestigious American Institute for Psychoanalysis.
It’s a tough world — many of us suffer from anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship struggles and mood disorders. It’s important to realize that you’re not alone. Over the years, I’ve seen hundreds of patients struggling with many of these common issues. The good news is, there’s hope. I take an engaging approach to helping you understand the reality of your situation, and empower you to overcome the present to become the best version of yourself. I received my graduate degree from Columbia University, and trained/worked at the prestigious American Institute for Psychoanalysis.
(561) 771-5962 View (561) 771-5962
Photo of Kimberley Adda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Kimberley Adda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(561) 220-1076 View (561) 220-1076
Photo of Lori Kramer-Feingold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Lori Kramer-Feingold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486  (Online Only)
I specialize in Mental Health issues such as Anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, Depression, bipolar disorder, other mood disorders, as well as personality disorders.
Maybe you can identify with some of the things I have been through which played a part in my decision to become a Clinical Therapist. Middle class & Brooklyn born, I had experienced many adverse situations in my life, which began growing up in a dysfunctional home. A dysfunctional home life is much like an Alcoholic home life, however, without the alcohol. If you experienced dysfunction growing up, it is the main ingredient that qualifies the entire family to seek therapy at some point in their life. When dysfunction causes the brain to rewire, we now have Mental Illness at play.
I specialize in Mental Health issues such as Anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, Depression, bipolar disorder, other mood disorders, as well as personality disorders.
Maybe you can identify with some of the things I have been through which played a part in my decision to become a Clinical Therapist. Middle class & Brooklyn born, I had experienced many adverse situations in my life, which began growing up in a dysfunctional home. A dysfunctional home life is much like an Alcoholic home life, however, without the alcohol. If you experienced dysfunction growing up, it is the main ingredient that qualifies the entire family to seek therapy at some point in their life. When dysfunction causes the brain to rewire, we now have Mental Illness at play.
(561) 430-2698 View (561) 430-2698
Photo of Ira Kaufman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Ira Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433
As the Director of a unique and comprehensive center, we provide individual, couples and family counseling, psychological testing and medication consultation. Counseling is provided for children, adolescents, adults, geriatrics, gays and lesbians. People struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, careeer choices, addictions, chronic pain, weight loss issues, eating disorders can receive help.
As the Director of a unique and comprehensive center, we provide individual, couples and family counseling, psychological testing and medication consultation. Counseling is provided for children, adolescents, adults, geriatrics, gays and lesbians. People struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, careeer choices, addictions, chronic pain, weight loss issues, eating disorders can receive help.
(561) 739-2696 View (561) 739-2696
Photo of Jacqueline Gomez, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Jacqueline Gomez
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Traumatic situations can vary from unresolved grief/loss, witnessing/experiencing a violent incident or accident, physical and sexual abuse, to betrayal in relationships. These experiences leave "imprints" on the mind and body which can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, “numb,” avoiding situations/places, unwanted memories, nightmares and guilt.
Traumatic situations can vary from unresolved grief/loss, witnessing/experiencing a violent incident or accident, physical and sexual abuse, to betrayal in relationships. These experiences leave "imprints" on the mind and body which can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, “numb,” avoiding situations/places, unwanted memories, nightmares and guilt.
(954) 715-4409 View (954) 715-4409
Photo of Maria Alvarez, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Maria Alvarez
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
I also work with individuals with anxiety and depression and enjoy assisting couples in developing healthy communication skills.
I have been in private practice since 2002 where my focus has been to assist and support individuals, couples, and families with tools to achieve inner transformation. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Hypnotist. I am a member of the American Counseling Association and a member of the National Guild of Hypnotherapist. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Education and a Master of Science in Psychology. As a therapist and counselor my focus is to support and help people begin their journey of self-discovery, transformation,personal growth, and self love.
I also work with individuals with anxiety and depression and enjoy assisting couples in developing healthy communication skills.
I have been in private practice since 2002 where my focus has been to assist and support individuals, couples, and families with tools to achieve inner transformation. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Hypnotist. I am a member of the American Counseling Association and a member of the National Guild of Hypnotherapist. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Education and a Master of Science in Psychology. As a therapist and counselor my focus is to support and help people begin their journey of self-discovery, transformation,personal growth, and self love.
(561) 303-2315 View (561) 303-2315
Photo of Carmen C Maldonado, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Carmen C Maldonado
Counselor, MS, LMHC, QS, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Are you feeling overwhelmed and at times sense of guilt? At times life can be challenging - full of joys, sorrows and everything in between. Sometimes, the challenges seem too daunting or affect more than one area of life - relationships, career, physical and emotional health. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a holistic approach to therapy I assist individuals and couples to do just that. Anxiety, depression, chronic physical/emotional conditions, stress management, work/life balance, marital stressors, communication, finances, are areas to be explored.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and at times sense of guilt? At times life can be challenging - full of joys, sorrows and everything in between. Sometimes, the challenges seem too daunting or affect more than one area of life - relationships, career, physical and emotional health. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a holistic approach to therapy I assist individuals and couples to do just that. Anxiety, depression, chronic physical/emotional conditions, stress management, work/life balance, marital stressors, communication, finances, are areas to be explored.
(561) 513-5256 View (561) 513-5256
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.