Photo of Carelis Costello Wynder, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Boca Raton, FL
Carelis Costello Wynder
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432  (Online Only)
From the start of her counseling journey, Carelis has practiced in settings working closely with an array of diagnoses such as but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral Disorders, and many more.
Carelis is a Registered Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida providing Psychotherapy services to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. Carelis facilitated a career change in 2017 from earning a Bachelors in Paralegal Studies to graduating with a Masters in Mental Health Counseling from NOVA Southeastern University. Her passion in the field of psychology made her a great candidate in 2020, as a doctoral student in Clinical Psychology at Carlos Albizu University.
From the start of her counseling journey, Carelis has practiced in settings working closely with an array of diagnoses such as but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral Disorders, and many more.
Carelis is a Registered Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida providing Psychotherapy services to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. Carelis facilitated a career change in 2017 from earning a Bachelors in Paralegal Studies to graduating with a Masters in Mental Health Counseling from NOVA Southeastern University. Her passion in the field of psychology made her a great candidate in 2020, as a doctoral student in Clinical Psychology at Carlos Albizu University.
(561) 510-9868 View (561) 510-9868
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 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
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 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 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 New Leaf Counseling, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
New Leaf Counseling
Counselor, MS, ACS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33434
Through counseling, clients are able to learn skills to manage depression, anxiety, aggression, PTSD, social avoidance, attention/concentration, and impulsive behavior.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS My clients have come from all walks of life and with a wide range of concerns. By shifting ways of thinking to learn new responses, and choosing healthy coping skills, client's will be feeling more content and create the happy, stable, uplifted life that is within their reach. LGBTQ+ allied. I work with clients from 8 years old, adolescent, teen, adult, and seniors.
Through counseling, clients are able to learn skills to manage depression, anxiety, aggression, PTSD, social avoidance, attention/concentration, and impulsive behavior.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS My clients have come from all walks of life and with a wide range of concerns. By shifting ways of thinking to learn new responses, and choosing healthy coping skills, client's will be feeling more content and create the happy, stable, uplifted life that is within their reach. LGBTQ+ allied. I work with clients from 8 years old, adolescent, teen, adult, and seniors.
(702) 830-4576 View (702) 830-4576
Photo of Joel Kimmel, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Joel Kimmel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33496
I am a seasoned psychologist who has been in practice for over 44 years. I have treated a wide variety of clients with relationship problems, depression, anxiety, and other issues. My approach is simple: Problems and issues are quickly identified, strategies to resolve these issues are formulated, and then these strategies are executed and monitored until the problem is resolved. In addition, I also provide psychological testing to identify learning problems and to assist in requesting accommodations for school and for standardized tests. I invite you to visit my website for further information: www.KimmelPsychology.com.
I am a seasoned psychologist who has been in practice for over 44 years. I have treated a wide variety of clients with relationship problems, depression, anxiety, and other issues. My approach is simple: Problems and issues are quickly identified, strategies to resolve these issues are formulated, and then these strategies are executed and monitored until the problem is resolved. In addition, I also provide psychological testing to identify learning problems and to assist in requesting accommodations for school and for standardized tests. I invite you to visit my website for further information: www.KimmelPsychology.com.
(954) 903-4971 View (954) 903-4971
Photo of Arielle Theodore, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Arielle Theodore
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Her specialties include: Abuse, Life Transitions, ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, College Related Issues, Depression, Family Issues, Grief/Loss, Mood Disorders, PTSD, Relationship issues, Self-development/Self-esteem, Sexual Orientation, Stress Management, Substance use/abuse, and Work & Career Issues.
Arielle Theodore is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor of Caribbean descent who received a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health at Monroe College in New Rochelle, New York and obtained her Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling at Hodges University in Naples, Florida. Arielle has over 5 years of experience working in the field of Mental Health and presently conducts individual and family therapy to pre-teens, teens, young adults, and the adult population.
Her specialties include: Abuse, Life Transitions, ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, College Related Issues, Depression, Family Issues, Grief/Loss, Mood Disorders, PTSD, Relationship issues, Self-development/Self-esteem, Sexual Orientation, Stress Management, Substance use/abuse, and Work & Career Issues.
Arielle Theodore is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor of Caribbean descent who received a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health at Monroe College in New Rochelle, New York and obtained her Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling at Hodges University in Naples, Florida. Arielle has over 5 years of experience working in the field of Mental Health and presently conducts individual and family therapy to pre-teens, teens, young adults, and the adult population.
(561) 816-3345 View (561) 816-3345
Photo of Fabiana Lugo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Fabiana Lugo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Life can present us with many challenges, but we don't need to go through these challenges alone. After major life changes such as death of a loved one, struggles of a divorce, job loss, moving to an unknown place, experiencing anxiety, depression and trauma can turn our worlds upside down. Sometimes we don't have the best coping skills and mechanisms to handle these challenges. We can work together to find solutions to these challenges, work on life goals, and a new positive path. As a mental health counselor, my goal is to help you find your path to a healthier and empowered life.
Life can present us with many challenges, but we don't need to go through these challenges alone. After major life changes such as death of a loved one, struggles of a divorce, job loss, moving to an unknown place, experiencing anxiety, depression and trauma can turn our worlds upside down. Sometimes we don't have the best coping skills and mechanisms to handle these challenges. We can work together to find solutions to these challenges, work on life goals, and a new positive path. As a mental health counselor, my goal is to help you find your path to a healthier and empowered life.
(305) 224-1332 View (305) 224-1332
Genesis Counseling & Consulting, Inc
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
Genesis Counseling is a group private practice serving South Florida, with locations in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Springs and virtually throughout the state. We have a team of therapists with a wide range of different specialties. Our team works with children, adolescents and adults on issues related to; anxiety, depression, school concerns, family and marriage struggles, communication, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, behavioral disorders, LGBTQIA+, EMDR, eating disorders and other mental health issues. Genesis Counseling therapists are committed to create a safe, healing environment for you and your family.
Genesis Counseling is a group private practice serving South Florida, with locations in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Springs and virtually throughout the state. We have a team of therapists with a wide range of different specialties. Our team works with children, adolescents and adults on issues related to; anxiety, depression, school concerns, family and marriage struggles, communication, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, behavioral disorders, LGBTQIA+, EMDR, eating disorders and other mental health issues. Genesis Counseling therapists are committed to create a safe, healing environment for you and your family.
(561) 431-9479 View (561) 431-9479
Photo of Helping Moon Counseling, P A in Boca Raton, FL
Helping Moon Counseling, P A
LMHC, LCSW, PhD, MCAP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33433  (Online Only)
Hey there! Thank you for taking a moment to check our profile. Helping Moon Counseling is a group practice. We mostly stand due to our passion for what we do. We would be thrilled to help you on your journey of healing, empowerment & change. We strive for the same goal - helping our clients reach their goals. The majority of the clinicians in the group are licensed mental health counselors or licensed clinical social workers. Most of us are trauma specialists, trained in different techniques. We specialize in treatment of depression, anxiety, substance-abuse, anger management, grief/loss, mindfulness and more.
Hey there! Thank you for taking a moment to check our profile. Helping Moon Counseling is a group practice. We mostly stand due to our passion for what we do. We would be thrilled to help you on your journey of healing, empowerment & change. We strive for the same goal - helping our clients reach their goals. The majority of the clinicians in the group are licensed mental health counselors or licensed clinical social workers. Most of us are trauma specialists, trained in different techniques. We specialize in treatment of depression, anxiety, substance-abuse, anger management, grief/loss, mindfulness and more.
(954) 859-1802 View (954) 859-1802
Photo of Jennifer Garcia, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Jennifer Garcia
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
Jennifer specializes in EMDR and trauma informed care where clients receive compassionate therapy to help alleviate struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, chemical dependence, marriage/relationship problems, and adjustment issues to name a few.
Jennifer Garcia is licensed as a Mental Health Counselor in Florida and a Qualified Supervisor for Mental Health Interns. Jennifer is an Independent Contractor with Genesis Counseling in Boca and Coral Springs, FL as well as virtually. She attained her Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Florida Atlantic University. She has 17 years experience working with clients with mental health and substance abuse disorders and individuals dealing with attachment issues and childhood trauma.
Jennifer specializes in EMDR and trauma informed care where clients receive compassionate therapy to help alleviate struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, chemical dependence, marriage/relationship problems, and adjustment issues to name a few.
Jennifer Garcia is licensed as a Mental Health Counselor in Florida and a Qualified Supervisor for Mental Health Interns. Jennifer is an Independent Contractor with Genesis Counseling in Boca and Coral Springs, FL as well as virtually. She attained her Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Florida Atlantic University. She has 17 years experience working with clients with mental health and substance abuse disorders and individuals dealing with attachment issues and childhood trauma.
(561) 510-7664 View (561) 510-7664
Photo of Nyree Tchalikian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Nyree Tchalikian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33427
With over 14 years of experience as a Mental Health professional, which includes a ten year role as a Senior Investigator with the Department of Children and Families, Nyree has experience dealing with domestic violence, life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, impulse control, family issues, parenting skills, adolescent issues, substance abuse, trauma, panic disorder, self harm, and anger management. Drawing on this experience, she is currently serving as a private practitioner, helping her clients gain stability in their lives by better managing life's challenges, thereby creating the ability to identify distorted thinking and beliefs. Nyree is available for in office sessions and video conferencing.
With over 14 years of experience as a Mental Health professional, which includes a ten year role as a Senior Investigator with the Department of Children and Families, Nyree has experience dealing with domestic violence, life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, impulse control, family issues, parenting skills, adolescent issues, substance abuse, trauma, panic disorder, self harm, and anger management. Drawing on this experience, she is currently serving as a private practitioner, helping her clients gain stability in their lives by better managing life's challenges, thereby creating the ability to identify distorted thinking and beliefs. Nyree is available for in office sessions and video conferencing.
(201) 549-9259 View (201) 549-9259
Photo of Kathleen Rodriguez, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Kathleen Rodriguez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33432
My practice focuses on the well being of my clients. I provide mental health services for children to adults. My passion is to serve families in the community in need of mental health counseling. I am experience in child play therapy, family therapy, marriage/couples counseling, adolescent,, individual and substance abuse counseling. I provide treatment for anxiety, depression, grief and behavioral therapy. I am fluent in English and Spanish. I look forward to serving you.
My practice focuses on the well being of my clients. I provide mental health services for children to adults. My passion is to serve families in the community in need of mental health counseling. I am experience in child play therapy, family therapy, marriage/couples counseling, adolescent,, individual and substance abuse counseling. I provide treatment for anxiety, depression, grief and behavioral therapy. I am fluent in English and Spanish. I look forward to serving you.
(844) 743-2126 View (844) 743-2126
Photo of Marla Gale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Marla Gale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33498
Experience counts. If you are depressed and anxious and or having relationship, family or couples problems, use a professional with over 30 years experience. I am a former Supervisor of Professional Staff at JFS of Bwd Co and a Clinical Professor for Barry U. I have specialized training in CBT, PET, PTSD and am a provider for the Military. Learn problem solving tecniques and communication skills that will improve every aspect of your life. Therapy is a very collaborative process and I will work with you to develop techniques and plans to help resolve your problem. Personally our 3 children are happily married to original spouse.
Experience counts. If you are depressed and anxious and or having relationship, family or couples problems, use a professional with over 30 years experience. I am a former Supervisor of Professional Staff at JFS of Bwd Co and a Clinical Professor for Barry U. I have specialized training in CBT, PET, PTSD and am a provider for the Military. Learn problem solving tecniques and communication skills that will improve every aspect of your life. Therapy is a very collaborative process and I will work with you to develop techniques and plans to help resolve your problem. Personally our 3 children are happily married to original spouse.
(561) 600-5643 View (561) 600-5643
Photo of Theresa Olson, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Theresa Olson
Counselor, LMHC, CPR, EMDR, CBT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33427  (Online Only)
You made it! You took the necessary courageous leap to seek help. Whether you deal with anxiety, panic, depression, addiction, phobia/s, recently suffered a loss, or survived trauma, ... you are not alone. Others before you have made it through with an ability to see the world with fresh eyes and create the life they once only dreamt of. Guess, "What?" You Can Too! If we decide we are a good fit, My team and I are here to offer you professional guidance and empirically validated interventions individualized to meet your needs that will make the journey All Worth It!
You made it! You took the necessary courageous leap to seek help. Whether you deal with anxiety, panic, depression, addiction, phobia/s, recently suffered a loss, or survived trauma, ... you are not alone. Others before you have made it through with an ability to see the world with fresh eyes and create the life they once only dreamt of. Guess, "What?" You Can Too! If we decide we are a good fit, My team and I are here to offer you professional guidance and empirically validated interventions individualized to meet your needs that will make the journey All Worth It!
(561) 903-2546 View (561) 903-2546
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth A. Caparros, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Dr. Elizabeth A. Caparros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DMin, LCSW, CTP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33428
“It is the Events in our lives that Shape Us. It is our Choices that Define Us.” My approach to healing offers the ability to change our character, personality, and our behavior. I will also offer the ability to understand the character, personality, and behavior of others whom impact your life. I find this thorough examination of each of these aspects to be necessary in order to make sustained changes that will recreate an authentic self that has the courage to live a healthy and happy life.
“It is the Events in our lives that Shape Us. It is our Choices that Define Us.” My approach to healing offers the ability to change our character, personality, and our behavior. I will also offer the ability to understand the character, personality, and behavior of others whom impact your life. I find this thorough examination of each of these aspects to be necessary in order to make sustained changes that will recreate an authentic self that has the courage to live a healthy and happy life.
(561) 279-6092 View (561) 279-6092
Photo of Jessica M Gurvit, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Jessica M Gurvit
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
We all have the potential to be happy, prosperous and peaceful. Even when outside circumstances are challenging and difficult - these precious states of mind are available and attainable. My practice emphasizes providing patients with the tools and strategies to be successful and healthy and joyful throughout all developmental stages (childhood- senior years). We blend Western Psychology with Eastern Psychology strategies enabling us to access the latest research along with techniques and insights of an ancient tradition that has the credibility spanning thousands of years of successful practice. All major psychology approaches are integrated and tailored to the needs of the individual.
We all have the potential to be happy, prosperous and peaceful. Even when outside circumstances are challenging and difficult - these precious states of mind are available and attainable. My practice emphasizes providing patients with the tools and strategies to be successful and healthy and joyful throughout all developmental stages (childhood- senior years). We blend Western Psychology with Eastern Psychology strategies enabling us to access the latest research along with techniques and insights of an ancient tradition that has the credibility spanning thousands of years of successful practice. All major psychology approaches are integrated and tailored to the needs of the individual.
(954) 903-0477 View (954) 903-0477
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.