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 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 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 Connie Sanchez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Connie Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33434
I am a Christian Counselor with over 34 years of experience working in the field of addictions, loss/grief, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Co-dependency, depression, anxiety, Post Tramatic Stress Disorder, military issues, trauma, and relationship issues.
I am a Christian Counselor with over 34 years of experience working in the field of addictions, loss/grief, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Co-dependency, depression, anxiety, Post Tramatic Stress Disorder, military issues, trauma, and relationship issues.
(561) 270-6105 View (561) 270-6105

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of We Level Up Addiction & Mental Health Treatment in Boca Raton, FL
We Level Up Addiction & Mental Health Treatment
MCAP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33064
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by the Joint Commission's Accreditation held by the top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood and thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-base modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling..
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by the Joint Commission's Accreditation held by the top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood and thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-base modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling..
(954) 231-3294 View (954) 231-3294

Online Therapists

Photo of Kobitta Chopra, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Kobitta Chopra
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, QS
Verified Verified
Sunrise, FL 33351
Welcome to my page! I am glad you found me! I help teens and adults facing anxiety, depression, panic, deal with self harm, eating disorders, feelings of emotional abandonment , have better relationships, maintain sobriety and to live a life of happiness. I will help you get back on track. I am eclectic in my orientation and offer a holistic approach using cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, stress management, meditation and yoga practices which I learned growing up in the Himalayan mountains. I enjoy working with clients from multicultural backgrounds whether they are adults, teenagers couples or families.
Welcome to my page! I am glad you found me! I help teens and adults facing anxiety, depression, panic, deal with self harm, eating disorders, feelings of emotional abandonment , have better relationships, maintain sobriety and to live a life of happiness. I will help you get back on track. I am eclectic in my orientation and offer a holistic approach using cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, stress management, meditation and yoga practices which I learned growing up in the Himalayan mountains. I enjoy working with clients from multicultural backgrounds whether they are adults, teenagers couples or families.
(954) 613-2951 View (954) 613-2951
Photo of Stella Verna, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Stella Verna
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33156  (Online Only)
Dr. Stella Verna has a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Ph.D. in Professional Psychology, is licensed by the Department of Health – Mental Health-and Nationally Certified Psychologist, conducting counseling and psychotherapy in both English and Spanish. Dr. Verna is experienced in individual counseling, couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, and group psychotherapy. Some of the more common problems Dr. Verna treats includes relationship/couples problems, affairs, financial tensions, depression, anxiety, history of traumatic experiences/child abuse, feelings of unreality, psychosomatic (mind/body) disorders, gender identity disorders, gay and lesbian issues, domestic violence,ADD, ADHD.
Dr. Stella Verna has a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Ph.D. in Professional Psychology, is licensed by the Department of Health – Mental Health-and Nationally Certified Psychologist, conducting counseling and psychotherapy in both English and Spanish. Dr. Verna is experienced in individual counseling, couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, and group psychotherapy. Some of the more common problems Dr. Verna treats includes relationship/couples problems, affairs, financial tensions, depression, anxiety, history of traumatic experiences/child abuse, feelings of unreality, psychosomatic (mind/body) disorders, gender identity disorders, gay and lesbian issues, domestic violence,ADD, ADHD.
(305) 349-3995 View (305) 349-3995
Photo of Collaborative Healing Partners, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Collaborative Healing Partners
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAP
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33401  (Online Only)
We provide counseling to individuals, couples and families struggling with substance abuse issues, relationship difficulties, sexual identity issues, infidelity, electronics addiction, depression, anxiety, communication skills, assertiveness training, self-esteem and confidence building, parenting, career and life transitions, and family changes.
Collaborative Healing Partners believes that our client’s behaviors or presenting concerns will make sense once we understand the context of their behavior or situation. We partner with our clients to better understand their individual situations from their perspective and work to create a roadmap together to help them achieve their short term or long-term goals and begin living a more enriched/purposeful driven life. We specialize in the brief therapy model which seeks to provide our clients with permanent lasting changes in 10 sessions or less per presenting problem thus minimizing endless therapy.
We provide counseling to individuals, couples and families struggling with substance abuse issues, relationship difficulties, sexual identity issues, infidelity, electronics addiction, depression, anxiety, communication skills, assertiveness training, self-esteem and confidence building, parenting, career and life transitions, and family changes.
Collaborative Healing Partners believes that our client’s behaviors or presenting concerns will make sense once we understand the context of their behavior or situation. We partner with our clients to better understand their individual situations from their perspective and work to create a roadmap together to help them achieve their short term or long-term goals and begin living a more enriched/purposeful driven life. We specialize in the brief therapy model which seeks to provide our clients with permanent lasting changes in 10 sessions or less per presenting problem thus minimizing endless therapy.
(561) 861-1668 View (561) 861-1668
Photo of Gabrielle P. Hackett, Psy.D., LLC, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Gabrielle P. Hackett, Psy.D., LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vero Beach, FL 32960
Waitlist for new clients
It can be difficult to come to a psychologist's office to speak about our lives and people often suffer in silence because they believe their problems are too large, too small, unimportant or that nothing can bring about change. It is important to work through the things that cause us depression, anxiety or discomfort. Therefore, I approach every person as a special individual having unique experiences. While providing a safe, relaxing setting, I look for ways we can work together to change even the most tumultuous circumstances into calm, peaceful situations which lead a client to have enjoyable lives.
It can be difficult to come to a psychologist's office to speak about our lives and people often suffer in silence because they believe their problems are too large, too small, unimportant or that nothing can bring about change. It is important to work through the things that cause us depression, anxiety or discomfort. Therefore, I approach every person as a special individual having unique experiences. While providing a safe, relaxing setting, I look for ways we can work together to change even the most tumultuous circumstances into calm, peaceful situations which lead a client to have enjoyable lives.
(954) 654-7549 View (954) 654-7549
Photo of Susan A. Shirley, Counseling & Consulting, Inc, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Susan A. Shirley, Counseling & Consulting, Inc
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCAP, SAP, NCC
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
I have dedicated the past 25 yrs of my Professional Career in assisting individuals overcome various chronic/circumstantial issues impacting their lives & presenting ongoing struggles: depression, bipolar, adjustment disorders, codependency & loss/grief to more specialized treatments of high conflict marriages/divorce, eating disorders, Military service related stressors/ adjustments. I've served as a preferred provider for Specialized Evaluations for Dr. Referrals, Parent Coordinator/Custody Evaluator, SAP provider for D.O.T. & Corporate Consultant to develop & strategize the most effective & compliant Treatment programming.
I have dedicated the past 25 yrs of my Professional Career in assisting individuals overcome various chronic/circumstantial issues impacting their lives & presenting ongoing struggles: depression, bipolar, adjustment disorders, codependency & loss/grief to more specialized treatments of high conflict marriages/divorce, eating disorders, Military service related stressors/ adjustments. I've served as a preferred provider for Specialized Evaluations for Dr. Referrals, Parent Coordinator/Custody Evaluator, SAP provider for D.O.T. & Corporate Consultant to develop & strategize the most effective & compliant Treatment programming.
(337) 356-5486 View (337) 356-5486
Photo of Linda D. McKayle, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Linda D. McKayle
Counselor, MS, PsyD, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Miramar, FL 33023
I am a dedicated professional, who is willing to work with children, adolescence and adults with emotional problems and substance abuse, by utilizing positive interventions designed to address the needs of the individual that will promote a successful adjustment to life. Therapeutic issues addressed in my practice includes, but are not limited to, substance abuse, addictions, anxiety, panic disorder, depression, bereavement and loss, life crises & transitions, obsessive compulsive disorder, anger management and Post traumatic stress disorders. My practice style is family system, cognitive behavioral therapy and person centered therapy.
I am a dedicated professional, who is willing to work with children, adolescence and adults with emotional problems and substance abuse, by utilizing positive interventions designed to address the needs of the individual that will promote a successful adjustment to life. Therapeutic issues addressed in my practice includes, but are not limited to, substance abuse, addictions, anxiety, panic disorder, depression, bereavement and loss, life crises & transitions, obsessive compulsive disorder, anger management and Post traumatic stress disorders. My practice style is family system, cognitive behavioral therapy and person centered therapy.
(954) 621-1169 View (954) 621-1169
Photo of Evodie M Antoine-Predestin in Boca Raton, FL
Evodie M Antoine-Predestin
PhD, LMHC, MPA
Verified Verified
Sunrise, FL 33351
I also assist clients dealing with grief, depression, anxiety, and work/school issues.
Are you looking for ways to improve your life and your relationships? Unresolved trauma affecting your marriage and intimate relationship? I want to help you to focus on solutions and connect to your strength in order to create new possibilities. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 26 years of experience working with children, adolescent, and adults providing individual, group, couple and family therapy. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, working with couples dealing with marital conflicts related to an unresolved history of trauma and infidelity.
I also assist clients dealing with grief, depression, anxiety, and work/school issues.
Are you looking for ways to improve your life and your relationships? Unresolved trauma affecting your marriage and intimate relationship? I want to help you to focus on solutions and connect to your strength in order to create new possibilities. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 26 years of experience working with children, adolescent, and adults providing individual, group, couple and family therapy. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, working with couples dealing with marital conflicts related to an unresolved history of trauma and infidelity.
(754) 600-8880 View (754) 600-8880
Photo of Patrick Mulhall, PhD, LCSW, PA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Patrick Mulhall, PhD, LCSW, PA
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33021
Dr. Patrick Mulhall is a Licensed Psychotherapist and a Certified Sex Therapist who works with individuals and couples I specialize in couples/marital/relationship issues, depression, sexual/sexuality issues, anxiety issues, grief/loss, addictions. and self-esteem/personal growth issues. I provide a safe, professional, and therapeutic environment, and my clinical approach is interactive, warm, caring, empathic, and insightful. I am exceptionally open minded to treat all individuals and couples of all backgrounds and orientations.
Dr. Patrick Mulhall is a Licensed Psychotherapist and a Certified Sex Therapist who works with individuals and couples I specialize in couples/marital/relationship issues, depression, sexual/sexuality issues, anxiety issues, grief/loss, addictions. and self-esteem/personal growth issues. I provide a safe, professional, and therapeutic environment, and my clinical approach is interactive, warm, caring, empathic, and insightful. I am exceptionally open minded to treat all individuals and couples of all backgrounds and orientations.
(954) 501-0913 View (954) 501-0913
Photo of Anse Daniel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Anse Daniel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S, IMFT-S
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Miramar, FL 33025
I have experience with children and adolescents dealing with behavioral difficulties, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and social skills challenges.
I see therapy as a collaborative process every step of the way- from goal setting through achieving goals. I believe that each individual, couple, and family has a different way to relating to the world, and I treat each client based on their individual needs. We work together to identify strengths, and focus on what we know is already working. Then, together, we face challenges and build new skills to accomplish goals. I use therapeutic techniques that are designed to meet those goals (e.g. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-CBT, Family Systems, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy-DBT).
I have experience with children and adolescents dealing with behavioral difficulties, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and social skills challenges.
I see therapy as a collaborative process every step of the way- from goal setting through achieving goals. I believe that each individual, couple, and family has a different way to relating to the world, and I treat each client based on their individual needs. We work together to identify strengths, and focus on what we know is already working. Then, together, we face challenges and build new skills to accomplish goals. I use therapeutic techniques that are designed to meet those goals (e.g. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-CBT, Family Systems, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy-DBT).
(954) 573-2472 View (954) 573-2472
Photo of Phyllis Mccolister-Cunningham, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Phyllis Mccolister-Cunningham
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CAP
Verified Verified
Fort Pierce, FL 34982
I am the founder of Healing Waters Counseling, a private practice that specializes in grief and trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use and emotional and behavioral counseling such as PTSD, childhood disorders - ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder and relationship issues, premarital and marriage counseling.
I received my Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Barry University. I am licensed in the state of Florida as a Mental Health Counselor and certified by the Florida Certification Board as a Certified Addictions Professional. I am also trained EMDR trauma therapist by EMDRIA. Offer Immigration Evaluations and Substance Use Evaluations.
I am the founder of Healing Waters Counseling, a private practice that specializes in grief and trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use and emotional and behavioral counseling such as PTSD, childhood disorders - ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder and relationship issues, premarital and marriage counseling.
I received my Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Barry University. I am licensed in the state of Florida as a Mental Health Counselor and certified by the Florida Certification Board as a Certified Addictions Professional. I am also trained EMDR trauma therapist by EMDRIA. Offer Immigration Evaluations and Substance Use Evaluations.
(772) 252-6231 View (772) 252-6231
Photo of Mary Leanes, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Mary Leanes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34119  (Online Only)
My specializations include depression, anxiety, grief, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, anger issues, and relationship work.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, couples, individuals and groups. I draw from a number of theoretical orientations and employ interventions based on my client's specific needs. By providing an accepting and understanding environment, I can help you find solutions! If you are unable to come into the office, I also provide telemental health counseling using a HIPAA compliant platform.
My specializations include depression, anxiety, grief, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, anger issues, and relationship work.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, couples, individuals and groups. I draw from a number of theoretical orientations and employ interventions based on my client's specific needs. By providing an accepting and understanding environment, I can help you find solutions! If you are unable to come into the office, I also provide telemental health counseling using a HIPAA compliant platform.
(727) 359-0335 View (727) 359-0335
Photo of Inspire4Purpose, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Inspire4Purpose, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33169
Welcome! My name is Altheresa Clark, I am a therapist, and CEO of Inspire4Purpose. We are passionate about working with people who struggle with mental health related issues such as depression, anxiety, life transitions, women's issues or people who simply need support and motivation to recognize and achieve their purpose. Through Inspire4Purpose, we have helped clients not only find their purpose but to also walk into their purpose. Our vision is to empower others to succeed in their lives with the road map given with therapy. Our ultimate goal to assist you with overcoming the obstacles that you face in your everyday life.
Welcome! My name is Altheresa Clark, I am a therapist, and CEO of Inspire4Purpose. We are passionate about working with people who struggle with mental health related issues such as depression, anxiety, life transitions, women's issues or people who simply need support and motivation to recognize and achieve their purpose. Through Inspire4Purpose, we have helped clients not only find their purpose but to also walk into their purpose. Our vision is to empower others to succeed in their lives with the road map given with therapy. Our ultimate goal to assist you with overcoming the obstacles that you face in your everyday life.
(305) 834-4257 View (305) 834-4257
Photo of Cindy A Silitsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Cindy A Silitsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33317
I practice therapy from a relational perspective. My practice consists primarily of couples, families, adolescents, and young adults, seeking assistance with relationships. I enjoy my work immensely, especially with infidelity, gender, "single-ness", sexual orientation, divorce, and marital conflict. I am often told by clients that I possess strengths such as empathy, an ability to see multiple perspectives, and creativity.
I practice therapy from a relational perspective. My practice consists primarily of couples, families, adolescents, and young adults, seeking assistance with relationships. I enjoy my work immensely, especially with infidelity, gender, "single-ness", sexual orientation, divorce, and marital conflict. I am often told by clients that I possess strengths such as empathy, an ability to see multiple perspectives, and creativity.
(954) 633-7810 View (954) 633-7810
Photo of Richard M. Correa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Richard M. Correa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33196
Don't suffer in silence anymore. Contact me today for an appointment. I work with individuals and couples, covering issues ranging from anxiety and phobias to relationship issues and divorce. I guide each individual through his or her own personal journey of discovery and growth. I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you soon to start work immediately on resolving your conflicts and challenges.
Don't suffer in silence anymore. Contact me today for an appointment. I work with individuals and couples, covering issues ranging from anxiety and phobias to relationship issues and divorce. I guide each individual through his or her own personal journey of discovery and growth. I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you soon to start work immediately on resolving your conflicts and challenges.
(786) 882-2169 View (786) 882-2169
Photo of Maria J Ferro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Maria J Ferro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, CEAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33173
My focus will be YOU. I will listen to what you are looking to accomplish and develop a plan for you to achieve your goal. We will discuss your prior experiences and identify what things slow you down or simply stop you. Together we will identify the best course of action that will remove them from your path. When you make courageous choices in your life, like breaking old bonds & patterns, you step out of the box that confines you. Simply put, you experience a sense of healing and new strength.
My focus will be YOU. I will listen to what you are looking to accomplish and develop a plan for you to achieve your goal. We will discuss your prior experiences and identify what things slow you down or simply stop you. Together we will identify the best course of action that will remove them from your path. When you make courageous choices in your life, like breaking old bonds & patterns, you step out of the box that confines you. Simply put, you experience a sense of healing and new strength.
(786) 574-3443 View (786) 574-3443

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.