Depression Therapists in Asbury, NJ

Photo of Dr. Wanda M Thomas - Dr. Wanda M. Thomas, ThD, MDiv, Pastoral Counselor
Dr. Wanda M. Thomas
Pastoral Counselor, ThD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Asbury, NJ 08802
Whether it is grief, depression, adultery, loss, addiction, anger etc.
My style is personal and curtail to every client needs. What make my counseling so unique is that I cater to the individual, group or couple needs. I apply the bible in a practical way to live a new and refreshing life. I listen to their concerns while making sure that their partner, mate or child understands the importance of hearing exactly what each party is saying without judgement and condemnation.
Whether it is grief, depression, adultery, loss, addiction, anger etc.
My style is personal and curtail to every client needs. What make my counseling so unique is that I cater to the individual, group or couple needs. I apply the bible in a practical way to live a new and refreshing life. I listen to their concerns while making sure that their partner, mate or child understands the importance of hearing exactly what each party is saying without judgement and condemnation.
(732) 889-7564 View (732) 889-7564
Photo of Erika Pettersen - Erika Pettersen - Mind & Body CCS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika Pettersen - Mind & Body CCS
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802
I specialize in anxiety and depression, relationships, school issues, and LGBTQ+ populations.
I respect that every client can benefit from a different approach, and will not hold fast to a single treatment modality. I want my clients to have a space where they never feel judged, and to know that they are sitting with someone who has an open-mind and is ready to guide them on their healing journey. I consider my personality to be compassionate, empathetic, and focused. We will not only process what brings you to therapy, but develop a plan to move forward in your goals.
I specialize in anxiety and depression, relationships, school issues, and LGBTQ+ populations.
I respect that every client can benefit from a different approach, and will not hold fast to a single treatment modality. I want my clients to have a space where they never feel judged, and to know that they are sitting with someone who has an open-mind and is ready to guide them on their healing journey. I consider my personality to be compassionate, empathetic, and focused. We will not only process what brings you to therapy, but develop a plan to move forward in your goals.
(908) 373-8139 View (908) 373-8139
Photo of Wanda Y Quezada - Dr. Wanda Y. Quezada, Ed D, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Wanda Y. Quezada
Licensed Professional Counselor, Ed D, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802  (Online Only)
Our mission at Faithlift and Hope, LLC is to instill a seed of hope in each of our clients while lifting them up in their emotional, mental and even spiritual life. We welcome all people of gender, ages, and spiritual backgrounds.
Our mission at Faithlift and Hope, LLC is to instill a seed of hope in each of our clients while lifting them up in their emotional, mental and even spiritual life. We welcome all people of gender, ages, and spiritual backgrounds.
(848) 208-8513 View (848) 208-8513
Photo of Sasha R Berger, PhD, Psychologist
Sasha R Berger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802
You may find yourself feeling "stuck" in your current experience, repeating patterns that no longer serve you, and are unsure of how to get out of the cycle.  You may be new to therapy, and unsure of what you would even talk about, but have a sense that you are impacted by past events in your life that you haven't fully addressed.  Or, you may be arriving here after years of therapy, frustrated with a lack of progress with previous treatment that, while perhaps helpful, did not seem to address some of your core issues.  Regardless of your history, or how long you've been struggling, meaningful change and growth is possible.
You may find yourself feeling "stuck" in your current experience, repeating patterns that no longer serve you, and are unsure of how to get out of the cycle.  You may be new to therapy, and unsure of what you would even talk about, but have a sense that you are impacted by past events in your life that you haven't fully addressed.  Or, you may be arriving here after years of therapy, frustrated with a lack of progress with previous treatment that, while perhaps helpful, did not seem to address some of your core issues.  Regardless of your history, or how long you've been struggling, meaningful change and growth is possible.
(908) 860-9623 View (908) 860-9623
Photo of Ilona (Missy) Giordano, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ilona (Missy) Giordano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asbury, NJ 08802  (Online Only)
I am a down to earth counselor whose style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered and mindfulness therapy's. I am always open to more approaches if the direction is necessary. I am kind and pride myself on being open and honest with my clients. Connection and Understanding produce trust. As trust begins to happen, Validation can start to begin and then the changing/healing whatever process you need to go through can and will begin.
I am a down to earth counselor whose style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered and mindfulness therapy's. I am always open to more approaches if the direction is necessary. I am kind and pride myself on being open and honest with my clients. Connection and Understanding produce trust. As trust begins to happen, Validation can start to begin and then the changing/healing whatever process you need to go through can and will begin.
(908) 676-6892 View (908) 676-6892
Photo of Israel Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Israel Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802  (Online Only)
I specialize in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
(973) 617-2618 View (973) 617-2618
Photo of Kimberly Saich, LAC, Counselor
Kimberly Saich
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802  (Online Only)
My name is Kim Saich and I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and hold a license in addictions counseling. I received by graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I have worked in many modalities including therapeutic communities and intensive outpatient/co-occurring. I’ve also ran a group for children who were grieving due to loss through deployment, death or divorce. My passion is helping people feel unstuck in a cycle of forever anxiousness. The first step in saying I need help is the most empowering step any of us can take. After that step, the first day of the rest of your life begins.
My name is Kim Saich and I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and hold a license in addictions counseling. I received by graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I have worked in many modalities including therapeutic communities and intensive outpatient/co-occurring. I’ve also ran a group for children who were grieving due to loss through deployment, death or divorce. My passion is helping people feel unstuck in a cycle of forever anxiousness. The first step in saying I need help is the most empowering step any of us can take. After that step, the first day of the rest of your life begins.
(732) 627-4431 View (732) 627-4431
Photo of Jen Mele, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Mele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802
Welcome! I'm a creative and somatic therapist helping people reduce stress, explore purpose and foster personal growth through art, painting & creative expression. Sessions are a safe space to play, release, enhance self-awareness, and build resilience, all through the power of art. No experience needed—just an open mind. Maybe you want to feel more joy, less criticism and connection to your body. Maybe you're dealing with stress, life transitions, or seeking self-discovery. Some wish to setup an art practice and would love the accountability and safe space to create. Still, you may be someone who feels complete with talk therapy.
Welcome! I'm a creative and somatic therapist helping people reduce stress, explore purpose and foster personal growth through art, painting & creative expression. Sessions are a safe space to play, release, enhance self-awareness, and build resilience, all through the power of art. No experience needed—just an open mind. Maybe you want to feel more joy, less criticism and connection to your body. Maybe you're dealing with stress, life transitions, or seeking self-discovery. Some wish to setup an art practice and would love the accountability and safe space to create. Still, you may be someone who feels complete with talk therapy.
(646) 759-1405 View (646) 759-1405

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Roger W Plantikow, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roger W Plantikow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lebanon, NJ 08833
Psychotherapy helps individuals, couples, and families work through painful and pressing difficulties. For some the difficulties are depression, anxiety, loss of sense of self or direction. For others, there is a failed relationship or one endangered by betrayal(s) or years of inadequate communication. I believe therapy must be focused, fair, and safe. Our success will depend on the quality of our working relationship. If we work together, I will make a serious commitment to your well being.
Psychotherapy helps individuals, couples, and families work through painful and pressing difficulties. For some the difficulties are depression, anxiety, loss of sense of self or direction. For others, there is a failed relationship or one endangered by betrayal(s) or years of inadequate communication. I believe therapy must be focused, fair, and safe. Our success will depend on the quality of our working relationship. If we work together, I will make a serious commitment to your well being.
(973) 671-8014 View (973) 671-8014
Photo of Marsha Morris, PhD, Psychologist
Marsha Morris
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist practicing in Clinton, NJ with over 25 years of experience helping people who have been suffering and struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, loss, and major life change issues. If you are looking for help because you feel overwhelmed and usual ways of managing struggles seem not to work, I can help you by listening carefully and thoughtfully to your problems and struggles and then help you find better ways to manage your life and these issues. The goal of our work together is to reduce anxiety and emotional pain and to live a more joyful and productive life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist practicing in Clinton, NJ with over 25 years of experience helping people who have been suffering and struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, loss, and major life change issues. If you are looking for help because you feel overwhelmed and usual ways of managing struggles seem not to work, I can help you by listening carefully and thoughtfully to your problems and struggles and then help you find better ways to manage your life and these issues. The goal of our work together is to reduce anxiety and emotional pain and to live a more joyful and productive life.
(908) 287-1107 View (908) 287-1107
Photo of John Guldner, MA, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Guldner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809  (Online Only)
Coping with depression, anxiety, addiction, or even just life stressors can at times feel overwhelming. It's like you are stuck in a cycle of pain and anguish, and your best efforts to deal with it end up making things worse. Maybe you have reached out to friends and family for help, and have been met with either criticism or well-intentioned, but unhelpful advice. You might have even read a self-help book or two, and struggled to use what you've learned for more than a couple weeks. Sometimes, even the efforts to change seem so difficult that you'll give up, convinced things will never get better. There is a better way.
Coping with depression, anxiety, addiction, or even just life stressors can at times feel overwhelming. It's like you are stuck in a cycle of pain and anguish, and your best efforts to deal with it end up making things worse. Maybe you have reached out to friends and family for help, and have been met with either criticism or well-intentioned, but unhelpful advice. You might have even read a self-help book or two, and struggled to use what you've learned for more than a couple weeks. Sometimes, even the efforts to change seem so difficult that you'll give up, convinced things will never get better. There is a better way.
(609) 474-0094 View (609) 474-0094
Photo of Rebecca Mikaliunas, MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Mikaliunas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adolescents/teens, adults, families, groups, and couples struggling with a variety of issues, such as, depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and self-esteem issues.
“It does not matter how slowly you go so long as you do not stop.” - Confucius. I commend you for taking the first step in the healing process, and I am here to help you move in a positive direction and address the challenges that have been burdening you. My name is Rebecca, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor at The Counseling Corner, LLC, in Clinton, NJ. I have experience treating a diverse population of clients and am passionate about supporting individuals experiencing big life transitions such as divorce, loss, career changes, trauma, relationship issues, etc.
I work with adolescents/teens, adults, families, groups, and couples struggling with a variety of issues, such as, depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and self-esteem issues.
“It does not matter how slowly you go so long as you do not stop.” - Confucius. I commend you for taking the first step in the healing process, and I am here to help you move in a positive direction and address the challenges that have been burdening you. My name is Rebecca, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor at The Counseling Corner, LLC, in Clinton, NJ. I have experience treating a diverse population of clients and am passionate about supporting individuals experiencing big life transitions such as divorce, loss, career changes, trauma, relationship issues, etc.
(908) 274-3428 View (908) 274-3428
Photo of Alan J. Giordano - Alan J. Giordano, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alan J. Giordano, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds and a range of presenting issues. I have been successful in treating adolescents and adults for depression, anxiety, stress management, marital and relationship difficulties, anger management, and Attention Deficit Disorder. My philosophy is that people are often resistant to change as the change is unknown. I help them explore what that change would look and feel like and how it could improve their lives if they do decide to make those changes.
I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds and a range of presenting issues. I have been successful in treating adolescents and adults for depression, anxiety, stress management, marital and relationship difficulties, anger management, and Attention Deficit Disorder. My philosophy is that people are often resistant to change as the change is unknown. I help them explore what that change would look and feel like and how it could improve their lives if they do decide to make those changes.
(908) 339-6671 View (908) 339-6671
Photo of Gwen Susan Bloom, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen Susan Bloom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809
Depression Anxiety Mood Disorders Eating Disorders Addictive Behaviors Personality Disorders PTSD / Trauma Women's Issues Issues of Adolescence Adjustment Disorders Life Transitions Couples Counseling Family Therapy ADHD Psycho-Education SERVICES OFFERED Dialectical Behavior Therapy Individual Therapy Couple / Marital Counseling Family Therapy Group Therapy Crisis Intervention.
I have been a Clinical Social Worker since 1985. During the last 30 years, I have had the opportunity to work in many clinical settings, in both the public and private sector specializing in adolescence, adults, couples and families. Additionally, I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, in-home, nursing home and school settings. I have been trained in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and implemented a DBT track at a therapeutic High School for Ed teens,. At this juncture, my focus is private practice and to continue specializing in DBT and traditional psychotherapy with teens, adults, couples and families.
Depression Anxiety Mood Disorders Eating Disorders Addictive Behaviors Personality Disorders PTSD / Trauma Women's Issues Issues of Adolescence Adjustment Disorders Life Transitions Couples Counseling Family Therapy ADHD Psycho-Education SERVICES OFFERED Dialectical Behavior Therapy Individual Therapy Couple / Marital Counseling Family Therapy Group Therapy Crisis Intervention.
I have been a Clinical Social Worker since 1985. During the last 30 years, I have had the opportunity to work in many clinical settings, in both the public and private sector specializing in adolescence, adults, couples and families. Additionally, I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, in-home, nursing home and school settings. I have been trained in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and implemented a DBT track at a therapeutic High School for Ed teens,. At this juncture, my focus is private practice and to continue specializing in DBT and traditional psychotherapy with teens, adults, couples and families.
(732) 588-8206 View (732) 588-8206
Photo of Ann Silvestri, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Silvestri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
With hundreds of studies indicating that practical problem solving counseling works most effectively, I utilize with my clients a highly effective form of therapy. Get some of the most effective types of assistance with your depression, anxiety or relationship concerns. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy provides support for your concerns from the beginning. Assisting with pragmatic, enriching treatment. Whether it is that your are feeling blue, concerned with anxiety and worries or relationship problems, call today to speak with me about how you can apply highly effective easy to utilize approaches to making improvements in your life.
With hundreds of studies indicating that practical problem solving counseling works most effectively, I utilize with my clients a highly effective form of therapy. Get some of the most effective types of assistance with your depression, anxiety or relationship concerns. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy provides support for your concerns from the beginning. Assisting with pragmatic, enriching treatment. Whether it is that your are feeling blue, concerned with anxiety and worries or relationship problems, call today to speak with me about how you can apply highly effective easy to utilize approaches to making improvements in your life.
(973) 577-7854 View (973) 577-7854
Photo of Dayna A Giel, MSEd, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dayna A Giel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging. Therapy is a way to process, navigate, and overcome difficult emotions while simultaneously building the necessary skills to make forward progress. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) in the state of NJ with a deep passion for bettering the lives of others. I have been in the field of mental health & addictions treatment for 10+ years with experience in working with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma/PTSD, stress, grief/loss, addiction, and mood disorders.
Life can be challenging. Therapy is a way to process, navigate, and overcome difficult emotions while simultaneously building the necessary skills to make forward progress. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) in the state of NJ with a deep passion for bettering the lives of others. I have been in the field of mental health & addictions treatment for 10+ years with experience in working with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma/PTSD, stress, grief/loss, addiction, and mood disorders.
(609) 403-3519 View (609) 403-3519
Photo of Victoria Salazar, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria Salazar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stressors, life transitions, mental health concerns, disordered eating patterns or an eating disorder, I look forward to working with you on your journey to embracing who you are!.
Entering into therapy can provoke an array of emotions and that is okay! Opportunities towards recovery and healing are always available. You have already accomplished the first step by choosing to seek help. Your journey starts now. I believe the therapeutic relationship is built on collaboration and transparency. I encourage clients to explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors to identify cognitive and behavioral patterns that interfere with their well-being and productivity.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stressors, life transitions, mental health concerns, disordered eating patterns or an eating disorder, I look forward to working with you on your journey to embracing who you are!.
Entering into therapy can provoke an array of emotions and that is okay! Opportunities towards recovery and healing are always available. You have already accomplished the first step by choosing to seek help. Your journey starts now. I believe the therapeutic relationship is built on collaboration and transparency. I encourage clients to explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors to identify cognitive and behavioral patterns that interfere with their well-being and productivity.
(908) 388-9272 View (908) 388-9272
Photo of Paige D Kleinfeldt - Paige D Kleinfeldt, LCSW, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige D Kleinfeldt, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809
I have 10+ years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, mood disorders as well as life’s stressors.
The past few years have been extremely difficult for so many and may have caused or exacerbated emotional health issues. It’s normal to feel stuck, lost or a need to recover lost parts of you. I can help you if you feel weighed down or drained of energy, feel depressed or have anxious thoughts, or lack enjoyment in your life like you use too. I know it can be hard to take the first step and ask for help, however, a new transition and transformation for your life is just around the corner. My professional focus is to work with individuals to help them find a greater sense of self and purpose in the midst of life's hardships.
I have 10+ years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, mood disorders as well as life’s stressors.
The past few years have been extremely difficult for so many and may have caused or exacerbated emotional health issues. It’s normal to feel stuck, lost or a need to recover lost parts of you. I can help you if you feel weighed down or drained of energy, feel depressed or have anxious thoughts, or lack enjoyment in your life like you use too. I know it can be hard to take the first step and ask for help, however, a new transition and transformation for your life is just around the corner. My professional focus is to work with individuals to help them find a greater sense of self and purpose in the midst of life's hardships.
(908) 396-6027 View (908) 396-6027
Photo of Bobbie Lynn Edwards - Bobbie Lynn Edwards LPC, LPC, MEd, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bobbie Lynn Edwards LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
I specialize in anxiety and depression.
I have been in healthcare as a mental health professional for over 40 years. As a psychotherapist I combine both science and a broad spectrum of spiritual philosophies and practices. I assist by providing guidance and direction to those who seek healing. I work with you putting the pieces of the puzzle together helping you towards relief and ultimately peace. The combination of the traditional psychotherapeutic clinically based training and the multiple spiritual models of thought and various ideologies together are extremely successful and offer hope in healing.
I specialize in anxiety and depression.
I have been in healthcare as a mental health professional for over 40 years. As a psychotherapist I combine both science and a broad spectrum of spiritual philosophies and practices. I assist by providing guidance and direction to those who seek healing. I work with you putting the pieces of the puzzle together helping you towards relief and ultimately peace. The combination of the traditional psychotherapeutic clinically based training and the multiple spiritual models of thought and various ideologies together are extremely successful and offer hope in healing.
(908) 251-9032 View (908) 251-9032
Photo of Katharine Mary Bergacs - My Place for Peace, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
My Place for Peace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
No matter how strong we are, we all need help sometimes. We know it can be hard to ask for help. Maybe you’ve been thinking about it for months, even years. We’re so glad you’ve taken this courageous step and found us. We’re confident that together we can develop the tools to help you overcome whatever challenges you face. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety and/or depression interfering in your life, trauma and loss, or life transitions, it is important that you know you don’t have to go it alone. We have the experience to help you face your challenges, achieve your goals, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
No matter how strong we are, we all need help sometimes. We know it can be hard to ask for help. Maybe you’ve been thinking about it for months, even years. We’re so glad you’ve taken this courageous step and found us. We’re confident that together we can develop the tools to help you overcome whatever challenges you face. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety and/or depression interfering in your life, trauma and loss, or life transitions, it is important that you know you don’t have to go it alone. We have the experience to help you face your challenges, achieve your goals, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(908) 628-0108 View (908) 628-0108

See more therapy options for Asbury

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.