Photo of Mike Filiaci, Psychologist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Mike Filiaci
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship distress, but also treat a wide range of mental-health related conditions.
I believe that developing a genuinely trusting and real connection with your therapist is one of the most important aspects of psychotherapy. Coping with any form of emotional distress can be a lonely and overwhelming experience, and trying to manage life’s demands while feeling physically or mentally exhausted may seem impossible. My first priority is to develop a collaborative plan together, to directly address your individualized treatment needs. I will provide an authentic, nonjudgmental environment that can help promote a sense of safety, support, positive change, and genuine insight into some of your presenting concerns.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship distress, but also treat a wide range of mental-health related conditions.
I believe that developing a genuinely trusting and real connection with your therapist is one of the most important aspects of psychotherapy. Coping with any form of emotional distress can be a lonely and overwhelming experience, and trying to manage life’s demands while feeling physically or mentally exhausted may seem impossible. My first priority is to develop a collaborative plan together, to directly address your individualized treatment needs. I will provide an authentic, nonjudgmental environment that can help promote a sense of safety, support, positive change, and genuine insight into some of your presenting concerns.
(973) 240-5294 View (973) 240-5294
Photo of Susan J Hodos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Susan J Hodos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009  (Online Only)
Listening to the narrative of every person's life is fascinating to me. I am empathic, interactive and am a firm believer that good therapy brings results that make people feel more comfortable, empowered, and gives you the strength that is needed to grow. Therapy begins with identifying destructive themes that repeatedly arise, and interfere with one's life. I believe that therapy should be transformative, and provide a healing experience. I am particularly skilled in working with panic disorder/, depression, divorce conflict, and trauma, including sexual abuse.
Listening to the narrative of every person's life is fascinating to me. I am empathic, interactive and am a firm believer that good therapy brings results that make people feel more comfortable, empowered, and gives you the strength that is needed to grow. Therapy begins with identifying destructive themes that repeatedly arise, and interfere with one's life. I believe that therapy should be transformative, and provide a healing experience. I am particularly skilled in working with panic disorder/, depression, divorce conflict, and trauma, including sexual abuse.
(973) 949-6034 View (973) 949-6034
Photo of Daniel T. Rowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Grove, NJ
Daniel T. Rowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Managing relationships, work, family, friends, school, career paths, and/or kids, can be complicated, frustrating, and exhausting. We do our best to navigate these experiences, but there comes a point when we feel stuck, depressed, anxious, confused, and/or lost. We typically do a good job of suppressing these issues, until we just can't do it anymore. When these times arise, which they always do, it is helpful to have a supportive, nonjudgmental guide to walk with you as you explore and navigate your thoughts and feelings.
Managing relationships, work, family, friends, school, career paths, and/or kids, can be complicated, frustrating, and exhausting. We do our best to navigate these experiences, but there comes a point when we feel stuck, depressed, anxious, confused, and/or lost. We typically do a good job of suppressing these issues, until we just can't do it anymore. When these times arise, which they always do, it is helpful to have a supportive, nonjudgmental guide to walk with you as you explore and navigate your thoughts and feelings.
(973) 435-4260 View (973) 435-4260
Photo of Graceann Furnari, Psychologist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Graceann Furnari
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D, LBA
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009  (Online Only)
Welcome! In my practice I support adolescents, young adults, and families who are navigating issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, and many other concerns. I am particularly passionate about supporting teens and young adults seeking gender and sexuality affirming care and who are looking to create positive change in their lives. In addition, as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a parent, I am especially equipped to support parents in the LGBTQ+ community seeking parenting and relationship support.
Welcome! In my practice I support adolescents, young adults, and families who are navigating issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, and many other concerns. I am particularly passionate about supporting teens and young adults seeking gender and sexuality affirming care and who are looking to create positive change in their lives. In addition, as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a parent, I am especially equipped to support parents in the LGBTQ+ community seeking parenting and relationship support.
(973) 447-4466 View (973) 447-4466
Photo of Danielle Helder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Grove, NJ
Danielle Helder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, SAC, CSP, LCADC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated and passionate therapist who is invested in helping my clients. My warm and caring demeanor is combined with open and honest feedback, which allows for the processing of thoughts and emotions in a safe, nonjudgmental and validating environment. I consider you to be the expert of your life and I serve as a collaborator and supportive guide in your personal and unique journey. My approach to therapy stems from the importance of increasing self-awareness, identifying unhealthy patterns, and developing an understanding of what is holding you back from achieving happiness, positive self-esteem, and success.
I am a dedicated and passionate therapist who is invested in helping my clients. My warm and caring demeanor is combined with open and honest feedback, which allows for the processing of thoughts and emotions in a safe, nonjudgmental and validating environment. I consider you to be the expert of your life and I serve as a collaborator and supportive guide in your personal and unique journey. My approach to therapy stems from the importance of increasing self-awareness, identifying unhealthy patterns, and developing an understanding of what is holding you back from achieving happiness, positive self-esteem, and success.
(551) 213-6842 View (551) 213-6842
Photo of Faith Dunkel, Psychologist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Faith Dunkel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Every day we make choices, big and small. In doing so, we create our ever-unfolding life story. I work with my clients to better understand what their unique "storyline" has been about; how their "script" originally got written; and how their present life challenges can be opportunities for discovering hidden strengths. These strengths are very important, as they will serve my clients in their next life chapter.
Every day we make choices, big and small. In doing so, we create our ever-unfolding life story. I work with my clients to better understand what their unique "storyline" has been about; how their "script" originally got written; and how their present life challenges can be opportunities for discovering hidden strengths. These strengths are very important, as they will serve my clients in their next life chapter.
(973) 821-4803 View (973) 821-4803
Photo of Summit Psychological Services PA, Psychologist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Summit Psychological Services PA
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, DABPS
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Jeffrey, S. Kahn, Ph.D., CGP, DABPS, Managing Director of Summit Psychological Services, is a Licensed Psychologist (NJ# 2656) who has been practicing individual, couple and group psychotherapy for thirty years. Dr. Kahn is a Diplomate in Psychotherapy who works with a wide variety of psychological issues of adults and adolescents utilizing an integrative approach which draws on empathy and deep psychodynamic understanding as well as on strength-based and solution- focused approaches which have empirically demonstrated effectiveness.
Jeffrey, S. Kahn, Ph.D., CGP, DABPS, Managing Director of Summit Psychological Services, is a Licensed Psychologist (NJ# 2656) who has been practicing individual, couple and group psychotherapy for thirty years. Dr. Kahn is a Diplomate in Psychotherapy who works with a wide variety of psychological issues of adults and adolescents utilizing an integrative approach which draws on empathy and deep psychodynamic understanding as well as on strength-based and solution- focused approaches which have empirically demonstrated effectiveness.
(908) 962-7185 View (908) 962-7185
Photo of Jonathan D Friedman, Psychologist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Jonathan D Friedman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, and I have worked for well over a decade with adolescents and their families with all levels of pathology, in a variety of treatment (and educational) settings. I also am specialized working with athletes of all ages, and also have completed countless assessments of collegiate athletes' mental and emotional makeup to aid in professional draft strategy. Lastly, I enjoy working with young adults and other millennial aged individuals who are attempting to establish themselves, whether financially, professionally, with new families, or all of the above.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, and I have worked for well over a decade with adolescents and their families with all levels of pathology, in a variety of treatment (and educational) settings. I also am specialized working with athletes of all ages, and also have completed countless assessments of collegiate athletes' mental and emotional makeup to aid in professional draft strategy. Lastly, I enjoy working with young adults and other millennial aged individuals who are attempting to establish themselves, whether financially, professionally, with new families, or all of the above.
(201) 676-2315 View (201) 676-2315
Photo of Jonathan Stepansky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Grove, NJ
Jonathan Stepansky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Hello and welcome. It is easy to become upset when we experience hardships and lack a safe and supportive environment in which to work through them. Nor does it help when, owing to circumstances beyond our control, we find it difficult to be ourselves and lose touch with what makes us "us." What has been found helpful in such circumstances is a trusting and respectful relationship with a therapist. Such a relationship, and the insight it promotes, can facilitate growth, empowerment, and positive change.
Hello and welcome. It is easy to become upset when we experience hardships and lack a safe and supportive environment in which to work through them. Nor does it help when, owing to circumstances beyond our control, we find it difficult to be ourselves and lose touch with what makes us "us." What has been found helpful in such circumstances is a trusting and respectful relationship with a therapist. Such a relationship, and the insight it promotes, can facilitate growth, empowerment, and positive change.
(973) 510-2485 View (973) 510-2485
Photo of Leora Perlman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Leora Perlman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Waitlist for new clients
My work is dedicated to helping you embrace who you are in order to live a fulfilling and balanced life. I focus on developing your ability to understand the powerful connection between your mind and body. This insight facilitates a path toward healing from current and past challenges. During the course of our work, I will help you develop your "Emotional Intelligence" (understanding of what motivates feelings and actions) and acquire the tools needed to overcome barriers blocking growth and change. Once you gain these coping skills, you will find yourself open to loving relationships, living in the present and creating a more fulfilling life.
My work is dedicated to helping you embrace who you are in order to live a fulfilling and balanced life. I focus on developing your ability to understand the powerful connection between your mind and body. This insight facilitates a path toward healing from current and past challenges. During the course of our work, I will help you develop your "Emotional Intelligence" (understanding of what motivates feelings and actions) and acquire the tools needed to overcome barriers blocking growth and change. Once you gain these coping skills, you will find yourself open to loving relationships, living in the present and creating a more fulfilling life.
(646) 679-5992 View (646) 679-5992
Photo of Christopher J Ratte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Christopher J Ratte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, IFS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Recovery is not a solitary journey; it is about connection with self and others. As we enter into the process of therapy you will have the opportunity to experience inner connection and awareness leading to Self expansion and outer growth. I believe strongly that our primary task is to continue your journey of self exploration; to seek the wealth of potential, strength, compassion, understanding, and openness that lies within. It is your ability to connect with these that will serve as your greatest asset in obtaining whatever goals you have coming into therapy.
Recovery is not a solitary journey; it is about connection with self and others. As we enter into the process of therapy you will have the opportunity to experience inner connection and awareness leading to Self expansion and outer growth. I believe strongly that our primary task is to continue your journey of self exploration; to seek the wealth of potential, strength, compassion, understanding, and openness that lies within. It is your ability to connect with these that will serve as your greatest asset in obtaining whatever goals you have coming into therapy.
(973) 556-4029 View (973) 556-4029
Photo of Whitney Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Whitney Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Thank you for your interest in working with me. My passion is helping others with the belief that whatever you are facing, you are not alone. I provide a comfortable, safe and supportive environment. Approaches are based on the nature of the presenting complaint(s) as well as the inclination of the client. My intent is to help address issues that negatively affect every day functioning and promote awareness about oneself and circumstances. Specializing in early intervention and youth psychotherapy. My background consists of working with a variety of populations and issues.
Thank you for your interest in working with me. My passion is helping others with the belief that whatever you are facing, you are not alone. I provide a comfortable, safe and supportive environment. Approaches are based on the nature of the presenting complaint(s) as well as the inclination of the client. My intent is to help address issues that negatively affect every day functioning and promote awareness about oneself and circumstances. Specializing in early intervention and youth psychotherapy. My background consists of working with a variety of populations and issues.
(973) 528-7266 View (973) 528-7266
Photo of Kathy Lutz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Kathy Lutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CTRI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009  (Online Only)
If addiction has taken over your life, now is the time to do something about it. Life is too short to be unhappy. I offer a warm, confidential environment to help you find the clarity you need to break the cycle of addiction so you and those around you may lead happier lives. I also offer help for co-occurring issues: mood regulation, anxiety, anger management, trauma, and high functioning autism. I am trained in EMDR, Mindfulness Practices and Stress Reduction. In addition, I frequently work in consultation with other therapists' clients, providing EMDR and substance abuse assessments and treatment.
If addiction has taken over your life, now is the time to do something about it. Life is too short to be unhappy. I offer a warm, confidential environment to help you find the clarity you need to break the cycle of addiction so you and those around you may lead happier lives. I also offer help for co-occurring issues: mood regulation, anxiety, anger management, trauma, and high functioning autism. I am trained in EMDR, Mindfulness Practices and Stress Reduction. In addition, I frequently work in consultation with other therapists' clients, providing EMDR and substance abuse assessments and treatment.
(201) 870-4294 View (201) 870-4294
Photo of Andrew Lerman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Grove, NJ
Andrew Lerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
If you’ve been feeling discouraged, disconnected, or constantly comparing yourself to others, maybe it’s time to talk to someone. Therapy offers a nonjudgmental space where the priority is building an affirming therapeutic relationship that lets us move at your pace toward your goals. I work with adults of all ages and walks of life who are facing life transitions, struggling with self-esteem, feeling stuck and “going nowhere,” or coping with past trauma. You’ll be able to discover the patterns that show up in your everyday life, identify the tools and wisdom you already possess, and heal the parts of you that need attention.
If you’ve been feeling discouraged, disconnected, or constantly comparing yourself to others, maybe it’s time to talk to someone. Therapy offers a nonjudgmental space where the priority is building an affirming therapeutic relationship that lets us move at your pace toward your goals. I work with adults of all ages and walks of life who are facing life transitions, struggling with self-esteem, feeling stuck and “going nowhere,” or coping with past trauma. You’ll be able to discover the patterns that show up in your everyday life, identify the tools and wisdom you already possess, and heal the parts of you that need attention.
(973) 657-5849 View (973) 657-5849
Photo of Talia Master, Psychologist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Talia Master
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009  (Online Only)
Perhaps you feel like you don't fit in or are struggling to figure out who you are or what is important to you. Or something, either concrete or intangible, isn't working in your life or just feels "off." Perhaps you are sad, anxious, struggling with a loss, infertility, chronic illness, or having difficulty with a family situation or relationship. I provide a compassionate and safe space to explore these challenges, allowing you to focus on what gives your life purpose and meaning. We will work on two levels- gaining insight, while also learning tools and strategies to reduce your pain.
Perhaps you feel like you don't fit in or are struggling to figure out who you are or what is important to you. Or something, either concrete or intangible, isn't working in your life or just feels "off." Perhaps you are sad, anxious, struggling with a loss, infertility, chronic illness, or having difficulty with a family situation or relationship. I provide a compassionate and safe space to explore these challenges, allowing you to focus on what gives your life purpose and meaning. We will work on two levels- gaining insight, while also learning tools and strategies to reduce your pain.
(646) 679-5372 View (646) 679-5372
Photo of Andrea Peyser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Andrea Peyser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009  (Online Only)
I am a mature and long-time clinician. I focus on family issues, parenting crises, divorce/custody, and the problems of older adults. In the past few years, I have become quite comfortable with virtual office treatment. I am warm and engaging and able to establish meaningful rapport. Virtual therapy isn’t comfortable for all but surprisingly it can offer an intensity that is sometimes not easily established in the traditional setting. I am glad to offer assistance with the technology of virtual therapy for those who are less experienced.
I am a mature and long-time clinician. I focus on family issues, parenting crises, divorce/custody, and the problems of older adults. In the past few years, I have become quite comfortable with virtual office treatment. I am warm and engaging and able to establish meaningful rapport. Virtual therapy isn’t comfortable for all but surprisingly it can offer an intensity that is sometimes not easily established in the traditional setting. I am glad to offer assistance with the technology of virtual therapy for those who are less experienced.
(862) 305-3620 View (862) 305-3620
Photo of Boni Shevelove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Boni Shevelove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, OTR/L
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Not accepting new clients
I have over 25 years of experience in the mental health field helping children, adolescents and adults cope more effectively with stress, trauma, anxiety, depression and loss in clinics, group practice, psychiatric hospitals and public schools.
I recognize the courage it takes to seek help. Whether you are struggling with a new transition in your life or unresolved pain from the past, I am here to guide your efforts to move in a direction of healing. My focus is to help clients recognize and identify the judgments and fears that prevent them from living life with a greater sense of ease and safety. Even in the midst of suffering, personal growth and change are possible. They can be achieved by cultivating awareness and acceptance of the self, others, and situations - exactly as they are.
I have over 25 years of experience in the mental health field helping children, adolescents and adults cope more effectively with stress, trauma, anxiety, depression and loss in clinics, group practice, psychiatric hospitals and public schools.
I recognize the courage it takes to seek help. Whether you are struggling with a new transition in your life or unresolved pain from the past, I am here to guide your efforts to move in a direction of healing. My focus is to help clients recognize and identify the judgments and fears that prevent them from living life with a greater sense of ease and safety. Even in the midst of suffering, personal growth and change are possible. They can be achieved by cultivating awareness and acceptance of the self, others, and situations - exactly as they are.
(862) 800-2134 View (862) 800-2134
Photo of Barbara Sime, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Barbara Sime, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I offer an eclectic treatment approach in a warm, comfortable, confidential environment. My specialties include, but are not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, Women's issues and Life transitions. My therapeutic techniques are derived from over 20 years of training, education and employment in the field of mental health. I employ client driven, solution focused techniques which are based upon each client's individual needs and goals. I also try to provide clients with useful Dialectical Behavioral Techniques to ease symptoms and improve coping strategies. My ultimate goal is to help others improve their quality of life.
I offer an eclectic treatment approach in a warm, comfortable, confidential environment. My specialties include, but are not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, Women's issues and Life transitions. My therapeutic techniques are derived from over 20 years of training, education and employment in the field of mental health. I employ client driven, solution focused techniques which are based upon each client's individual needs and goals. I also try to provide clients with useful Dialectical Behavioral Techniques to ease symptoms and improve coping strategies. My ultimate goal is to help others improve their quality of life.
(973) 221-9217 View (973) 221-9217
Photo of Jacqueline Marie Gallios, Psychologist in Cedar Grove, NJ
Jacqueline Marie Gallios
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Not accepting new clients
We are all filled with expectations and hopes, but sometimes things happen that keep us from our plans, from being happy, or just... from being. Perhaps fear, sadness, or grief have kept you stuck for a while, which has left you feeling depressed, anxious, or hopeless. This is completely understandable; our experiences can certainly shape us, but they do not have to define us. With compassion and warmth, I will help you explore your upbringing, problems of self-esteem, and communication style. In doing so, I am committed to helping you get the relief you have long needed, and deserve.
We are all filled with expectations and hopes, but sometimes things happen that keep us from our plans, from being happy, or just... from being. Perhaps fear, sadness, or grief have kept you stuck for a while, which has left you feeling depressed, anxious, or hopeless. This is completely understandable; our experiences can certainly shape us, but they do not have to define us. With compassion and warmth, I will help you explore your upbringing, problems of self-esteem, and communication style. In doing so, I am committed to helping you get the relief you have long needed, and deserve.
(201) 771-8862 View (201) 771-8862
Photo of Dr. Christopher Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cedar Grove, NJ
Dr. Christopher Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Not accepting new clients
I received my doctorate in Counseling Psychology and have 10 years of experience treating trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, couples distress, and a wide range of other responses to stress.
Distress can look very different person-to-person. You may feel anxious in social situations, unsafe because of past trauma, at a loss with your intimate partner, or increasingly concerned about your relationship with alcohol and other substances. Perhaps you're feeling misunderstood or marginalized by others, or facing structural barriers that lead to feelings of helplessness and low self-worth. If any of these circumstances speak to you, it's important to have an affirming space where you can share your experience without judgement, to feel safe and at ease, and to discover new ways of overcoming adversities in your life.
I received my doctorate in Counseling Psychology and have 10 years of experience treating trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, couples distress, and a wide range of other responses to stress.
Distress can look very different person-to-person. You may feel anxious in social situations, unsafe because of past trauma, at a loss with your intimate partner, or increasingly concerned about your relationship with alcohol and other substances. Perhaps you're feeling misunderstood or marginalized by others, or facing structural barriers that lead to feelings of helplessness and low self-worth. If any of these circumstances speak to you, it's important to have an affirming space where you can share your experience without judgement, to feel safe and at ease, and to discover new ways of overcoming adversities in your life.
(201) 371-7740 View (201) 371-7740

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.