Photo of Keren Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Keren Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cherry Hill, NJ 08003  (Online Only)
I have much experience in dealing with grief and issues surrounding immense loss, transition, depression and anxiety.
Life is complicated on its own. Knowing that you need help and making an appointment is a scary step but one that is not lost on me. We come from a world where staying the course and remaining in your comfort zone is the easy thing to do. I am asking you to get a little uncomfortable. Nothing changes unless one is willing to put in the hard work. The fact that you are taking this first step is a huge deal in getting out of your comfort zone and being open to change. It will be my privilege to work with you and help you develop some life goals to help you better deal with all of your current life stressors.
I have much experience in dealing with grief and issues surrounding immense loss, transition, depression and anxiety.
Life is complicated on its own. Knowing that you need help and making an appointment is a scary step but one that is not lost on me. We come from a world where staying the course and remaining in your comfort zone is the easy thing to do. I am asking you to get a little uncomfortable. Nothing changes unless one is willing to put in the hard work. The fact that you are taking this first step is a huge deal in getting out of your comfort zone and being open to change. It will be my privilege to work with you and help you develop some life goals to help you better deal with all of your current life stressors.
(856) 283-4315 View (856) 283-4315
Photo of Jan Rosenstein Lcsw Specialist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Jan Rosenstein Lcsw Specialist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CBT/DBT, Teen, Crisis
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Hello and welcome to my friendly practice. I can greatly reduce your worry and anxiety, obsessive negative thoughts, and moods of depression. You will develop timeless skills to eliminate panic attacks, struggles with low self-esteem, resentments, and debilitating anger. My practice offers diagnostic evaluations, dialectical behavioral therapy and coping skills, cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral modification, marriage counseling, family counseling, social skills training, life coaching, and medication management together with your prescriber when requested. I am a Child, Adolescent and Teen Crisis Specialist, and Certified Clinical Supervisor.
Hello and welcome to my friendly practice. I can greatly reduce your worry and anxiety, obsessive negative thoughts, and moods of depression. You will develop timeless skills to eliminate panic attacks, struggles with low self-esteem, resentments, and debilitating anger. My practice offers diagnostic evaluations, dialectical behavioral therapy and coping skills, cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral modification, marriage counseling, family counseling, social skills training, life coaching, and medication management together with your prescriber when requested. I am a Child, Adolescent and Teen Crisis Specialist, and Certified Clinical Supervisor.
(856) 619-7016 View (856) 619-7016
Jane H Glassman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping people improve their quality of life. I recognize how difficult it is to share your personal life with me & trust that I can help you. Most people find that I am easy to talk to & they are comfortable working with me. I have helped many individuals learn how to use tools & coping strategies to reduce and eliminate depression, anxiety, postpartum, stress due to work, parenting, care-giving, midlife issues & an "empty nest". I also have helped individuals deal with their feelings of grief due to loss, infertility, and divorce.
I enjoy helping people improve their quality of life. I recognize how difficult it is to share your personal life with me & trust that I can help you. Most people find that I am easy to talk to & they are comfortable working with me. I have helped many individuals learn how to use tools & coping strategies to reduce and eliminate depression, anxiety, postpartum, stress due to work, parenting, care-giving, midlife issues & an "empty nest". I also have helped individuals deal with their feelings of grief due to loss, infertility, and divorce.
(856) 718-9160 View (856) 718-9160
Photo of Melanie Costa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Melanie Costa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Melanie Costa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 7 years of professional experience working with teens, adults, and seniors. She specializes in treating conditions or concerns related to anxiety, depression, daily life stressors, life transitions, career changes, relationship dysfunction, communication challenges, low self-esteem, and more. Melanie earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, and is foundationally trained in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Melanie Costa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 7 years of professional experience working with teens, adults, and seniors. She specializes in treating conditions or concerns related to anxiety, depression, daily life stressors, life transitions, career changes, relationship dysfunction, communication challenges, low self-esteem, and more. Melanie earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, and is foundationally trained in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
(856) 363-3115 View (856) 363-3115
Photo of Robin G Freedman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cherry Hill, NJ
Robin G Freedman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Life can be challenging and stressful. As M. Scott Peck wrote, "Life is difficult." Life can also be filled with enormous joy and pleasure. If you are suffering with depression or anxiety, struggling with the daily stresses of parenting, relationships, work place issues, coping with illness or grieving the loss of a loved one, I offer a safe, supportive and compassionate environment to assist you with these life challenges. The emotional support and guidance of a caring and empathetic professional, can truly make a positive difference in your life experience and emotional well-being.
Life can be challenging and stressful. As M. Scott Peck wrote, "Life is difficult." Life can also be filled with enormous joy and pleasure. If you are suffering with depression or anxiety, struggling with the daily stresses of parenting, relationships, work place issues, coping with illness or grieving the loss of a loved one, I offer a safe, supportive and compassionate environment to assist you with these life challenges. The emotional support and guidance of a caring and empathetic professional, can truly make a positive difference in your life experience and emotional well-being.
(215) 874-3162 View (215) 874-3162
Photo of Julee Wickliffe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Julee Wickliffe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Wickliffe specializes in addressing a range of challenges with a passion for assisting clients through life transitions, managing anxiety & depression, and addressing women's issues such as self-esteem.
Julee Wickliffe, DSW, LCSW, brings 25 years of experience in the social work field as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist. Her professional journey includes roles at Rutgers University Correctional Healthcare, where she served in the NJ State Prison System and NJ State Parole System. Alongside, she has maintained a private practice, contributed to a child/adolescent psychiatric unit in a hospital, and worked in a juvenile correctional facility. Dr. Wickliffe's therapeutic approach is grounded in strengths, aiming to empower her clients.
Wickliffe specializes in addressing a range of challenges with a passion for assisting clients through life transitions, managing anxiety & depression, and addressing women's issues such as self-esteem.
Julee Wickliffe, DSW, LCSW, brings 25 years of experience in the social work field as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist. Her professional journey includes roles at Rutgers University Correctional Healthcare, where she served in the NJ State Prison System and NJ State Parole System. Alongside, she has maintained a private practice, contributed to a child/adolescent psychiatric unit in a hospital, and worked in a juvenile correctional facility. Dr. Wickliffe's therapeutic approach is grounded in strengths, aiming to empower her clients.
(856) 351-5955 View (856) 351-5955
Photo of Allison Santero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Allison Santero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Hello, I'm Allison Santero, LCSW. With over 20 years as a Clinical Therapist, I've worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My background in healthcare/hospital settings enhances my skill set, enabling me to address how physical health impacts emotional well-being. I specialize in supporting individuals and families navigating challenging transitions like divorce, trauma, or academic difficulties, as well as addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, bullying, and associated diagnoses. Additionally, I have experience working with and supporting the LGBTQ community.
Hello, I'm Allison Santero, LCSW. With over 20 years as a Clinical Therapist, I've worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My background in healthcare/hospital settings enhances my skill set, enabling me to address how physical health impacts emotional well-being. I specialize in supporting individuals and families navigating challenging transitions like divorce, trauma, or academic difficulties, as well as addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, bullying, and associated diagnoses. Additionally, I have experience working with and supporting the LGBTQ community.
(856) 681-9514 x1 View (856) 681-9514 x1
Photo of Helena Gage, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Helena Gage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
I'm Helena Gage, a licensed clinical social worker, having earned my Masters in Social Work from Ramapo College of New Jersey in 2018. With years of experience, I've supported adolescents and adults facing various mental health and substance use challenges, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. My approach involves meeting clients where they are in life and aiding them in achieving their treatment goals.
I'm Helena Gage, a licensed clinical social worker, having earned my Masters in Social Work from Ramapo College of New Jersey in 2018. With years of experience, I've supported adolescents and adults facing various mental health and substance use challenges, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. My approach involves meeting clients where they are in life and aiding them in achieving their treatment goals.
(856) 367-6623 View (856) 367-6623
Photo of Sam Paris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Sam Paris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Life can be stressful. Learning to stop questioning, judging and criticizing yourself, and finding the confidence to move forward can be difficult. I can help you work through the anxiety and depression that challenges you relentlessly. You'll learn to stop reacting to insignificant triggers and balance your emotions, leading to healthier relationships with family and friends. I will create a safe space where we can work together on the struggles you face. My passion is to help people transform themselves and heal from the past.
Life can be stressful. Learning to stop questioning, judging and criticizing yourself, and finding the confidence to move forward can be difficult. I can help you work through the anxiety and depression that challenges you relentlessly. You'll learn to stop reacting to insignificant triggers and balance your emotions, leading to healthier relationships with family and friends. I will create a safe space where we can work together on the struggles you face. My passion is to help people transform themselves and heal from the past.
(856) 522-4023 View (856) 522-4023
Photo of Kimberly Hershenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Kimberly Hershenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC-T, Esq
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002  (Online Only)
Throughout my career I have worked successfully with clients who have experienced issues such as Eating Disorders, Body Image, Addiction, Motherhood Issues (fertility, loss, parenting), Anxiety, Depression and Other Mood Disorders, Relationships and Grief/Loss. My aim is to create a warm, supportive, and safe space for my clients to help achieve their personal goals. Together we can work on understanding feelings and behaviors regarding your areas of concern while helping you to practice healthier coping mechanisms in order to fully participate in life. I work with individuals and couples and specialize in working with performers.
Throughout my career I have worked successfully with clients who have experienced issues such as Eating Disorders, Body Image, Addiction, Motherhood Issues (fertility, loss, parenting), Anxiety, Depression and Other Mood Disorders, Relationships and Grief/Loss. My aim is to create a warm, supportive, and safe space for my clients to help achieve their personal goals. Together we can work on understanding feelings and behaviors regarding your areas of concern while helping you to practice healthier coping mechanisms in order to fully participate in life. I work with individuals and couples and specialize in working with performers.
(914) 743-3271 View (914) 743-3271
Photo of Dr. Julee Wickliffe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Dr. Julee Wickliffe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Wickliffe specializes in addressing a range of challenges with a passion for assisting clients through life transitions, managing anxiety & depression, and addressing women's issues such as self-esteem.
Julee Wickliffe, DSW, LCSW, brings 25 years of experience in the social work field as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist. Her professional journey includes roles at Rutgers University Correctional Healthcare, where she served in the NJ State Prison System and NJ State Parole System. Alongside, she has maintained a private practice, contributed to a child/adolescent psychiatric unit in a hospital, and worked in a juvenile correctional facility. Dr. Wickliffe's therapeutic approach is grounded in strengths, aiming to empower her clients.
Wickliffe specializes in addressing a range of challenges with a passion for assisting clients through life transitions, managing anxiety & depression, and addressing women's issues such as self-esteem.
Julee Wickliffe, DSW, LCSW, brings 25 years of experience in the social work field as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist. Her professional journey includes roles at Rutgers University Correctional Healthcare, where she served in the NJ State Prison System and NJ State Parole System. Alongside, she has maintained a private practice, contributed to a child/adolescent psychiatric unit in a hospital, and worked in a juvenile correctional facility. Dr. Wickliffe's therapeutic approach is grounded in strengths, aiming to empower her clients.
(732) 272-0127 View (732) 272-0127
Photo of Allison Santero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Allison Santero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Hello, I'm Allison Santero, LCSW. With over 20 years as a Clinical Therapist, I've worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My background in healthcare/hospital settings enhances my skill set, enabling me to address how physical health impacts emotional well-being. I specialize in supporting individuals and families navigating challenging transitions like divorce, trauma, or academic difficulties, as well as addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, bullying, and associated diagnoses. Additionally, I have experience working with and supporting the LGBTQ community.
Hello, I'm Allison Santero, LCSW. With over 20 years as a Clinical Therapist, I've worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My background in healthcare/hospital settings enhances my skill set, enabling me to address how physical health impacts emotional well-being. I specialize in supporting individuals and families navigating challenging transitions like divorce, trauma, or academic difficulties, as well as addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, bullying, and associated diagnoses. Additionally, I have experience working with and supporting the LGBTQ community.
(732) 782-9754 View (732) 782-9754
Photo of Louisa Latela, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Louisa Latela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
My intention is to support people in living a life that honors their highest good. To that end I work with clients to identify core belief systems and behaviors that interefere with this goal. Together we discover how and why they developed these now dysfunctional life patterns. I assist them in developing new, self-nurturing coping skills and most importantly encourage them to embrace themselves with unconditional love and compassion. I have extensive experience working with issues regarding compulsive eating, bariatric surgery, life transitions, anxiety, depression and end of life.
My intention is to support people in living a life that honors their highest good. To that end I work with clients to identify core belief systems and behaviors that interefere with this goal. Together we discover how and why they developed these now dysfunctional life patterns. I assist them in developing new, self-nurturing coping skills and most importantly encourage them to embrace themselves with unconditional love and compassion. I have extensive experience working with issues regarding compulsive eating, bariatric surgery, life transitions, anxiety, depression and end of life.
(856) 429-9799 View (856) 429-9799
Photo of Hollie Levy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Hollie Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002  (Online Only)
I have helped many people with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, fertility concerns, stress management, relationship problems and navigating life transitions.
Beginning therapy is not an easy decision, and it takes courage to start the process of addressing a life problem or difficulty you may be experiencing. As your therapist, I am committed to working with you in order to help you make positive changes in your life. My hope is that you will leave each session with something more than you had at the beginning of the session- whether this is a new tool, skill, solution to a problem or different perspective. Our work will be actively addressing the challenges you are facing in a caring and comfortable environment.
I have helped many people with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, fertility concerns, stress management, relationship problems and navigating life transitions.
Beginning therapy is not an easy decision, and it takes courage to start the process of addressing a life problem or difficulty you may be experiencing. As your therapist, I am committed to working with you in order to help you make positive changes in your life. My hope is that you will leave each session with something more than you had at the beginning of the session- whether this is a new tool, skill, solution to a problem or different perspective. Our work will be actively addressing the challenges you are facing in a caring and comfortable environment.
(215) 806-2878 View (215) 806-2878
Photo of Accredited Hypnosis Counseling in Cherry Hill, NJ
Accredited Hypnosis Counseling
PhD, DCH
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Specialties: Stop Smoking, Weight Loss (Gastric Band Hypnotherapy), Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Phobias, Educational Enhancements, Sports Enhancements, Career Motivation, Hypnotherapy Life Coaching, Behavior/Anger Management, Relationship Therapy, Grief & Bereavement Therapy, Sexual Dysfunctions, Hypnotherapy for Children, Immune System Enhancements, Self Confidence/Self Esteem, Finding Lost Objects. Alcohol & Drug Addiction, Medical Hypnosis. Dr. Jaime Feldman is one of the Top Hypnotherapists in the country. He has been on the Montel Williams show 4 times. Dr. Feldman teaches some of the most revolutionary techniques in Hypnotherapy, including speaking to the sub-personalities that cause a specific problem.
Specialties: Stop Smoking, Weight Loss (Gastric Band Hypnotherapy), Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Phobias, Educational Enhancements, Sports Enhancements, Career Motivation, Hypnotherapy Life Coaching, Behavior/Anger Management, Relationship Therapy, Grief & Bereavement Therapy, Sexual Dysfunctions, Hypnotherapy for Children, Immune System Enhancements, Self Confidence/Self Esteem, Finding Lost Objects. Alcohol & Drug Addiction, Medical Hypnosis. Dr. Jaime Feldman is one of the Top Hypnotherapists in the country. He has been on the Montel Williams show 4 times. Dr. Feldman teaches some of the most revolutionary techniques in Hypnotherapy, including speaking to the sub-personalities that cause a specific problem.
(848) 233-4313 View (848) 233-4313
Photo of Life Focus Center, Pastoral Counselor in Cherry Hill, NJ
Life Focus Center
Pastoral Counselor
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Common issues are: depression, anxiety, stress, marital/relationships, addictions, codepedency, self-image & self-worth, abuse, spiritual concerns, loss of faith, etc.
At LFC our core values are described in the acronym of R.E.A.C.H. R = Relationships: building a healthy relationship with Jesus to have healthy relationship with others. E = Empathy & Compassion: all our counselors have experienced their own trials and tribulations in life. A = Acceptance: We believe God created us all uniquely and all individuals respond differently to their environment, others and situations. C = Confidentiality: confidentiality is of utmost importance. H = Healing: the ultimate goal in our counseling is to bring healing to mind, body and spirit.
Common issues are: depression, anxiety, stress, marital/relationships, addictions, codepedency, self-image & self-worth, abuse, spiritual concerns, loss of faith, etc.
At LFC our core values are described in the acronym of R.E.A.C.H. R = Relationships: building a healthy relationship with Jesus to have healthy relationship with others. E = Empathy & Compassion: all our counselors have experienced their own trials and tribulations in life. A = Acceptance: We believe God created us all uniquely and all individuals respond differently to their environment, others and situations. C = Confidentiality: confidentiality is of utmost importance. H = Healing: the ultimate goal in our counseling is to bring healing to mind, body and spirit.
(609) 643-5794 View (609) 643-5794
Photo of Courtney Scheflen Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Courtney Scheflen Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002  (Online Only)
I work exclusively with women on an individual basis, to address issues ranging from depression/anxiety to body acceptance. I am a certified Intuitive Eating counselor, as well as a Duke-trained Integrative Health Coach. I work with women to help with life transitions, assisting them with discovering themselves again, whether it is through learning to trust themselves around food, taking the time they don’t think that they have, or helping them to tune into what is behind their self-sabotaging behaviors. Traumatic life events or mental health issues can sometimes hold us back, and I help clients to move forward on their terms.
I work exclusively with women on an individual basis, to address issues ranging from depression/anxiety to body acceptance. I am a certified Intuitive Eating counselor, as well as a Duke-trained Integrative Health Coach. I work with women to help with life transitions, assisting them with discovering themselves again, whether it is through learning to trust themselves around food, taking the time they don’t think that they have, or helping them to tune into what is behind their self-sabotaging behaviors. Traumatic life events or mental health issues can sometimes hold us back, and I help clients to move forward on their terms.
(609) 293-4323 View (609) 293-4323
Photo of Lesya Popil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Lesya Popil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship concerns can affect us all, especially in these uncertain times. Let's work on developing a greater understanding of you and your trajectory in this life. Together we can set goals that meet the unique concerns that need to be addressed.
Depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship concerns can affect us all, especially in these uncertain times. Let's work on developing a greater understanding of you and your trajectory in this life. Together we can set goals that meet the unique concerns that need to be addressed.
(856) 712-9011 View (856) 712-9011
Photo of Julie Ferdas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cherry Hill, NJ
Julie Ferdas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
I possess extensive expertise in addressing anxiety and depression across various age groups, encompassing adults, children, and adolescents, utilizing a diverse range of therapeutic modalities and tailoring interventions to suit the distinctive requirements of each individual under my guidance.
I strongly believe in joining my clients based on where they are in life’s journey, acknowledging the intricate narratives that shape each individual. Through close collaboration, I navigate alongside my clients to unearth pragmatic resolutions while affirming the distinctiveness of their personal narratives. I recognize that every challenge is an opportunity for personal evolution. I sincerely believe that at any given moment, individuals are doing the best they can and aspiring for continual improvement.
I possess extensive expertise in addressing anxiety and depression across various age groups, encompassing adults, children, and adolescents, utilizing a diverse range of therapeutic modalities and tailoring interventions to suit the distinctive requirements of each individual under my guidance.
I strongly believe in joining my clients based on where they are in life’s journey, acknowledging the intricate narratives that shape each individual. Through close collaboration, I navigate alongside my clients to unearth pragmatic resolutions while affirming the distinctiveness of their personal narratives. I recognize that every challenge is an opportunity for personal evolution. I sincerely believe that at any given moment, individuals are doing the best they can and aspiring for continual improvement.
(856) 373-4977 View (856) 373-4977
Photo of Cognitive Change, Counselor in Cherry Hill, NJ
Cognitive Change
Counselor, MS, NCC, LAC
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002  (Online Only)
Hey there! I am Sabrina, a passionate and experienced counselor dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. With a background in Psychology and Sociology and a master’s degree in Community and Trauma Counseling, I bring a compassionate and non-judgemental approach to my work. I have experience assisting young adult, adult, and geriatric age groups who have struggled with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, anger, addictions, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I take pride in advocating and working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey there! I am Sabrina, a passionate and experienced counselor dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. With a background in Psychology and Sociology and a master’s degree in Community and Trauma Counseling, I bring a compassionate and non-judgemental approach to my work. I have experience assisting young adult, adult, and geriatric age groups who have struggled with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, anger, addictions, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I take pride in advocating and working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
(973) 547-1388 View (973) 547-1388

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.