Photo of Ivana Mitic, Counselor in Denville, NJ
Ivana Mitic
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
My background is in trauma informed care, anxiety, depression, self esteem, mood regulation and mood disorders, working across the lifespan and a variety of other areas.
Therapy is a major step in prioritizing and caring for ourselves. We all deserve a place to feel compassion, be void of any judgment, and also find ways to challenge ourselves. My aim is to create a nurturing, safe place for my clients to feel heard. I have learned throughout my experience working across the lifespan (children 6 and up) to the adult population, that therapy is not a one size fits all approach. Together we will work on making therapy what you need. Whether it is revisiting coping skills, accountability for our goals, or incorporating humor and some fun! Let's connect and get you started on taking care of YOU.
My background is in trauma informed care, anxiety, depression, self esteem, mood regulation and mood disorders, working across the lifespan and a variety of other areas.
Therapy is a major step in prioritizing and caring for ourselves. We all deserve a place to feel compassion, be void of any judgment, and also find ways to challenge ourselves. My aim is to create a nurturing, safe place for my clients to feel heard. I have learned throughout my experience working across the lifespan (children 6 and up) to the adult population, that therapy is not a one size fits all approach. Together we will work on making therapy what you need. Whether it is revisiting coping skills, accountability for our goals, or incorporating humor and some fun! Let's connect and get you started on taking care of YOU.
(862) 378-2653 View (862) 378-2653
Photo of Caitlin Northern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denville, NJ
Caitlin Northern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
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Photo of Christine Peters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denville, NJ
Christine Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
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Photo of Linda Weinman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denville, NJ
Linda Weinman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
You're looking for a therapist and want to be sure it will be the right thing to do. Talking to the right therapist can be very rewarding. To make the most of your life you have to decrease the things that hold you back; depression, anxiety, conflict and stress. My style is very interactive. We will focus on your strengths and deal with solutions you can use. The goal is to help you feel better and back on track quickly and effectively. When you clear away obstacles and learn to use the right tools great things are possible .
You're looking for a therapist and want to be sure it will be the right thing to do. Talking to the right therapist can be very rewarding. To make the most of your life you have to decrease the things that hold you back; depression, anxiety, conflict and stress. My style is very interactive. We will focus on your strengths and deal with solutions you can use. The goal is to help you feel better and back on track quickly and effectively. When you clear away obstacles and learn to use the right tools great things are possible .
(973) 615-6174 View (973) 615-6174
Photo of Ranjana Hari, Pre-Licensed Professional in Denville, NJ
Ranjana Hari
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
These approaches are highly effective in treating anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, OCD, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist with an extensive and diverse background, spanning private practice, schools, college clinics, foster care, and hospitals, including acute care. With a passion for treating individuals of all ages, I specialize in harnessing the power of evidence-based therapies to create long-lasting positive change, focusing on the core of issues, rather than surface change. I take pride in fostering a safe, warm, and compassionate environment that embraces the unique perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. Even the most resistant patients find themselves engaged in the therapeutic process under my care.
These approaches are highly effective in treating anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, OCD, relationship issues, and low self-esteem.
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist with an extensive and diverse background, spanning private practice, schools, college clinics, foster care, and hospitals, including acute care. With a passion for treating individuals of all ages, I specialize in harnessing the power of evidence-based therapies to create long-lasting positive change, focusing on the core of issues, rather than surface change. I take pride in fostering a safe, warm, and compassionate environment that embraces the unique perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. Even the most resistant patients find themselves engaged in the therapeutic process under my care.
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Photo of Haley Kastner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denville, NJ
Haley Kastner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
Haley provides evidence-based therapy for children, teens, and adults. She has had the opportunity to provide care in private practice, school, and medical settings. This array of experiences has fostered her ability to understand clients through a multi-disciplinary lens and draw upon a multitude of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavioral Activation, Prevention-Focused Care, Crisis Intervention, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention. She utilizes these therapies to target anxiety, stress, depression, OCD, trauma, and executive functioning deficits.
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Photo of Christine Maier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denville, NJ
Christine Maier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
I have extensive experience in issues related to depression, anxiety, stress management, relationships, and other school and life challenges and will assist you in exploring coping skills and practical solutions to address your unique situation.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of clinical and school settings. Navigating the stress of daily life will challenge and impact everyone differently. My calm, compassionate approach integrates solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, to help address the issues that brought you to the courageous step of seeking therapy.
I have extensive experience in issues related to depression, anxiety, stress management, relationships, and other school and life challenges and will assist you in exploring coping skills and practical solutions to address your unique situation.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of clinical and school settings. Navigating the stress of daily life will challenge and impact everyone differently. My calm, compassionate approach integrates solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, to help address the issues that brought you to the courageous step of seeking therapy.
(862) 500-3752 View (862) 500-3752
Photo of Michaela D'Urso, Pre-Licensed Professional in Denville, NJ
Michaela D'Urso
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
Michaela is a passionate Cognitive Behavioral therapist (which is the most effective, researched, and validated therapy to date). She will work with you to identify and change overly negative thinking and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with your mood, reaching your goals, or hampering interpersonal relationships. She works with those struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, phobias, stress, body image issues, performance anxiety, defiant behavior in children, relationship struggles, and work/school issues.
Michaela is a passionate Cognitive Behavioral therapist (which is the most effective, researched, and validated therapy to date). She will work with you to identify and change overly negative thinking and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with your mood, reaching your goals, or hampering interpersonal relationships. She works with those struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, phobias, stress, body image issues, performance anxiety, defiant behavior in children, relationship struggles, and work/school issues.
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Photo of Jill Worrall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denville, NJ
Jill Worrall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
Specifically I have experience with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, parenting, life transitions, career counseling, and relationships.
Due to the current health climate, phone and video sessions are available. Seeking help can often be overwhelming. This process is one that should be based on relationships. The person must be someone willing to walk with you in a way that is trusting and respectful. These are attributes I strive to maintain in my day to day life.
Specifically I have experience with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, parenting, life transitions, career counseling, and relationships.
Due to the current health climate, phone and video sessions are available. Seeking help can often be overwhelming. This process is one that should be based on relationships. The person must be someone willing to walk with you in a way that is trusting and respectful. These are attributes I strive to maintain in my day to day life.
(862) 263-9788 View (862) 263-9788
Photo of Jaclyn Leit, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denville, NJ
Jaclyn Leit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-TMH, CGIP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
Because I have worked in private practice, hospital based, & at day programs, I am able to work with a variety of concerns: Depression, postpartum depression & postpartum anxiety, chronic medical issues, grief/loss, separation/divorce, parenting, changes in life circumstances, anxiety, cutting, eating issues, food allergies, substance abuse, OCD, and stress management.
No two individuals are the same & that is how I approach treatment. I make therapy fit your needs by drawing upon a variety of clinical frameworks to provide patient focused care. Therapy is about you & we focus on addressing what you want to heal. Working together, we build upon your strengths and help develop coping skills and support while working towards your goals. I have 2 decades of experience & I am trained to address many concerns. I see adults, adolescents & couples.
Because I have worked in private practice, hospital based, & at day programs, I am able to work with a variety of concerns: Depression, postpartum depression & postpartum anxiety, chronic medical issues, grief/loss, separation/divorce, parenting, changes in life circumstances, anxiety, cutting, eating issues, food allergies, substance abuse, OCD, and stress management.
No two individuals are the same & that is how I approach treatment. I make therapy fit your needs by drawing upon a variety of clinical frameworks to provide patient focused care. Therapy is about you & we focus on addressing what you want to heal. Working together, we build upon your strengths and help develop coping skills and support while working towards your goals. I have 2 decades of experience & I am trained to address many concerns. I see adults, adolescents & couples.
(201) 419-6341 View (201) 419-6341
Photo of Jason Duncan, Psychologist in Denville, NJ
Jason Duncan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I am a psychologist providing therapy and assessment services for children through adults. I have extensive clinical experience and am an expert Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I’ve been trained by top therapy institutes, am a board member for well accomplished CBT organizations, and run the official podcast for the national CBT organization. I strive to regularly advance my knowledge and provide leading scientific treatments. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, trauma, stress, insomnia, ADHD, defiance, and work/school issues. Many of my clients lead busy lives; therefore, I offer evening appointments.
I am a psychologist providing therapy and assessment services for children through adults. I have extensive clinical experience and am an expert Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I’ve been trained by top therapy institutes, am a board member for well accomplished CBT organizations, and run the official podcast for the national CBT organization. I strive to regularly advance my knowledge and provide leading scientific treatments. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, trauma, stress, insomnia, ADHD, defiance, and work/school issues. Many of my clients lead busy lives; therefore, I offer evening appointments.
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Photo of Ronald J Gironda, Psychologist in Denville, NJ
Ronald J Gironda
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I am a seasoned psychotherapist who assists patients gain insight into their problems and improve coping skills. The majority of my clients have past or present issues causing anxiety, panic, anger, depression, or relationship conflicts affecting performance and concentration at school,work or athletics. I provide a comprehensive, focused approach for treating individuals who are affected by high levels of stress, or may require treatment for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. I employ a variety of psychotherapeutic techniques including Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, progressive relaxation and self hypnosis. The initial session includes a complete history and formation of prioritized treatment goals.
I am a seasoned psychotherapist who assists patients gain insight into their problems and improve coping skills. The majority of my clients have past or present issues causing anxiety, panic, anger, depression, or relationship conflicts affecting performance and concentration at school,work or athletics. I provide a comprehensive, focused approach for treating individuals who are affected by high levels of stress, or may require treatment for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. I employ a variety of psychotherapeutic techniques including Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, progressive relaxation and self hypnosis. The initial session includes a complete history and formation of prioritized treatment goals.
(973) 814-2976 View (973) 814-2976
Photo of Mars & Venus Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denville, NJ
Mars & Venus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, CPC
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
In Manhattan, NY and Parsippany, Denville, Teaneck, Oradell, Ridgewood, Ramsey, Paramus, NJ - Full-service counseling - Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement counseling - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Daytime, evenings, and weekends available / Spanish-speaking counselors / Most insurances welcomed.
In Manhattan, NY and Parsippany, Denville, Teaneck, Oradell, Ridgewood, Ramsey, Paramus, NJ - Full-service counseling - Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement counseling - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Daytime, evenings, and weekends available / Spanish-speaking counselors / Most insurances welcomed.
(973) 718-9734 View (973) 718-9734
Photo of True North Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denville, NJ
True North Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I specialize in depression, anxiety, family systems, conflict resolution, anger management and communication.
I have been privileged to work with adolescents, their families and adults for almost a decade. While my background is in clinical and counseling psychology, I recognize that the dynamics of every situation is unique. I work to appreciate every client, their difficulties, and, importantly, their strengths. I strive to create a supportive space through self-exploration and healing.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, family systems, conflict resolution, anger management and communication.
I have been privileged to work with adolescents, their families and adults for almost a decade. While my background is in clinical and counseling psychology, I recognize that the dynamics of every situation is unique. I work to appreciate every client, their difficulties, and, importantly, their strengths. I strive to create a supportive space through self-exploration and healing.
(973) 841-8591 View (973) 841-8591
Photo of Mars & Venus Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denville, NJ
Mars & Venus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
In Manhattan, NY and Parsippany, Denville, Teaneck, Oradell, Ridgewood, Ramsey, Paramus, NJ - Full-service counseling - Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement counseling - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Daytime, evenings, and weekends available / Spanish-speaking counselors / Most insurances welcomed.
In Manhattan, NY and Parsippany, Denville, Teaneck, Oradell, Ridgewood, Ramsey, Paramus, NJ - Full-service counseling - Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement counseling - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Daytime, evenings, and weekends available / Spanish-speaking counselors / Most insurances welcomed.
(973) 281-4164 View (973) 281-4164
Photo of Kubra Aydin, Counselor in Denville, NJ
Kubra Aydin
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
P.S: Please click on "Website" to schedule 15 minutes consultation. Kubra is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor experienced in trauma, depression, anxiety, and relational problems. Her passion for working with a diverse population led her to acquire the Global Mental Health: Immigration and Trauma Certificate from Harvard University. Kubra sees her clients beyond their diagnoses and seeks to bring awareness to societal and environmental challenges that prevent clients from fulfilling their true potential.
P.S: Please click on "Website" to schedule 15 minutes consultation. Kubra is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor experienced in trauma, depression, anxiety, and relational problems. Her passion for working with a diverse population led her to acquire the Global Mental Health: Immigration and Trauma Certificate from Harvard University. Kubra sees her clients beyond their diagnoses and seeks to bring awareness to societal and environmental challenges that prevent clients from fulfilling their true potential.
(617) 675-4586 View (617) 675-4586
Photo of Julie Ann Doherty, Counselor in Denville, NJ
Julie Ann Doherty
Counselor, MA, LCPC, ACHt, Coach
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834  (Online Only)
I use Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy, breathwork, RoHun transpersonal (soul) psychology & coaching, meditation/guided imagery, along with traditional talk therapies to empower you, overcome trauma and change unhealthy behaviors/thoughts which can result in anxiety and depression, among other issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you have trouble staying focused, concentrating, functioning normally? Most people that seek out my expertise do because they're either in crisis or struggling, and within a few sessions, they are feeling more in control, more peaceful, and more aware of their capabilities to manage their lives and relationships better.
I use Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy, breathwork, RoHun transpersonal (soul) psychology & coaching, meditation/guided imagery, along with traditional talk therapies to empower you, overcome trauma and change unhealthy behaviors/thoughts which can result in anxiety and depression, among other issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you have trouble staying focused, concentrating, functioning normally? Most people that seek out my expertise do because they're either in crisis or struggling, and within a few sessions, they are feeling more in control, more peaceful, and more aware of their capabilities to manage their lives and relationships better.
(623) 280-2192 View (623) 280-2192
Photo of Linda McGovern, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denville, NJ
Linda McGovern
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, ACS, CCATP, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
I have over 22 years experience working with children, adults and families struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders and behavioral issues, as well as marital and family issues.
Have you or your child been struggling with stress , anxiety or low frustration tolerance?Have you found it difficult to maintain positive relationships, be productive in your day to day life or make simple decisions? Through therapy, I hope to help you gain insight into what is driving these feelings, cope with them more effectively and build upon your strengths to grow and be a better you. I will strive to ensure that you feel supported enough to share openly and honestly and challenge yourself to work on the areas in your life that you are seeking to improve.
I have over 22 years experience working with children, adults and families struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders and behavioral issues, as well as marital and family issues.
Have you or your child been struggling with stress , anxiety or low frustration tolerance?Have you found it difficult to maintain positive relationships, be productive in your day to day life or make simple decisions? Through therapy, I hope to help you gain insight into what is driving these feelings, cope with them more effectively and build upon your strengths to grow and be a better you. I will strive to ensure that you feel supported enough to share openly and honestly and challenge yourself to work on the areas in your life that you are seeking to improve.
(973) 510-0693 View (973) 510-0693
Photo of Susan Gail Herschman, Psychologist in Denville, NJ
Susan Gail Herschman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
Stress, anxiety, depression and relationship challenges are some of my specialty areas. For adolescents, the transition from high school to college can be stressful. Most people struggle with a variety of psychological issues/conflicts at some point in their lives - it's human nature. I have the life experiences and professional training to help. I have an objective, honest and straight forward approach. I'm easy to talk to, approachable, and self-disclose when necessary. I will be active and collaborative in our work together. I provide consultation, individual/couple/family psychotherapy from children to adults.
Stress, anxiety, depression and relationship challenges are some of my specialty areas. For adolescents, the transition from high school to college can be stressful. Most people struggle with a variety of psychological issues/conflicts at some point in their lives - it's human nature. I have the life experiences and professional training to help. I have an objective, honest and straight forward approach. I'm easy to talk to, approachable, and self-disclose when necessary. I will be active and collaborative in our work together. I provide consultation, individual/couple/family psychotherapy from children to adults.
(973) 510-2491 View (973) 510-2491
Linda Slatnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I have completed advanced training in many areas, including child and family therapy, substance abuse, EMDR, marriage and couples counseling, and the treatment of anxiety, depression and other disorders and am available, by appointment, days, evenings and Saturdays.
As a dually licensed LCSW & Marriage & Family Therapist,certified in substance abuse, I accept United, Aetna, CIGNA, Magellan, Blue Cross/Shield, Value, HealthNet, PHCS, and many other insurance plans. With years of experience in treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, my goal is to help my clients achieve their goals and reduce their problems as quickly and thoroughly as possible in a caring, professional manner.
I have completed advanced training in many areas, including child and family therapy, substance abuse, EMDR, marriage and couples counseling, and the treatment of anxiety, depression and other disorders and am available, by appointment, days, evenings and Saturdays.
As a dually licensed LCSW & Marriage & Family Therapist,certified in substance abuse, I accept United, Aetna, CIGNA, Magellan, Blue Cross/Shield, Value, HealthNet, PHCS, and many other insurance plans. With years of experience in treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, my goal is to help my clients achieve their goals and reduce their problems as quickly and thoroughly as possible in a caring, professional manner.
(908) 605-6845 View (908) 605-6845
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.