Depression Therapists in Metuchen, NJ

Photo of Shontel Thomas, CLC, BAPsych, MSW, LSW, Pastoral Counselor
Shontel Thomas
Pastoral Counselor, CLC, BAPsych, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty are anxiety, depression and other mood related disorders, stress, life transitions, trauma, chronic health conditions, women's emotional health.
Sometimes the circumstances in life are too much to handle without some help. You may feel stuck, faced with uncertainty, overwhelmed and stress. I am here to help you during this difficult time in your life. I have over 17 years of experiences working with adults, children/ adolescents and their families with a wide range of cognitive, behavioral and emotional issues in various settings. As your Christian Counselor I address the whole person emotionally, psychologically, socially, physically, and spiritually. I am dedicated and passionate about helping you through your healing journey.
My areas of specialty are anxiety, depression and other mood related disorders, stress, life transitions, trauma, chronic health conditions, women's emotional health.
Sometimes the circumstances in life are too much to handle without some help. You may feel stuck, faced with uncertainty, overwhelmed and stress. I am here to help you during this difficult time in your life. I have over 17 years of experiences working with adults, children/ adolescents and their families with a wide range of cognitive, behavioral and emotional issues in various settings. As your Christian Counselor I address the whole person emotionally, psychologically, socially, physically, and spiritually. I am dedicated and passionate about helping you through your healing journey.
(732) 347-7595 View (732) 347-7595
Photo of Hemisha Patel Urgola, PsyD, Psychologist
Hemisha Patel Urgola
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and cultural issues.
Hello there! My ideal client is aware that therapy is work and most of the change occurs in between sessions by practicing skills you learn with me. If you are in a therapy room with me, you will meet a human who has gone through many of the struggles you have. I am someone who will meet you with compassion, but will also hold you accountable for your behaviors. I will show up as a real person who will laugh and joke with you, but I will also hold your emotional pain until you are ready to hold onto it on your own. If this is what you are looking for in a psychologist, I very much hope you reach out so we can chat some more!
I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and cultural issues.
Hello there! My ideal client is aware that therapy is work and most of the change occurs in between sessions by practicing skills you learn with me. If you are in a therapy room with me, you will meet a human who has gone through many of the struggles you have. I am someone who will meet you with compassion, but will also hold you accountable for your behaviors. I will show up as a real person who will laugh and joke with you, but I will also hold your emotional pain until you are ready to hold onto it on your own. If this is what you are looking for in a psychologist, I very much hope you reach out so we can chat some more!
(848) 244-8208 View (848) 244-8208
Photo of Yauhing Sally Lam, MA, LPC, ACS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yauhing Sally Lam
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840  (Online Only)
Areas of experience include the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, pain management, substance use disorders, and marital and career issues.
“Learning from hindsight, gaining insight, and developing foresight” This is the motto I focus on helping my clients to achieve. I’m a compassionate person who genuinely enjoys helping and working with people. I look forward to helping individuals and families who are seeking help coping with a range of psychological, emotional, or behavioral challenges.
Areas of experience include the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, pain management, substance use disorders, and marital and career issues.
“Learning from hindsight, gaining insight, and developing foresight” This is the motto I focus on helping my clients to achieve. I’m a compassionate person who genuinely enjoys helping and working with people. I look forward to helping individuals and families who are seeking help coping with a range of psychological, emotional, or behavioral challenges.
(732) 243-8939 View (732) 243-8939
Photo of Belinda Amatekpor, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Belinda Amatekpor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840  (Online Only)
I am passionate about assisting clients in managing symptoms of anxiety and depression, processing trauma and other life stressors, and in building healthy meaningful and purposeful relationships.
Would you like a non-judgmental, compassionate and present support in processing life stressors and trauma's, in managing symptoms of anxiety and depression, in exploring strategies to navigate and improve healthy relationships? I can assist you in making progress toward health and well-being.
I am passionate about assisting clients in managing symptoms of anxiety and depression, processing trauma and other life stressors, and in building healthy meaningful and purposeful relationships.
Would you like a non-judgmental, compassionate and present support in processing life stressors and trauma's, in managing symptoms of anxiety and depression, in exploring strategies to navigate and improve healthy relationships? I can assist you in making progress toward health and well-being.
(848) 244-8286 View (848) 244-8286
Photo of Leigh Garfield, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Garfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
I specialize in the treatment of food, body and eating issues, anxiety and depression.
My approach to therapy is much the same as a tailor creates a custom made garment. One size does not fit all. We work together as a team to create a plan unique to your needs and situation. I use a variety of techniques to address all aspects of the problem: cognitive, behavioral and emotional. The goal is to develop a deep understanding and have an insightful experience that leads to change.
I specialize in the treatment of food, body and eating issues, anxiety and depression.
My approach to therapy is much the same as a tailor creates a custom made garment. One size does not fit all. We work together as a team to create a plan unique to your needs and situation. I use a variety of techniques to address all aspects of the problem: cognitive, behavioral and emotional. The goal is to develop a deep understanding and have an insightful experience that leads to change.
(848) 253-3823 View (848) 253-3823
Photo of Leigh Polin - Leigh Polin LCSW, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Polin LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
A deeper connection with self can lead to greater life satisfaction and more ease, both within yourself and in relationship with others. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) can help facilitate this process. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and an IFS trained therapist. I utilize an integrated approach, focusing on the whole person. In addition to IFS and EMDR, I utilize Mindfulness, Meditation and Polyvagal Theory. All of these modalities can help with an array of challenges including, Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD.
A deeper connection with self can lead to greater life satisfaction and more ease, both within yourself and in relationship with others. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) can help facilitate this process. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and an IFS trained therapist. I utilize an integrated approach, focusing on the whole person. In addition to IFS and EMDR, I utilize Mindfulness, Meditation and Polyvagal Theory. All of these modalities can help with an array of challenges including, Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD.
(732) 605-6271 View (732) 605-6271
Photo of Jay Weintraub, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jay Weintraub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840  (Online Only)
I have experience working with people who are depressed, who have Bipolar Disorder and anxiety issues.
Hi my name is Jay Weintraub, and I graduated from Rutgers University in 1991 with an MSW. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1995. I have 29 years of experience working in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, partial care, and outpatient care. I enjoy working with adults, children, adolescents and couples. I never trivialize the things that people discuss. I work with people to problem solve and not to judge.
I have experience working with people who are depressed, who have Bipolar Disorder and anxiety issues.
Hi my name is Jay Weintraub, and I graduated from Rutgers University in 1991 with an MSW. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1995. I have 29 years of experience working in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, partial care, and outpatient care. I enjoy working with adults, children, adolescents and couples. I never trivialize the things that people discuss. I work with people to problem solve and not to judge.
(732) 491-8767 View (732) 491-8767
Brian Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Hundreds of research studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)in working with anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, anger management and other psychological issues. As CBT has proven itself so beneficial, many therapists employ some of its techniques. But in order to have the best possible outcome with this form of psychotherapy, it is important to find a therapist who has been formally trained and certified in CBT. I am a graduate of the Beck Institute for Cognitive Therapy and Research, established by the founder of CBT, Dr. Aaron Beck, and a member of The Academy of Cognitive Therapy.
Hundreds of research studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)in working with anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, anger management and other psychological issues. As CBT has proven itself so beneficial, many therapists employ some of its techniques. But in order to have the best possible outcome with this form of psychotherapy, it is important to find a therapist who has been formally trained and certified in CBT. I am a graduate of the Beck Institute for Cognitive Therapy and Research, established by the founder of CBT, Dr. Aaron Beck, and a member of The Academy of Cognitive Therapy.
(732) 852-7048 View (732) 852-7048
Photo of Ann Silvestri, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Silvestri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
With hundreds of studies indicating that practical problem solving counseling works most effectively, I utilize with my clients a highly effective form of therapy. Get some of the most effective types of assistance with your depression, anxiety or relationship concerns. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy provides support for your concerns from the beginning. Assisting with pragmatic, enriching treatment. Whether it is that your are feeling blue, concerned with anxiety and worries or relationship problems, call today to speak with me about how you can apply highly effective easy to utilize approaches to making improvements in your life.
With hundreds of studies indicating that practical problem solving counseling works most effectively, I utilize with my clients a highly effective form of therapy. Get some of the most effective types of assistance with your depression, anxiety or relationship concerns. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy provides support for your concerns from the beginning. Assisting with pragmatic, enriching treatment. Whether it is that your are feeling blue, concerned with anxiety and worries or relationship problems, call today to speak with me about how you can apply highly effective easy to utilize approaches to making improvements in your life.
(973) 577-7854 View (973) 577-7854
Photo of Maria Cacace, LAC, NBCC, Counselor
Maria Cacace
Counselor, LAC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging and it is my strength to help others struggling with their mental health or any life issues affecting day to day functioning. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and 30+ adults experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem issues, trauma, relationship issues, addictions and more. I am down to earth and meet my client's where they're at with their mental health needs. I work with my clients to develop a positive rapport, trust and work towards developing and accomplishing your goals for our sessions.
Life can be challenging and it is my strength to help others struggling with their mental health or any life issues affecting day to day functioning. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and 30+ adults experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem issues, trauma, relationship issues, addictions and more. I am down to earth and meet my client's where they're at with their mental health needs. I work with my clients to develop a positive rapport, trust and work towards developing and accomplishing your goals for our sessions.
(732) 837-3023 View (732) 837-3023
Photo of Brian Kalmus, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Kalmus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840  (Online Only)
If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking to elevate your life to the next level, I invite you to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation.
Searching for a new therapist can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re exploring therapy for the first time or have tried it in the past, beginning this journey with someone new can be intimidating. My goal is to make this transition as smooth and comfortable as possible, and yes, even enjoyable. While therapy can be challenging, it also offers moments of profound growth and self-discovery, and that can be really exciting. Since 2007, I have been dedicated to the mental health field, working extensively in Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient programs before moving into a high school-based setting.
If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking to elevate your life to the next level, I invite you to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation.
Searching for a new therapist can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re exploring therapy for the first time or have tried it in the past, beginning this journey with someone new can be intimidating. My goal is to make this transition as smooth and comfortable as possible, and yes, even enjoyable. While therapy can be challenging, it also offers moments of profound growth and self-discovery, and that can be really exciting. Since 2007, I have been dedicated to the mental health field, working extensively in Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient programs before moving into a high school-based setting.
(973) 545-7833 View (973) 545-7833
Photo of Sharon R Evancio, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharon R Evancio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Some areas that I have helped clients with include depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, stress management, self-esteem issues, sexual abuse, personal growth, parenting issues, as well as helping couples and families improve their relationships and move beyond their difficulties.
I have established a private practice that is a warm, nonjudgemental, confidential, and culturally sensitive setting. In this comfortable environment you will feel safe to explore and resolve any issues that have become to challenging for you to resolve on your own. I am an experienced professional, licensed by the State of New Jersey. Depending on your needs I provide individual, marital/couples, and/or family counseling. My education and experience include psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and ego resolution, as well as spiritual counseling which make this a successful comprehensive service.
Some areas that I have helped clients with include depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, stress management, self-esteem issues, sexual abuse, personal growth, parenting issues, as well as helping couples and families improve their relationships and move beyond their difficulties.
I have established a private practice that is a warm, nonjudgemental, confidential, and culturally sensitive setting. In this comfortable environment you will feel safe to explore and resolve any issues that have become to challenging for you to resolve on your own. I am an experienced professional, licensed by the State of New Jersey. Depending on your needs I provide individual, marital/couples, and/or family counseling. My education and experience include psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and ego resolution, as well as spiritual counseling which make this a successful comprehensive service.
(732) 250-0203 View (732) 250-0203
Photo of Kenneth Kressel, PhD, Psychologist
Kenneth Kressel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
People seek my help because of a troubled relationship or feelings of anxiety or depression caused by some important life disappointment. They are often internally conflicted about how to deal with their distress and seek understanding and guidance from a supportive professional. For men the focus is often on helping them become more emotionally self-aware and attentive to their partners; for women it often means helping them find ways to be more assertive and clear about their needs.
People seek my help because of a troubled relationship or feelings of anxiety or depression caused by some important life disappointment. They are often internally conflicted about how to deal with their distress and seek understanding and guidance from a supportive professional. For men the focus is often on helping them become more emotionally self-aware and attentive to their partners; for women it often means helping them find ways to be more assertive and clear about their needs.
(732) 410-7480 View (732) 410-7480
Photo of Pat Spencer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pat Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Whether looking for individual or couples therapy, finding the right therapist can be challenging. Who would be a good match? Who has the balance of supporting you and challenging you when needed? Who do you trust? Perhaps I can be that right match. I have experience in the LGBT, military, and Veterans communities. I have experience working with adults and children from cultures across the world. I have worked with various issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, work/school/sports performance. I have a calm, friendly, interactive, supportive style while focusing on the healing power of a therapeutic relationship.
Whether looking for individual or couples therapy, finding the right therapist can be challenging. Who would be a good match? Who has the balance of supporting you and challenging you when needed? Who do you trust? Perhaps I can be that right match. I have experience in the LGBT, military, and Veterans communities. I have experience working with adults and children from cultures across the world. I have worked with various issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, work/school/sports performance. I have a calm, friendly, interactive, supportive style while focusing on the healing power of a therapeutic relationship.
(732) 837-2317 View (732) 837-2317
Photo of Donna Wolfskehl Distefano, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Wolfskehl Distefano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
This is a deeper process of understanding what is difficult in dealing with feelings like depression, anxiety, loneliness, anger.
If painful experiences were met with confusing or anxious responses from others or described in manners that did not respond to emotional needs, then a child or individual would likely cope with difficulties by disconnecting from the threatening emotional meanings. We need another at times, or search for a healing process. If you have been struggling with strong feelings or a particular situation, it is time to get help. You can find the way through fears, loss or other struggles. I am here to support you through your struggles, through personal hardships, finding truths or make sense of confusion in your mind or life.
This is a deeper process of understanding what is difficult in dealing with feelings like depression, anxiety, loneliness, anger.
If painful experiences were met with confusing or anxious responses from others or described in manners that did not respond to emotional needs, then a child or individual would likely cope with difficulties by disconnecting from the threatening emotional meanings. We need another at times, or search for a healing process. If you have been struggling with strong feelings or a particular situation, it is time to get help. You can find the way through fears, loss or other struggles. I am here to support you through your struggles, through personal hardships, finding truths or make sense of confusion in your mind or life.
(732) 204-6462 View (732) 204-6462
Photo of Margot Harris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margot Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
I have worked extensively with issues of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief and PTSD, just to name a few.
I have had over 42 years of experience treating adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups, primarily utilizing the Cognitive Behavioral therapy approach, along with healthy doses of humor (when appropriate, of course). I am a firm believer that the bedrock of successful treatment begins with establishing a solid connection and rapport with the people I treat. My philosophy is that the patient is the captain of the ship and I am the navigator; the captain tells me where he/she wants to go (goals) and I suggest the routing to get there - and as a team...we'll get there!
I have worked extensively with issues of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief and PTSD, just to name a few.
I have had over 42 years of experience treating adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups, primarily utilizing the Cognitive Behavioral therapy approach, along with healthy doses of humor (when appropriate, of course). I am a firm believer that the bedrock of successful treatment begins with establishing a solid connection and rapport with the people I treat. My philosophy is that the patient is the captain of the ship and I am the navigator; the captain tells me where he/she wants to go (goals) and I suggest the routing to get there - and as a team...we'll get there!
(848) 999-3167 View (848) 999-3167
Photo of Barbara Zonitch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Zonitch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
New clients often ask, "how will talking to you about my problems help me?" All of us on this web site would probably agree that working with a caring and interested therapist can have positive, even dramatic, results - - whether that means the relief of depression and anxiety, feeling better and happier in your intimate relationships, dealing with loss, or generally liking yourself better. What is the first meeting like? I want to hear about your immediate concerns, to get to know something of your life story, and to see how we might work together to achieve your goals.
New clients often ask, "how will talking to you about my problems help me?" All of us on this web site would probably agree that working with a caring and interested therapist can have positive, even dramatic, results - - whether that means the relief of depression and anxiety, feeling better and happier in your intimate relationships, dealing with loss, or generally liking yourself better. What is the first meeting like? I want to hear about your immediate concerns, to get to know something of your life story, and to see how we might work together to achieve your goals.
(732) 523-0958 View (732) 523-0958
Photo of Sara N Toth, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara N Toth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Waitlist for new clients
I am an open and empathic therapist whose style is warm, candid, and collaborative. I treat individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, existential crises, life transitions, chronic illness and grief. The main focus for my therapeutic work is to help you feel more at peace with yourself and in your relationships.
I am an open and empathic therapist whose style is warm, candid, and collaborative. I treat individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, existential crises, life transitions, chronic illness and grief. The main focus for my therapeutic work is to help you feel more at peace with yourself and in your relationships.
(908) 946-2627 View (908) 946-2627
Photo of Jaclyn Cohen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaclyn Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Welcome! My name is Jaclyn Cohen, and I maintain a culturally competent, LGBTQ+ affirming, warm and inclusive therapy practice. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for you to work through challenges, learn more about yourself, and gain relief from any suffering you may be experiencing. I specialize in working with clients ages 18-30, treating stressors related to older adolescence and transitioning into adulthood: symptoms of anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and more.
Welcome! My name is Jaclyn Cohen, and I maintain a culturally competent, LGBTQ+ affirming, warm and inclusive therapy practice. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for you to work through challenges, learn more about yourself, and gain relief from any suffering you may be experiencing. I specialize in working with clients ages 18-30, treating stressors related to older adolescence and transitioning into adulthood: symptoms of anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and more.
(848) 999-5105 View (848) 999-5105
Photo of Jenna Crance Dziedzic, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenna Crance Dziedzic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Welcome! Through a collaborative effort, I work with children, adolescents, adults and their families, to navigate through life stressors, anxiety, depression and peer/family conflict, among other areas of struggle as well. You have taken the important first step of reaching out for help and support. The journey to a happier, healthier life can be lined with tough obstacles, but with the right support, people of all ages can achieve it.
Welcome! Through a collaborative effort, I work with children, adolescents, adults and their families, to navigate through life stressors, anxiety, depression and peer/family conflict, among other areas of struggle as well. You have taken the important first step of reaching out for help and support. The journey to a happier, healthier life can be lined with tough obstacles, but with the right support, people of all ages can achieve it.
(908) 332-8985 View (908) 332-8985
1
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.