Photo of Mary Toolan, Psychologist in Springfield, NJ
Mary Toolan
Psychologist, PsyD, EdS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
My specialization includes supporting adults, adolescents, children, and couples manage their anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, conflicts, life changes & stressors, and grief with flexibility & creativity.
As a Licensed Psychologist and certified School Psychologist with more than 20 years of experience, I can support you as you explore your unique circumstances. I specialize in helping adults, adolescents, couples and children cope more effectively with conflict, short and long term distress, anxiety, and depression using a range of therapeutic approaches. If needed, I can also conduct comprehensive psycho-educational evaluations to identify personal strengths, attention/focus, facilitate career planning or for school based initial classification &/or re-evaluation planning.
My specialization includes supporting adults, adolescents, children, and couples manage their anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, conflicts, life changes & stressors, and grief with flexibility & creativity.
As a Licensed Psychologist and certified School Psychologist with more than 20 years of experience, I can support you as you explore your unique circumstances. I specialize in helping adults, adolescents, couples and children cope more effectively with conflict, short and long term distress, anxiety, and depression using a range of therapeutic approaches. If needed, I can also conduct comprehensive psycho-educational evaluations to identify personal strengths, attention/focus, facilitate career planning or for school based initial classification &/or re-evaluation planning.
(862) 800-2046 View (862) 800-2046
Photo of Katie A. Celentano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, NJ
Katie A. Celentano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
I specialize in treating eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and coping with life stressors.
If you found this page, you may be feeling helpless, hopeless, and unsure of where to turn. You may be doubtful that you will ever be able to stop what feels like the endless cycle of your eating disorder. You may be feeling isolated and alone in your depression or overwhelmed by your anxiety. Perhaps you are feeling the stresses of life are becoming too much and you don’t know how to cope. I want to help you on your journey towards healing. My goal is to help you live the life that you desire. This is the life that you deserve. Through my non-judgmental, compassionate, and empathetic approach, I will be your guide on this journey.
I specialize in treating eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and coping with life stressors.
If you found this page, you may be feeling helpless, hopeless, and unsure of where to turn. You may be doubtful that you will ever be able to stop what feels like the endless cycle of your eating disorder. You may be feeling isolated and alone in your depression or overwhelmed by your anxiety. Perhaps you are feeling the stresses of life are becoming too much and you don’t know how to cope. I want to help you on your journey towards healing. My goal is to help you live the life that you desire. This is the life that you deserve. Through my non-judgmental, compassionate, and empathetic approach, I will be your guide on this journey.
(908) 829-9842 View (908) 829-9842
Photo of Laura Alper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, NJ
Laura Alper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
I specialize in low self-esteem, anxiety and depression in individuals; communication and trust issues with couples; reproductive difficulties including infertility and pregnancy loss; chronic illness; and stress management.
Welcome to my psychotherapy practice. As an experienced psychotherapist, I've observed that low self esteem, chronic illness, relationship difficulties, anxiety and depression can make every day a grind. I use cognitive-behavioral and insight-oriented methods paired with relaxation techniques. These diverse approaches will arm you with a new set of skills that will help you cope better with your challenges and live a more fulfilled life. I've dedicated over 3 decades to helping people get unstuck from self-defeating patterns. 50% of my practice is dedicated to work with couples with a high degree of success.
I specialize in low self-esteem, anxiety and depression in individuals; communication and trust issues with couples; reproductive difficulties including infertility and pregnancy loss; chronic illness; and stress management.
Welcome to my psychotherapy practice. As an experienced psychotherapist, I've observed that low self esteem, chronic illness, relationship difficulties, anxiety and depression can make every day a grind. I use cognitive-behavioral and insight-oriented methods paired with relaxation techniques. These diverse approaches will arm you with a new set of skills that will help you cope better with your challenges and live a more fulfilled life. I've dedicated over 3 decades to helping people get unstuck from self-defeating patterns. 50% of my practice is dedicated to work with couples with a high degree of success.
(973) 988-2825 View (973) 988-2825
Photo of Leslie Springer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, NJ
Leslie Springer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Finding the right fit with a therapist is so important. In order to get the most out of therapy, it is crucial that the therapist/patient relationship be empathic, comfortable and trusting. I work with college age and adult individuals, struggling with anxiety, panic disorder, depression, life transitions, pre and postpartum, medical/pain issues, coping with stress and relationship issues. I have been a therapist for 20 years, and feel confident that you can overcome barriers that are affecting you emotionally, psychologically and physically. I strive to make you feel more comfortable in your life.
Finding the right fit with a therapist is so important. In order to get the most out of therapy, it is crucial that the therapist/patient relationship be empathic, comfortable and trusting. I work with college age and adult individuals, struggling with anxiety, panic disorder, depression, life transitions, pre and postpartum, medical/pain issues, coping with stress and relationship issues. I have been a therapist for 20 years, and feel confident that you can overcome barriers that are affecting you emotionally, psychologically and physically. I strive to make you feel more comfortable in your life.
(646) 846-4868 View (646) 846-4868
Photo of Andrea Kurzner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, NJ
Andrea Kurzner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
As a therapist, my goal is to help patients cope with everyday stressors, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, chronic illness and grief. I have worked with teens and adults over the past 20 years, providing a warm, welcoming and safe environment, where a patient can safely explore their thoughts and feelings. I am offering on-line Telehealth sessions to help cope with these unique challenges for patients who live in New Jersey and New York. I also am offering in person sessions.
As a therapist, my goal is to help patients cope with everyday stressors, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, chronic illness and grief. I have worked with teens and adults over the past 20 years, providing a warm, welcoming and safe environment, where a patient can safely explore their thoughts and feelings. I am offering on-line Telehealth sessions to help cope with these unique challenges for patients who live in New Jersey and New York. I also am offering in person sessions.
(973) 564-1933 View (973) 564-1933
Photo of David Aichroth LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, NJ
David Aichroth LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, AMTP
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
I am accepting new clients - Are you feeling depressed and anxious? Are you struggling with gambling, alcohol, shopping, drug addiction? If so don't hesitate to call. I am both a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed clinical drug and alcohol counselor in the state of NJ. My 23 years of experience is primarily focused on treating individuals and families struggling with mental health issues (depression, anxiety, etc.) and or addiction.
I am accepting new clients - Are you feeling depressed and anxious? Are you struggling with gambling, alcohol, shopping, drug addiction? If so don't hesitate to call. I am both a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed clinical drug and alcohol counselor in the state of NJ. My 23 years of experience is primarily focused on treating individuals and families struggling with mental health issues (depression, anxiety, etc.) and or addiction.
(631) 779-1081 View (631) 779-1081
Photo of Susan D Marx, Psychologist in Springfield, NJ
Susan D Marx
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, social issues/relationships, life transitions, work difficulties or substance abuse, we will work as a team to resolve them.
If you are searching for a therapist, that probably means that something is not working for you in your life right now. My goal is to provide a safe, warm environment for you to explore all of the reasons that you made the decision to seek help, and then to assist you in formulating your own goals. After conducting a thorough assessment, I will be a thoughtful listener, and also an active participant in the subsequent exploration. While therapy can be challenging, I work hard to make you feel understood, and to help generate potential solutions.
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, social issues/relationships, life transitions, work difficulties or substance abuse, we will work as a team to resolve them.
If you are searching for a therapist, that probably means that something is not working for you in your life right now. My goal is to provide a safe, warm environment for you to explore all of the reasons that you made the decision to seek help, and then to assist you in formulating your own goals. After conducting a thorough assessment, I will be a thoughtful listener, and also an active participant in the subsequent exploration. While therapy can be challenging, I work hard to make you feel understood, and to help generate potential solutions.
(973) 379-6502 View (973) 379-6502
Roberta R Fallig
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Choosing a therapist can be a daunting task. I work toward providing an atmosphere of respect, support, trust and caring which can lead to a greater potential for self understanding, healing, relief and the opportunity to see and make different choices. In private practice for over 20 years, I have a varied practice, working with individuals, couples and families with a wide range of difficulties. Areas of particular specialty include working with those who have experienced trauma, relational difficulties, anxiey, depression, and issues of childhood and adolescence.
Choosing a therapist can be a daunting task. I work toward providing an atmosphere of respect, support, trust and caring which can lead to a greater potential for self understanding, healing, relief and the opportunity to see and make different choices. In private practice for over 20 years, I have a varied practice, working with individuals, couples and families with a wide range of difficulties. Areas of particular specialty include working with those who have experienced trauma, relational difficulties, anxiey, depression, and issues of childhood and adolescence.
(973) 467-9409 View (973) 467-9409
Photo of Laura M Woolfson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, NJ
Laura M Woolfson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Most people seek therapists when they are experiencing emotional issues which are too hard to handle on their own. Whether it be dealing with a loss, infidelity, or a sustained period of depression and anxiety I am here to help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) trained in mental health issues with over 18 years experience. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) I will teach you coping skills and techniques. Whether it is a sudden crisis in your life or something that has caused you pain for many years, I am here to help, listen, nurture, and encourage you to be who you want to become.
Most people seek therapists when they are experiencing emotional issues which are too hard to handle on their own. Whether it be dealing with a loss, infidelity, or a sustained period of depression and anxiety I am here to help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) trained in mental health issues with over 18 years experience. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) I will teach you coping skills and techniques. Whether it is a sudden crisis in your life or something that has caused you pain for many years, I am here to help, listen, nurture, and encourage you to be who you want to become.
(973) 419-6707 View (973) 419-6707
Photo of Beth Sklar-Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, NJ
Beth Sklar-Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081  (Online Only)
I offer psychotherapy/counseling for issues such as: relationship conflict, divorce, life transitions, depression , anxiety, self- esteem and chronic health issues.
It's not easy to walk into an office and speak to a stranger about your most personal struggles with the hope that they might actually help you. This requires trust that the therapist knows what they are doing and a sense of safety that they actually like and care about you. Therapy is first about building a trusting relationship, and then about using the best available therapeutic approaches to heIp you get relief from pain, stress, and conflicts.
I offer psychotherapy/counseling for issues such as: relationship conflict, divorce, life transitions, depression , anxiety, self- esteem and chronic health issues.
It's not easy to walk into an office and speak to a stranger about your most personal struggles with the hope that they might actually help you. This requires trust that the therapist knows what they are doing and a sense of safety that they actually like and care about you. Therapy is first about building a trusting relationship, and then about using the best available therapeutic approaches to heIp you get relief from pain, stress, and conflicts.
(973) 250-2412 View (973) 250-2412
Photo of Kara S. Jablonka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, NJ
Kara S. Jablonka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you hoping to improve your coping skills? Perhaps you need help making yourself a priority in your own life. Searching for a therapist can be an overwhelming task. The good news is that you are looking for help, which is often the first step toward positive change. Most people come to me wanting to feel happier, more fulfilled and balanced in their lives. Common issues include problems related to parenting, peers, school or work.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you hoping to improve your coping skills? Perhaps you need help making yourself a priority in your own life. Searching for a therapist can be an overwhelming task. The good news is that you are looking for help, which is often the first step toward positive change. Most people come to me wanting to feel happier, more fulfilled and balanced in their lives. Common issues include problems related to parenting, peers, school or work.
(908) 490-6180 View (908) 490-6180
Photo of Asya Rivinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, NJ
Asya Rivinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081  (Online Only)
I have a special interest in working with women who suffer from anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship problems, mood swings and depression.
An effective therapist can help you overcome difficulties and enhance your life. My name is Asya Rivinson, and I am a psychotherapist licensed in NJ and NY. Currently I have my private practice in Springfield, NJ, and in Manhattan but my experience of working in different countries helps me to connect with clients of various backgrounds and values. My work as a therapist for over a decade developed both my skills and my faith in the value of therapy. In my work, I am supportive, insight-oriented, professional and knowledgeable.
I have a special interest in working with women who suffer from anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship problems, mood swings and depression.
An effective therapist can help you overcome difficulties and enhance your life. My name is Asya Rivinson, and I am a psychotherapist licensed in NJ and NY. Currently I have my private practice in Springfield, NJ, and in Manhattan but my experience of working in different countries helps me to connect with clients of various backgrounds and values. My work as a therapist for over a decade developed both my skills and my faith in the value of therapy. In my work, I am supportive, insight-oriented, professional and knowledgeable.
(800) 870-6244 View (800) 870-6244
Photo of Elizabeth Arnone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, NJ
Elizabeth Arnone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
I provide a supportive empathic environment where clients feel safe to explore the complicated emotions that accompany losses whether through death, divorce, job loss, pet loss or chronic illness. Life losses can be overwhelming and at times result in depression and anxiety however with supportive therapy this grief can be overcome. I work closely with loved ones and caregivers in cases of acute and chronic illness; who may be faced with conflicting emotions and complex decision making.
I provide a supportive empathic environment where clients feel safe to explore the complicated emotions that accompany losses whether through death, divorce, job loss, pet loss or chronic illness. Life losses can be overwhelming and at times result in depression and anxiety however with supportive therapy this grief can be overcome. I work closely with loved ones and caregivers in cases of acute and chronic illness; who may be faced with conflicting emotions and complex decision making.
(201) 928-5116 View (201) 928-5116
Short Hills Associates in Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
We are a multidisciplinary group practice providing comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, adults and their families. We offer a wide range of psychiatric,psychotherapeutic and specialized services including: Psychological, psychiatric and neuropsychological evaluations Individual psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults Group therapy for adolescents and adults Child Management Training Psychiatric medication monitoring We also run KIDSGROUPS which is a comprehensive social skills group program designed for children from preschool through middle school. The primary goal of KIDSGROUPS is to develop children's self confidence in the areas of decision making, communication, social skills and emotional problem solving.
We are a multidisciplinary group practice providing comprehensive mental health services to children, adolescents, adults and their families. We offer a wide range of psychiatric,psychotherapeutic and specialized services including: Psychological, psychiatric and neuropsychological evaluations Individual psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults Group therapy for adolescents and adults Child Management Training Psychiatric medication monitoring We also run KIDSGROUPS which is a comprehensive social skills group program designed for children from preschool through middle school. The primary goal of KIDSGROUPS is to develop children's self confidence in the areas of decision making, communication, social skills and emotional problem solving.
(973) 671-1547 View (973) 671-1547
Photo of Alyssa Cariani Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, NJ
Alyssa Cariani Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Alyssa. Thanks for being here. I operate based on the knowledge that every human being has his/her/their own unique strengths and struggles. I truly understand that the decision to pursue therapy can be a difficult process. It is my goal to provide a safe space for my clients so that they may bring out the best in themselves and reach their goals. My specialties include supporting those managing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, addiction, pursuit of esteem and identity, school difficulties, and overwhelming life transitions. I proudly utilize an eclectic, integrative approach to therapy in order to address my clients needs.
Hi, I'm Alyssa. Thanks for being here. I operate based on the knowledge that every human being has his/her/their own unique strengths and struggles. I truly understand that the decision to pursue therapy can be a difficult process. It is my goal to provide a safe space for my clients so that they may bring out the best in themselves and reach their goals. My specialties include supporting those managing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, addiction, pursuit of esteem and identity, school difficulties, and overwhelming life transitions. I proudly utilize an eclectic, integrative approach to therapy in order to address my clients needs.
(908) 521-4685 View (908) 521-4685
Photo of Susan Emerson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Springfield, NJ
Susan Emerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
We all have unique and personal stories inside us. I join with each family member with an understanding of their strengths and challenges; with the belief that even though we cannot change our past we can direct our future. My professional experience includes working with children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of cognitive, behavioral and emotional issues. Together we will focus on finding solutions that work for your life and circumstances; in a safe, supportive and non-judgemental place to explore, comprehend and resolve issues. I embrace the opportunity to co-create with you through the therapeutic process.
We all have unique and personal stories inside us. I join with each family member with an understanding of their strengths and challenges; with the belief that even though we cannot change our past we can direct our future. My professional experience includes working with children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of cognitive, behavioral and emotional issues. Together we will focus on finding solutions that work for your life and circumstances; in a safe, supportive and non-judgemental place to explore, comprehend and resolve issues. I embrace the opportunity to co-create with you through the therapeutic process.
(508) 471-5346 View (508) 471-5346
Photo of Lisa Sturm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, NJ
Lisa Sturm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
I believe that given the right tools, we are all capable of attaining a comfortable level of happiness and fulfillment in life. My role is to help you acquire and sharpen those tools within the shortest possible time frame. I’m a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. With couples, I use the Gottman Method, which combines psychodynamic and research-based techniques to strengthen emotional closeness and intimacy, improve conflict management, and create a culture of mutual support. With trauma, I use only proven techniques including IFS and EMDR. Learn more at www.lisasturm.com.
I believe that given the right tools, we are all capable of attaining a comfortable level of happiness and fulfillment in life. My role is to help you acquire and sharpen those tools within the shortest possible time frame. I’m a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. With couples, I use the Gottman Method, which combines psychodynamic and research-based techniques to strengthen emotional closeness and intimacy, improve conflict management, and create a culture of mutual support. With trauma, I use only proven techniques including IFS and EMDR. Learn more at www.lisasturm.com.
(973) 988-4166 View (973) 988-4166
Photo of Cindy Hamilton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, NJ
Cindy Hamilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, ACS, ATCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
Hello, are you looking to make a change in some way...? My personal goal as a therapist is to help people express themselves and be their best. In order to do this, I utilize talk and the creative arts therapies. You may discover the mode of therapy that best suits you. You may find the grounding you need in your life, learn new coping skills, and see your ability to reach your full potential by making connections that you may not see on your own.
Hello, are you looking to make a change in some way...? My personal goal as a therapist is to help people express themselves and be their best. In order to do this, I utilize talk and the creative arts therapies. You may discover the mode of therapy that best suits you. You may find the grounding you need in your life, learn new coping skills, and see your ability to reach your full potential by making connections that you may not see on your own.
(908) 838-4810 View (908) 838-4810
Photo of Robyn Solomon, Counselor in Springfield, NJ
Robyn Solomon
Counselor, LAC, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081
“The most important relationship you will ever have is the one you have with yourself.” – Diane Von Furstenberg - Are you looking for a better quality of life that gives you a sense of being, rather than just existing? Welcome to a safe space of healing and self-exploration. Start feeling hope and gain resilience! In the midst of our daily commitments, the pursuit of self-care often takes a back seat. Now is the opportune moment to prioritize the cultivation of a healthier 'You'. Life can feel overwhelming leading to a host of struggles. Together, we will pinpoint the stressors and develop effective coping mechanisms.
“The most important relationship you will ever have is the one you have with yourself.” – Diane Von Furstenberg - Are you looking for a better quality of life that gives you a sense of being, rather than just existing? Welcome to a safe space of healing and self-exploration. Start feeling hope and gain resilience! In the midst of our daily commitments, the pursuit of self-care often takes a back seat. Now is the opportune moment to prioritize the cultivation of a healthier 'You'. Life can feel overwhelming leading to a host of struggles. Together, we will pinpoint the stressors and develop effective coping mechanisms.
(908) 529-8189 View (908) 529-8189
Photo of Sean Sebastian Vizcaino, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, NJ
Sean Sebastian Vizcaino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081
Not accepting new clients
As a Cuban-American, I am able to relate to and understand many Hispanic/Latino cultural norms. Furthermore, I have years of experience counseling individuals in the Black and Latino Community. I have firsthand experience with different mental health disorders as it has hit close to home, and I know how devastating it can be to those suffering and to the family. This is but one of the reasons I am passionate about therapy and its benefits. My strengths in counseling include a nonjudgmental approach that leads to notable progress and appropriate solutions for many different presenting problems.
As a Cuban-American, I am able to relate to and understand many Hispanic/Latino cultural norms. Furthermore, I have years of experience counseling individuals in the Black and Latino Community. I have firsthand experience with different mental health disorders as it has hit close to home, and I know how devastating it can be to those suffering and to the family. This is but one of the reasons I am passionate about therapy and its benefits. My strengths in counseling include a nonjudgmental approach that leads to notable progress and appropriate solutions for many different presenting problems.
(973) 834-8228 View (973) 834-8228

See more therapy options for Springfield

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.