Depression Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Merav Ben-Horin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Merav Ben-Horin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LP, RYT, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11218
I’m a licensed psychotherapist, psychoanalyst, and therapeutic yoga teacher. I work with individuals and couples to address a range of issues and life circumstances, such as relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, professional identity, issues of self esteem, life transitions, creative blocks, grief, addiction, body image, insomnia, prenatal, postpartum, and more. I use a variety of tools to support each individual, including: psychodynamic and insight oriented therapy as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness.
I’m a licensed psychotherapist, psychoanalyst, and therapeutic yoga teacher. I work with individuals and couples to address a range of issues and life circumstances, such as relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, professional identity, issues of self esteem, life transitions, creative blocks, grief, addiction, body image, insomnia, prenatal, postpartum, and more. I use a variety of tools to support each individual, including: psychodynamic and insight oriented therapy as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy ( DBT), Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness.
(917) 970-2209 View (917) 970-2209
Photo of Maya Williamson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Maya Williamson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11217  (Online Only)
I have supported clients around grief/loss, separation, relationship stressors, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
The decision to begin therapy is a courageous one, whether you are looking for support during an especially stressful time or are interested in understanding deeply-rooted patterns that no longer serve you. I acknowledge this powerful step forward and pledge to work collaboratively with you to create a safe, gentle space that encourages you to feel grounded and connected to your authentic self.
I have supported clients around grief/loss, separation, relationship stressors, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
The decision to begin therapy is a courageous one, whether you are looking for support during an especially stressful time or are interested in understanding deeply-rooted patterns that no longer serve you. I acknowledge this powerful step forward and pledge to work collaboratively with you to create a safe, gentle space that encourages you to feel grounded and connected to your authentic self.
(929) 552-2785 View (929) 552-2785
Photo of Rebekah Windmiller in Brooklyn, NY
Rebekah Windmiller
LCAT, REAT, Gestalt, Somatic
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11208  (Online Only)
I work with adults who have backgrounds of addiction, anxiety, and depression with a specialty in treating religious trauma.
Finding the right therapist who really gets you can be a challenge! I am happy to talk with you and discover together if we might be a good fit. In therapy we will look at the repetitive patterns that keep you stuck and with a moment-to-moment awareness of letting go of what holds you back from being who you want to be. This awareness naturally opens a new possibility for feeling and thinking differently. Starting therapy can be scary, but it is also a courageous step and something we do together. Whether you are new to therapy or returning after a break I can help you gain experiential insight to move in a new direction.
I work with adults who have backgrounds of addiction, anxiety, and depression with a specialty in treating religious trauma.
Finding the right therapist who really gets you can be a challenge! I am happy to talk with you and discover together if we might be a good fit. In therapy we will look at the repetitive patterns that keep you stuck and with a moment-to-moment awareness of letting go of what holds you back from being who you want to be. This awareness naturally opens a new possibility for feeling and thinking differently. Starting therapy can be scary, but it is also a courageous step and something we do together. Whether you are new to therapy or returning after a break I can help you gain experiential insight to move in a new direction.
(917) 994-8483 View (917) 994-8483
Photo of Jennifer Coonce, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Brooklyn, NY
Jennifer Coonce
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I see patients who experience anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and other forms of unhappiness or dissatisfaction.
Experienced individual and couples therapist. Often times, people find that they experience unhappiness, anxiety, or repeated obstacles to getting what they want in relationships, work, or other areas of our lives. Through a cooperative, supportive relationship with the right therapist, you can learn how to cope with what the "universe" throws your way, and which of your own behaviors and conflicts are contributing to your unhappiness. By talking with someone you trust and feel comfortable with, I believe anyone can learn to know themselves better and to live more consciously and deliberately. I teach and practice psychoanalysis.
I see patients who experience anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and other forms of unhappiness or dissatisfaction.
Experienced individual and couples therapist. Often times, people find that they experience unhappiness, anxiety, or repeated obstacles to getting what they want in relationships, work, or other areas of our lives. Through a cooperative, supportive relationship with the right therapist, you can learn how to cope with what the "universe" throws your way, and which of your own behaviors and conflicts are contributing to your unhappiness. By talking with someone you trust and feel comfortable with, I believe anyone can learn to know themselves better and to live more consciously and deliberately. I teach and practice psychoanalysis.
(929) 203-5495 View (929) 203-5495
Photo of Lileth Muench, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Lileth Muench
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm so glad you're here! It's okay to need support and I am here to help. I create a space that is genuine, empathetic, and non-judgmental so that you can feel comfortable expressing yourself. I have experience working with clients presenting with anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, trauma, autism, adjustment difficulties, relationship conflicts, self-identity, and a variety of other mental health concerns. I also love working with couples and partners on improving communication, infidelity, intimacy, and other relationship concerns.
Hi, I'm so glad you're here! It's okay to need support and I am here to help. I create a space that is genuine, empathetic, and non-judgmental so that you can feel comfortable expressing yourself. I have experience working with clients presenting with anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, trauma, autism, adjustment difficulties, relationship conflicts, self-identity, and a variety of other mental health concerns. I also love working with couples and partners on improving communication, infidelity, intimacy, and other relationship concerns.
(332) 239-2651 View (332) 239-2651
Photo of Group Practice of Kate Franza LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Group Practice of Kate Franza LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11231  (Online Only)
My name is Kate Franza, and I am a licensed therapist, providing services in both California and New York. I am originally from New York, where I received my MSW degree from Fordham University. My practice is grounded in my community mental health background, with a focus on LGBTQ issues, anxiety, depression and substance use. My clients experience relationship struggles, trauma, chronic relapse, and many are interested in exploring and understanding their sexuality and gender identity. I use a harm reduction approach and I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive and mindfulness-based skill building.
My name is Kate Franza, and I am a licensed therapist, providing services in both California and New York. I am originally from New York, where I received my MSW degree from Fordham University. My practice is grounded in my community mental health background, with a focus on LGBTQ issues, anxiety, depression and substance use. My clients experience relationship struggles, trauma, chronic relapse, and many are interested in exploring and understanding their sexuality and gender identity. I use a harm reduction approach and I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive and mindfulness-based skill building.
(312) 548-8813 View (312) 548-8813
Photo of Anxiety, Depression & Trauma Emdr/Cbt/Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Anxiety, Depression & Trauma Emdr/Cbt/Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11233  (Online Only)
Shionna's specialties includes but are not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, women’s issues, LGBTQ+ issues and behavioral issues, with experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Shionna Stupart is a licensed clinical social worker with a focus on treating mental illness, emotional and other behavioral disturbances. She uses a comprehensive approach to treatment in order enhance social functioning, self-determination, optimal health, and overall well-being. As a clinician her purpose is to provide a collaborative safe environment in order to process and redefine those experiences and garner insight. Shionna value's building and maintaining a therapeutic relationship with each client by imparting empathy, confidentiality and understanding.
Shionna's specialties includes but are not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, women’s issues, LGBTQ+ issues and behavioral issues, with experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Shionna Stupart is a licensed clinical social worker with a focus on treating mental illness, emotional and other behavioral disturbances. She uses a comprehensive approach to treatment in order enhance social functioning, self-determination, optimal health, and overall well-being. As a clinician her purpose is to provide a collaborative safe environment in order to process and redefine those experiences and garner insight. Shionna value's building and maintaining a therapeutic relationship with each client by imparting empathy, confidentiality and understanding.
(347) 679-8052 View (347) 679-8052
Photo of Ranjana Hari, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Ranjana Hari
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11231
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 RISE Counseling Services, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
RISE Counseling Services, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11216  (Online Only)
For a long time, you have tried to "hold it together." Perhaps, you may have prided yourself in your ability to power through challenging circumstances. You have finally reached your limit and the stress has taken its toll. I tell clients to think of therapy as a navigation system. You put the destination in the GPS and the GPS guides you in the right direction. Think of me as your guide. My clients are free to choose their destination. We may take detours, and pit-stops, but we will safely, reach those destinations. It is your turn to rise. RISE from overwhelming feelings, depression, loneliness, anger, self doubt and choose YOU!
For a long time, you have tried to "hold it together." Perhaps, you may have prided yourself in your ability to power through challenging circumstances. You have finally reached your limit and the stress has taken its toll. I tell clients to think of therapy as a navigation system. You put the destination in the GPS and the GPS guides you in the right direction. Think of me as your guide. My clients are free to choose their destination. We may take detours, and pit-stops, but we will safely, reach those destinations. It is your turn to rise. RISE from overwhelming feelings, depression, loneliness, anger, self doubt and choose YOU!
(347) 848-1309 View (347) 848-1309
Photo of Diane Galligan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Diane Galligan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
I believe therapy can help us navigate our lowest moments and achieve our greatest happiness, whether in relationships, careers, or within ourselves. It gives us the freedom to take chances and break negative patterns. Emphasizing collaboration, compassion, and encouragement, I work with individual adults, teens, children, couples, and families. Relationship conflict, anxiety and depression, trauma and grief are among my areas of specialty. I often work with those driven to achieve — offering help coping with pressure, finding fulfillment, and understanding how past experiences can influence the present in subtle yet powerful ways.
I believe therapy can help us navigate our lowest moments and achieve our greatest happiness, whether in relationships, careers, or within ourselves. It gives us the freedom to take chances and break negative patterns. Emphasizing collaboration, compassion, and encouragement, I work with individual adults, teens, children, couples, and families. Relationship conflict, anxiety and depression, trauma and grief are among my areas of specialty. I often work with those driven to achieve — offering help coping with pressure, finding fulfillment, and understanding how past experiences can influence the present in subtle yet powerful ways.
(917) 905-7691 View (917) 905-7691
Photo of Cheyenne Wilson @ Connect To Growth, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Cheyenne Wilson @ Connect To Growth
Pre-Licensed Professional, CAT-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11238
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, self esteem, grief and loss, managing anger, communication, creating boundaries, understanding family dynamics and attachment.
As human beings, we sometimes question our choices or experience self-doubt and over thinking. We all struggle with a variety of issues that we may need to process and work through. Having someone in your corner for guidance and support can make all of the difference. My name is Cheyenne and I am an aspiring Creative Arts Therapist. I completed my undergraduate studies at Queens College where I majored in psychology and minored in studio art. I completed my graduate studies at Hofstra University, where I studied Creative Arts Therapy.
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, self esteem, grief and loss, managing anger, communication, creating boundaries, understanding family dynamics and attachment.
As human beings, we sometimes question our choices or experience self-doubt and over thinking. We all struggle with a variety of issues that we may need to process and work through. Having someone in your corner for guidance and support can make all of the difference. My name is Cheyenne and I am an aspiring Creative Arts Therapist. I completed my undergraduate studies at Queens College where I majored in psychology and minored in studio art. I completed my graduate studies at Hofstra University, where I studied Creative Arts Therapy.
(646) 846-8552 View (646) 846-8552
Photo of Sara Elsehetry, Mental Health Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Sara Elsehetry
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11228  (Online Only)
I specialize in parenting problems, anxiety, depression, behavioral, self esteem, and relationship issues.
People often seek therapy because of the people in their lives that refuse it; this is what drove me to become a therapist. My passion for therapy stemmed from growing up with unhealthy family relationships due to negative communication patterns. I witnessed how people who love one another can subtly damage their relationship and turn a good-intentioned bond into a toxic chain. Mainly, my desire to become a therapist emanated from others’ refusal to receive therapy - as if it were a platform of judgement and subjectivity. This also influenced the areas that I chose to specialize in and my approach in therapy.
I specialize in parenting problems, anxiety, depression, behavioral, self esteem, and relationship issues.
People often seek therapy because of the people in their lives that refuse it; this is what drove me to become a therapist. My passion for therapy stemmed from growing up with unhealthy family relationships due to negative communication patterns. I witnessed how people who love one another can subtly damage their relationship and turn a good-intentioned bond into a toxic chain. Mainly, my desire to become a therapist emanated from others’ refusal to receive therapy - as if it were a platform of judgement and subjectivity. This also influenced the areas that I chose to specialize in and my approach in therapy.
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Photo of Alison K Karasz, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Alison K Karasz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11205
Many clients in my Fort Greene practice are suffering from depression and anxiety. Both these strong emotions can rob you of joy in life, your energy, and your interest in connecting with others. Many people underestimate the impact of these strong emotions on your relationships, your productivity, and your health. Freeing yourself from the paralyzing trap of depression and anxiety will give you new energy to move on in your life.
Many clients in my Fort Greene practice are suffering from depression and anxiety. Both these strong emotions can rob you of joy in life, your energy, and your interest in connecting with others. Many people underestimate the impact of these strong emotions on your relationships, your productivity, and your health. Freeing yourself from the paralyzing trap of depression and anxiety will give you new energy to move on in your life.
(929) 416-1556 View (929) 416-1556
Photo of Barbara E McGlamery, Creative Arts Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Barbara E McGlamery
Creative Arts Therapist, MA, LCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Everything is unpredictable. The world, both at home and elsewhere might seem chaotic and when not chaotic, dull and repetitive. We can get stuck in ruts and not feel we are moving forward with our lives. You might already have a diagnosis of anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. Or you might just have a sense of unease or dismay at how your hard life is right now. Some also suffer from trauma or PTSD that compounds the misery. Anxiety alone can be distressing and debilitating. And worse, disheartening.
Everything is unpredictable. The world, both at home and elsewhere might seem chaotic and when not chaotic, dull and repetitive. We can get stuck in ruts and not feel we are moving forward with our lives. You might already have a diagnosis of anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. Or you might just have a sense of unease or dismay at how your hard life is right now. Some also suffer from trauma or PTSD that compounds the misery. Anxiety alone can be distressing and debilitating. And worse, disheartening.
(917) 909-8004 View (917) 909-8004
Photo of Lisa Bellamy, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Lisa Bellamy
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11218
I am a New York State Licensed Mental Health Therapist with a background in trauma and teen violence. I am passionate about working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, and life-transitions in a collaborative way to help to move them towards self-betterment. I tend to integrate techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, and strength-based therapy based on client needs. I collaborate with my clients to identify plans and treatment goals to ensure that their true desires are being met throughout therapy.
I am a New York State Licensed Mental Health Therapist with a background in trauma and teen violence. I am passionate about working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, and life-transitions in a collaborative way to help to move them towards self-betterment. I tend to integrate techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, and strength-based therapy based on client needs. I collaborate with my clients to identify plans and treatment goals to ensure that their true desires are being met throughout therapy.
(518) 896-7607 View (518) 896-7607
Photo of Robert Kaye-Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Robert Kaye-Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Often occuring amidst significant life events, this process can entail managing all sorts of turbulence, which can bloom into anxiety or depression seemingly overnight.
With curiosity and compassion I aim to offer individuals not merely a physical space to sort through concerns; but the opportunity to create space in the thought process for insight to occur. Through reflection on relationships, and the collaborative examination of formative experiences, we will drive toward the identification and adoption of alternative perspectives. This is a reliable path to healing and meaningful, lasting change. Please do not hesitate to contact me for a free consultation to determine if I would be a "good fit" to aid you in addressing concerns.
Often occuring amidst significant life events, this process can entail managing all sorts of turbulence, which can bloom into anxiety or depression seemingly overnight.
With curiosity and compassion I aim to offer individuals not merely a physical space to sort through concerns; but the opportunity to create space in the thought process for insight to occur. Through reflection on relationships, and the collaborative examination of formative experiences, we will drive toward the identification and adoption of alternative perspectives. This is a reliable path to healing and meaningful, lasting change. Please do not hesitate to contact me for a free consultation to determine if I would be a "good fit" to aid you in addressing concerns.
(347) 801-2952 View (347) 801-2952
Photo of Zan Jacobus Insight Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Zan Jacobus Insight Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I have a lot of experience with young adults who are suffering from anxiety and/or depression.
It is a privilege to be a therapist because patients entrust you with closely held and often pained parts of themselves, along with parts of themselves they are excited about and proud of. I see our work as the creation of a place where these different parts of the patient's self can come into the room and be acknowledged and recognized. Therapy is also a place where you, as the patient, can use my listening ear to help you withstand pain and anxiety. Please see my website: zanjacobusinsightpsychotherapy.com
I have a lot of experience with young adults who are suffering from anxiety and/or depression.
It is a privilege to be a therapist because patients entrust you with closely held and often pained parts of themselves, along with parts of themselves they are excited about and proud of. I see our work as the creation of a place where these different parts of the patient's self can come into the room and be acknowledged and recognized. Therapy is also a place where you, as the patient, can use my listening ear to help you withstand pain and anxiety. Please see my website: zanjacobusinsightpsychotherapy.com
(718) 569-7881 View (718) 569-7881
Photo of Carrie Tillett-Saks, Art Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Carrie Tillett-Saks
Art Therapist, LCAT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11237  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with youth and adults who are experiencing significant life changes such as traumatic experiences, grief and loss, transitioning to a new profession or location, and identity exploration, to name a few. Going through changes and transitions is hard, and can often bring up difficult or unwelcome thoughts, feelings, or behaviors such as depression, sadness, anxiety, anger, and low self-esteem.
I specialize in working with youth and adults who are experiencing significant life changes such as traumatic experiences, grief and loss, transitioning to a new profession or location, and identity exploration, to name a few. Going through changes and transitions is hard, and can often bring up difficult or unwelcome thoughts, feelings, or behaviors such as depression, sadness, anxiety, anger, and low self-esteem.
(347) 454-7022 View (347) 454-7022
Photo of Kaori Kato, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Kaori Kato
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249
I am a clinical psychologist in Brooklyn, NY. I have been providing individual, family, and couple’s therapy and psychological/neuropsychological evaluation in English and Japanese for over 20 years. I have worked with children and adults with a broad range of mental health (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, addiction, & PTSD), medical/neurological conditions, and complex family problems involving family law. I have been working as a supervising psychologist and served as a director of Mobile Crisis Service in Comprehensive Psychiatry Emergency Department at New York Health + Hospitals for many years.
I am a clinical psychologist in Brooklyn, NY. I have been providing individual, family, and couple’s therapy and psychological/neuropsychological evaluation in English and Japanese for over 20 years. I have worked with children and adults with a broad range of mental health (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, addiction, & PTSD), medical/neurological conditions, and complex family problems involving family law. I have been working as a supervising psychologist and served as a director of Mobile Crisis Service in Comprehensive Psychiatry Emergency Department at New York Health + Hospitals for many years.
(718) 612-7155 View (718) 612-7155
Photo of Elle Bernfeld - Therapy for Artists & Creatives, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Elle Bernfeld - Therapy for Artists & Creatives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
Are you an artist, entertainer, or creative professional struggling with your mental health? I specialize in working with artists and creatives who have anxiety and depression, helping them reach their personal and professional goals. Being consistently vulnerable in your work, while staying tough enough to withstand rejection, can take a toll on your mental health. Your mental health can also make it difficult to withstand these career ups and downs. You don't have to be miserable to be an artist though! As a former performer myself, I understand first hand how difficult this mental health/work life balance can be.
Are you an artist, entertainer, or creative professional struggling with your mental health? I specialize in working with artists and creatives who have anxiety and depression, helping them reach their personal and professional goals. Being consistently vulnerable in your work, while staying tough enough to withstand rejection, can take a toll on your mental health. Your mental health can also make it difficult to withstand these career ups and downs. You don't have to be miserable to be an artist though! As a former performer myself, I understand first hand how difficult this mental health/work life balance can be.
(917) 338-4665 View (917) 338-4665
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.