Photo of Goldman Psychological Services, Psychologist in Villanova, PA
Goldman Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085
Children, teenagers, and adults all want to feel in charge of their own lives; I believe in fostering your personal growth and change despite any obstacles you might encounter. As humans, we strive to feel capable, considered, content, centered, and connected to others. I will help you realize your inherent strengths; such as, encouraging parents to feel competent in their parenting strategies; guiding children and teens to respect and understand their parents’ values and expectations; bridging gaps in communication between couples and family members; and challenging you or your child to take new, manageable risks in your life.
Children, teenagers, and adults all want to feel in charge of their own lives; I believe in fostering your personal growth and change despite any obstacles you might encounter. As humans, we strive to feel capable, considered, content, centered, and connected to others. I will help you realize your inherent strengths; such as, encouraging parents to feel competent in their parenting strategies; guiding children and teens to respect and understand their parents’ values and expectations; bridging gaps in communication between couples and family members; and challenging you or your child to take new, manageable risks in your life.
(215) 798-7011 View (215) 798-7011

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Intissar Ben Halim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Villanova, PA
Intissar Ben Halim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Waitlist for new clients
I approach the therapeutic relationship with a deep conviction and trust in the process. I deeply engage and connect with clients on a heart, mind, and body level, rather than through the lens of a diagnosis or label they may have acquired along the way. I believe that each person is their own expert. Cultivating better contact with oneself, and learning to be more compassionate and supportive towards self is foundational for the therapeutic process I hold and facilitate. I enjoy working with a diverse group of clientele, especially those with anxiety, depression, and relational disruptions.
I approach the therapeutic relationship with a deep conviction and trust in the process. I deeply engage and connect with clients on a heart, mind, and body level, rather than through the lens of a diagnosis or label they may have acquired along the way. I believe that each person is their own expert. Cultivating better contact with oneself, and learning to be more compassionate and supportive towards self is foundational for the therapeutic process I hold and facilitate. I enjoy working with a diverse group of clientele, especially those with anxiety, depression, and relational disruptions.
(484) 986-2166 View (484) 986-2166
Photo of Emily Salkever-Scott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Villanova, PA
Emily Salkever-Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010  (Online Only)
Hi! Thanks for stopping by, I am so glad that you are here & taking time to think about helping yourself &/or a loved one. Are you stressed, worried, feeling stuck, depressed, struggling with difficult emotions or a transition? My goal is to support you on this part of your Journey. Together, let’s find peace, purpose, self-compassion, joy, positive energy, & more reasons to hope. We all need support sometimes—me too! In therapy, I am Person-Centered & incorporate breathing, mindfulness, education, walking, nature, and the wisdom that lies within you. Because, no one knows you better than you! I look forward to meeting you soon.
Hi! Thanks for stopping by, I am so glad that you are here & taking time to think about helping yourself &/or a loved one. Are you stressed, worried, feeling stuck, depressed, struggling with difficult emotions or a transition? My goal is to support you on this part of your Journey. Together, let’s find peace, purpose, self-compassion, joy, positive energy, & more reasons to hope. We all need support sometimes—me too! In therapy, I am Person-Centered & incorporate breathing, mindfulness, education, walking, nature, and the wisdom that lies within you. Because, no one knows you better than you! I look forward to meeting you soon.
(484) 509-9821 View (484) 509-9821
Photo of Main Line Therapy Solutions, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Villanova, PA
Main Line Therapy Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, PhD, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
Our staff have expertise in anxiety based disorders, depression, obsessive tendencies, relationship issues and conflict resolution, eating disorders, adjustment difficulties, personal growth, stress management, life transitions as well as ADHD and other behavioral and/or impulse control disorders.
Main Line Therapy Solutions is a private group practice comprised of clinicians who are Psychologists, Social Workers, and Counselors. We are in-network with most local health insurance companies. Our clinicians have various backgrounds and areas of expertise and provide services in a warm and supportive private practice setting. When appropriate, we are also able to provide Telehealth Sessions for those interested in remaining in the comfort of their own home.
Our staff have expertise in anxiety based disorders, depression, obsessive tendencies, relationship issues and conflict resolution, eating disorders, adjustment difficulties, personal growth, stress management, life transitions as well as ADHD and other behavioral and/or impulse control disorders.
Main Line Therapy Solutions is a private group practice comprised of clinicians who are Psychologists, Social Workers, and Counselors. We are in-network with most local health insurance companies. Our clinicians have various backgrounds and areas of expertise and provide services in a warm and supportive private practice setting. When appropriate, we are also able to provide Telehealth Sessions for those interested in remaining in the comfort of their own home.
(484) 376-5519 View (484) 376-5519
Photo of Jeannine C Alvare', Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Villanova, PA
Jeannine C Alvare'
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I believe that mental health reflects a balance between an individual's emotional functioning and his/her family, friends and community. I support patients in their personal awareness and integration of the mind, body and spirit. I have extensive clinical experience with individuals and families addressing concerns such as: Anxiety, Autistic Spectrum, Attention Deficit Disorders, Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders, Learning Differences, Oppositional/Defiant Behaviors, Personality Disorders, Postpartum Depression and Psychological responses to life changes. I offer additional expertise in bi-cultural/racial issues, chronic illness, co-parenting, LGBT community, interfaith marriage and sibling rivalry.
I believe that mental health reflects a balance between an individual's emotional functioning and his/her family, friends and community. I support patients in their personal awareness and integration of the mind, body and spirit. I have extensive clinical experience with individuals and families addressing concerns such as: Anxiety, Autistic Spectrum, Attention Deficit Disorders, Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders, Learning Differences, Oppositional/Defiant Behaviors, Personality Disorders, Postpartum Depression and Psychological responses to life changes. I offer additional expertise in bi-cultural/racial issues, chronic illness, co-parenting, LGBT community, interfaith marriage and sibling rivalry.
(484) 494-2899 View (484) 494-2899
Photo of Main Line Counseling & Wellness Center, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Villanova, PA
Main Line Counseling & Wellness Center, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041
Our specialties include: anxiety & depression, stress management, caregiver stress, LGBTQIA+, social skills, life transitions & adjustment issues, parenting and pregnancy, relationship & communication issues.
Welcome! We are an experienced group of licensed, masters-level clinicians and holistic providers who work to help you through difficult times and make positive, long-lasting changes in your life. We offer a caring, safe, and comfortable environment complete with a range of wellness services (counseling, acupuncture, chiropractic care, nutrition, therapeutic massage, yoga) and we pride ourselves on providing respectful, client-centered treatment using the latest in evidenced-based and integrative care. Please visit us at http://www.mlcwellness.com for our profiles and complete the "request an appointment" form to schedule!
Our specialties include: anxiety & depression, stress management, caregiver stress, LGBTQIA+, social skills, life transitions & adjustment issues, parenting and pregnancy, relationship & communication issues.
Welcome! We are an experienced group of licensed, masters-level clinicians and holistic providers who work to help you through difficult times and make positive, long-lasting changes in your life. We offer a caring, safe, and comfortable environment complete with a range of wellness services (counseling, acupuncture, chiropractic care, nutrition, therapeutic massage, yoga) and we pride ourselves on providing respectful, client-centered treatment using the latest in evidenced-based and integrative care. Please visit us at http://www.mlcwellness.com for our profiles and complete the "request an appointment" form to schedule!
(610) 365-1775 View (610) 365-1775
Photo of Ariel Peleg-Globig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Villanova, PA
Ariel Peleg-Globig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Our changing world brings with it joys and opportunities, but also challenges and anxieties. We try our best as parents, and caregivers to protect our children from the most challenging aspects of life, and provide them with skills to deal with the rest. Most of the time we are up to the task, but there are times when we all could use a helping hand. Whether your child is struggling with anxiety, or depression, avoiding following adult directions, involved in fights at school or at home, or something happened in their lives that is beyond their current ability to cope with - I am here to help.
Our changing world brings with it joys and opportunities, but also challenges and anxieties. We try our best as parents, and caregivers to protect our children from the most challenging aspects of life, and provide them with skills to deal with the rest. Most of the time we are up to the task, but there are times when we all could use a helping hand. Whether your child is struggling with anxiety, or depression, avoiding following adult directions, involved in fights at school or at home, or something happened in their lives that is beyond their current ability to cope with - I am here to help.
(610) 569-9663 View (610) 569-9663
Photo of Neal King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Villanova, PA
Neal King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Together we will improve reactions to triggers of anxiety, depression and the unhelpful thinking styles that ensue.
Licensed in PA and NJ - Accepting Telehealth Let’s take a direct, head-on approach to managing ANXIETY and STRESS – as that is known to be the trigger to many other ailments. I am on a personal mission to HELP TEENS and ADULTS GAIN INSIGHT into their anxious triggers that are self-limiting their incredible potential. I am a strength-based therapist with emphasis on mindfulness and stress management as it relates to improving your daily interactions and functioning. Let's learn and use effective problem-solving and cognitive restructuring skills; so your confidence and capabilities toward solutions will become part of you.
Together we will improve reactions to triggers of anxiety, depression and the unhelpful thinking styles that ensue.
Licensed in PA and NJ - Accepting Telehealth Let’s take a direct, head-on approach to managing ANXIETY and STRESS – as that is known to be the trigger to many other ailments. I am on a personal mission to HELP TEENS and ADULTS GAIN INSIGHT into their anxious triggers that are self-limiting their incredible potential. I am a strength-based therapist with emphasis on mindfulness and stress management as it relates to improving your daily interactions and functioning. Let's learn and use effective problem-solving and cognitive restructuring skills; so your confidence and capabilities toward solutions will become part of you.
(267) 613-9109 View (267) 613-9109
Photo of Laura Lowman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Villanova, PA
Laura Lowman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I specialize in complex and developmental trauma, loss, abuse, adoption/foster care, fertility issues, autism spectrum disorders, depression and anxiety.
Therapy can be an exciting and rewarding journey, although challenging at times. I am available to help as you explore therapy and changes in your life. I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist with 30 years of experience. I have received extensive training in sandtray and play therapy. Additionally, I trained in advanced contextual family therapy for over 25 years. I provide individual, family, couples, and play therapy. As a registered play therapist, I am trained to work with children as young as age 4. However, I work with all age groups.
I specialize in complex and developmental trauma, loss, abuse, adoption/foster care, fertility issues, autism spectrum disorders, depression and anxiety.
Therapy can be an exciting and rewarding journey, although challenging at times. I am available to help as you explore therapy and changes in your life. I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist with 30 years of experience. I have received extensive training in sandtray and play therapy. Additionally, I trained in advanced contextual family therapy for over 25 years. I provide individual, family, couples, and play therapy. As a registered play therapist, I am trained to work with children as young as age 4. However, I work with all age groups.
(215) 995-5194 View (215) 995-5194
Photo of Spilove Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Villanova, PA
Spilove Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSS
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I have been providing therapy for children and families for several years after graduating from Bryn Mawr College of Social Work and Social Research. I am trauma informed and specialize in child development, attachment, mindful parenting, sensory integration, behavioral challenges, Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety, Depression, ADD/ADHD, OCD and grief and loss.
I have been providing therapy for children and families for several years after graduating from Bryn Mawr College of Social Work and Social Research. I am trauma informed and specialize in child development, attachment, mindful parenting, sensory integration, behavioral challenges, Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety, Depression, ADD/ADHD, OCD and grief and loss.
(484) 382-3843 View (484) 382-3843
Photo of Kesselman Clinical Associates, Psychologist in Villanova, PA
Kesselman Clinical Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
At Kesselman Clinical Associates, we are creating a community where you and your family can find understanding and support. We have clinicians who specialize in an array of areas, from anxiety, depression, and personality disorders to parenting and family issues, addiction, trauma, ADD/ADHD, ASD, and impulse control disorders. We provide individual treatment for children, teens, and adults, as well as group, couples, and family therapy, and we offer in-person or telehealth sessions.
At Kesselman Clinical Associates, we are creating a community where you and your family can find understanding and support. We have clinicians who specialize in an array of areas, from anxiety, depression, and personality disorders to parenting and family issues, addiction, trauma, ADD/ADHD, ASD, and impulse control disorders. We provide individual treatment for children, teens, and adults, as well as group, couples, and family therapy, and we offer in-person or telehealth sessions.
(610) 285-7366 View (610) 285-7366
Photo of Allison Gibbs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Villanova, PA
Allison Gibbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CAMS II
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010  (Online Only)
People seek counseling for many reasons; problems at work or school, relationship conflicts, feelings of anger, confusion, sadness, and fear. In this collaborative process Therapy Concierge has as its goal to help you learn more constructive ways to deal with problems or issues. Therapy Concierge LLC is a mobile company that makes mental health counseling, professional development, and consultation services convenient by creating opportunities for individuals and groups to receive services in a convenient setting. We provide individual, family, group, and couples counseling services.
People seek counseling for many reasons; problems at work or school, relationship conflicts, feelings of anger, confusion, sadness, and fear. In this collaborative process Therapy Concierge has as its goal to help you learn more constructive ways to deal with problems or issues. Therapy Concierge LLC is a mobile company that makes mental health counseling, professional development, and consultation services convenient by creating opportunities for individuals and groups to receive services in a convenient setting. We provide individual, family, group, and couples counseling services.
(267) 797-3149 View (267) 797-3149
Photo of Rachael Ariel Scott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Villanova, PA
Rachael Ariel Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
My mindfulness based, play therapy training has taught me how to help children that have gone through or may be going through a trauma. A child's language is play. A play therapy room offers a variety of mediums that will help a child safely express what they need to in order to heal through their play. My sessions also will partially include the parents, where feelings and coping skills can be discussed before the play time begins.
My mindfulness based, play therapy training has taught me how to help children that have gone through or may be going through a trauma. A child's language is play. A play therapy room offers a variety of mediums that will help a child safely express what they need to in order to heal through their play. My sessions also will partially include the parents, where feelings and coping skills can be discussed before the play time begins.
(484) 699-0930 View (484) 699-0930
Photo of Nicole Cash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Villanova, PA
Nicole Cash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087
I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and family relationships. EMDR is one of many tools that I use to help people to heal from past experiences and deal with overwhelming emotions. I am a licensed clinical social worker who provides individual and family therapy. I have experience with all ages, from young children to older adults. In addition to therapy, I provide supervision to therapists who are seeking licensure or to those who are licensed but seeking additional support.
I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and family relationships. EMDR is one of many tools that I use to help people to heal from past experiences and deal with overwhelming emotions. I am a licensed clinical social worker who provides individual and family therapy. I have experience with all ages, from young children to older adults. In addition to therapy, I provide supervision to therapists who are seeking licensure or to those who are licensed but seeking additional support.
(484) 416-8166 View (484) 416-8166
Photo of Wendy Hammond in Villanova, PA
Wendy Hammond
MA, DipPsy, Therapy, Coach
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087
Challenges and occasional catastrophes are inevitable, and serve to strengthen our confidence in the long run. If our fear and negativity are running the show, however, we get stuck. Let's pick apart the patterns that do not serve and re-author a peaceful, vibrant future. Using a combination of psychotherapy and coaching allows us to uncover destructive patterns, heal, and then move forward in a positive, purposeful direction. What are the painful ideas, feelings and memories that fuel your reactions?
Challenges and occasional catastrophes are inevitable, and serve to strengthen our confidence in the long run. If our fear and negativity are running the show, however, we get stuck. Let's pick apart the patterns that do not serve and re-author a peaceful, vibrant future. Using a combination of psychotherapy and coaching allows us to uncover destructive patterns, heal, and then move forward in a positive, purposeful direction. What are the painful ideas, feelings and memories that fuel your reactions?
(267) 863-4999 View (267) 863-4999
Photo of Jacquelynn Cunliffe in Villanova, PA
Jacquelynn Cunliffe
PhD, MSN, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Waitlist for new clients
I am a therapist deeply committed to addressing all the issues interfering with your life. These may include trauma, feeling unlovable, or difficulties in your relationships. Together, we will seek resolutions for issues currently facing you while exploring and understanding significant events/relationships in your past. This exploration is essential, as experiences in your past directly and powerfully contribute to the present. This path of therapy leads you toward a greater capacity to realize your true potential and a greater capacity to engage in and experience joy in your relationships. Most importantly, it is the path toward revealing your own capacity of transformation within you.
I am a therapist deeply committed to addressing all the issues interfering with your life. These may include trauma, feeling unlovable, or difficulties in your relationships. Together, we will seek resolutions for issues currently facing you while exploring and understanding significant events/relationships in your past. This exploration is essential, as experiences in your past directly and powerfully contribute to the present. This path of therapy leads you toward a greater capacity to realize your true potential and a greater capacity to engage in and experience joy in your relationships. Most importantly, it is the path toward revealing your own capacity of transformation within you.
(484) 679-5165 View (484) 679-5165
Photo of Robin Greenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Villanova, PA
Robin Greenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, PA 19087
I aspire to make the world, or at least our little microcosm, a more kind and loving place. I believe therapy can help us become better versions of ourselves, deepen connection with each other, and bring more kindness to our relationships. Our innate capacity to heal and grow, both within and in relation with others, is strengthened by the guidance of genuine human connection.
I aspire to make the world, or at least our little microcosm, a more kind and loving place. I believe therapy can help us become better versions of ourselves, deepen connection with each other, and bring more kindness to our relationships. Our innate capacity to heal and grow, both within and in relation with others, is strengthened by the guidance of genuine human connection.
(610) 795-9707 View (610) 795-9707
Photo of Rabab Alma, Marriage & Family Therapist in Villanova, PA
Rabab Alma
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MA, LMFT, CCTP, CCATP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wayne, PA 19087
Whether moving from one life phase to another or one culture to another or one job to another, learning new roles or assuming new career can be difficult and lonely. It can feel like nobody really understands what you're going through. You want more from your future but you aren't sure where to start. You feel like you're facing your problems or new experiences alone and like you have no place. You're nervous. You feel overwhelmed. Your world has been shaken and you don't know how to survive in this one. You just want some peace- where you can be yourself, Wherever that is.
Whether moving from one life phase to another or one culture to another or one job to another, learning new roles or assuming new career can be difficult and lonely. It can feel like nobody really understands what you're going through. You want more from your future but you aren't sure where to start. You feel like you're facing your problems or new experiences alone and like you have no place. You're nervous. You feel overwhelmed. Your world has been shaken and you don't know how to survive in this one. You just want some peace- where you can be yourself, Wherever that is.
(484) 681-5207 View (484) 681-5207
Photo of Erika Thompsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Villanova, PA
Erika Thompsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCAT, ATR-BC, LPC, LPAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041
Erika has an extensive range of clinical experience with clients of all ages in inpatient and outpatient psychiatry settings. She has spent the last five years focusing and deepening her clinical understanding of the specific needs of children and adolescents. While studying in Grad school, combining her love of art and psychology, she quickly understood the powerful & positive impact Art Therapy has on those struggling with life stressors and mental illness. Erika believes that art has the inherent ability to heal and that everyone has potential for change and can achieve emotional well-being using art making and creativity.
Erika has an extensive range of clinical experience with clients of all ages in inpatient and outpatient psychiatry settings. She has spent the last five years focusing and deepening her clinical understanding of the specific needs of children and adolescents. While studying in Grad school, combining her love of art and psychology, she quickly understood the powerful & positive impact Art Therapy has on those struggling with life stressors and mental illness. Erika believes that art has the inherent ability to heal and that everyone has potential for change and can achieve emotional well-being using art making and creativity.
(484) 214-2658 View (484) 214-2658
Photo of Katie Schoen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Villanova, PA
Katie Schoen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087
I believe the most powerful tool we can offer others is our ability to authentically, genuinely and completely listen. I have been privileged to work with many children, teens and adults and bear witness to their stories. It has been the most profound gift and I am grateful to have been trusted with the opportunity to hear them. My work as a clinician is grounded in listening. In establishing a safe, supportive and nurturing co-created environment. It is rooted in helping people find their voice and trust their own ability to change their lives. The power of being present and fully in the moment can transform lives.
I believe the most powerful tool we can offer others is our ability to authentically, genuinely and completely listen. I have been privileged to work with many children, teens and adults and bear witness to their stories. It has been the most profound gift and I am grateful to have been trusted with the opportunity to hear them. My work as a clinician is grounded in listening. In establishing a safe, supportive and nurturing co-created environment. It is rooted in helping people find their voice and trust their own ability to change their lives. The power of being present and fully in the moment can transform lives.
(215) 607-7446 View (215) 607-7446

See more therapy options for Villanova

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.