Therapists in Pennsylvania

Photo of Dawn Crocco Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pennsylvania
Dawn Crocco Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Not Verified Not Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
I am experienced in working with clients with drug and alcohol addiction and families or spouses who are dealing with their loved one who is addicted.I have worked in an Inpatient Rehabilitation Center, Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient Centers. I have extensive experience in working with depression and anxiety and patients who are dually diagnosed. I enjoy talking with clients about how to find a better life that they are looking for and helping people to grow in their emotional, mental and spiritual journey.
I am experienced in working with clients with drug and alcohol addiction and families or spouses who are dealing with their loved one who is addicted.I have worked in an Inpatient Rehabilitation Center, Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient Centers. I have extensive experience in working with depression and anxiety and patients who are dually diagnosed. I enjoy talking with clients about how to find a better life that they are looking for and helping people to grow in their emotional, mental and spiritual journey.
(610) 697-9640 View (610) 697-9640
Photo of Brittany F Gianfagna, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Brittany F Gianfagna
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067  (Online Only)
Sometimes, taking the first step is the hardest! I have worked to take the pressure out of coming to therapy and established a comfortable and inviting practice, from the comfort of your own home. I work through video conferencing and strive to provide the highest quality therapy for my clients. I work with clients of all genders struggling with, but not limited to; bullying, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship struggles, and mood disorders.
Sometimes, taking the first step is the hardest! I have worked to take the pressure out of coming to therapy and established a comfortable and inviting practice, from the comfort of your own home. I work through video conferencing and strive to provide the highest quality therapy for my clients. I work with clients of all genders struggling with, but not limited to; bullying, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship struggles, and mood disorders.
(484) 302-7293 View (484) 302-7293
Photo of Jan A Wein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Jan A Wein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I operate with the assumption that happiness and well being is contingent on good relations with others and a healthy regard for ourselves. Most problems presented in counseling can be understood as disconnection, an inability to embrace ourselves or the people around us. Therapy can be a means of reestablishing meaningful connections by addressing the obstacles that thwart us. These obstacles can take many forms, such as excessive fear, unresolved childhood injuries, stalemated conflicts, distorted beliefs, insecurities, depression or addictions. I have found that therapeutic conversations are a very effective means for overcoming the obstacles to connection, meaning and happiness.
I operate with the assumption that happiness and well being is contingent on good relations with others and a healthy regard for ourselves. Most problems presented in counseling can be understood as disconnection, an inability to embrace ourselves or the people around us. Therapy can be a means of reestablishing meaningful connections by addressing the obstacles that thwart us. These obstacles can take many forms, such as excessive fear, unresolved childhood injuries, stalemated conflicts, distorted beliefs, insecurities, depression or addictions. I have found that therapeutic conversations are a very effective means for overcoming the obstacles to connection, meaning and happiness.
(412) 228-0712 View (412) 228-0712
Photo of Jean Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Jean Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I have experience working with adults and adolescents diagnosed with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
I have experience working with adults and adolescents diagnosed with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
(610) 609-2958 View (610) 609-2958
Photo of Rowan Gillian Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Rowan Gillian Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090
My specialty include grief, sexual abuse, depression.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards achieving your full potential. My name is Rowan Moore and I have over 18 years of clinical experience in in-patient, partial day programs and outpatient settings. My experience with individual, family and marital therapy can be an asset to you. I provide online and phone counseling if you are unable to come to the office.
My specialty include grief, sexual abuse, depression.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards achieving your full potential. My name is Rowan Moore and I have over 18 years of clinical experience in in-patient, partial day programs and outpatient settings. My experience with individual, family and marital therapy can be an asset to you. I provide online and phone counseling if you are unable to come to the office.
(267) 314-8151 View (267) 314-8151
Photo of Hayley Berot, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pennsylvania
Hayley Berot
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Media, PA 19063
Hayley has a vast array of clinical experience in the field of counseling working with both teens and adults who have experienced various forms of trauma including, but not limited to, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, grief and loss, substance abuse, attachment trauma, and first responders. Hayley aims to collaboratively work with her clients to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and/or anxiety and teach clients the skills needed to attain positive growth and wellness in their lives.
Hayley has a vast array of clinical experience in the field of counseling working with both teens and adults who have experienced various forms of trauma including, but not limited to, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, grief and loss, substance abuse, attachment trauma, and first responders. Hayley aims to collaboratively work with her clients to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and/or anxiety and teach clients the skills needed to attain positive growth and wellness in their lives.
(484) 759-9323 View (484) 759-9323
Photo of Kate M. Sobon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Kate M. Sobon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
I utilize proven practices to address mental health issues: major life changes, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, impulse control issues, emotion dysregulation and relationship issues.
Let's Talk Therapy! Do you want to get out of your head and into your life? Do you feel stuck in a spiral of negative thinking and self doubt that seems to be never-ending? Our thoughts have a direct impact on our emotions and behaviors; which can seem like a vicious cycle. I am here to help YOU! I am assertive, interactive and collaborative. I provide tangible action items to implement in your life. I will honor your personal experiences and perspectives, and appropriately provide feedback and insight based upon professional expertise, observations and assessment.
I utilize proven practices to address mental health issues: major life changes, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, impulse control issues, emotion dysregulation and relationship issues.
Let's Talk Therapy! Do you want to get out of your head and into your life? Do you feel stuck in a spiral of negative thinking and self doubt that seems to be never-ending? Our thoughts have a direct impact on our emotions and behaviors; which can seem like a vicious cycle. I am here to help YOU! I am assertive, interactive and collaborative. I provide tangible action items to implement in your life. I will honor your personal experiences and perspectives, and appropriately provide feedback and insight based upon professional expertise, observations and assessment.
(215) 795-5305 View (215) 795-5305
Photo of Emily Lunt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Emily Lunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Wellness is not just an absence of negative feelings and thoughts, but a presence of positive emotions and a healthy mindset. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, or feeling stuck, I can help. I provide a safe and caring environment for my clients to feel validated, encouraged, and hopeful. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I use evidence-based and goal-directed treatments. My hope is to help you reach your potential and flourish. Therapy within a Christian framework is offered upon request. I am currently offering both telehealth and in-person appointments.
Wellness is not just an absence of negative feelings and thoughts, but a presence of positive emotions and a healthy mindset. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, or feeling stuck, I can help. I provide a safe and caring environment for my clients to feel validated, encouraged, and hopeful. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I use evidence-based and goal-directed treatments. My hope is to help you reach your potential and flourish. Therapy within a Christian framework is offered upon request. I am currently offering both telehealth and in-person appointments.
(724) 201-3649 View (724) 201-3649
Photo of Hannah Gresh, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pennsylvania
Hannah Gresh
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Wyomissing, PA 19610
Hannah Gresh is a Master's Level Clinician with years of experience who is seeking her Professional Counseling License (LPC). She is passionate about helping adolescents and adults navigate through life's many challenges. Hannah specializes in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, domestic violence, and major life transitions.
Hannah Gresh is a Master's Level Clinician with years of experience who is seeking her Professional Counseling License (LPC). She is passionate about helping adolescents and adults navigate through life's many challenges. Hannah specializes in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, domestic violence, and major life transitions.
(610) 723-7882 View (610) 723-7882
Photo of Elle Schwan Avery, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Elle Schwan Avery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, etc.
After over 20 years of experience working with clients, I have come to view myself as my clients' guide through the emotional landscape of their lives. I am dedicated to providing my clients with a comfortable, safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment in which they can explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Together we form a partnership to determine the direction required for a client's healing, healthy emotional growth, and successful life functioning. Client's value my down to earth and easy to talk to style, free of intimidation and judgment.
I have worked with clients on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, etc.
After over 20 years of experience working with clients, I have come to view myself as my clients' guide through the emotional landscape of their lives. I am dedicated to providing my clients with a comfortable, safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment in which they can explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Together we form a partnership to determine the direction required for a client's healing, healthy emotional growth, and successful life functioning. Client's value my down to earth and easy to talk to style, free of intimidation and judgment.
(610) 810-1870 View (610) 810-1870
Photo of Michael F Dunbar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Michael F Dunbar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Trained in CBT, REBT, Gestalt, Rogerian, and numerous other therapies, his clinical experience includes Divorce, Extramarital Affairs, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Addiction Issues, Codependency, OCD, Career, Marriage, and Family needs.
Michael is a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) receiving his Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from Geneva College in Beaver Pennsylvania. Mike offers holistic counseling services for those struggling to find balance on a spiritual, emotional or cognitive level.
Trained in CBT, REBT, Gestalt, Rogerian, and numerous other therapies, his clinical experience includes Divorce, Extramarital Affairs, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Addiction Issues, Codependency, OCD, Career, Marriage, and Family needs.
Michael is a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) receiving his Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from Geneva College in Beaver Pennsylvania. Mike offers holistic counseling services for those struggling to find balance on a spiritual, emotional or cognitive level.
(412) 528-6057 View (412) 528-6057
Photo of David Kunkel, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
David Kunkel
Psychologist, MS
Verified Verified
York, PA 17406  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We all struggle sometimes. It's part of being human. But we also have the ability to learn, grow and change. Whether you are dealing with problem anger, depression, anxiety or relationship issues I can help you achieve your goals. Together we will work to help you increase your self-esteem, improve your relationships and achieve greater life satisfaction.
We all struggle sometimes. It's part of being human. But we also have the ability to learn, grow and change. Whether you are dealing with problem anger, depression, anxiety or relationship issues I can help you achieve your goals. Together we will work to help you increase your self-esteem, improve your relationships and achieve greater life satisfaction.
(717) 382-6215 View (717) 382-6215
Photo of Makin Wellness | Online Therapy & Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Makin Wellness | Online Therapy & Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
We are welcoming new clients now & can help schedule your first session within a few business days with one of our expert providers at Makin Wellness! Do you worry all the time? Is it hard for you to turn your thoughts off? Would you like to enjoy the present moment, but feel like it's impossible because you are so focused on the future or past? So many people live their lives filled with negative thoughts, traumas & depression that eventually affect their work, relationships, and even health. They are unsure of how to let go of their troublesome thoughts or have tried things that made their problems even worse.
We are welcoming new clients now & can help schedule your first session within a few business days with one of our expert providers at Makin Wellness! Do you worry all the time? Is it hard for you to turn your thoughts off? Would you like to enjoy the present moment, but feel like it's impossible because you are so focused on the future or past? So many people live their lives filled with negative thoughts, traumas & depression that eventually affect their work, relationships, and even health. They are unsure of how to let go of their troublesome thoughts or have tried things that made their problems even worse.
(412) 866-2926 View (412) 866-2926
Photo of Isaac Kivuva, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Isaac Kivuva
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
I am a licensed professional counselor with over ten years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in working with couples on premarital, relationship, and marital issues. I also work with adults with anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, addictive behaviors, grief, loss, and bereavement. I use The Gottman Method for marital and Prepare-Enrich for premarital counseling. I use CBT to work with clients to achieve harmony, especially in depression and anxiety. I meet clients where they are emotionally, and together we explore their life according to their comfort level to bring healing.
I am a licensed professional counselor with over ten years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in working with couples on premarital, relationship, and marital issues. I also work with adults with anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, addictive behaviors, grief, loss, and bereavement. I use The Gottman Method for marital and Prepare-Enrich for premarital counseling. I use CBT to work with clients to achieve harmony, especially in depression and anxiety. I meet clients where they are emotionally, and together we explore their life according to their comfort level to bring healing.
(412) 533-4689 View (412) 533-4689
Photo of Eric L Tillman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Eric L Tillman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Monroeville, PA 15146
You may be feeling anxious, sad, depressed, overwhelmed, misunderstood, and lonely right now. It takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and I applaud you for reaching out. I am passionate about bringing healing to those who have been through traumatic and stressful experiences. I provide psychotherapy and counseling to individuals dealing with issues related to anxiety, depression, stress, personality disorders, substance abuse, trauma, panic disorder, life transitions, etc. I will provide a thorough assessment to aid in identifying specific concerns and will modify my therapeutic approaches to match your individualized needs.
You may be feeling anxious, sad, depressed, overwhelmed, misunderstood, and lonely right now. It takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and I applaud you for reaching out. I am passionate about bringing healing to those who have been through traumatic and stressful experiences. I provide psychotherapy and counseling to individuals dealing with issues related to anxiety, depression, stress, personality disorders, substance abuse, trauma, panic disorder, life transitions, etc. I will provide a thorough assessment to aid in identifying specific concerns and will modify my therapeutic approaches to match your individualized needs.
(412) 226-9993 View (412) 226-9993
Photo of Kimberly June, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Kimberly June
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMT, CST
Verified Verified
McMurray, PA 15317
I am a holistic psychotherapist, trained in medical hypnotherapy,EMDR, Energy Psychology (TFT/EFT), Family Constellation work, and energy and shamanic healing in private practice in Pittsburgh. I work primarily with adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. I have trained extensively in the integration of different therapeutic modalities in order to facilitate healing and integration of the body, mind and spirit. I am also a student of meditation and teach the "Awakening the Light Body" meditation curriculum offered as both a pathway of personal transformation and as a therapeutic treatment model.
I am a holistic psychotherapist, trained in medical hypnotherapy,EMDR, Energy Psychology (TFT/EFT), Family Constellation work, and energy and shamanic healing in private practice in Pittsburgh. I work primarily with adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. I have trained extensively in the integration of different therapeutic modalities in order to facilitate healing and integration of the body, mind and spirit. I am also a student of meditation and teach the "Awakening the Light Body" meditation curriculum offered as both a pathway of personal transformation and as a therapeutic treatment model.
(724) 359-0802 View (724) 359-0802
Photo of Sharifa Martin, Counselor in Pennsylvania
Sharifa Martin
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, & Trauma/Substance Use. I introduce therapeutic interventions appropriate for an individual's comfort level, leading to long-term personal growth. I allow you to "take the wheel" and work with you as you define your therapy goals. I encourage you to have a voice, to speak up if an area of your treatment is not working for you, and to ask questions. I am candid in that if there is an answer to a question I do not know, I will research and consult with my supervisor to get you the best answer possible.
I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, & Trauma/Substance Use. I introduce therapeutic interventions appropriate for an individual's comfort level, leading to long-term personal growth. I allow you to "take the wheel" and work with you as you define your therapy goals. I encourage you to have a voice, to speak up if an area of your treatment is not working for you, and to ask questions. I am candid in that if there is an answer to a question I do not know, I will research and consult with my supervisor to get you the best answer possible.
(484) 969-8672 View (484) 969-8672
Photo of Lehigh Valley Counselors, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Lehigh Valley Counselors
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ICAADC, CCTP, DOT-SAP
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18017
Everyone has uncomfortable times and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. You might be initially hesitant to seek out help and support for personal matters, but when you do, you will feel confident that you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place in life.
Everyone has uncomfortable times and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. You might be initially hesitant to seek out help and support for personal matters, but when you do, you will feel confident that you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place in life.
(610) 596-4222 View (610) 596-4222
Photo of Ami Sharma-Desai, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Ami Sharma-Desai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
I am also trained in mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization,Reprocessing (EMDR) which specifically targets decreasing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress.
As a therapist, I am deeply committed to understanding your needs, strengths, and life experiences which have shaped who you are today. I value fostering an environment in which trust can be founded upon creating a safe, warm, nonjudgmental and collaborative therapeutic relationship. Together, we will develop coping skills and strategies to help you feel empowered to effectively manage your life concerns. You can expect that I will regularly seek your feedback and input during our journey together as I strongly believe you are the expert in knowing yourself best.
I am also trained in mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization,Reprocessing (EMDR) which specifically targets decreasing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress.
As a therapist, I am deeply committed to understanding your needs, strengths, and life experiences which have shaped who you are today. I value fostering an environment in which trust can be founded upon creating a safe, warm, nonjudgmental and collaborative therapeutic relationship. Together, we will develop coping skills and strategies to help you feel empowered to effectively manage your life concerns. You can expect that I will regularly seek your feedback and input during our journey together as I strongly believe you are the expert in knowing yourself best.
(201) 690-1195 View (201) 690-1195
Photo of John Bolger, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
John Bolger
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
I specialize in the treatment of symptoms of anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, relationship issues, and social anxiety; and have assisted clients with improving skills in assertiveness, in adapting to life changes, and avoiding ongoing participation in chronic maladaptive behaviors.
Whether you are beginning or continuing your psychotherapy journey, I believe that a thorough assessment of your strengths and specific areas in your life that may benefit from clinical attention. My focus is providing therapeutic supports towards you achieving success in your life as your define it. My practice is informed by psychotherapy principles that promote a collaborative approach to therapy including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic approaches. My practice includes providing assessment and treatment services for adults, couples, and teenagers. I accept coverage from most major insurance companies and a sliding scale is also available.
I specialize in the treatment of symptoms of anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, relationship issues, and social anxiety; and have assisted clients with improving skills in assertiveness, in adapting to life changes, and avoiding ongoing participation in chronic maladaptive behaviors.
Whether you are beginning or continuing your psychotherapy journey, I believe that a thorough assessment of your strengths and specific areas in your life that may benefit from clinical attention. My focus is providing therapeutic supports towards you achieving success in your life as your define it. My practice is informed by psychotherapy principles that promote a collaborative approach to therapy including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic approaches. My practice includes providing assessment and treatment services for adults, couples, and teenagers. I accept coverage from most major insurance companies and a sliding scale is also available.
(215) 607-7747 View (215) 607-7747

See more therapy options for Pennsylvania

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.