Depression Therapists in Wantagh, NY

Photo of Jennifer Welch At Nassau Psychology Pc, Pre-Licensed Professional in Wantagh, NY
Jennifer Welch At Nassau Psychology Pc
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Jennifer received her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling at Hofstra University. Her desire is to help people as young as 5 years old through their personal, emotional, and social journeys. Especially those who suffer from ADHD, anger Management, anxiety, depression, learning disability, self-esteem, self-harm, sports performance, stress, women’s issues, and sexual issues.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Jennifer received her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling at Hofstra University. Her desire is to help people as young as 5 years old through their personal, emotional, and social journeys. Especially those who suffer from ADHD, anger Management, anxiety, depression, learning disability, self-esteem, self-harm, sports performance, stress, women’s issues, and sexual issues.
(631) 868-5416 View (631) 868-5416
Photo of Sunrise Park Psychotherapy LCSW PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Sunrise Park Psychotherapy LCSW PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wantagh, NY 11793
We are clinical social workers who believe a nonjudgmental, respectful approach is vital in the therapy setting. I am a Northwell CIIPA tier 1 provider, WTC provider, and a few commercial plans. My associate Antonella Caizza-Moeller has joined the practice & has more than 10 years experience. She accepts Aetna, UHC, Oxford, Humana, Medicare. She has virtual/in-person availability on Thursdays/Fridays for ages 18+ & specializes in depression, anxiety, and women’s wellness. We both use CBT/DBT foundation skills & look forward to working on your goals to achieve your best life. It is never too late to change and work on us!
We are clinical social workers who believe a nonjudgmental, respectful approach is vital in the therapy setting. I am a Northwell CIIPA tier 1 provider, WTC provider, and a few commercial plans. My associate Antonella Caizza-Moeller has joined the practice & has more than 10 years experience. She accepts Aetna, UHC, Oxford, Humana, Medicare. She has virtual/in-person availability on Thursdays/Fridays for ages 18+ & specializes in depression, anxiety, and women’s wellness. We both use CBT/DBT foundation skills & look forward to working on your goals to achieve your best life. It is never too late to change and work on us!
(631) 529-6757 View (631) 529-6757
Photo of Sherry Persky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Sherry Persky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
I attended Adelphi University for both my undergraduate and graduate studies. I earned both a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Social Work from Adelphi. Since graduation, I have worked as a clinial psychotherapist providing individual therapy to seniors, adults, adolescents and children. I specialize in treating clients, who suffer from anxiety, depression, panic disorders, and phobias. I have developed an eclectic therapeutic treatment approach. However, my individual approach gravitates towards cognitive behavior theory. My work with clients focuses on their realization that their various disorders stem from their erroneous beliefs about themselves.
I attended Adelphi University for both my undergraduate and graduate studies. I earned both a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Social Work from Adelphi. Since graduation, I have worked as a clinial psychotherapist providing individual therapy to seniors, adults, adolescents and children. I specialize in treating clients, who suffer from anxiety, depression, panic disorders, and phobias. I have developed an eclectic therapeutic treatment approach. However, my individual approach gravitates towards cognitive behavior theory. My work with clients focuses on their realization that their various disorders stem from their erroneous beliefs about themselves.
(516) 693-8190 View (516) 693-8190
Photo of Danielle Leahy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Danielle Leahy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
I incorporate a variety of evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Treatment, and Crisis Intervention to assist clients in managing symptoms related to depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma.
"Once a person is determined to help themselves, there is nothing that can stop them" - Nelson Mandela. If you are reading this, you have already taken positive steps towards change and feeling better. With experience in residential, inpatient, and outpatient treatment settings, I aim to assist each client based on their individual needs and work to help them reach their goals. I pride myself on creating a safe and comfortable space for clients.Utilizing a strengths approach, my goal is to empower clients to improve relationship patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, and gain insight in order to reach their desired outcome.
I incorporate a variety of evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Treatment, and Crisis Intervention to assist clients in managing symptoms related to depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma.
"Once a person is determined to help themselves, there is nothing that can stop them" - Nelson Mandela. If you are reading this, you have already taken positive steps towards change and feeling better. With experience in residential, inpatient, and outpatient treatment settings, I aim to assist each client based on their individual needs and work to help them reach their goals. I pride myself on creating a safe and comfortable space for clients.Utilizing a strengths approach, my goal is to empower clients to improve relationship patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, and gain insight in order to reach their desired outcome.
(347) 919-0276 View (347) 919-0276
Photo of Wendy E Tirro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Wendy E Tirro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
What do we do when everything in our world, and the world around us, no longer feels safe and secure? Who do we turn to when our very foundation has been rocked? There are times in our lives when we face challenges. You do not have to struggle every day! You do not have to do it alone! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been in the field for over 20 years. I specialize in working with those who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse and family conflict. You are not alone, we are all in this together.
What do we do when everything in our world, and the world around us, no longer feels safe and secure? Who do we turn to when our very foundation has been rocked? There are times in our lives when we face challenges. You do not have to struggle every day! You do not have to do it alone! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been in the field for over 20 years. I specialize in working with those who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse and family conflict. You are not alone, we are all in this together.
(516) 494-3065 View (516) 494-3065
Photo of Heather Reich-Stone At Nassau Psychology Pc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Heather Reich-Stone At Nassau Psychology Pc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Heather received a Master of Social Work degree from New York University Ehrenkranz School of Social Work and an advanced certificate from Columbia University. Heather has over 20 years of experience as a therapist working with a myriad of polustions. Heather works with adults dealing with chronic illness, depression, anxiety, bereavement, and adjustment issues. She has a strong background in substance abuse issues and believes in a harm reduction perspective.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Heather received a Master of Social Work degree from New York University Ehrenkranz School of Social Work and an advanced certificate from Columbia University. Heather has over 20 years of experience as a therapist working with a myriad of polustions. Heather works with adults dealing with chronic illness, depression, anxiety, bereavement, and adjustment issues. She has a strong background in substance abuse issues and believes in a harm reduction perspective.
(516) 591-3393 View (516) 591-3393
Photo of Elissa Joy Smilowitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Elissa Joy Smilowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist with 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concern including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and life challenges. My counseling style is warm and supportive. My therapeutic approach combines psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral treatment. I believe through our struggles we find emotional growth.
I am a psychotherapist with 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concern including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and life challenges. My counseling style is warm and supportive. My therapeutic approach combines psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral treatment. I believe through our struggles we find emotional growth.
(516) 412-6929 View (516) 412-6929
Photo of Christine Sullivan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Christine Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wantagh, NY 11793
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome... Together we can "get to- the- heart- of- the- matter " I provide a safe and nurturing environment and have a practiced ability to get to the heart of a problem quickly. My specialties include trauma/PTSD, anxiety/depression, addiction/substance abuse, grief and loss. Let's discover what is causing distress in your life and help you become your best self. I am an EMDRIA approved EMDR trauma therapist.
Welcome... Together we can "get to- the- heart- of- the- matter " I provide a safe and nurturing environment and have a practiced ability to get to the heart of a problem quickly. My specialties include trauma/PTSD, anxiety/depression, addiction/substance abuse, grief and loss. Let's discover what is causing distress in your life and help you become your best self. I am an EMDRIA approved EMDR trauma therapist.
(516) 714-3134 View (516) 714-3134
Photo of David Lesher Stein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
David Lesher Stein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
People worry every day. Some worriers "worry all their lives." Excessive, non-productive WORRY may lead to symptoms seen in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), irritability and depression. There may be misguided behavioral strategies or unresolved experiences that prevent more productive use of worry and subsequent self-esteem enhancement. I will help you understand your worrying behavior, learn about how to live with uncertainty and consider strategies and new behaviors you have not yet thought about. I pride myself in my ability to develop good working relationships with my clients, a crucial part of therapy.
People worry every day. Some worriers "worry all their lives." Excessive, non-productive WORRY may lead to symptoms seen in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), irritability and depression. There may be misguided behavioral strategies or unresolved experiences that prevent more productive use of worry and subsequent self-esteem enhancement. I will help you understand your worrying behavior, learn about how to live with uncertainty and consider strategies and new behaviors you have not yet thought about. I pride myself in my ability to develop good working relationships with my clients, a crucial part of therapy.
(516) 342-4982 View (516) 342-4982
Photo of Laura Kranenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Laura Kranenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
Do you feel you are becoming who you are meant to be? Change comes from within. And I mean, truly from within, through reorganizing and enhancing your neural networks of memory and beliefs using bilateral stimulation. It sounds a bit technical, but its easy to do and it works. Many of us feel there is more to us. There is so much good waiting and wanting to come out. Anxiety, depression, trauma, our upbringing and negative beliefs get in our way. I help you find all that good within you. I help you to find your true Authentic Self. For more details check out my website.
Do you feel you are becoming who you are meant to be? Change comes from within. And I mean, truly from within, through reorganizing and enhancing your neural networks of memory and beliefs using bilateral stimulation. It sounds a bit technical, but its easy to do and it works. Many of us feel there is more to us. There is so much good waiting and wanting to come out. Anxiety, depression, trauma, our upbringing and negative beliefs get in our way. I help you find all that good within you. I help you to find your true Authentic Self. For more details check out my website.
(516) 252-0455 View (516) 252-0455
Photo of Robert C Blaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Robert C Blaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
We live in a world full of stressors. Some are motivational, some lead to sense of loss and depression, some create anxiety and problems in relationships. Therapy can help control those stressors when they spiral out of control. I provide a safe environment to help understand these stressors, and reduce their impact. I work with individuals and couples, and work with men reluctant to enter therapy, providing a non-judgmental environment.
We live in a world full of stressors. Some are motivational, some lead to sense of loss and depression, some create anxiety and problems in relationships. Therapy can help control those stressors when they spiral out of control. I provide a safe environment to help understand these stressors, and reduce their impact. I work with individuals and couples, and work with men reluctant to enter therapy, providing a non-judgmental environment.
(646) 600-8140 View (646) 600-8140
Photo of Ian Neville, Counselor in Wantagh, NY
Ian Neville
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793  (Online Only)
With extensive history working with people with mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, as well as substance use, I’ve primarily used a humanistic/person-centered approach along with cognitive behavioral therapy to bring out the best in others.
Life can be overwhelming. Does a feeling of sadness, hopelessness, or panic sneak into your day or even your week sometimes? Do you need help to kick that habit you’ve been wanting to change? It can be tough to cope with things when they are too much to bear and self-sufficient skills that used to be helpful, aren’t doing what they used to. Sometimes our relationships become complicated and begin to be difficult to navigate and we need assistance doing so. If you have thought or felt any of these things, and it sounds like what you are going through, reach out at your earliest convenience to see if therapy with me is right for you.
With extensive history working with people with mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, as well as substance use, I’ve primarily used a humanistic/person-centered approach along with cognitive behavioral therapy to bring out the best in others.
Life can be overwhelming. Does a feeling of sadness, hopelessness, or panic sneak into your day or even your week sometimes? Do you need help to kick that habit you’ve been wanting to change? It can be tough to cope with things when they are too much to bear and self-sufficient skills that used to be helpful, aren’t doing what they used to. Sometimes our relationships become complicated and begin to be difficult to navigate and we need assistance doing so. If you have thought or felt any of these things, and it sounds like what you are going through, reach out at your earliest convenience to see if therapy with me is right for you.
View
Photo of John A Careri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
John A Careri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing anxiety or depression and want professional help, feel free to call me to talk about what you would like to accomplish. I offer brief, solution-focused treatment in a comfortable, confidential setting. My underlying therapy approach is Internal Family Systems. Cognitive and behavioral approaches are also utilized, depending on what best meets your needs. I believe therapy can be short-term and can successfully resolve issues, if the therapist is tuned in and focused on how you want to change, deal with your fears and your unique personal self.
If you are experiencing anxiety or depression and want professional help, feel free to call me to talk about what you would like to accomplish. I offer brief, solution-focused treatment in a comfortable, confidential setting. My underlying therapy approach is Internal Family Systems. Cognitive and behavioral approaches are also utilized, depending on what best meets your needs. I believe therapy can be short-term and can successfully resolve issues, if the therapist is tuned in and focused on how you want to change, deal with your fears and your unique personal self.
(516) 518-5734 View (516) 518-5734
Photo of Samantha Collins, Counselor in Wantagh, NY
Samantha Collins
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wantagh, NY 11793
We have both male and female clinicians. Don't hesitate to ask! I believe being compassionate, open-minded, and culturally competent allows me to understand the stressors in a person's day-to-day life. I have an ample amount of experience with children and adolescents, as well as families, individuals, and couples. Yes, this process will take work, but I know that together, you can make it through anything whether it be anxiety, depression, or self-esteem. I use an eclectic approach to counseling which utilizes various theories and techniques. If something doesn't work for you, we will collaborate to find something that does.
We have both male and female clinicians. Don't hesitate to ask! I believe being compassionate, open-minded, and culturally competent allows me to understand the stressors in a person's day-to-day life. I have an ample amount of experience with children and adolescents, as well as families, individuals, and couples. Yes, this process will take work, but I know that together, you can make it through anything whether it be anxiety, depression, or self-esteem. I use an eclectic approach to counseling which utilizes various theories and techniques. If something doesn't work for you, we will collaborate to find something that does.
(516) 613-3738 View (516) 613-3738
Photo of South Shore Counseling and Psychological Services, Psychologist in Wantagh, NY
South Shore Counseling and Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wantagh, NY 11793
South Shore Counseling is a private practice on beautiful Crossways Park Drive North in Woodbury, right off of the 135! We accept the majority of major insurance plans. Our talented psychotherapists have a variety of clinical specialties; we work with a wide range of patients of all ages through many presenting issues: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, relationship issues, family-of-origin issues, school/college issues, adjustment-related disorders, and Workers' Comp/No Fault cases, among others. Being part of your development and healing is our true privilege. We have additional locations in Wantagh and Amityville.
South Shore Counseling is a private practice on beautiful Crossways Park Drive North in Woodbury, right off of the 135! We accept the majority of major insurance plans. Our talented psychotherapists have a variety of clinical specialties; we work with a wide range of patients of all ages through many presenting issues: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, relationship issues, family-of-origin issues, school/college issues, adjustment-related disorders, and Workers' Comp/No Fault cases, among others. Being part of your development and healing is our true privilege. We have additional locations in Wantagh and Amityville.
(516) 785-0323 View (516) 785-0323
Laurie M Forman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
Asking for help can be difficult but crucial in order to make necessary and beneficial changes in life. Therapy can be instrumental in helping overcome depression, relationship conflicts, anxiety, parenting concerns, and family problems. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over twenty-five years of experience treating adults, adolescents and children with a variety of presenting problems. I believe that every person is unique; therefore no one approach is right for everyone. I integrate a number of therapeutic techniques and perspectives in a safe and comfortable office environment to address important issues.
Asking for help can be difficult but crucial in order to make necessary and beneficial changes in life. Therapy can be instrumental in helping overcome depression, relationship conflicts, anxiety, parenting concerns, and family problems. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over twenty-five years of experience treating adults, adolescents and children with a variety of presenting problems. I believe that every person is unique; therefore no one approach is right for everyone. I integrate a number of therapeutic techniques and perspectives in a safe and comfortable office environment to address important issues.
(516) 570-9046 View (516) 570-9046
Photo of Lori B. Sinclair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Lori B. Sinclair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wantagh, NY 11793  (Online Only)
Hello and thank you for viewing my profile! I enjoy treating a diversity of clients, from teenagers through seniors. Most have issues of anxiety, depression, stress-management, identity, ADHD, bipolar disorder, relationships, life changes, family, grief, school, or career. I am very LGBTQIA+ allied. I am easy to talk to and non-judgmental. I love helping people uncover their untapped strengths and resources, and to assist in guiding them through life's many difficulties. I consider my practice style to be Eclectic, meaning that I draw from several theoretical orientations, and utilize what best fits each client's particular needs.
Hello and thank you for viewing my profile! I enjoy treating a diversity of clients, from teenagers through seniors. Most have issues of anxiety, depression, stress-management, identity, ADHD, bipolar disorder, relationships, life changes, family, grief, school, or career. I am very LGBTQIA+ allied. I am easy to talk to and non-judgmental. I love helping people uncover their untapped strengths and resources, and to assist in guiding them through life's many difficulties. I consider my practice style to be Eclectic, meaning that I draw from several theoretical orientations, and utilize what best fits each client's particular needs.
(516) 323-7492 View (516) 323-7492
Photo of Alan Frederick Steinke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Alan Frederick Steinke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
I am most interested in helping with conflict--within oneself (depression, grief, anxiety, anger), within relationships (abuses, infidelities, aggression, passivity), and within children (bullying, withdrawal, oppositional behaviors, social media issues).
I want to get to know you. I want to get to know you so that I can help you to get to know yourself--your original self, the self you are today, the self you want to be tomorrow. I want you to get to know me. I have more than twenty years of experience helping people help themselves. I have an M.Div. degree (Master of Divinity), an MSW degree, and I am a NYS Licensed Clinical Social Worker. If I cannot help you, I will refer you to someone I think can.
I am most interested in helping with conflict--within oneself (depression, grief, anxiety, anger), within relationships (abuses, infidelities, aggression, passivity), and within children (bullying, withdrawal, oppositional behaviors, social media issues).
I want to get to know you. I want to get to know you so that I can help you to get to know yourself--your original self, the self you are today, the self you want to be tomorrow. I want you to get to know me. I have more than twenty years of experience helping people help themselves. I have an M.Div. degree (Master of Divinity), an MSW degree, and I am a NYS Licensed Clinical Social Worker. If I cannot help you, I will refer you to someone I think can.
(516) 717-4058 View (516) 717-4058
Photo of Cathy C Kreuscher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Cathy C Kreuscher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
As a therapist, my goal is to help you better understand, resolve and find solutions to the challenges and/or trauma in your life. Depression, fears and anxieties can dull our ability to experience joy and lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life. By applying complementary therapeutic approaches, we can unearth behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from realizing your true potential while maintaining and protecting all that you have already achieved. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services in a private office in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you better understand, resolve and find solutions to the challenges and/or trauma in your life. Depression, fears and anxieties can dull our ability to experience joy and lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life. By applying complementary therapeutic approaches, we can unearth behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from realizing your true potential while maintaining and protecting all that you have already achieved. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services in a private office in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere.
(516) 279-2793 View (516) 279-2793
Photo of Suzanne L. Anderson Lacsw-R, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wantagh, NY
Suzanne L. Anderson Lacsw-R, CASAC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Lacsw-r, Casac-t
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
Toxic relsps, feeling misunderstood, trauma, bi-polar, depression, anxiety, mood, gaslighting victims, life changes.
Are you curious about yourself, how you impact relationships, and want to feel better? Working towards change, self-growth, and mindfulness, psychological sophistication can develop if you connect with the right therapist & therapeutic environment. See how the past might have influenced present day feelings-a way of moving forward in life. In private practice 39 years: psychodynamic & eclectic modalities. Completion Postgraduate: psychoanalytic psychotherapy,psychoanalysis, Addictions, Doctoral work. Specialty: Depression, anxiety, low self-image, Bi-Polar, Addictive relationships, modifying behavior by acquiring coping strategies
Toxic relsps, feeling misunderstood, trauma, bi-polar, depression, anxiety, mood, gaslighting victims, life changes.
Are you curious about yourself, how you impact relationships, and want to feel better? Working towards change, self-growth, and mindfulness, psychological sophistication can develop if you connect with the right therapist & therapeutic environment. See how the past might have influenced present day feelings-a way of moving forward in life. In private practice 39 years: psychodynamic & eclectic modalities. Completion Postgraduate: psychoanalytic psychotherapy,psychoanalysis, Addictions, Doctoral work. Specialty: Depression, anxiety, low self-image, Bi-Polar, Addictive relationships, modifying behavior by acquiring coping strategies
(516) 445-9085 View (516) 445-9085

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.