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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marcy Tocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesport, PA
Marcy Tocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mohrsville, PA 19541
You deserve to be the best functioning version of you. Navigate the journey to courage while feeling empowered and supported working through animal assisted psychotherapy, play therapy, and expressive art therapy. I also provide ADHD and executive function coaching services, ADHD assessment. Therapeutic services can look different for each person because we all walk different paths. That being said - our goals are all the same - to be the best functioning individual we can - whatever that looks like to us. Let us walk alongside you in your journey that we know you’re capable of.
You deserve to be the best functioning version of you. Navigate the journey to courage while feeling empowered and supported working through animal assisted psychotherapy, play therapy, and expressive art therapy. I also provide ADHD and executive function coaching services, ADHD assessment. Therapeutic services can look different for each person because we all walk different paths. That being said - our goals are all the same - to be the best functioning individual we can - whatever that looks like to us. Let us walk alongside you in your journey that we know you’re capable of.
(484) 578-0737 View (484) 578-0737

Online Therapists

Photo of Alexandra R Darion, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesport, PA
Alexandra R Darion
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Our collective mental health presents a major challenge in our society. One in three people meet the diagnostic criteria for anxiety and/or depression. There’s a lot of us out there! You’re here because you want relief from this epidemic, and that is an incredibly brave first step! If you're willing to work hard, I am willing to make every effort to help you achieve your goals and we can change your life. Whether you’re going through a life transition, a traumatic event or you have battled mental health struggles all your life, you will feel empowered as we work together to make the improvements which you’re seeking out today.
Our collective mental health presents a major challenge in our society. One in three people meet the diagnostic criteria for anxiety and/or depression. There’s a lot of us out there! You’re here because you want relief from this epidemic, and that is an incredibly brave first step! If you're willing to work hard, I am willing to make every effort to help you achieve your goals and we can change your life. Whether you’re going through a life transition, a traumatic event or you have battled mental health struggles all your life, you will feel empowered as we work together to make the improvements which you’re seeking out today.
(215) 770-3764 View (215) 770-3764
Photo of Sari Fleischman, PsyD, PLLC, Psychologist in Leesport, PA
Sari Fleischman, PsyD, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Many find themselves at a point in their lives where external support is necessary to navigate life's challenges. My clients seek therapy for a variety of reasons. Some may come to therapy to deal with a specific struggle, such as anxiety or depression, while others initiate therapy during a difficult life transition. Even positive transitions, such as getting a new job or starting a new relationship can be stressful. Together, we will merge our resources to address these challenges in a safe environment by exploring patterns, processing events from the past, and creating plans for change in the future.
Many find themselves at a point in their lives where external support is necessary to navigate life's challenges. My clients seek therapy for a variety of reasons. Some may come to therapy to deal with a specific struggle, such as anxiety or depression, while others initiate therapy during a difficult life transition. Even positive transitions, such as getting a new job or starting a new relationship can be stressful. Together, we will merge our resources to address these challenges in a safe environment by exploring patterns, processing events from the past, and creating plans for change in the future.
(484) 938-1307 View (484) 938-1307
Photo of Dr. Leslie Parkes Shralow, Psychologist in Leesport, PA
Dr. Leslie Parkes Shralow
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Waitlist for new clients
If you are feeling worried or depressed about problems or transitions in your life, be assured that you will be met with warmth, care, and respect. As a clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience, I can help you with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, caregiver stress, trauma, body image/eating disorders, grief and loss, insomnia and challenging life transitions.
If you are feeling worried or depressed about problems or transitions in your life, be assured that you will be met with warmth, care, and respect. As a clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience, I can help you with depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, caregiver stress, trauma, body image/eating disorders, grief and loss, insomnia and challenging life transitions.
(215) 791-8065 View (215) 791-8065
Photo of Brooke Messinger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesport, PA
Brooke Messinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Clients that are depressed, anxious, struggling with life skills, lack organization or focus and have peer relationship struggles will work to create a plan to make better life choices, be more mindful, and build happiness into their lives.
There are times in life when people will seek counseling because they feel disconnected in their relationships, are struggling with difficult situations and emotions, or long to live a life that feels meaningful, satisfying, and authentic. My approach begins with the belief that individuals are resilient and may benefit from utilizing their strengths to increase their resiliency. I can assist in attaining lifestyle balance, developing healthy coping skills, recognizing your priorities and problem-solving.
Clients that are depressed, anxious, struggling with life skills, lack organization or focus and have peer relationship struggles will work to create a plan to make better life choices, be more mindful, and build happiness into their lives.
There are times in life when people will seek counseling because they feel disconnected in their relationships, are struggling with difficult situations and emotions, or long to live a life that feels meaningful, satisfying, and authentic. My approach begins with the belief that individuals are resilient and may benefit from utilizing their strengths to increase their resiliency. I can assist in attaining lifestyle balance, developing healthy coping skills, recognizing your priorities and problem-solving.
(267) 651-8445 View (267) 651-8445
Photo of Morgan Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesport, PA
Morgan Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! My clients often struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mixture of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we will explore sources of trauma and healing with curiosity.
Accepting new clients! My clients often struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mixture of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we will explore sources of trauma and healing with curiosity.
(609) 997-6138 View (609) 997-6138
Photo of Aly Semigran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesport, PA
Aly Semigran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Narberth, PA 19072
With specialties in grief and loss, substance use disorder, and depression and anxiety, I can provide comfort and clarity as I help clients reach their personal goals.
I believe that everyone has the ability to connect with their best selves and begin healing even in their darkest moments. Whether this is your first time going to therapy or you are years into your journey, you can speak openly and honestly with me about your hopes and needs for your life.
With specialties in grief and loss, substance use disorder, and depression and anxiety, I can provide comfort and clarity as I help clients reach their personal goals.
I believe that everyone has the ability to connect with their best selves and begin healing even in their darkest moments. Whether this is your first time going to therapy or you are years into your journey, you can speak openly and honestly with me about your hopes and needs for your life.
(412) 212-8443 View (412) 212-8443
Photo of Dr. Rachel Fallig, Psychologist in Leesport, PA
Dr. Rachel Fallig
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice, where I offer psychotherapy for adults of all ages and specialize in working with individuals in early to middle adulthood. I have a varied practice, with people coming to therapy for a wide range of reasons. Whether it's to navigate relationship issues, transitions or changes in life, anxiety, depression, sense of self, or you're feeling lonely, dissatisfied, stressed, empty or stuck - sometimes a little support can make a big difference. Across contexts, I provide identity affirming, culturally responsive, relationally focused care.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice, where I offer psychotherapy for adults of all ages and specialize in working with individuals in early to middle adulthood. I have a varied practice, with people coming to therapy for a wide range of reasons. Whether it's to navigate relationship issues, transitions or changes in life, anxiety, depression, sense of self, or you're feeling lonely, dissatisfied, stressed, empty or stuck - sometimes a little support can make a big difference. Across contexts, I provide identity affirming, culturally responsive, relationally focused care.
(484) 207-5685 View (484) 207-5685
Photo of Marsha J Friedman, Psychologist in Leesport, PA
Marsha J Friedman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
By identifying self-defeating patterns, our work can help manage difficult emotions such as depression and anxiety, and navigate the challenges you may encounter in important relationships.
The challenges of recent years and their unique stresses and isolation may have increased the feeling that no one understands the difficult world that you carry around inside. Seeking therapy is an important decision that may mean you are ready to grow and change and understand more fully the roadblocks that get in the way of living the life you want for yourself. You are seeking an experienced, empathic and trusted professional who will come to learn your inner landscape along with you and will support and guide you as you make the changes you seek. Together we will work toward your creating a more joyful and meaningful life.
By identifying self-defeating patterns, our work can help manage difficult emotions such as depression and anxiety, and navigate the challenges you may encounter in important relationships.
The challenges of recent years and their unique stresses and isolation may have increased the feeling that no one understands the difficult world that you carry around inside. Seeking therapy is an important decision that may mean you are ready to grow and change and understand more fully the roadblocks that get in the way of living the life you want for yourself. You are seeking an experienced, empathic and trusted professional who will come to learn your inner landscape along with you and will support and guide you as you make the changes you seek. Together we will work toward your creating a more joyful and meaningful life.
(215) 240-1305 View (215) 240-1305
Photo of Rachel Kolman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesport, PA
Rachel Kolman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
It can be overwhelming to grapple with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and the countless stressors that come with everyday life. If you're yearning for relief, clarity, and empowerment, I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey. My practice is founded on the principles of compassion, understanding, and respect for your unique experiences and perspectives. Together, we can explore the underlying factors contributing to your distress, develop coping strategies tailored to your needs, and work towards creating positive changes in your life.
It can be overwhelming to grapple with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and the countless stressors that come with everyday life. If you're yearning for relief, clarity, and empowerment, I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey. My practice is founded on the principles of compassion, understanding, and respect for your unique experiences and perspectives. Together, we can explore the underlying factors contributing to your distress, develop coping strategies tailored to your needs, and work towards creating positive changes in your life.
(484) 897-7189 View (484) 897-7189
Photo of Laura Geftman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesport, PA
Laura Geftman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
I provide support to manage trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, addiction, self-esteem, relationships, life transitions, & coaching for career challenges.
I am here for you. When times are tough, it’s important to have the right support to nurture hope, focus on strength, and harness the power of uncertainty. You can stop surviving and start living again. Together we can explore the darkness & the light, and find your way thru it. We will tailor an approach to support your intentions, needs, and goals. You will become more aware of your core beliefs and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. You’ll find our work to discover insight, self-acceptance, and freedom challenging but also profoundly supportive.
I provide support to manage trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, addiction, self-esteem, relationships, life transitions, & coaching for career challenges.
I am here for you. When times are tough, it’s important to have the right support to nurture hope, focus on strength, and harness the power of uncertainty. You can stop surviving and start living again. Together we can explore the darkness & the light, and find your way thru it. We will tailor an approach to support your intentions, needs, and goals. You will become more aware of your core beliefs and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. You’ll find our work to discover insight, self-acceptance, and freedom challenging but also profoundly supportive.
(267) 550-5130 View (267) 550-5130
Photo of Stacy Bernstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesport, PA
Stacy Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to working with individual adults of all ages who are struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, and grief, among many other life challenges. By exploring and processing thoughts, feelings and behaviors together, we can work to promote change and enhance your quality of life. I have a special interest in working with adults navigating major life stage transitions, such as with chronic illness and changes that come with aging. I address these concerns, which can include anxiety, grief, dementia, end-of-life issues, and caregiving, in ways that embody compassion, dignity, and respect.
I am dedicated to working with individual adults of all ages who are struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, and grief, among many other life challenges. By exploring and processing thoughts, feelings and behaviors together, we can work to promote change and enhance your quality of life. I have a special interest in working with adults navigating major life stage transitions, such as with chronic illness and changes that come with aging. I address these concerns, which can include anxiety, grief, dementia, end-of-life issues, and caregiving, in ways that embody compassion, dignity, and respect.
(832) 841-4268 View (832) 841-4268
Photo of Sarah Shaffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesport, PA
Sarah Shaffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Darby, PA 19082
If you are feeling stuck, conflicted or just wanting to bounce ideas for change, then an honest conversation is the place to start! Specialties include: Gen X Women, Caregivers of Aging Parents or Special Needs Children, Depression/Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Career Transitions. I work in an honest and accountable environment, offering the space to embrace chaos and keep moving forward.
If you are feeling stuck, conflicted or just wanting to bounce ideas for change, then an honest conversation is the place to start! Specialties include: Gen X Women, Caregivers of Aging Parents or Special Needs Children, Depression/Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Career Transitions. I work in an honest and accountable environment, offering the space to embrace chaos and keep moving forward.
(610) 222-5875 View (610) 222-5875
Photo of Dr. Jenn Caplan, Psychologist in Leesport, PA
Dr. Jenn Caplan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125
While I have specialized training/experience in working with survivors of trauma and abuse, I also work with people dealing with a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, & parenting issues.
I aim to provide a warm, nonjudgmental, safe environment that will support your innate ability to heal and grow. I view therapy as a collaborative partnership between you and I, and I highly value building deep, genuine connections with the people with whom I work. Through connection, and a gentle balance of nurture and challenge, lasting change can occur. Many of my patients begin therapy feeling stuck, anxious, unhappy, struggling with effects of trauma or loss, or desiring deeper connections in their relationships. Therapy can help you understand more about yourself and what you can do to feel better.
While I have specialized training/experience in working with survivors of trauma and abuse, I also work with people dealing with a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, & parenting issues.
I aim to provide a warm, nonjudgmental, safe environment that will support your innate ability to heal and grow. I view therapy as a collaborative partnership between you and I, and I highly value building deep, genuine connections with the people with whom I work. Through connection, and a gentle balance of nurture and challenge, lasting change can occur. Many of my patients begin therapy feeling stuck, anxious, unhappy, struggling with effects of trauma or loss, or desiring deeper connections in their relationships. Therapy can help you understand more about yourself and what you can do to feel better.
(267) 651-9472 View (267) 651-9472
Photo of Alisha Katz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesport, PA
Alisha Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS, RYT
Verified Verified
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
Trying to find the right therapist is challenging. I compare it to finding comfortable jeans or shoes. Its hard to find the right "fit." When life is frustrating and overwhelming, reaching out for help and not finding a person that is understanding and empathic, can feel discouraging. Making changes to your life when you're feeling anxious, alone and depression is also difficult. My clients come to my office with varying issues including depression, anxiety, marital, work, school, LGBTQ+ and interpersonal concerns. Each client is separate and unique and their therapy is tailored to their personal needs.
Trying to find the right therapist is challenging. I compare it to finding comfortable jeans or shoes. Its hard to find the right "fit." When life is frustrating and overwhelming, reaching out for help and not finding a person that is understanding and empathic, can feel discouraging. Making changes to your life when you're feeling anxious, alone and depression is also difficult. My clients come to my office with varying issues including depression, anxiety, marital, work, school, LGBTQ+ and interpersonal concerns. Each client is separate and unique and their therapy is tailored to their personal needs.
(215) 392-6701 View (215) 392-6701
Photo of Sarah Rosenberg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesport, PA
Sarah Rosenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety and/or depression.
Accepting new clients! My approach to therapy creates individualized plans, tailored to meet each of my unique clients’ needs. There are many different paths for growth, we will work together to find the one that is right for you. We will explore thoughts, emotions and behaviors in a new way. We discover ways to remove barriers that keep you stuck. Together, we will learn how to respond instead of react. We will rediscover your calm, confident, compassionate, curious self. We will challenge your resistant self that has been keeping you from growing. You will get to know your greatest asset - YOU.
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety and/or depression.
Accepting new clients! My approach to therapy creates individualized plans, tailored to meet each of my unique clients’ needs. There are many different paths for growth, we will work together to find the one that is right for you. We will explore thoughts, emotions and behaviors in a new way. We discover ways to remove barriers that keep you stuck. Together, we will learn how to respond instead of react. We will rediscover your calm, confident, compassionate, curious self. We will challenge your resistant self that has been keeping you from growing. You will get to know your greatest asset - YOU.
(610) 708-1567 View (610) 708-1567
Photo of Janet Sasson Edgette, Psychologist in Leesport, PA
Janet Sasson Edgette
Psychologist, PsyD, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Exton, PA 19341
Never before has the adage, “I was a teenager once too!” been more out of step with the experience of adolescents today. I’ve been helping teens for 35 yrs and have a good read on the challenges they face and the strategies that are effective in relieving the anxiety, disillusionment, depression, anger, and disconnection that plague so many families. I help teens who are anxious, argumentative, defiant, withdrawn, moody, self-destructive, inattentive, depressed, or doing poorly in school and will help you decide whether the problems you're noticing are part of "typical" teen behavior or a sign of something more serious.
Never before has the adage, “I was a teenager once too!” been more out of step with the experience of adolescents today. I’ve been helping teens for 35 yrs and have a good read on the challenges they face and the strategies that are effective in relieving the anxiety, disillusionment, depression, anger, and disconnection that plague so many families. I help teens who are anxious, argumentative, defiant, withdrawn, moody, self-destructive, inattentive, depressed, or doing poorly in school and will help you decide whether the problems you're noticing are part of "typical" teen behavior or a sign of something more serious.
(610) 915-8924 View (610) 915-8924
Photo of Samantha Eisenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesport, PA
Samantha Eisenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
I work for The Center For Growth, treating everything from mental health to sex and relationship issues. I can help you manage thing like anxiety and depression as we explore and understand complex emotions in a safe space and find healthy and effective ways to express and release those feelings. We can immerse ourselves in exploration of your past as we make connections and gain understanding of how old patterns show up for you today. Or we can focus on the here and now, identifying what behaviors and thoughts are no longer serving you so you can create new goals that support your growth, in whatever way feels right to you.
I work for The Center For Growth, treating everything from mental health to sex and relationship issues. I can help you manage thing like anxiety and depression as we explore and understand complex emotions in a safe space and find healthy and effective ways to express and release those feelings. We can immerse ourselves in exploration of your past as we make connections and gain understanding of how old patterns show up for you today. Or we can focus on the here and now, identifying what behaviors and thoughts are no longer serving you so you can create new goals that support your growth, in whatever way feels right to you.
(484) 218-2509 View (484) 218-2509
Photo of Amy Joseph, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesport, PA
Amy Joseph
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansdale, PA 19446  (Online Only)
I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, school/social stress, adjustment/life transitions, narcissistic abuse, family, marital & relationship matters, grief, self-esteem, anger management & addiction/recovery concerns.
The fact that you’re reading this means that you're ready to feel better. It takes courage to reach out to a therapist and means that you have hope that things can be better. Hope is what fuels the work of therapy and together we can help you to manage anxiety, depression and stress so that you can live your happiest life. Therapy is such a rewarding process and I know firsthand that it works and that YOU are so worth it. Being a therapist is my calling, my passion and my purpose and it would be my honor to travel with you on your journey to your Apogee, to your highest self, your journey to YOU!
I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, school/social stress, adjustment/life transitions, narcissistic abuse, family, marital & relationship matters, grief, self-esteem, anger management & addiction/recovery concerns.
The fact that you’re reading this means that you're ready to feel better. It takes courage to reach out to a therapist and means that you have hope that things can be better. Hope is what fuels the work of therapy and together we can help you to manage anxiety, depression and stress so that you can live your happiest life. Therapy is such a rewarding process and I know firsthand that it works and that YOU are so worth it. Being a therapist is my calling, my passion and my purpose and it would be my honor to travel with you on your journey to your Apogee, to your highest self, your journey to YOU!
(267) 291-0159 View (267) 291-0159
Photo of Dasha Levine, Pre-Licensed Professional in Leesport, PA
Dasha Levine
Pre-Licensed Professional
Not Verified Not Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
My areas of clinical focus include: LGBTQ affirming therapy and questions of identity; low self esteem (struggling with negative self-talk, never feeling good enough); relationship issues and communication (not secure in your relationships, difficulty communicating your thoughts); negative relationships with food and the body (HAES); anxiety, and depression.
Life is constantly presenting us with obstacles to overcome, and my goal as a clinician is to provide a safe space for you to grow and feel supported as you navigate those challenges. My work with patients is characterized by mutual decision making, trust, respect, and humor. When working with me, you can expect that I will take your feelings and concerns seriously, that I will listen attentively, but also challenge you to see things from a new perspective. I am drawn to working with people who are curious, self-reflective, and seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships.
My areas of clinical focus include: LGBTQ affirming therapy and questions of identity; low self esteem (struggling with negative self-talk, never feeling good enough); relationship issues and communication (not secure in your relationships, difficulty communicating your thoughts); negative relationships with food and the body (HAES); anxiety, and depression.
Life is constantly presenting us with obstacles to overcome, and my goal as a clinician is to provide a safe space for you to grow and feel supported as you navigate those challenges. My work with patients is characterized by mutual decision making, trust, respect, and humor. When working with me, you can expect that I will take your feelings and concerns seriously, that I will listen attentively, but also challenge you to see things from a new perspective. I am drawn to working with people who are curious, self-reflective, and seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships.
(484) 309-5670 View (484) 309-5670

See more therapy options for Leesport

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.