Depression Treatment Centers in Shrewsbury, MA

Photo of Kerrie Toole - Castlebrook Counseling Services, Inc., Treatment Center, LICSW
Castlebrook Counseling Services, Inc.
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Our therapists are trained in a wide variety of specialties, including Anxiety, Depression, Mood Dysregulation, Stress Management, among others.
Castlebrook Counseling Services, Inc. is a private practice group of independently licensed therapists with a variety of specialties and areas of expertise. We provide personalized, compassionate, and highly effective counseling to support you in meeting the goals you want to achieve. We offer a broad range of services including individual, family, couples, and group therapy, as well as guidance, coaching, and support.
Our therapists are trained in a wide variety of specialties, including Anxiety, Depression, Mood Dysregulation, Stress Management, among others.
Castlebrook Counseling Services, Inc. is a private practice group of independently licensed therapists with a variety of specialties and areas of expertise. We provide personalized, compassionate, and highly effective counseling to support you in meeting the goals you want to achieve. We offer a broad range of services including individual, family, couples, and group therapy, as well as guidance, coaching, and support.
(508) 475-9110 View (508) 475-9110
Photo of Kimberly Mastis - Neural Health Therapies, Treatment Center, MD
Neural Health Therapies
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Do you or a loved one suffer from depression?
We are an interventional mental health practice with one purpose: to relieve suffering. We offer safe and closely monitored ketamine infusion and TMS therapies for treatment resistant depression and anxiety disorders in a pleasant and welcoming environment. Traditional medical offices and hospitals can feel cold. We strive to bring cutting edge mental health treatments to patients in a private, personalized, and comforting setting. Our service is operated and overseen by a board certified psychiatrist. We take pride in providing individualized, high-quality, and compassionate care. We work closely with referring providers to be able to offer these interventions as part of a patient's comprehensive treatment plan.
Do you or a loved one suffer from depression?
We are an interventional mental health practice with one purpose: to relieve suffering. We offer safe and closely monitored ketamine infusion and TMS therapies for treatment resistant depression and anxiety disorders in a pleasant and welcoming environment. Traditional medical offices and hospitals can feel cold. We strive to bring cutting edge mental health treatments to patients in a private, personalized, and comforting setting. Our service is operated and overseen by a board certified psychiatrist. We take pride in providing individualized, high-quality, and compassionate care. We work closely with referring providers to be able to offer these interventions as part of a patient's comprehensive treatment plan.
(508) 306-8261 View (508) 306-8261
Photo of Andrew DeMalia - Andrew DeMalia, BS, CADC, LCDP, Treatment Center, BS, CADC, LCDP
Andrew DeMalia, BS, CADC, LCDP
Treatment Center
Serves Area
With a decade of expertise in leading addiction recovery services through evidence-based practices, I have dedicated my life to assisting those in crisis to overcome addiction and mental health issues. My professional journey began once I managed my own challenges related to addiction, empowering me with a unique perspective on both the personal and societal impacts of substance dependency. I take a holistic and harm reduction approach, utilizing CBT and MI in conjunction with lived experience to treat addiction.
With a decade of expertise in leading addiction recovery services through evidence-based practices, I have dedicated my life to assisting those in crisis to overcome addiction and mental health issues. My professional journey began once I managed my own challenges related to addiction, empowering me with a unique perspective on both the personal and societal impacts of substance dependency. I take a holistic and harm reduction approach, utilizing CBT and MI in conjunction with lived experience to treat addiction.
(401) 269-5778 View (401) 269-5778
Photo of Paramount Recovery Centers - Paramount Recovery Centers, Treatment Center
Paramount Recovery Centers
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Paramount Recovery Centers’ mission is to assist and support individuals with substance use disorders by treating addiction in new and innovative ways.
Paramount Recovery Centers’ mission is to assist and support individuals with substance use disorders by treating addiction in new and innovative ways.
(508) 504-1096 View (508) 504-1096

More Treatment Centers Nearby

Photo of Helen Michael - The Therapy Center at BGSP, Treatment Center, PsyaD
The Therapy Center at BGSP
Treatment Center
Brookline, MA 02446
Children, adolescents, and adults can find help with a wide range of life challenges including anxiety, depression, grief or loss, job stress, LBGTQ+ inclusive care, relationship issues, and many more.
The Therapy Center focuses on affordable, confidential, individualized psychotherapy to help people examine problems, find freedom from troubling patterns of behavior, and make long-lasting change. We have found that mutual trust and respect is the foundation of the therapeutic relationship that allows people to express themselves freely. With a focus on in-person care and over 45 therapists who are able to serve diverse population in an array of world languages, our individualized approach allows for treatment tailored to your needs.
Children, adolescents, and adults can find help with a wide range of life challenges including anxiety, depression, grief or loss, job stress, LBGTQ+ inclusive care, relationship issues, and many more.
The Therapy Center focuses on affordable, confidential, individualized psychotherapy to help people examine problems, find freedom from troubling patterns of behavior, and make long-lasting change. We have found that mutual trust and respect is the foundation of the therapeutic relationship that allows people to express themselves freely. With a focus on in-person care and over 45 therapists who are able to serve diverse population in an array of world languages, our individualized approach allows for treatment tailored to your needs.
(617) 934-6085 View (617) 934-6085
Photo of Natalie Lender - TMS at Square Medical Group, Treatment Center
TMS at Square Medical Group
Treatment Center
Serves Area
TMS has been studied extensively for its therapeutic applications in depression treatment for adults.
If you struggle with major depressive disorder, have tried multiple antidepressant medications, have tried therapy, and are still seeking a way to treat your depression symptoms... TMS may be the best next step for you.
TMS has been studied extensively for its therapeutic applications in depression treatment for adults.
If you struggle with major depressive disorder, have tried multiple antidepressant medications, have tried therapy, and are still seeking a way to treat your depression symptoms... TMS may be the best next step for you.
(781) 230-7180 View (781) 230-7180
Photo of David Perna - Copernican Clinical Services, Treatment Center
Copernican Clinical Services
Treatment Center
Newton, MA 02458
At Copernican we utilize a combination of traditional therapy techniques and cutting-edge clinical interventions to help support your treatment experience. Our staff functions as an integrated, CLINICAL TEAM as we coordinate with other professionals in a seamless manner. Our approach to continuity of care that is packed with relevant clinical information. We believe that KNOWLEDGE IS POWER. The usual response we receive from other professionals is, "Thanks! You guys are always so helpful."
At Copernican we utilize a combination of traditional therapy techniques and cutting-edge clinical interventions to help support your treatment experience. Our staff functions as an integrated, CLINICAL TEAM as we coordinate with other professionals in a seamless manner. Our approach to continuity of care that is packed with relevant clinical information. We believe that KNOWLEDGE IS POWER. The usual response we receive from other professionals is, "Thanks! You guys are always so helpful."
(617) 405-3203 View (617) 405-3203
Photo of Brian Boyle - Stella Mental Health - TMS, Spravato & Ketamine, Treatment Center, MD, PMHNP
Treatment by Stella can effectively address symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, trauma, and PTSD/PTSI.
Stella provides the most advanced psychiatric care by combining the highest standard of evidence-based treatment with advanced protocols. Stella Newton offers Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray, ketamine-assisted therapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and psychiatric services, such as medication management and pharmacologic treatment.
Treatment by Stella can effectively address symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, trauma, and PTSD/PTSI.
Stella provides the most advanced psychiatric care by combining the highest standard of evidence-based treatment with advanced protocols. Stella Newton offers Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray, ketamine-assisted therapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and psychiatric services, such as medication management and pharmacologic treatment.
(617) 539-7566 View (617) 539-7566
Photo of Amber Miles - DJS Psychiatry and Services LLC , Treatment Center, NP, LDAC, LICSW, LMSW
DJS Psychiatry and Services LLC
Treatment Center
Serves Area
The facility works with individuals dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more complex conditions like schizoaffective disorder and personality disorders.
DJS Psychiatry & Services offers a comprehensive range of mental health treatments, including individual and group therapy, TMS therapy, and medication management. Our individual therapy includes CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic approaches to address issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma. Group therapy options provide support for anxiety, grief, depression, and ADHD, fostering connection and shared learning. We also offer TMS therapy for treatment-resistant depression, providing a non-invasive alternative for symptom relief. With a focus on personalized care and evidence-based practices, our team is committed to empowering clients on their journey toward mental well-being.
The facility works with individuals dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more complex conditions like schizoaffective disorder and personality disorders.
DJS Psychiatry & Services offers a comprehensive range of mental health treatments, including individual and group therapy, TMS therapy, and medication management. Our individual therapy includes CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic approaches to address issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma. Group therapy options provide support for anxiety, grief, depression, and ADHD, fostering connection and shared learning. We also offer TMS therapy for treatment-resistant depression, providing a non-invasive alternative for symptom relief. With a focus on personalized care and evidence-based practices, our team is committed to empowering clients on their journey toward mental well-being.
(978) 384-6546 View (978) 384-6546
Photo of Ridge Rtc - Ridge RTC - Teen Treatment Center in New Hampshire, Treatment Center
Rather than merely containing or shaping behaviors, we are committed to assisting young people by addressing the deeper, more difficult issues that impact their lives including anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and more.
Uniquely situated within the natural beauty of New England, both Ridge residential teen treatment centers in New Hampshire and Maine are specialized mental health treatment programs designed for teens, ages 12-18, requiring therapeutic assessment and enhanced support for mental, emotional, and behavioral health issues. The Ridge RTC provides a supportive and caring environment for teens who need more intense care than they can receive at home, at school, or in a traditional outpatient setting. Our programming focuses on stabilizing, evaluating, and preparing teenagers for a happier and more productive life beyond the program. We are proud to offer one of the most intensive treatment programs in the country. Our teen residential program offers 4 individual therapy sessions per week, group therapy multiple times a day, and a comprehensive family therapy component. Our holistic program includes psychiatric care, medication management, physical exercise, nutrition and other recreational activities. At The Ridge RTC, accessibility matters. With a commitment to extending high-quality treatment to as many families as possible, we are in-network with most major insurance carriers.
Rather than merely containing or shaping behaviors, we are committed to assisting young people by addressing the deeper, more difficult issues that impact their lives including anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and more.
Uniquely situated within the natural beauty of New England, both Ridge residential teen treatment centers in New Hampshire and Maine are specialized mental health treatment programs designed for teens, ages 12-18, requiring therapeutic assessment and enhanced support for mental, emotional, and behavioral health issues. The Ridge RTC provides a supportive and caring environment for teens who need more intense care than they can receive at home, at school, or in a traditional outpatient setting. Our programming focuses on stabilizing, evaluating, and preparing teenagers for a happier and more productive life beyond the program. We are proud to offer one of the most intensive treatment programs in the country. Our teen residential program offers 4 individual therapy sessions per week, group therapy multiple times a day, and a comprehensive family therapy component. Our holistic program includes psychiatric care, medication management, physical exercise, nutrition and other recreational activities. At The Ridge RTC, accessibility matters. With a commitment to extending high-quality treatment to as many families as possible, we are in-network with most major insurance carriers.
(603) 803-4350 View (603) 803-4350
Photo of Natalie Lender - Square Medical Outpatient and PHP, Treatment Center
Square Medical Outpatient and PHP
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Partial Hospitalization (PHP): Monday-Friday, 5 hours/day · Evidenced based group therapy, individual therapy, and psychiatric care · Specialized groups in relapse prevention, trauma recovery, anxiety/ depression management, and life skills - Intensive Outpatient (IOP): Flexible 3 morning/week schedule · Ideal for step-down care or patients who need support
Square Medical Group provides comprehensive outpatient behavioral health care through our Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) programs. We are a trusted partner for hospitals, providers, and community agencies seeking a safe transition for patients who require structured support after inpatient treatment, or who are at risk of relapse. We are in network for most insurance plans, including all Mass Health plans. We understand the urgency when patients are vulnerable. Our admissions staff provides same-day response for referral calls to ensure timely placement, encouraging mental well-being.
Partial Hospitalization (PHP): Monday-Friday, 5 hours/day · Evidenced based group therapy, individual therapy, and psychiatric care · Specialized groups in relapse prevention, trauma recovery, anxiety/ depression management, and life skills - Intensive Outpatient (IOP): Flexible 3 morning/week schedule · Ideal for step-down care or patients who need support
Square Medical Group provides comprehensive outpatient behavioral health care through our Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) programs. We are a trusted partner for hospitals, providers, and community agencies seeking a safe transition for patients who require structured support after inpatient treatment, or who are at risk of relapse. We are in network for most insurance plans, including all Mass Health plans. We understand the urgency when patients are vulnerable. Our admissions staff provides same-day response for referral calls to ensure timely placement, encouraging mental well-being.
(339) 233-4809 View (339) 233-4809
Photo of Edward Michael Waddington - Massachusetts Center for Adolescent Wellness, Treatment Center
Massachusetts Center for Adolescent Wellness
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Here at Massachusetts Center for Adolescent Wellness (MCAW), we understand the struggles that adolescents and their families face when it comes to mental health. That’s why we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective treatment options for our patients. We specialize in treating a range of conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, and more. Our team of experienced professionals use evidence-based treatments to help adolescents navigate their mental health journeys and reclaim their lives. We provide two levels of service that include Partial Hospitalization Day Program 5 days a week and Intensive Outpatient Afterschool Programming 4 days a week.
Here at Massachusetts Center for Adolescent Wellness (MCAW), we understand the struggles that adolescents and their families face when it comes to mental health. That’s why we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective treatment options for our patients. We specialize in treating a range of conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, and more. Our team of experienced professionals use evidence-based treatments to help adolescents navigate their mental health journeys and reclaim their lives. We provide two levels of service that include Partial Hospitalization Day Program 5 days a week and Intensive Outpatient Afterschool Programming 4 days a week.
(978) 574-9202 View (978) 574-9202
Photo of Helene Creasy - Embark Behavioral Health , Treatment Center, LCSW, MSW, MBA
Embark Behavioral Health
Treatment Center
Serves Area
We understand how heartbreaking it is to watch your adolescent or teen struggle with severe mental health conditions like suicidal thoughts, self-harm, depression and anxiety.
At our residential treatment center, we believe that family involvement is key to a teen girl's healing process. Our program fosters open communication, trust and connection between parents and teens, offering family involvement to strengthen trusting relationships. We work closely with families to ensure they’re involved every step of the way, offering support and guidance to help everyone heal together. Through family workshops and regular check-ins, we aim to rebuild bonds and create a supportive environment both during treatment and at home.
We understand how heartbreaking it is to watch your adolescent or teen struggle with severe mental health conditions like suicidal thoughts, self-harm, depression and anxiety.
At our residential treatment center, we believe that family involvement is key to a teen girl's healing process. Our program fosters open communication, trust and connection between parents and teens, offering family involvement to strengthen trusting relationships. We work closely with families to ensure they’re involved every step of the way, offering support and guidance to help everyone heal together. Through family workshops and regular check-ins, we aim to rebuild bonds and create a supportive environment both during treatment and at home.
(570) 658-8714 View (570) 658-8714
Photo of Kristina Marik - Arbour Counseling Services, Allston, Treatment Center
Arbour Counseling Services, Allston
Treatment Center
Serves Area
With many locations throughout Eastern Massachusetts, Arbour Counseling Services (ACS) offers a full range of programs & clinical specialties. Our team of therapists provide comprehensive outpatient counseling services to children, adolescents, & adults. Our facility has offered long term support to the Boston area and is a trusted provider for many. ACS, Allston provides compassionate care for all. The Boston Center at Arbour Counseling offers hybrid PHP M-F day program for children & adolescents ages 10-18. TBC also has two hybrid adult programs (18+): Evening IOP (M, W, Th 3:30-7pm) & Expressive Elements (M, W, Th 10:30-2).
With many locations throughout Eastern Massachusetts, Arbour Counseling Services (ACS) offers a full range of programs & clinical specialties. Our team of therapists provide comprehensive outpatient counseling services to children, adolescents, & adults. Our facility has offered long term support to the Boston area and is a trusted provider for many. ACS, Allston provides compassionate care for all. The Boston Center at Arbour Counseling offers hybrid PHP M-F day program for children & adolescents ages 10-18. TBC also has two hybrid adult programs (18+): Evening IOP (M, W, Th 3:30-7pm) & Expressive Elements (M, W, Th 10:30-2).
(617) 829-9567 View (617) 829-9567
Photo of Newport Newport - Newport Academy Teen and Adolescent Residential, Treatment Center
Our family-centered, integrated approach fosters sustainable healing from mental health and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, eating disorders, and substance use.
At Newport Academy, academics are an integral part of the treatment experience. Our licensed and highly trained teachers work closely with students, parents, and their current school to create a customized academic plan. Our goal is to ensure that our clients are set up for success when they return to their home school, with the tools they need to thrive.
Our family-centered, integrated approach fosters sustainable healing from mental health and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, eating disorders, and substance use.
At Newport Academy, academics are an integral part of the treatment experience. Our licensed and highly trained teachers work closely with students, parents, and their current school to create a customized academic plan. Our goal is to ensure that our clients are set up for success when they return to their home school, with the tools they need to thrive.
(844) 206-4652 View (844) 206-4652
Photo of Meagan French - Pillars Adolescent – Concord MA, Treatment Center
Pillars Adolescent – Concord MA
Treatment Center
Concord, MA 01742
This may include anxiety, depression, mood instability, trauma symptoms, school avoidance, ADHD and identity-related stress– among other concerns.
Our half- & full-day programs focus on building real social & emotional skills—not just teaching concepts. Teens practice coping skills, emotional regulation & healthy peer interaction in engaging groups. Therapy is individualized & evidence-based, informed by thorough assessment. Certified teachers coordinate with home school to ensure academic continuity.
This may include anxiety, depression, mood instability, trauma symptoms, school avoidance, ADHD and identity-related stress– among other concerns.
Our half- & full-day programs focus on building real social & emotional skills—not just teaching concepts. Teens practice coping skills, emotional regulation & healthy peer interaction in engaging groups. Therapy is individualized & evidence-based, informed by thorough assessment. Certified teachers coordinate with home school to ensure academic continuity.
(978) 951-4750 View (978) 951-4750
Photo of Mathews Thomas - TMS Center at Oasis Depression Center, Treatment Center, MD
At Oasis Behavioral Health Center, we know how difficult it can be when depression and other mental health challenges don’t improve with traditional treatments.
What makes Oasis unique is our focus on advanced, evidence-based treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato (esketamine) therapy. These breakthrough treatments are performed under the direct care of our psychiatrists, combining cutting-edge science with compassionate support. Many clients who have struggled for years finally experie
At Oasis Behavioral Health Center, we know how difficult it can be when depression and other mental health challenges don’t improve with traditional treatments.
What makes Oasis unique is our focus on advanced, evidence-based treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato (esketamine) therapy. These breakthrough treatments are performed under the direct care of our psychiatrists, combining cutting-edge science with compassionate support. Many clients who have struggled for years finally experie
(781) 619-3078 View (781) 619-3078
Photo of David Ray - Cambridge Mental Health, Treatment Center
Cambridge Mental Health
Treatment Center
Serves Area
In the heart of Cambridge, MA, Cambridge Mental Health offers intensive outpatient Psychiatric Day Treatment (PHP & IOP levels) for anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, academic/work stress, and life transitions.
Cambridge Mental Health offers Massachusetts-licensed Full-Day (PHP-equivalent, 5–6 hrs) and Half-Day (IOP-equivalent, 3–4 hrs) Psychiatric Day Treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, academic & work stress, and life transitions. Our evidence-based approach combines intensive group therapy, individual sessions and medication management.
In the heart of Cambridge, MA, Cambridge Mental Health offers intensive outpatient Psychiatric Day Treatment (PHP & IOP levels) for anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, academic/work stress, and life transitions.
Cambridge Mental Health offers Massachusetts-licensed Full-Day (PHP-equivalent, 5–6 hrs) and Half-Day (IOP-equivalent, 3–4 hrs) Psychiatric Day Treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, academic & work stress, and life transitions. Our evidence-based approach combines intensive group therapy, individual sessions and medication management.
(339) 217-7432 View (339) 217-7432
Photo of Intake Department - Brighton-Allston Mental Health Association , Treatment Center, LICSW, LMHC, MA
Brighton-Allston Mental Health Association (BAMHA), a program of Italian Home for Children (IHC) is a diverse community mental health agency that has been servicing the Brighton/Allston community and surrounding Metro Boston area since 1964. BAMHA also has an outpatient satellite office in Jamaica Plain. We offer individual and group therapy treatment, psychopharmacology, as well as family and couples counseling services. BAMHA services clients ages 4-80+. Our BAMHA clinicians are trained in various treatment modalities including: traditional psychotherapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive therapy, and play therapy. We also offer In-Home Therapy, Therapeutic Mentoring, In-Home Behavioral services for children ages 4-20 through our partner Community Based Programs (CBP) at Italian Home. Our clinicians speak over a dozen languages, including Spanish. We now have immediate openings in all of our CBP programs, and offer telehealth services for your convenience and safety.
Brighton-Allston Mental Health Association (BAMHA), a program of Italian Home for Children (IHC) is a diverse community mental health agency that has been servicing the Brighton/Allston community and surrounding Metro Boston area since 1964. BAMHA also has an outpatient satellite office in Jamaica Plain. We offer individual and group therapy treatment, psychopharmacology, as well as family and couples counseling services. BAMHA services clients ages 4-80+. Our BAMHA clinicians are trained in various treatment modalities including: traditional psychotherapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive therapy, and play therapy. We also offer In-Home Therapy, Therapeutic Mentoring, In-Home Behavioral services for children ages 4-20 through our partner Community Based Programs (CBP) at Italian Home. Our clinicians speak over a dozen languages, including Spanish. We now have immediate openings in all of our CBP programs, and offer telehealth services for your convenience and safety.
(617) 917-2782 x1000 View (617) 917-2782 x1000
Photo of Matthew Mueller - Elevation Behavioral Health, Treatment Center
Elevation Behavioral Health
Treatment Center
Serves Area
As an intimate mental health facility, Elevation Behavioral Health provides our clients with specialized treatment to better meet their needs. Through the utilization of behavioral health, holistic and evidenced-based therapies, we provide inpatient mental health treatment.
As an intimate mental health facility, Elevation Behavioral Health provides our clients with specialized treatment to better meet their needs. Through the utilization of behavioral health, holistic and evidenced-based therapies, we provide inpatient mental health treatment.
(424) 395-3401 View (424) 395-3401

See more therapy options for Shrewsbury

Depression Treatment Centers
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.