Therapists in Staten Island, NY

Photo of Anita Aasen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Staten Island, NY
Anita Aasen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10301
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years experience. Every journey is unique and every journey has its trials. We all experience unexpected changes, difficulties and loss; whether it be a death, a marriage , a job or some other. We all experience anxiety in some degree. The pandemic has hit all of us hard. Therapy is a unique way to assist when you are ready to write the next chapter of your life's narrative. Specialties include low self esteem, depression, anxiety, grief, post traumatic stress. Guided Imagery. Compassion Fatigue among care givers and professionals.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years experience. Every journey is unique and every journey has its trials. We all experience unexpected changes, difficulties and loss; whether it be a death, a marriage , a job or some other. We all experience anxiety in some degree. The pandemic has hit all of us hard. Therapy is a unique way to assist when you are ready to write the next chapter of your life's narrative. Specialties include low self esteem, depression, anxiety, grief, post traumatic stress. Guided Imagery. Compassion Fatigue among care givers and professionals.
(347) 765-2065 View (347) 765-2065
Photo of Philip M Drucker, Psychologist in Staten Island, NY
Philip M Drucker
Psychologist, PhD, BCC
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10309
Life can be stressful at times. This stress can leave you feeling anxious, depressed and generally frustrated with your life. I can assist you in your journey to not only reduce these symptoms, but to also help you feel emotionally stronger, more balanced and functional in your life. I am a licensed psychologist and a board certified life coach. I have over 30 years of professional experience in helping adults find their own path. My specialty is in the treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders, marital and family issues and helping you to achieve life goals. Together, we can make a better you!
Life can be stressful at times. This stress can leave you feeling anxious, depressed and generally frustrated with your life. I can assist you in your journey to not only reduce these symptoms, but to also help you feel emotionally stronger, more balanced and functional in your life. I am a licensed psychologist and a board certified life coach. I have over 30 years of professional experience in helping adults find their own path. My specialty is in the treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders, marital and family issues and helping you to achieve life goals. Together, we can make a better you!
(347) 273-8639 View (347) 273-8639
Four Bridges Social Work Services, LCSW-PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, DSW, LCSW-R, BCD, ACSW
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10306
Board Certified Psychotherapy services provided plus NYSOP approved Clinical Supervision toward LCSW. We provide EAP services as well. Our office is private inside a modern professional ADA accessible building with an elevator. Our therapists are seasoned experienced NYS Licensed and Registered Psychotherapists who works with children 3+ adolescents, adults, couples, older adults, and provide marriage and family counseling. Our therapists have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, social phobias, substance abuse, anger, PTSD, life circumstances, domestic violence, separation or divorce, neglect, abuse, bereavement, family dynamics, etc. and provide parenting skills, work-essential skills, and more. We never double book and office wait time is at a minimum.
Board Certified Psychotherapy services provided plus NYSOP approved Clinical Supervision toward LCSW. We provide EAP services as well. Our office is private inside a modern professional ADA accessible building with an elevator. Our therapists are seasoned experienced NYS Licensed and Registered Psychotherapists who works with children 3+ adolescents, adults, couples, older adults, and provide marriage and family counseling. Our therapists have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, social phobias, substance abuse, anger, PTSD, life circumstances, domestic violence, separation or divorce, neglect, abuse, bereavement, family dynamics, etc. and provide parenting skills, work-essential skills, and more. We never double book and office wait time is at a minimum.
(718) 815-3500 View (718) 815-3500
Photo of Tammy C Stradford, Pastoral Counselor in Staten Island, NY
Tammy C Stradford
Pastoral Counselor, PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Staten Island, NY 10310  (Online Only)
I provide counseling services for Anxiety, Depression, Stress Management, Anger Management, Individual/Family, and Marital/Couple counseling.
In Matthew 19:26 Jesus spoke these words "..with God all things are possible". It does not matter how long you have been struggling in life or how obscure the future looks; what seems impossible with man is possible with God. As an Ordained Minister providing biblical counsel for over 10 years I recognize the need to bring inner healing to others. We are all divinely created by God with a unique, inborn temperament. As a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor my therapeutic approach integrates temperament therapy with sound biblical doctrine to bring harmony within the spirit, soul, and body. (I Thessalonians 5:23).
I provide counseling services for Anxiety, Depression, Stress Management, Anger Management, Individual/Family, and Marital/Couple counseling.
In Matthew 19:26 Jesus spoke these words "..with God all things are possible". It does not matter how long you have been struggling in life or how obscure the future looks; what seems impossible with man is possible with God. As an Ordained Minister providing biblical counsel for over 10 years I recognize the need to bring inner healing to others. We are all divinely created by God with a unique, inborn temperament. As a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor my therapeutic approach integrates temperament therapy with sound biblical doctrine to bring harmony within the spirit, soul, and body. (I Thessalonians 5:23).
(347) 851-8059 View (347) 851-8059
Photo of Samantha Zhu in Staten Island, NY
Samantha Zhu
MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10314  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also have experience with but not limited to depression, anxieties, LGBTQ+ related issues, intersectional identities, intergenerational trauma, and interpersonal issues.
Hello! Thank you for your time and interest in my work! My name is Sam. I'm a first generation queer Asian American practicing as a licensed mental health counselor for 8 years. I could bore you with my educational and professional credentials, but I'd like to tell you more about me. Beyond the therapy room, I am someone who thinks deeply about my role in relationships and interpersonal dynamics. I'm also someone who dives into art projects and will likely have an unfinished project in a corner!
I also have experience with but not limited to depression, anxieties, LGBTQ+ related issues, intersectional identities, intergenerational trauma, and interpersonal issues.
Hello! Thank you for your time and interest in my work! My name is Sam. I'm a first generation queer Asian American practicing as a licensed mental health counselor for 8 years. I could bore you with my educational and professional credentials, but I'd like to tell you more about me. Beyond the therapy room, I am someone who thinks deeply about my role in relationships and interpersonal dynamics. I'm also someone who dives into art projects and will likely have an unfinished project in a corner!
(929) 560-2274 View (929) 560-2274
Photo of Dana (Frisher) Trujillo, Mental Health Counselor in Staten Island, NY
Dana (Frisher) Trujillo
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LPC, RPT, CAS
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10306
In our work together, we can address issues related to anxiety and worry, fear in social situations, depression, school related fears and avoidance, grief and loss, parenting skills and support, obsessive compulsive disorder, anger, relationship conflicts and other struggles in which people may face in their day to day lives.
Unfortunately, there is a waitlist for new clients. Please email or call and leave a message to be added to waitlist. Calls will be returned once openings become available. Thank you! ........As the saying goes, when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. However, some may need guidance in changing their lemonade recipe. The process of change can be very difficult, yet it is not impossible! Therapy can be that first step towards learning new coping skills to deal with the lemons life throws your way. I am an experienced, Licensed Mental Health Counselor skilled in working with clients of all ages in individual or family settings.
In our work together, we can address issues related to anxiety and worry, fear in social situations, depression, school related fears and avoidance, grief and loss, parenting skills and support, obsessive compulsive disorder, anger, relationship conflicts and other struggles in which people may face in their day to day lives.
Unfortunately, there is a waitlist for new clients. Please email or call and leave a message to be added to waitlist. Calls will be returned once openings become available. Thank you! ........As the saying goes, when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. However, some may need guidance in changing their lemonade recipe. The process of change can be very difficult, yet it is not impossible! Therapy can be that first step towards learning new coping skills to deal with the lemons life throws your way. I am an experienced, Licensed Mental Health Counselor skilled in working with clients of all ages in individual or family settings.
(347) 273-8834 View (347) 273-8834
Photo of Dijellza Zaku, Pre-Licensed Professional in Staten Island, NY
Dijellza Zaku
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Staten Island, NY 10305
Are you grappling with the weight of anxiety, depression, or life's challenges? Do you need a safe, empathetic space to share your struggles? Let's work together to help you find relief, growth, and renewed happiness. We can work to break free from emotional pain and discover your inner strength.
Are you grappling with the weight of anxiety, depression, or life's challenges? Do you need a safe, empathetic space to share your struggles? Let's work together to help you find relief, growth, and renewed happiness. We can work to break free from emotional pain and discover your inner strength.
(718) 682-7287 View (718) 682-7287
Photo of Christina Carbone, Counselor in Staten Island, NY
Christina Carbone
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10314  (Online Only)
I work closely with adolescents and young adults who are struggling as they navigate through difficult life transitions, anxiety, panic attacks, depression and trauma.
Limited Space available, now accepting clients in NY & NJ. My goal is to make sure that my clients always feel supported and see real, tangible progress. In my work with my clients, I blend traditional talk therapy with CBT, mindfulness, and somatic interventions in order to create a fully holistic and supportive therapeutic experience. The collaborative approach I take enables my clients to feel both supported and empowered through the therapeutic process. I actively guide them through building on their own strengths as well as learning new skills in order to work through barriers and challenges they are facing.
I work closely with adolescents and young adults who are struggling as they navigate through difficult life transitions, anxiety, panic attacks, depression and trauma.
Limited Space available, now accepting clients in NY & NJ. My goal is to make sure that my clients always feel supported and see real, tangible progress. In my work with my clients, I blend traditional talk therapy with CBT, mindfulness, and somatic interventions in order to create a fully holistic and supportive therapeutic experience. The collaborative approach I take enables my clients to feel both supported and empowered through the therapeutic process. I actively guide them through building on their own strengths as well as learning new skills in order to work through barriers and challenges they are facing.
(646) 419-4873 View (646) 419-4873
Photo of Danielle Pigno, LMHC, LPC - Telehealth Therapy, Counselor in Staten Island, NY
Danielle Pigno, LMHC, LPC - Telehealth Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Staten Island, NY 10306  (Online Only)
My primary areas of focus include anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, confidence, spirituality, life transitions, and personal development.
UPDATE 3/26/24: Now accepting new clients! Please message me to set up a free phone consultation. Imagine having the tools and support to finally overcome your lingering fears and self-doubt...Having the power to improve the relationships with yourself and others...Waking up looking forward to what the day has to offer! Imagine feeling rejuvenated mentally, emotionally and spiritually—ready to take life on, no matter the challenge ahead! The answer to a sense of peace and improved relationships lies in YOU! Therapy offers a powerful and sacred space to examine, heal and ultimately change your life.
My primary areas of focus include anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, confidence, spirituality, life transitions, and personal development.
UPDATE 3/26/24: Now accepting new clients! Please message me to set up a free phone consultation. Imagine having the tools and support to finally overcome your lingering fears and self-doubt...Having the power to improve the relationships with yourself and others...Waking up looking forward to what the day has to offer! Imagine feeling rejuvenated mentally, emotionally and spiritually—ready to take life on, no matter the challenge ahead! The answer to a sense of peace and improved relationships lies in YOU! Therapy offers a powerful and sacred space to examine, heal and ultimately change your life.
(347) 689-5543 View (347) 689-5543
Photo of Samantha Kishner in Staten Island, NY
Samantha Kishner
MHC, Intern
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10314  (Online Only)
When struggling with your mental health, you may feel stuck in a never ending cycle of self doubt and negativity. It has become more and more common in our post Covid world to feel just that. In fact, many of my clients have come to me in hopes of breaking that very cycle. Therapy can give you the power to start to break away from the constraints that our world and our minds can often put us in. Whether it be feeling anxious, worried, depressed, low self esteem, anxiety, ADHD symptoms, relationship troubles or the affects of past trauma, I am determined to help you feel freer and happier throughout our process of therapy together.
When struggling with your mental health, you may feel stuck in a never ending cycle of self doubt and negativity. It has become more and more common in our post Covid world to feel just that. In fact, many of my clients have come to me in hopes of breaking that very cycle. Therapy can give you the power to start to break away from the constraints that our world and our minds can often put us in. Whether it be feeling anxious, worried, depressed, low self esteem, anxiety, ADHD symptoms, relationship troubles or the affects of past trauma, I am determined to help you feel freer and happier throughout our process of therapy together.
(718) 957-2169 View (718) 957-2169
Photo of Eclectic Psychotherapy Group, Counselor in Staten Island, NY
Eclectic Psychotherapy Group
Counselor, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10305
Are you depressed, anxious, panicky or highly stressed in your present life and relationships? Does it feel like life is slipping away and you keep playing catch up with all the problems that surround you on a daily basis? Are you struggling with taking control over your life, finding peace and forming healthier, stronger relationships? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here.
Are you depressed, anxious, panicky or highly stressed in your present life and relationships? Does it feel like life is slipping away and you keep playing catch up with all the problems that surround you on a daily basis? Are you struggling with taking control over your life, finding peace and forming healthier, stronger relationships? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here.
(347) 418-0285 View (347) 418-0285
Photo of Maggie Quirk, Counselor in Staten Island, NY
Maggie Quirk
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10306  (Online Only)
Are you feeling like you want more from life but don't know where to start? Do you feel like the thoughts in your mind are getting in the way of enjoying your life? I work with young adults and adults that find it difficult to identify and make changes to improve their mental health and overall life satisfaction. Don't let anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and/or feeling like you are stuck in a routine hold you back from reaching your full potential anymore.
Are you feeling like you want more from life but don't know where to start? Do you feel like the thoughts in your mind are getting in the way of enjoying your life? I work with young adults and adults that find it difficult to identify and make changes to improve their mental health and overall life satisfaction. Don't let anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and/or feeling like you are stuck in a routine hold you back from reaching your full potential anymore.
(347) 697-4105 View (347) 697-4105
Photo of Katarina Bernius in Staten Island, NY
Katarina Bernius
MHC, Intern
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10314  (Online Only)
I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and embrace a strengths-based approach to those coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
If you’ve been feeling stuck, alone, or in pain, I’m glad you’re here. Finding a therapist you think you’ll be comfortable sharing such intimate feelings with can be overwhelming, especially when anxiety and depression get in the way. As someone who has spent plenty of time on both sides of the therapeutic relationship, I assure you, you’re not alone. Your pain is real, and my time and attention are the least you deserve on this journey you’ve already begun.
I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and embrace a strengths-based approach to those coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
If you’ve been feeling stuck, alone, or in pain, I’m glad you’re here. Finding a therapist you think you’ll be comfortable sharing such intimate feelings with can be overwhelming, especially when anxiety and depression get in the way. As someone who has spent plenty of time on both sides of the therapeutic relationship, I assure you, you’re not alone. Your pain is real, and my time and attention are the least you deserve on this journey you’ve already begun.
(718) 750-9882 View (718) 750-9882
Photo of Ishanie Sanchez, Counselor in Staten Island, NY
Ishanie Sanchez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Staten Island, NY 10305
Are you tired of feeling depressed or anxious? Are you suffering from a mood or personality disorder? Is your relationship in trouble and you constantly find yourselves arguing? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I support my clients in identifying the thoughts and behaviors which have not been helpful to them over time and assist in developing healthy habits and coping mechanisms which will lead to happiness and success. I enjoy working with individuals who have a expressed a need to improve their lives and are ready to take the next step. I take great pride in and truly enjoy seeing improvement in the those with whom I work.
Are you tired of feeling depressed or anxious? Are you suffering from a mood or personality disorder? Is your relationship in trouble and you constantly find yourselves arguing? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I support my clients in identifying the thoughts and behaviors which have not been helpful to them over time and assist in developing healthy habits and coping mechanisms which will lead to happiness and success. I enjoy working with individuals who have a expressed a need to improve their lives and are ready to take the next step. I take great pride in and truly enjoy seeing improvement in the those with whom I work.
(917) 920-3411 View (917) 920-3411
Photo of Jennifer Grossman LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Staten Island, NY
Jennifer Grossman LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Staten Island, NY 10314  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients through anxiety and depression symptoms as well as working with clients adjusting to life transitions, managing conflicts in a relationship, infidelity recovery and processing past trauma.
I am in network with Aetna, Cigna, Empire BlueCross BlueShield, Oscar Health, Oxford and UnitedHealthcare. Starting the search for a therapist is your first step on your journey to change and I would be honored to take this journey with you! As a therapist, I use empathy and humor to provide a comfortable and non-judgmental environment where you feel like you can be your true self.
I have experience working with clients through anxiety and depression symptoms as well as working with clients adjusting to life transitions, managing conflicts in a relationship, infidelity recovery and processing past trauma.
I am in network with Aetna, Cigna, Empire BlueCross BlueShield, Oscar Health, Oxford and UnitedHealthcare. Starting the search for a therapist is your first step on your journey to change and I would be honored to take this journey with you! As a therapist, I use empathy and humor to provide a comfortable and non-judgmental environment where you feel like you can be your true self.
(646) 576-7809 View (646) 576-7809
Photo of Sue Hecht, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Staten Island, NY
Sue Hecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10302  (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming, and with chronic pain, it. can feel like you're barely hanging on instead of really living. As a therapist specializing in mental health, trauma, PTSD, restorative and sensory-enhanced-yoga, holistic treatment, and chronic illness/pain, I strive to help individuals manage their own unique challenges. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, or something else, I can help navigate these issues with you to help you achieve more peace, calm, and fulfillment.
Life can be overwhelming, and with chronic pain, it. can feel like you're barely hanging on instead of really living. As a therapist specializing in mental health, trauma, PTSD, restorative and sensory-enhanced-yoga, holistic treatment, and chronic illness/pain, I strive to help individuals manage their own unique challenges. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, or something else, I can help navigate these issues with you to help you achieve more peace, calm, and fulfillment.
(929) 543-6544 View (929) 543-6544
Photo of Dr. DiBenedetto Psychology Practice, Psychologist in Staten Island, NY
Dr. DiBenedetto Psychology Practice
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Staten Island, NY 10309
When considering treatment, people discuss finding "the right fit" or "a good fit." For me, this connection is vital in establishing comfort and security between client & therapist. In the hopes of assisting you narrow your search, let me tell you about myself and my work. I enjoy working with late adolescence and adults. I've worked with diverse backgrounds and a spectrum of issues ranging from serious illness to "adjustment" difficulties. Areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, relationships, professional difficulties & general life adjustments. I practice in an easy-going, down-to-earth style leaving room for both serious discussion & humor.
When considering treatment, people discuss finding "the right fit" or "a good fit." For me, this connection is vital in establishing comfort and security between client & therapist. In the hopes of assisting you narrow your search, let me tell you about myself and my work. I enjoy working with late adolescence and adults. I've worked with diverse backgrounds and a spectrum of issues ranging from serious illness to "adjustment" difficulties. Areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, relationships, professional difficulties & general life adjustments. I practice in an easy-going, down-to-earth style leaving room for both serious discussion & humor.
(732) 592-4180 View (732) 592-4180
Photo of Julianna Misuraca, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Staten Island, NY
Julianna Misuraca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10305
I have worked with multiple communities that vary significantly throughout my career with the intention to understand and assist each unique individual. I have worked with the geriatric population, parents and children, and couples. I have worked closely with those struggling with alcohol and substance abuse and addiction, and those with severe and mild mental health disorders ranging from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia, bi-polar 1 and 2, and personality disorders.
I have worked with multiple communities that vary significantly throughout my career with the intention to understand and assist each unique individual. I have worked with the geriatric population, parents and children, and couples. I have worked closely with those struggling with alcohol and substance abuse and addiction, and those with severe and mild mental health disorders ranging from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia, bi-polar 1 and 2, and personality disorders.
(646) 571-0535 View (646) 571-0535
Photo of Russell Brian Shelkowitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Staten Island, NY
Russell Brian Shelkowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Staten Island, NY 10314
Russell's areas of expertise encompass Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Family Issues, Relationships, Identity Issues, Self-Esteem Issues, Life Transitions, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Self-Harm, Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Russell Shelkowitz, LCSW-R has extensive experience working with adolescents (12+), adults (individuals & couples), and families, and has provided compassionate and effective care in diverse settings, including hospitals, private practices, and outpatient clinics.
Russell's areas of expertise encompass Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Family Issues, Relationships, Identity Issues, Self-Esteem Issues, Life Transitions, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Self-Harm, Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Russell Shelkowitz, LCSW-R has extensive experience working with adolescents (12+), adults (individuals & couples), and families, and has provided compassionate and effective care in diverse settings, including hospitals, private practices, and outpatient clinics.
(838) 221-5937 View (838) 221-5937
Photo of Brianna Schussler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Staten Island, NY
Brianna Schussler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Staten Island, NY 10303  (Online Only)
She treats anxiety, maladaptive coping skills, depression, grief, relationships issues, school issues, self-esteem issues, sleep issues, stress, anger management, crisis management, and PTSD.
Brianna Schussler is a licensed clinical social worker. Clients come to Brianna looking for a provider who can help them achieve their goals through a humanistic approach. She takes into consideration external factors and personal values and beliefs to identify strengths and increase self-esteem. You can expect to be an active member in your treatment. Throughout each session, you will be encouraged to explore various aspects of your life. Together, you will challenge current negative thought processes, build healthy habits, develop coping strategies, and work to maintain healthy relationships. Brianna treats clients ages 12 - 65.
She treats anxiety, maladaptive coping skills, depression, grief, relationships issues, school issues, self-esteem issues, sleep issues, stress, anger management, crisis management, and PTSD.
Brianna Schussler is a licensed clinical social worker. Clients come to Brianna looking for a provider who can help them achieve their goals through a humanistic approach. She takes into consideration external factors and personal values and beliefs to identify strengths and increase self-esteem. You can expect to be an active member in your treatment. Throughout each session, you will be encouraged to explore various aspects of your life. Together, you will challenge current negative thought processes, build healthy habits, develop coping strategies, and work to maintain healthy relationships. Brianna treats clients ages 12 - 65.
(929) 470-3243 View (929) 470-3243

See more therapy options for Staten Island

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.