Photo of Max Crowder, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Max Crowder
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals (16+) who experience life transitions, relationship concerns, depression, grief/loss, anxiety, emotion management, career concerns, low self-esteem, and identity concerns.
My approach to therapy is rooted in compassion and respect. I believe that you are the best expert on yourself, and that my role as a therapist is to create a safe and open space to deepen your awareness of yourself and to explore if, when, and how it might be the right time to make changes in your life.
I specialize in working with individuals (16+) who experience life transitions, relationship concerns, depression, grief/loss, anxiety, emotion management, career concerns, low self-esteem, and identity concerns.
My approach to therapy is rooted in compassion and respect. I believe that you are the best expert on yourself, and that my role as a therapist is to create a safe and open space to deepen your awareness of yourself and to explore if, when, and how it might be the right time to make changes in your life.
(612) 324-4436 View (612) 324-4436
Photo of Douglas P Robinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Douglas P Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55428
I see life as a mosaic of experiences, and we all do the best we can with what we know at the time. But sometimes, anxiety, depression or the simple challenges of daily life can hold people back from living the fullest, best story of their life. My goal as a therapist is to explore and bring to light a person’s inner strengths, so they can overcome their personal obstacles and enjoy better, more productive lives and relationships. Everyone, regardless of life’s stumbles, deserves the best life they can imagine, and my goal is to walk with them and help them along this journey.
I see life as a mosaic of experiences, and we all do the best we can with what we know at the time. But sometimes, anxiety, depression or the simple challenges of daily life can hold people back from living the fullest, best story of their life. My goal as a therapist is to explore and bring to light a person’s inner strengths, so they can overcome their personal obstacles and enjoy better, more productive lives and relationships. Everyone, regardless of life’s stumbles, deserves the best life they can imagine, and my goal is to walk with them and help them along this journey.
(763) 343-7845 View (763) 343-7845
Photo of John Rogers, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
John Rogers
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406
I work from a non-judgmental, non-shaming, non-pathologizing perspective. My role is to help clients understand, heal and/or transcend underlying and often unconscious patterns that manifest as addiction, anxiety, depression and so many other complex ways our lives get stuck, stagnate and lose vitality. I am certified in NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM), which is a globally recognized modality for resolving Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD). Through our work together, clients report feeling more ease, freedom and energy to pursue a life that allows stuck energy to move toward growth, wholeness and fulfillment.
I work from a non-judgmental, non-shaming, non-pathologizing perspective. My role is to help clients understand, heal and/or transcend underlying and often unconscious patterns that manifest as addiction, anxiety, depression and so many other complex ways our lives get stuck, stagnate and lose vitality. I am certified in NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM), which is a globally recognized modality for resolving Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD). Through our work together, clients report feeling more ease, freedom and energy to pursue a life that allows stuck energy to move toward growth, wholeness and fulfillment.
(651) 571-4113 View (651) 571-4113
Photo of Hiraeth Psychotherapy, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Hiraeth Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Currently accepting new clients. We are a team of dedicated therapists working to address mental health concerns through high-quality psychotherapy, in south Minneapolis and via telehealth. We value honesty, compassion and a genuine presence in the work and in relationship with you. While we work with a wide range of concerns, areas of focus include anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy concerns, trauma, identity exploration, grief/loss and self-esteem. We provide individual and couples therapy, and work with children (ages 7+), adolescents and adults.
Currently accepting new clients. We are a team of dedicated therapists working to address mental health concerns through high-quality psychotherapy, in south Minneapolis and via telehealth. We value honesty, compassion and a genuine presence in the work and in relationship with you. While we work with a wide range of concerns, areas of focus include anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy concerns, trauma, identity exploration, grief/loss and self-esteem. We provide individual and couples therapy, and work with children (ages 7+), adolescents and adults.
(612) 662-3623 View (612) 662-3623
Photo of Svetlana Petrovich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Svetlana Petrovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403
It is no easy task to lift the shadow of depression, to rebuild your life after a traumatic experience, or to make healthy decisions when chronically stressed, emotionally dysregulated, or when experiencing a relationship/identity crisis. My compassionate, engaging approach and incisive reflection creates a nourishing space for individuals to endeavor on their healing journeys.
It is no easy task to lift the shadow of depression, to rebuild your life after a traumatic experience, or to make healthy decisions when chronically stressed, emotionally dysregulated, or when experiencing a relationship/identity crisis. My compassionate, engaging approach and incisive reflection creates a nourishing space for individuals to endeavor on their healing journeys.
(612) 712-5781 View (612) 712-5781
Photo of Leah Bonine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Leah Bonine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55415
My areas of professional interest include: anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness, chronic pain, sexuality, gender expression, gender identity, chemical dependency/substance use.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I work from a trauma-informed, harm reduction, sex positive, attachment-based lens. I specialize in working with adults from diverse backgrounds, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. I see clients for individual therapy. I especially enjoy working with creative people and have a deep understanding of the creative process. I am trained in EMDR, AEDP and DBT.
My areas of professional interest include: anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness, chronic pain, sexuality, gender expression, gender identity, chemical dependency/substance use.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I work from a trauma-informed, harm reduction, sex positive, attachment-based lens. I specialize in working with adults from diverse backgrounds, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. I see clients for individual therapy. I especially enjoy working with creative people and have a deep understanding of the creative process. I am trained in EMDR, AEDP and DBT.
(612) 800-0486 View (612) 800-0486
Photo of Monica Austerlitz, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Monica Austerlitz
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406  (Online Only)
Working with a spirit of solidarity and using an insight oriented approach I help adults of all backgrounds gain insight, build confidence, and make meaningful life changes. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, abuse, relationship conflict, and relapse prevention. I strive to create an atmosphere of trust and comfort and to establish a strong therapeutic alliance. I have a keen awareness of diversity and multicultural issues, and the ability to work comfortably and respectfully with clients regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.
Working with a spirit of solidarity and using an insight oriented approach I help adults of all backgrounds gain insight, build confidence, and make meaningful life changes. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, abuse, relationship conflict, and relapse prevention. I strive to create an atmosphere of trust and comfort and to establish a strong therapeutic alliance. I have a keen awareness of diversity and multicultural issues, and the ability to work comfortably and respectfully with clients regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.
(651) 321-5574 View (651) 321-5574
Photo of Marly Thorson, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Marly Thorson
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55417
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping women cope with everyday stress caused by a variety of sources. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, I can help. I believe in helping women achieve a positive relationship with themselves so they feel whole, heard, and happy in life. Some of the issues and life areas I can help you resolve include going through divorce/relationship ending, eating disorders, sexual assault/trauma, work life balance, professional development, depression and anxiety, as well as other mood disorders, sensory processing disorders (including highly sensitive individuals), life transitions, grief/loss.
I am passionate about helping women cope with everyday stress caused by a variety of sources. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, I can help. I believe in helping women achieve a positive relationship with themselves so they feel whole, heard, and happy in life. Some of the issues and life areas I can help you resolve include going through divorce/relationship ending, eating disorders, sexual assault/trauma, work life balance, professional development, depression and anxiety, as well as other mood disorders, sensory processing disorders (including highly sensitive individuals), life transitions, grief/loss.
(952) 234-6531 View (952) 234-6531
Photo of Esmeralda Flores, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Esmeralda Flores
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55401
I am a Latina therapist with experience supporting others through self esteem concerns, life changes, grief, anxiety, depression, and trauma(s). I have a special interest in first-generation Mexican-Americans. No judgements towards “No Sabo” kids here! I work well with people who are willing to explore and unpack their thoughts and feelings from a depth perspective. I invite you to develop new insights about yourself by understand patterns & clarifying emotions. I am trained in Brainspotting and help challenge individuals to explore somatic/physiological experiences of emotions in connection with their thoughts.
I am a Latina therapist with experience supporting others through self esteem concerns, life changes, grief, anxiety, depression, and trauma(s). I have a special interest in first-generation Mexican-Americans. No judgements towards “No Sabo” kids here! I work well with people who are willing to explore and unpack their thoughts and feelings from a depth perspective. I invite you to develop new insights about yourself by understand patterns & clarifying emotions. I am trained in Brainspotting and help challenge individuals to explore somatic/physiological experiences of emotions in connection with their thoughts.
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Photo of Kendall Schreier, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Kendall Schreier
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55410
I primarily work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, and stress.
She remembered who she was and the game changed - Lalah Delia - Deciding to seek therapy can stir up all kinds of emotions. Maybe it’s been a long time coming, perhaps the thing you used to do to get by isn’t working anymore, or maybe life recently threw you a difficult curve ball. Either way, it can feel isolating trying to figure it out alone. Friends and family can be helpful, though sometimes you just need a safe space of your own to regroup and a safe person to walk with you while you do the hard work.
I primarily work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, and stress.
She remembered who she was and the game changed - Lalah Delia - Deciding to seek therapy can stir up all kinds of emotions. Maybe it’s been a long time coming, perhaps the thing you used to do to get by isn’t working anymore, or maybe life recently threw you a difficult curve ball. Either way, it can feel isolating trying to figure it out alone. Friends and family can be helpful, though sometimes you just need a safe space of your own to regroup and a safe person to walk with you while you do the hard work.
(952) 592-7931 View (952) 592-7931
Photo of Amanda McGovern, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Amanda McGovern
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55426
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in evidence-based psychotherapy for adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have an expertise in evaluating and treating anxiety, depression, trauma, current life stressors and transitions, grief, loss, and relationship difficulties. I also have specialized training and experience in working with mental health issues across the female lifecycle, chronic illness, and pain. Before moving to Minnesota, I served as faculty at Weill Cornell Medical Center and Columbia University Medical Center in New York and Case Western School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in evidence-based psychotherapy for adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have an expertise in evaluating and treating anxiety, depression, trauma, current life stressors and transitions, grief, loss, and relationship difficulties. I also have specialized training and experience in working with mental health issues across the female lifecycle, chronic illness, and pain. Before moving to Minnesota, I served as faculty at Weill Cornell Medical Center and Columbia University Medical Center in New York and Case Western School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio.
(612) 255-9267 View (612) 255-9267
Photo of Susan Ann Gustafson, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Susan Ann Gustafson
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55414
I treat depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, eating disorders, ASD, ADHD, PTSD, gender identity disorder, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, chronic pain, grief, sexual abuse and other trauma.
My commitment is to help you make positive life changes. There are times when we are faced with obstacles and difficulties that interfere with growth and development, preventing us from achieving goals and aspirations, and diminishing our happiness and wellbeing. Psychotherapy provides a safe, nonjudgmental setting to discover solutions to challenges. With the powerful tools of communication and insight, I will help you identify counterproductive patterns and habits preventing you from living an optimal life. Together we will recognize and build upon your strengths and skills, develop new resources and strategies, and discover beneficial, healing ways of approaching your life.
I treat depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, eating disorders, ASD, ADHD, PTSD, gender identity disorder, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, chronic pain, grief, sexual abuse and other trauma.
My commitment is to help you make positive life changes. There are times when we are faced with obstacles and difficulties that interfere with growth and development, preventing us from achieving goals and aspirations, and diminishing our happiness and wellbeing. Psychotherapy provides a safe, nonjudgmental setting to discover solutions to challenges. With the powerful tools of communication and insight, I will help you identify counterproductive patterns and habits preventing you from living an optimal life. Together we will recognize and build upon your strengths and skills, develop new resources and strategies, and discover beneficial, healing ways of approaching your life.
(612) 223-6458 View (612) 223-6458
Photo of Bruce E Fischer, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Bruce E Fischer
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
I work with all types of addictions, depression, anxiety, personality disorders and grief.
I've been working with adults and teens for over 47 years. My approach is empathic, direct, and thoughtful. Given I have a wide background in my training, I adapt my therapeutic approach to your needs. I find that effective therapy is a collaborative approach where we work together to understand your concerns, their origins and most importantly what can be done to bring about both the internal and behavioral changes that will be beneficial to you. My goal in therapy is to help integrate your shame and vulnerabilities into a healthy identity grounded in self-esteem and pride.
I work with all types of addictions, depression, anxiety, personality disorders and grief.
I've been working with adults and teens for over 47 years. My approach is empathic, direct, and thoughtful. Given I have a wide background in my training, I adapt my therapeutic approach to your needs. I find that effective therapy is a collaborative approach where we work together to understand your concerns, their origins and most importantly what can be done to bring about both the internal and behavioral changes that will be beneficial to you. My goal in therapy is to help integrate your shame and vulnerabilities into a healthy identity grounded in self-esteem and pride.
(612) 223-7345 View (612) 223-7345
Photo of Jodi S Rogness, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Jodi S Rogness
Psychologist, RN, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I have extensive experience and training with stress management, anxiety reduction and management, depression management manifested by chemical imbalance or life's challenges including relationship difficulties, work/life balance, transitions, and physical illnesses.
In my 30 plus years in a helping profession, I am still energized by the bravery and strength of clients and their struggles that life can create. It is my privilege to encourage clients to look at life and themselves from a more balanced and productive place. I facilitate this by active listening and a nonjudgmental stance. I meet clients where they are within their emotional process.
I have extensive experience and training with stress management, anxiety reduction and management, depression management manifested by chemical imbalance or life's challenges including relationship difficulties, work/life balance, transitions, and physical illnesses.
In my 30 plus years in a helping profession, I am still energized by the bravery and strength of clients and their struggles that life can create. It is my privilege to encourage clients to look at life and themselves from a more balanced and productive place. I facilitate this by active listening and a nonjudgmental stance. I meet clients where they are within their emotional process.
(612) 345-9427 View (612) 345-9427
Photo of Stacy M. Husebo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Stacy M. Husebo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406
My areas of focus include: relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, life transitions, mindful living, and spiritual dimensions of mental health.
Life brings challenges for us all! I offer a person-centered therapeutic experience that is deliberate, supportive, and empowers you to change and grow in intentional and meaningful ways. Change happens when we become aware of and act upon patterns in our lives that limit us. I will support you in pursuing satisfying relationships, work, and overcoming obstacles and difficulties. We will work through grief, loss, inner conflicts, life challenges and difficulty in relationships. Changing our lives takes courage and unfolds in the context of a nourishing and accepting environment where one can explore new possibilities for their life.
My areas of focus include: relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, life transitions, mindful living, and spiritual dimensions of mental health.
Life brings challenges for us all! I offer a person-centered therapeutic experience that is deliberate, supportive, and empowers you to change and grow in intentional and meaningful ways. Change happens when we become aware of and act upon patterns in our lives that limit us. I will support you in pursuing satisfying relationships, work, and overcoming obstacles and difficulties. We will work through grief, loss, inner conflicts, life challenges and difficulty in relationships. Changing our lives takes courage and unfolds in the context of a nourishing and accepting environment where one can explore new possibilities for their life.
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Photo of Pamela L Dehkes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Pamela L Dehkes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403
Other specialty areas include; depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and social anxiety.
I believe that the foundation of growth begins within the relationship between individual and therapist. The desire to feel seen, heard, and understood is universal and is an essential part of our overall well-being. I celebrate the courage of individuals who take steps into healing by engaging in the therapeutic process to manifest the life they desire. I am passionate about working together to ensure that you become an expert on yourself and believe in your own insight, strength, and self awareness. I believe that humor and laughter bring out our authentic selves and utilize this philosophy in my work.
Other specialty areas include; depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and social anxiety.
I believe that the foundation of growth begins within the relationship between individual and therapist. The desire to feel seen, heard, and understood is universal and is an essential part of our overall well-being. I celebrate the courage of individuals who take steps into healing by engaging in the therapeutic process to manifest the life they desire. I am passionate about working together to ensure that you become an expert on yourself and believe in your own insight, strength, and self awareness. I believe that humor and laughter bring out our authentic selves and utilize this philosophy in my work.
(952) 260-6314 View (952) 260-6314
Photo of Bridging The Gap Behavioral Health PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Bridging The Gap Behavioral Health PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP-II, CCATP, C-DBT, CIATC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
My area of expertise are: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief & Self esteem, Attachment Issue, interpersonal conflicts, Stress management, anxiety and depression.
My Name is Lul Haji-Mohamed. I have 13+ years of experience in the behavioral Health field. My philosophy is to meet people where they are at and work in partnership. I recognizes that an open and honest relationship between client and therapist can produce a positive effect in the therapeutic process and the level of acceptance demonstrated. I strives to reduce anxiety in order to increase engagement and connection, create a safe environment for discussion, and impart knowledge and facts about the various options and their implications. I enjoy to see people reach their full potential and thrive.
My area of expertise are: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief & Self esteem, Attachment Issue, interpersonal conflicts, Stress management, anxiety and depression.
My Name is Lul Haji-Mohamed. I have 13+ years of experience in the behavioral Health field. My philosophy is to meet people where they are at and work in partnership. I recognizes that an open and honest relationship between client and therapist can produce a positive effect in the therapeutic process and the level of acceptance demonstrated. I strives to reduce anxiety in order to increase engagement and connection, create a safe environment for discussion, and impart knowledge and facts about the various options and their implications. I enjoy to see people reach their full potential and thrive.
(612) 248-1852 View (612) 248-1852
Photo of Marco Murrieta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Marco Murrieta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55417
I primarily focus on trauma and depression and anxiety associated with it.
I welcome you if you are new to therapy or have a history of benefiting from it. I make it a priority that you feel safe to proceed in therapy at a pace that works for you. Life brings us frequent changes and I hope to guide you through these expected and unexpected adjustments while reminding you to Love Yourz. Me encantaría conocerlo/a si nunca ha tenido terapia or si ya tiene experiencia. Para mi, es muy importante que usted se sienta segura y cómoda en nuestra terapia. La vida nos trae muchos cambios y espero guiarlo/a con estos ajustes esperados e inesperados.
I primarily focus on trauma and depression and anxiety associated with it.
I welcome you if you are new to therapy or have a history of benefiting from it. I make it a priority that you feel safe to proceed in therapy at a pace that works for you. Life brings us frequent changes and I hope to guide you through these expected and unexpected adjustments while reminding you to Love Yourz. Me encantaría conocerlo/a si nunca ha tenido terapia or si ya tiene experiencia. Para mi, es muy importante que usted se sienta segura y cómoda en nuestra terapia. La vida nos trae muchos cambios y espero guiarlo/a con estos ajustes esperados e inesperados.
(612) 294-7135 View (612) 294-7135
Photo of Life Skills Management Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Life Skills Management Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55404
We are licensed in Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
We are licensed in Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
(651) 237-8309 View (651) 237-8309
Photo of Aria Counseling, Assessment & Mediation Centers, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Aria Counseling, Assessment & Mediation Centers
Psychologist, MS, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
We work with chronic stress, anxiety and depression arising from ongoing difficult life issues and more.
Welcome to Aria Counseling, Assessment & Mediation Centers! We have a number of therapists on staff who are experienced, licensed and able to help. With locations in Fridley and Minneapolis, we are able to accommodate your need to begin working on your area(s) of concern quickly. Our therapists utilize a variety of clinical approaches to best suit your needs and your personality. We provide a warm, safe, comfortable and professional space for individuals, couples and families to work through their issues. We help people with relationships, stress/anxiety, depression, other mood issues, work/professional issues.
We work with chronic stress, anxiety and depression arising from ongoing difficult life issues and more.
Welcome to Aria Counseling, Assessment & Mediation Centers! We have a number of therapists on staff who are experienced, licensed and able to help. With locations in Fridley and Minneapolis, we are able to accommodate your need to begin working on your area(s) of concern quickly. Our therapists utilize a variety of clinical approaches to best suit your needs and your personality. We provide a warm, safe, comfortable and professional space for individuals, couples and families to work through their issues. We help people with relationships, stress/anxiety, depression, other mood issues, work/professional issues.
(763) 600-7172 View (763) 600-7172

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.