Photo of Amisha Desai, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wayne, NJ
Amisha Desai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MPS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wayne, NJ 07470
My practice encompasses work with individuals, couples, families, children and group work from diverse backgrounds. My focus is to provide services for those who are struggling with conflicted relationships, anxiety, depression, anger management, parenting and communication issues. I also help clients to deal with life transitions and life stressors by helping them organize their thoughts and feelings to be more effective. A decision to begin therapy can be stressful and difficult; however successful therapeutic outcomes can be tremendously self empowering and rewarding. I strive to provide a safe, compassionate and a non-judgmental environment which is conducive to open dialogue.
My practice encompasses work with individuals, couples, families, children and group work from diverse backgrounds. My focus is to provide services for those who are struggling with conflicted relationships, anxiety, depression, anger management, parenting and communication issues. I also help clients to deal with life transitions and life stressors by helping them organize their thoughts and feelings to be more effective. A decision to begin therapy can be stressful and difficult; however successful therapeutic outcomes can be tremendously self empowering and rewarding. I strive to provide a safe, compassionate and a non-judgmental environment which is conducive to open dialogue.
(201) 885-4604 View (201) 885-4604

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Payal Dalal, Licensed Master Social Worker in Wayne, NJ
Payal Dalal
Licensed Master Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Life can feel overwhelming or complicated. You may be feeling stuck or weighed down by work or relationships, or you may be struggling to change behaviors that prevent you from achieving your goals. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trouble with relationships, trauma, or other mental health issues, I am here to help. Seeking therapy is a step forward in working on yourself and gaining a better understanding of your thoughts and emotions.
Life can feel overwhelming or complicated. You may be feeling stuck or weighed down by work or relationships, or you may be struggling to change behaviors that prevent you from achieving your goals. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trouble with relationships, trauma, or other mental health issues, I am here to help. Seeking therapy is a step forward in working on yourself and gaining a better understanding of your thoughts and emotions.
(929) 930-2126 View (929) 930-2126
Photo of Bijal Patel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wayne, NJ
Bijal Patel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
I work with relational issues, communication, problems with sex and/or intimacy, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger management, various mental and emotional disorders, aging parents, affective disorders, job related stress, social stressors, grief, self-esteem, and other challenges.
Are you looking to make a shift? I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I believe therapy can be seen as a process of unpacking. Things often go unsaid, which can manifest into various effects on the body, such as anxiety. Although staying with your emotions can be difficult, it can often be the pathway to healing. My clinical experience has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of our environment and relationships, as well as the positive shifts that can take place when offered supportive and validating resources.
I work with relational issues, communication, problems with sex and/or intimacy, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger management, various mental and emotional disorders, aging parents, affective disorders, job related stress, social stressors, grief, self-esteem, and other challenges.
Are you looking to make a shift? I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I believe therapy can be seen as a process of unpacking. Things often go unsaid, which can manifest into various effects on the body, such as anxiety. Although staying with your emotions can be difficult, it can often be the pathway to healing. My clinical experience has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of our environment and relationships, as well as the positive shifts that can take place when offered supportive and validating resources.
(856) 776-7265 View (856) 776-7265
Photo of Emerge- The Counseling & Coaching Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wayne, NJ
Emerge- The Counseling & Coaching Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
At the center, clients can expect to learn how to live their best life. As a therapist and being involved in the field for 16 years, I've worked with adolescents, women and families through individual, family and group therapy. My expertise is working with individuals experiencing depression, self-esteem issues, history of abuse, generalized and social anxiety, anger management, stress management and trauma. I also provide coaching for women in their 20's -60's and help clients gain work/ life balance whether they're struggling in intimate or social relationship or in their careers. My approach is to not just to treat the symptoms, but get to the root of the problem.
At the center, clients can expect to learn how to live their best life. As a therapist and being involved in the field for 16 years, I've worked with adolescents, women and families through individual, family and group therapy. My expertise is working with individuals experiencing depression, self-esteem issues, history of abuse, generalized and social anxiety, anger management, stress management and trauma. I also provide coaching for women in their 20's -60's and help clients gain work/ life balance whether they're struggling in intimate or social relationship or in their careers. My approach is to not just to treat the symptoms, but get to the root of the problem.
(201) 345-1980 View (201) 345-1980
Photo of Shikha Patel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wayne, NJ
Shikha Patel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Not accepting new clients
I am experienced in working with PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-image issues, eating disorders, childhood abuse/neglect, and family issues.
I know it can feel like a challenge to ask for help - I know because I've done it myself. You've started to reflect on some of the things that have happened to you in life, maybe based on the way you were raised or significant events that have altered your way of living and thinking. You may feel stuck, you want more from your life and you want to change. You understand that in order to make change, you've got to work through some layers of your mind that can be inhibiting your growth. Allowing another person to hold your story with you sounds iffy but there is deep relief in knowing you are not alone.
I am experienced in working with PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-image issues, eating disorders, childhood abuse/neglect, and family issues.
I know it can feel like a challenge to ask for help - I know because I've done it myself. You've started to reflect on some of the things that have happened to you in life, maybe based on the way you were raised or significant events that have altered your way of living and thinking. You may feel stuck, you want more from your life and you want to change. You understand that in order to make change, you've got to work through some layers of your mind that can be inhibiting your growth. Allowing another person to hold your story with you sounds iffy but there is deep relief in knowing you are not alone.
(704) 272-2334 View (704) 272-2334

Online Therapists

Photo of Richa Sikka-The Therapy Spot NJ, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wayne, NJ
Richa Sikka-The Therapy Spot NJ, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, CCATP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07302
ક્યારેક વાત એ શ્રેષ્ઠ જવાબ છે. આત્મનિરીક્ષણ દ્વારા સ્વસ્થ દૃષ્ટિકોણ ઊભું કરીને વ્યક્તિઓએ પડકારયુક્ત લાગણીઓને પ્રતિભાવ આપવામાં મદદ કરી છે. સ્ત્રી જાતીય વિકૃતિઓ, ઓછી આત્મસન્માન, ડિપ્રેશન, ચિંતા, PTSD, અવ્યવસ્થિત ફરજિયાત ડિસઓર્ડર, વ્યસન, તાણ વ્યવસ્થાપનની સારવારમાં સાયકોડાયનેમિક અને પુરાવા આધારીત પ્રેક્ટિસને અમલમાં મૂકવા માટેનો મારો વ્યાપક અનુભવ, તમને વધુ સ્વસ્થ બનાવવા માટે સહાય કરે છે. સાથે મળીને, આપણે મન અને શરીરની ગોઠવણી પ્રાપ્ત કરીશું.
ક્યારેક વાત એ શ્રેષ્ઠ જવાબ છે. આત્મનિરીક્ષણ દ્વારા સ્વસ્થ દૃષ્ટિકોણ ઊભું કરીને વ્યક્તિઓએ પડકારયુક્ત લાગણીઓને પ્રતિભાવ આપવામાં મદદ કરી છે. સ્ત્રી જાતીય વિકૃતિઓ, ઓછી આત્મસન્માન, ડિપ્રેશન, ચિંતા, PTSD, અવ્યવસ્થિત ફરજિયાત ડિસઓર્ડર, વ્યસન, તાણ વ્યવસ્થાપનની સારવારમાં સાયકોડાયનેમિક અને પુરાવા આધારીત પ્રેક્ટિસને અમલમાં મૂકવા માટેનો મારો વ્યાપક અનુભવ, તમને વધુ સ્વસ્થ બનાવવા માટે સહાય કરે છે. સાથે મળીને, આપણે મન અને શરીરની ગોઠવણી પ્રાપ્ત કરીશું.
(201) 374-8260 View (201) 374-8260
Photo of Ramesh Shah, Psychologist in Wayne, NJ
Ramesh Shah
Psychologist, PhD, MSCP
Verified Verified
Dayton, NJ 08810  (Online Only)
Do you feel too stressed, too scared or too depressed? I can provide professional help with such emotional problems or any anxiety or depression related issues.
Do you feel too stressed, too scared or too depressed? I can provide professional help with such emotional problems or any anxiety or depression related issues.
(609) 798-0399 View (609) 798-0399
Photo of Pushpa Pathak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wayne, NJ
Pushpa Pathak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Life, Co
Verified Verified
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
Depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or just discontent with current life and a quest for something more are some of the things that I can help address by utilizing my 25 years of experience in promoting mental health. Are you in a marriage that has lost its energy and connection? Are you having difficulties building or maintaining relationships? Are you struggling to say or do the right thing with your children and balancing your roles of caring and disciplining? I can help you with these and many similar problems.
Depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or just discontent with current life and a quest for something more are some of the things that I can help address by utilizing my 25 years of experience in promoting mental health. Are you in a marriage that has lost its energy and connection? Are you having difficulties building or maintaining relationships? Are you struggling to say or do the right thing with your children and balancing your roles of caring and disciplining? I can help you with these and many similar problems.
(732) 638-4350 View (732) 638-4350
Photo of Poonam Patel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wayne, NJ
Poonam Patel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
My specialties include working with people of all ages experiencing anxiety or depression, people who are survivors of trauma (sexual abuse/domestic violence), and people managing life stressors.
Are you in a state of fear and worry due to the uncertainty of the current pandemic? Are transitions such as too much time at home, loss of your usual coping strategies, or changes in routine stressing you out? Or have you been considering therapy for a while and now is the perfect time? I specialize in anxiety management and trauma therapy and can help! I strive to provide you with strategies and tools to help you begin seeing the changes you desire in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. I understand that seeking therapy is a challenging and courageous step for anyone to take. I am offering online sessions to start your journey now.
My specialties include working with people of all ages experiencing anxiety or depression, people who are survivors of trauma (sexual abuse/domestic violence), and people managing life stressors.
Are you in a state of fear and worry due to the uncertainty of the current pandemic? Are transitions such as too much time at home, loss of your usual coping strategies, or changes in routine stressing you out? Or have you been considering therapy for a while and now is the perfect time? I specialize in anxiety management and trauma therapy and can help! I strive to provide you with strategies and tools to help you begin seeing the changes you desire in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. I understand that seeking therapy is a challenging and courageous step for anyone to take. I am offering online sessions to start your journey now.
(848) 229-9789 View (848) 229-9789
Photo of Neha Darji, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wayne, NJ
Neha Darji
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Are you struggling to feel adequate on your fertility or postpartum journey? Have you developed anxious or depressed thinking related to your parenting abilities? Could you benefit from additional empathetic support from a trained clinician who specializes in maternal mental health and pregnancy-related issues? Whether you are just beginning your pregnancy journey or have recently given birth, this chapter of life is full of big decisions, new experiences, and emotional ups and downs. If the stress of this transition has become too much to navigate on your own, support is available to you. Perhaps you are struggling to conceive.
Are you struggling to feel adequate on your fertility or postpartum journey? Have you developed anxious or depressed thinking related to your parenting abilities? Could you benefit from additional empathetic support from a trained clinician who specializes in maternal mental health and pregnancy-related issues? Whether you are just beginning your pregnancy journey or have recently given birth, this chapter of life is full of big decisions, new experiences, and emotional ups and downs. If the stress of this transition has become too much to navigate on your own, support is available to you. Perhaps you are struggling to conceive.
(856) 746-4226 View (856) 746-4226
Photo of Milli Shah Bhashyam, Counselor in Wayne, NJ
Milli Shah Bhashyam
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07302
Therapy is only as good as the relationship between therapist and client. I provide a space for the client to explore their vulnerabilities, hopes, challenges and meet them with unconditional positive regard, empathy, and an environment where growth can occur. The human experience is universal and yet it is as unique as each individual human. Culture, family background, and one’s own personal circumstances directly inform a client’s worldview. I work closely with those struggling to manage the stress of daily life and those experiencing challenges related to anxiety, depression, disordered eating, trauma, and relational challenges.
Therapy is only as good as the relationship between therapist and client. I provide a space for the client to explore their vulnerabilities, hopes, challenges and meet them with unconditional positive regard, empathy, and an environment where growth can occur. The human experience is universal and yet it is as unique as each individual human. Culture, family background, and one’s own personal circumstances directly inform a client’s worldview. I work closely with those struggling to manage the stress of daily life and those experiencing challenges related to anxiety, depression, disordered eating, trauma, and relational challenges.
(201) 720-3761 View (201) 720-3761
Vasista Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, NJ 08515  (Online Only)
We have an eclectic approach and we Specialize in Diagnosis and treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar , Substance abuse, Marital Conflicts.
The name Vasista is that of a great India Sage/Rishi who has taught ways of life that we now call life coaching. As Licensed Clinician, we believe in bringing both Western and Eastern approaches and applying Evidence based treatment to help our clients learn and cope with life stressors and Mental Health issues.
We have an eclectic approach and we Specialize in Diagnosis and treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar , Substance abuse, Marital Conflicts.
The name Vasista is that of a great India Sage/Rishi who has taught ways of life that we now call life coaching. As Licensed Clinician, we believe in bringing both Western and Eastern approaches and applying Evidence based treatment to help our clients learn and cope with life stressors and Mental Health issues.
(609) 293-4208 View (609) 293-4208
Photo of Vasista, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wayne, NJ
Vasista
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
Piscataway, NJ 08854
At Vasista , we help individuals of different age groups , cultural backgrounds work through Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral issues, Loss, Mood Disorders and Coach for Work life balance, stress management, conflict resolution and also provide EAP (Employee Assistance Program), Wellness Programs.
Vasista , a group practice providing mental Health /psychology professional services by matching highly trained, experienced and Licensed experts to meet the needs of individuals, couples and families from different backgrounds.We believe that one size does not fit all. We understand that we come with unique backgrounds and experiences and need a professional that you find comfortable to help you through the process of therapy and its our job to gain that trust and work with you.
At Vasista , we help individuals of different age groups , cultural backgrounds work through Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral issues, Loss, Mood Disorders and Coach for Work life balance, stress management, conflict resolution and also provide EAP (Employee Assistance Program), Wellness Programs.
Vasista , a group practice providing mental Health /psychology professional services by matching highly trained, experienced and Licensed experts to meet the needs of individuals, couples and families from different backgrounds.We believe that one size does not fit all. We understand that we come with unique backgrounds and experiences and need a professional that you find comfortable to help you through the process of therapy and its our job to gain that trust and work with you.
(732) 800-4598 View (732) 800-4598
Photo of Paulomi (Polly) Mehta, Counselor in Wayne, NJ
Paulomi (Polly) Mehta
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07302
Therapy can be transformative by providing you with the support and care that you need. Together we will work to understand your story to shed light on the thoughts, behaviors, and emotions that are causing you distress. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with racial identity, assimilation, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, trauma, and family conflict. I also have experience in working with individuals of the LGBTQ+ community surrounding queer identity formation and coming out.
Therapy can be transformative by providing you with the support and care that you need. Together we will work to understand your story to shed light on the thoughts, behaviors, and emotions that are causing you distress. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with racial identity, assimilation, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, trauma, and family conflict. I also have experience in working with individuals of the LGBTQ+ community surrounding queer identity formation and coming out.
(201) 903-4578 View (201) 903-4578
Photo of Reena Panchal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wayne, NJ
Reena Panchal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Reena comes with an extensive background working with both adults and adolescents. She has worked with a diverse population in the mental health field which incorporates families, couples, addictions, mental health (anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, etc.), dually diagnosed, and developmental disabilities including but not limited to autism and Asperger's Syndrome. She also has experience with grief and death and dying in which she uses Motivational Interviewing techniques to empower clients with difficult and advancing medical conditions to gain insight into their life values now, and in the future as things may progress with their medical condition.
Reena comes with an extensive background working with both adults and adolescents. She has worked with a diverse population in the mental health field which incorporates families, couples, addictions, mental health (anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, etc.), dually diagnosed, and developmental disabilities including but not limited to autism and Asperger's Syndrome. She also has experience with grief and death and dying in which she uses Motivational Interviewing techniques to empower clients with difficult and advancing medical conditions to gain insight into their life values now, and in the future as things may progress with their medical condition.
(908) 332-5199 View (908) 332-5199
Photo of Kanan Kapila, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wayne, NJ
Kanan Kapila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Kanan has extensive experience in anxiety, depression, crisis, trauma, and prenatal care.
Kanan Kapila strives to provide a wise, compassionate, welcoming, and culturally conscious space where therapy can help cultivate our capacity for meaningful life, career, and relationship experiences. Psychotherapy brings awareness to emotions in relation to thoughts, amplifying our ability to respond with kind inquiry and authenticity in our actions. Kanan Kapila adopts an integrative approach to Psychotherapy, drawing from Cognitive-Behavioral, Somatic Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Mindfulness techniques. Through therapy, clients gain insight into the patterns shaping their personalities.
Kanan has extensive experience in anxiety, depression, crisis, trauma, and prenatal care.
Kanan Kapila strives to provide a wise, compassionate, welcoming, and culturally conscious space where therapy can help cultivate our capacity for meaningful life, career, and relationship experiences. Psychotherapy brings awareness to emotions in relation to thoughts, amplifying our ability to respond with kind inquiry and authenticity in our actions. Kanan Kapila adopts an integrative approach to Psychotherapy, drawing from Cognitive-Behavioral, Somatic Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Mindfulness techniques. Through therapy, clients gain insight into the patterns shaping their personalities.
(973) 313-5421 View (973) 313-5421
Photo of We Rise Therapy- South/East Asian/BIPOC Therapists, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wayne, NJ
We Rise Therapy- South/East Asian/BIPOC Therapists
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
Therapy helps you manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, feeling "stuck" in an authentic, nonjudgmental space.
Are you a South/East Asian or BIPOC woman struggling with anxiety, self doubt, identity struggles and relationships issues? Are you having trouble keeping up with the demands of work, school, family and social life and it feels like a constant balancing act? Do you have trouble being assertive and confident in your relationships? Are you going through a break up, life transition or just have trouble relating to your parents and family who have different expectations for you? Are you a new mom, expecting or navigating infertility challenges? Being a woman in today’s modern society is hard, but you don't have to be alone.
Therapy helps you manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, feeling "stuck" in an authentic, nonjudgmental space.
Are you a South/East Asian or BIPOC woman struggling with anxiety, self doubt, identity struggles and relationships issues? Are you having trouble keeping up with the demands of work, school, family and social life and it feels like a constant balancing act? Do you have trouble being assertive and confident in your relationships? Are you going through a break up, life transition or just have trouble relating to your parents and family who have different expectations for you? Are you a new mom, expecting or navigating infertility challenges? Being a woman in today’s modern society is hard, but you don't have to be alone.
(862) 245-4369 View (862) 245-4369
Photo of Poonam Patel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wayne, NJ
Poonam Patel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054  (Online Only)
My specialties include working with people of all ages experiencing anxiety or depression, people who are survivors of trauma, and people managing life's many stressors/transitions.
Are you finding yourself in a constant state of fear and worry of the worst things that could happen? Are you battling racing thoughts, difficulty sleeping, or struggling to concentrate? Whether this is new, something that has been there as long as you could remember, or anything in between, now might be the perfect time to take back control. I specialize in anxiety management and trauma therapy and can help! I strive to provide you with strategies and tools to help you begin seeing the changes you desire in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. I understand that seeking therapy is a challenging and courageous step for anyone to take.
My specialties include working with people of all ages experiencing anxiety or depression, people who are survivors of trauma, and people managing life's many stressors/transitions.
Are you finding yourself in a constant state of fear and worry of the worst things that could happen? Are you battling racing thoughts, difficulty sleeping, or struggling to concentrate? Whether this is new, something that has been there as long as you could remember, or anything in between, now might be the perfect time to take back control. I specialize in anxiety management and trauma therapy and can help! I strive to provide you with strategies and tools to help you begin seeing the changes you desire in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. I understand that seeking therapy is a challenging and courageous step for anyone to take.
(848) 229-9227 View (848) 229-9227
Photo of Anmol Champaneria: Teens, Adults, Counselor in Wayne, NJ
Anmol Champaneria: Teens, Adults
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07306
I love connecting with teens and adults to overcome things like family conflict, relationship issues, academic and social challenges, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and grief. With adults and teens, I draw on CBT and attachment techniques to strengthen connection and communication within families and to help clients gain insight, develop a healthy identity, and meet their goals. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I love connecting with teens and adults to overcome things like family conflict, relationship issues, academic and social challenges, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and grief. With adults and teens, I draw on CBT and attachment techniques to strengthen connection and communication within families and to help clients gain insight, develop a healthy identity, and meet their goals. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(201) 416-0286 View (201) 416-0286
Photo of Palak Vani, Licensed Social Worker in Wayne, NJ
Palak Vani
Licensed Social Worker , LSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hoboken, NJ 07030  (Online Only)
My specialties include anxiety, depression, body image, trauma, women’s issues, life transitions, relationship issues, intimacy, OCD, specific phobias and trichotillomania/skin picking.
Hi and welcome! I aim to create a warm and supportive environment and meet clients where they are at. My goal is to empower my clients to be in charge of their own treatment. If you choose to work with me, I will aim to teach you life long skills. I will also support and motivate you as you work towards your goals! (I am licensed in both New York and New Jersey!)
My specialties include anxiety, depression, body image, trauma, women’s issues, life transitions, relationship issues, intimacy, OCD, specific phobias and trichotillomania/skin picking.
Hi and welcome! I aim to create a warm and supportive environment and meet clients where they are at. My goal is to empower my clients to be in charge of their own treatment. If you choose to work with me, I will aim to teach you life long skills. I will also support and motivate you as you work towards your goals! (I am licensed in both New York and New Jersey!)
(201) 331-9492 View (201) 331-9492
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.