Depression Therapists in Winter Park, FL

Photo of Central Florida Psychiatric Associates, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Central Florida Psychiatric Associates
Counselor
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32792
Karla Bilderbeck, LMHC, has over 20+ years of experience and works with patients experiencing anxiety, depression, parenting issues, sexual abuse, family conflict, and chronic pain.
We are a team of caring & knowledgeable mental health professionals with extensive experience in the diagnosis & treatment of many psychiatric disorders. Maria Lozano, MD, board certified psychiatrist, has been practicing in Central Florida since 1988. She provides medication management services to adolescents & adults for a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders (Bipolar) & ADD/ADHD. Dania Penedo, LMHC is bilingual (English & Spanish) with 25+ years experience; specialties include mood & anxiety disorders, personality disorders, women's issues & relationship counseling.
Karla Bilderbeck, LMHC, has over 20+ years of experience and works with patients experiencing anxiety, depression, parenting issues, sexual abuse, family conflict, and chronic pain.
We are a team of caring & knowledgeable mental health professionals with extensive experience in the diagnosis & treatment of many psychiatric disorders. Maria Lozano, MD, board certified psychiatrist, has been practicing in Central Florida since 1988. She provides medication management services to adolescents & adults for a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders (Bipolar) & ADD/ADHD. Dania Penedo, LMHC is bilingual (English & Spanish) with 25+ years experience; specialties include mood & anxiety disorders, personality disorders, women's issues & relationship counseling.
(407) 749-1137 View (407) 749-1137
Photo of Carolyn A Bankston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winter Park, FL
Carolyn A Bankston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
For 21 years I have worked as a psychotherapist and have helped people struggling with various issues.  This struggle comes from looking to others to buoy self-esteem instead of feeling an internal sense of calm, control and contentedness. I describe this as living outside-in instead of living inside-out. People often come to me when they are in a soul-crisis, made evident through the prism of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.  I like to think of this time of crisis as a growth opportunity.
For 21 years I have worked as a psychotherapist and have helped people struggling with various issues.  This struggle comes from looking to others to buoy self-esteem instead of feeling an internal sense of calm, control and contentedness. I describe this as living outside-in instead of living inside-out. People often come to me when they are in a soul-crisis, made evident through the prism of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.  I like to think of this time of crisis as a growth opportunity.
(321) 340-2518 View (321) 340-2518
Photo of Judith Mitchell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winter Park, FL
Judith Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
Judi specializes in guiding individuals who are seeking assistance due to grief, depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, concerns related to substance use and trauma related disorders.
Judi Mitchell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Board-Certified Case Manager and a Clinical Social Work Qualified Supervisor in Florida who has been practicing since 2014. She provides quality psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. She obtained her master's degree in Social Work from the University of Central Florida and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Saint Anselm College. Judi's goal is to help those she works with find balance in their lives in a safe, non-judgmental setting and overcome stressors to find happiness.
Judi specializes in guiding individuals who are seeking assistance due to grief, depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, concerns related to substance use and trauma related disorders.
Judi Mitchell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Board-Certified Case Manager and a Clinical Social Work Qualified Supervisor in Florida who has been practicing since 2014. She provides quality psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. She obtained her master's degree in Social Work from the University of Central Florida and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Saint Anselm College. Judi's goal is to help those she works with find balance in their lives in a safe, non-judgmental setting and overcome stressors to find happiness.
(407) 979-8405 View (407) 979-8405
Photo of Anthony Cravaritis, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Anthony Cravaritis
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32792
Men and sons issues....I can help! If your son has behavior, gaming or social skills issues you have come to the right place. Men, do you struggle with marriage issues, pornography, feeling lost in your masculinity or guiding your sons? I am confident that I can help your marriage or family. I have lead mens retreats and father/son blessing river trips. I have worked with adolescents for over 20 years in a wide range of capacities: counseling at a wilderness camp for court referred boys, to a youth minister. Lets work together to have the future you want!
Men and sons issues....I can help! If your son has behavior, gaming or social skills issues you have come to the right place. Men, do you struggle with marriage issues, pornography, feeling lost in your masculinity or guiding your sons? I am confident that I can help your marriage or family. I have lead mens retreats and father/son blessing river trips. I have worked with adolescents for over 20 years in a wide range of capacities: counseling at a wilderness camp for court referred boys, to a youth minister. Lets work together to have the future you want!
(407) 501-8968 View (407) 501-8968
Photo of Vanessa Paola Andrade, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Vanessa Paola Andrade
Counselor, LMHC, QS, MCAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789  (Online Only)
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious or struggling with sadness, therapy is a safe place to share and explore current challenges you are facing in your life: stress, anxiety, problems with relationships, feelings of unhappiness in your life or past trauma still negatively affecting your life. I will support and guide you in the therapeutic process to foster your healing and growth. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 14 years of experience who is most comfortable and experienced with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transition problems, PTSD and substance use issues.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious or struggling with sadness, therapy is a safe place to share and explore current challenges you are facing in your life: stress, anxiety, problems with relationships, feelings of unhappiness in your life or past trauma still negatively affecting your life. I will support and guide you in the therapeutic process to foster your healing and growth. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 14 years of experience who is most comfortable and experienced with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transition problems, PTSD and substance use issues.
(305) 506-1433 View (305) 506-1433
Photo of Kurt W Robbins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winter Park, FL
Kurt W Robbins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
While I work with a variety of issues, I specialize in the treatment of co-dependency; alcoholism/ addiction; depression, anxiety, motivation, couples and families.
How Can I Help? Are you not sure what is keeping you from being happy? Have you been successful in most areas of your life except your personal one? Or are you turning to other things for a temporary boost that often leaves you worst off than before? "Grow from Life's Challenges" is my approach to treatment. Loneliness, isolation, depression, anxiety and addiction are unfortunately the norm in today's fast-paced environment.
While I work with a variety of issues, I specialize in the treatment of co-dependency; alcoholism/ addiction; depression, anxiety, motivation, couples and families.
How Can I Help? Are you not sure what is keeping you from being happy? Have you been successful in most areas of your life except your personal one? Or are you turning to other things for a temporary boost that often leaves you worst off than before? "Grow from Life's Challenges" is my approach to treatment. Loneliness, isolation, depression, anxiety and addiction are unfortunately the norm in today's fast-paced environment.
(954) 604-7893 View (954) 604-7893
Photo of Joe S Salg, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Joe S Salg
Counselor, LMHC, CST, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
Need help with your relationship? With sex? Betrayal or trust? Want a mediator to facilitate effective discussion? Joe is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor + Certified Sex Therapist. In private practice for the past 25+ years, working with ages 18-70 on: - Breakdowns re: all types of intimacy - Couples issues (communication skills, conflict resolution, negotiation) - Sexual dysfunction in individuals and/or couples - Sex addiction/pornography addiction - Transgender individuals during all points in transition - Self-esteem issues and sexual orientation/acceptance - Alternative lifestyles/kink/poly/monogamish/open: sex positive!
Need help with your relationship? With sex? Betrayal or trust? Want a mediator to facilitate effective discussion? Joe is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor + Certified Sex Therapist. In private practice for the past 25+ years, working with ages 18-70 on: - Breakdowns re: all types of intimacy - Couples issues (communication skills, conflict resolution, negotiation) - Sexual dysfunction in individuals and/or couples - Sex addiction/pornography addiction - Transgender individuals during all points in transition - Self-esteem issues and sexual orientation/acceptance - Alternative lifestyles/kink/poly/monogamish/open: sex positive!
(407) 490-2594 View (407) 490-2594
Photo of Molly Friedman Losey, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Molly Friedman Losey
Counselor, MA, CC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789  (Online Only)
One of my main goals as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Certified Life Coach (CC) is to provide my clients with a safe, conducive atmosphere to allow their genuine self to have a voice. The counseling relationship can provide a unique space of non judgment and confidentiality. Many of us wear many masks. Masks tend to be uncomfortable and suffocating if worn too long. I strive to offer clients a place where masks can be safely removed and genuine thoughts, feelings, wants, and needs can be safely explored and addressed. See my website for details: winterparkpsychotherapy.com
One of my main goals as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Certified Life Coach (CC) is to provide my clients with a safe, conducive atmosphere to allow their genuine self to have a voice. The counseling relationship can provide a unique space of non judgment and confidentiality. Many of us wear many masks. Masks tend to be uncomfortable and suffocating if worn too long. I strive to offer clients a place where masks can be safely removed and genuine thoughts, feelings, wants, and needs can be safely explored and addressed. See my website for details: winterparkpsychotherapy.com
(407) 378-3571 View (407) 378-3571
Photo of Tania Feres in Winter Park, FL
Tania Feres
LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
Invest in yourself or in your relationship in 2024! Do you feel alone in your relationship? Do you feel that you are simply going day by day without a life’s purpose? Are you tired of fighting with your partner? You are not alone! If you want to learn coping strategies to live a healthy life and learn communication skills to engage with your family, partner, and friends, you are in the right place. My goal is to assist you to reconnect with your partner and feel connected again. I offer couple's therapy, family, and individual therapy. I'm trained in EMDR and it helps you to process traumatic events. We are open on the weekends!
Invest in yourself or in your relationship in 2024! Do you feel alone in your relationship? Do you feel that you are simply going day by day without a life’s purpose? Are you tired of fighting with your partner? You are not alone! If you want to learn coping strategies to live a healthy life and learn communication skills to engage with your family, partner, and friends, you are in the right place. My goal is to assist you to reconnect with your partner and feel connected again. I offer couple's therapy, family, and individual therapy. I'm trained in EMDR and it helps you to process traumatic events. We are open on the weekends!
(321) 473-4196 View (321) 473-4196
Photo of Ashley Sanders Counseling, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Ashley Sanders Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space for you to feel heard in order to heal from past concerns and grow into your ideal self. I work with individuals of all ages, with a focus on those that belong to the LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent communities. I am a body-positive, non-shaming, and affirming therapist who wants to ensure you feel supported within our therapeutic relationship. Additionally, counseling for children and teens is a strength & passion of mine. I have found success connecting with youth to help them reach their personal goals while also helping the family unit heal.
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space for you to feel heard in order to heal from past concerns and grow into your ideal self. I work with individuals of all ages, with a focus on those that belong to the LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent communities. I am a body-positive, non-shaming, and affirming therapist who wants to ensure you feel supported within our therapeutic relationship. Additionally, counseling for children and teens is a strength & passion of mine. I have found success connecting with youth to help them reach their personal goals while also helping the family unit heal.
(321) 379-5824 View (321) 379-5824
Photo of Andrea J Garwood, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Andrea J Garwood
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
Over 25 years working with individuals and families. Over 18 years providing supervision to other mental health professionals and interns. My goal is to help you resolve emotional trauma or confusion, in a compassionate and non judgmental way. I am exp. in working with individuals coping with life-altering circumstances and illness, mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, recovery, grief and loss, relationship stressors, and spiritual crisis. I also specialize in relationship counseling, trauma and recovery issues such as sexual abuse. I am experienced serving those with medical issues-HIV/AIDS, Breast cancer, PTSD and phobias. I'm also experienced serving military families and veterans.
Over 25 years working with individuals and families. Over 18 years providing supervision to other mental health professionals and interns. My goal is to help you resolve emotional trauma or confusion, in a compassionate and non judgmental way. I am exp. in working with individuals coping with life-altering circumstances and illness, mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, recovery, grief and loss, relationship stressors, and spiritual crisis. I also specialize in relationship counseling, trauma and recovery issues such as sexual abuse. I am experienced serving those with medical issues-HIV/AIDS, Breast cancer, PTSD and phobias. I'm also experienced serving military families and veterans.
(407) 583-6176 View (407) 583-6176
Photo of Positive Life Counseling Services LLC, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Winter Park, FL
Positive Life Counseling Services LLC
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI , MS
Not Verified Not Verified
Winter Park, FL 32792
We all deal with stress on a daily basis; it is something that many of us do not want to deal with. It takes a lot of courage and strength for one to choose counseling as an alternative way to cope with stress. It also takes a commitment for one to remain on that path. The goal of counseling is to enhance one's quality of life in his or her everyday walk and to promote self awareness. As a counselor, my personal goal is to help clients identify goals as well as impending solutions to issues that cause emotional perplexity.
We all deal with stress on a daily basis; it is something that many of us do not want to deal with. It takes a lot of courage and strength for one to choose counseling as an alternative way to cope with stress. It also takes a commitment for one to remain on that path. The goal of counseling is to enhance one's quality of life in his or her everyday walk and to promote self awareness. As a counselor, my personal goal is to help clients identify goals as well as impending solutions to issues that cause emotional perplexity.
(407) 906-6546 View (407) 906-6546
Photo of Debra Franzen, Psychologist in Winter Park, FL
Debra Franzen
Psychologist, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32792
I have worked as a Family Nurse Practitioner for 30 years. Due to my desire to assist clients with their mental health concerns I returned to school to obtain my PMHNP-BC. My area of expertise is in children and adolescents but I enjoy working with Clients of all ages. It is important to me to build rapport and strong therapeutic relationships with my clients. I specialize in ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety, anger/conduct, attachment disorder, Bi-Polar, depression, OCD, trauma, Panic and PTSD.
I have worked as a Family Nurse Practitioner for 30 years. Due to my desire to assist clients with their mental health concerns I returned to school to obtain my PMHNP-BC. My area of expertise is in children and adolescents but I enjoy working with Clients of all ages. It is important to me to build rapport and strong therapeutic relationships with my clients. I specialize in ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety, anger/conduct, attachment disorder, Bi-Polar, depression, OCD, trauma, Panic and PTSD.
(407) 871-6080 View (407) 871-6080
Photo of Paulina Blecker, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Paulina Blecker
Counselor, MS, LMHC, QS, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32792
Not accepting new clients
What changes are you ready to make in your life? What obstacles are standing in your way for you to lead the life you desire? I believe all people carry within themselves the solutions to the problems in their lives. My goal is to walk with you on your therapy journey and assist you in navigating whatever issues you might want to confront, along that path. I specialize in working with trauma (PTSD and CPTSD), grief (such as: break-ups, death of a loved one, end of a friendship, etc), relationship issues (individuals only), life transition issues, depression, and anxiety. Additional information found on: riverblossomwellness.com
What changes are you ready to make in your life? What obstacles are standing in your way for you to lead the life you desire? I believe all people carry within themselves the solutions to the problems in their lives. My goal is to walk with you on your therapy journey and assist you in navigating whatever issues you might want to confront, along that path. I specialize in working with trauma (PTSD and CPTSD), grief (such as: break-ups, death of a loved one, end of a friendship, etc), relationship issues (individuals only), life transition issues, depression, and anxiety. Additional information found on: riverblossomwellness.com
(772) 252-6733 View (772) 252-6733
Photo of Marci Elliott, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Marci Elliott
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
Experiencing career confusion? Dealing with toxic people at work or home? Feel like mom or dad dropped the parental ball? Organizationally challenged? Faced with life transitions? Grief? Substance abuse? Depression? Anxiety? Feeling hopeless? Marci’s goal? To help you experience peace of mind, emotional contentment.
Experiencing career confusion? Dealing with toxic people at work or home? Feel like mom or dad dropped the parental ball? Organizationally challenged? Faced with life transitions? Grief? Substance abuse? Depression? Anxiety? Feeling hopeless? Marci’s goal? To help you experience peace of mind, emotional contentment.
(407) 606-6232 View (407) 606-6232
Photo of Joyel Searight, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Joyel Searight
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
Joyel Searight is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and State of Florida Board approved clinical supervisor. Her therapeutic interventions experience spans more than a two decades in the areas of Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Gender Specific Services for women and girls. She is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. She is currently taking clients from the ages of 18 years old - 55 years old.
Joyel Searight is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and State of Florida Board approved clinical supervisor. Her therapeutic interventions experience spans more than a two decades in the areas of Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Gender Specific Services for women and girls. She is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. She is currently taking clients from the ages of 18 years old - 55 years old.
(407) 979-8021 View (407) 979-8021
Photo of Cindy Mondragon, Pre-Licensed Professional in Winter Park, FL
Cindy Mondragon
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Have you lost that spark, romance and connection you felt in the beginning? Or are you dealing with infidelity? Helping clients learn to reconnect and get that romance back in their relationship is what I love to do. Relationships need time, attention and care. It is very easy for day-to-day life to take over and your relationship to take a back seat. I am here to help you learn techniques to get back that relationship you desire. Being realistic and knowing that this will take time and effort is imperative.
Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Have you lost that spark, romance and connection you felt in the beginning? Or are you dealing with infidelity? Helping clients learn to reconnect and get that romance back in their relationship is what I love to do. Relationships need time, attention and care. It is very easy for day-to-day life to take over and your relationship to take a back seat. I am here to help you learn techniques to get back that relationship you desire. Being realistic and knowing that this will take time and effort is imperative.
(407) 792-2093 View (407) 792-2093
Photo of Ivette Vega, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Ivette Vega
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
I am currently accepting clients for May 2024! I'm a dedicated mental health professional with 8+ years of experience, specializing in helping individuals, couples, adolescents, & families facing mental health challenges such as generational trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship conflicts, behavioral issues and personality disorders. I offer a secure and non-judgmental therapeutic space where clients can comfortably explore their thoughts and emotions. If you are seeking help on your journey towards improving your overall mental well-being, I am here for you.
I am currently accepting clients for May 2024! I'm a dedicated mental health professional with 8+ years of experience, specializing in helping individuals, couples, adolescents, & families facing mental health challenges such as generational trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship conflicts, behavioral issues and personality disorders. I offer a secure and non-judgmental therapeutic space where clients can comfortably explore their thoughts and emotions. If you are seeking help on your journey towards improving your overall mental well-being, I am here for you.
(321) 616-7245 View (321) 616-7245
Photo of Yiset Perez LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winter Park, FL
Yiset Perez LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32792
You are looking for connection and belonging. However, you become preoccupied with an ideal self and life that becomes difficult to reach on a daily basis. Then you stop to breathe but it does not feel long enough until again you feel stuck. We are all wired for struggle and it is difficult to believe in our own resilience. You are valued! And you deserve the love, connection, and inner peace you crave. WEBSITE: www.buildingresiliencyllccounseling.com
You are looking for connection and belonging. However, you become preoccupied with an ideal self and life that becomes difficult to reach on a daily basis. Then you stop to breathe but it does not feel long enough until again you feel stuck. We are all wired for struggle and it is difficult to believe in our own resilience. You are valued! And you deserve the love, connection, and inner peace you crave. WEBSITE: www.buildingresiliencyllccounseling.com
(407) 904-8752 View (407) 904-8752
Photo of Brianna Leigh Brown, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Brianna Leigh Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
I have helped individuals with interpersonal, emotional and behavioral difficulties, as well as survivors of sexual trauma, grief, adjustment disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, postpartum depression, personality disorders, and autism spectrum disorder.
My eclectic approach to counseling includes person-centered psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and solution-focused therapeutic theories. I provide my clients with unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding, creating a warm, positive, and welcoming atmosphere to encourage all clients to feel safe while sharing their personal story. I utilize evidenced-based therapy techniques and mindfulness to help clients cope with distress, regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, identify and reduce self-destructive behavior patterns, and find balance on a day-to-day basis. I meet the individual needs of each client to foster personal empowerment and growth.
I have helped individuals with interpersonal, emotional and behavioral difficulties, as well as survivors of sexual trauma, grief, adjustment disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, postpartum depression, personality disorders, and autism spectrum disorder.
My eclectic approach to counseling includes person-centered psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and solution-focused therapeutic theories. I provide my clients with unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding, creating a warm, positive, and welcoming atmosphere to encourage all clients to feel safe while sharing their personal story. I utilize evidenced-based therapy techniques and mindfulness to help clients cope with distress, regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, identify and reduce self-destructive behavior patterns, and find balance on a day-to-day basis. I meet the individual needs of each client to foster personal empowerment and growth.
(407) 275-0745 View (407) 275-0745

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.