Depression Therapists in Erie County, NY

Photo of Lisa M Burgio, Counselor in Erie County, NY
Lisa M Burgio
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsville, NY 14221
I specialize in the following areas: women suffering from postpartum depression; children and adolescents who are struggling with feeling lonely, fitting in, interpersonal issues, feeling depressed or anxious; adults who struggle with depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, and stress management.
Do you feel overwhelmed, sad or depressed? Do you feel anxious or lonely? Would you like to have better relationships with the people around you? Together, we can work toward helping you feel better and finding your key to happiness. I have over 15 years of experience helping adults, children, adolescents and families with a variety of concerns and struggles work toward their goals.
I specialize in the following areas: women suffering from postpartum depression; children and adolescents who are struggling with feeling lonely, fitting in, interpersonal issues, feeling depressed or anxious; adults who struggle with depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, and stress management.
Do you feel overwhelmed, sad or depressed? Do you feel anxious or lonely? Would you like to have better relationships with the people around you? Together, we can work toward helping you feel better and finding your key to happiness. I have over 15 years of experience helping adults, children, adolescents and families with a variety of concerns and struggles work toward their goals.
(716) 265-3037 x421 View (716) 265-3037 x421
Photo of Jennie Berges, Counselor in Erie County, NY
Jennie Berges
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14221  (Online Only)
I have been in the field for 10 years working with children, teens, adults and seniors dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, relationship/family conflict, divorce and domestic violence. I view each individual or family as unique and approach therapy in the same way, meeting them where they are at. Therapy can be uncomfortable and so I try to structure each session as a casual conversation to help facilitate a safe space where change and vulnerability are welcome.
I have been in the field for 10 years working with children, teens, adults and seniors dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, relationship/family conflict, divorce and domestic violence. I view each individual or family as unique and approach therapy in the same way, meeting them where they are at. Therapy can be uncomfortable and so I try to structure each session as a casual conversation to help facilitate a safe space where change and vulnerability are welcome.
(646) 582-6895 View (646) 582-6895
Photo of Emily M Higgins, Counselor in Erie County, NY
Emily M Higgins
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orchard Park, NY 14127
My specialties include treatment of children, teens, and adults struggling with symptoms related to trauma, anxiety, depression/mood disorders, postpartum/perinatal disorders, life transitions, stress management, as well as grief and loss.
Thank you for visiting my page. Everyone needs help from time to time - sometimes things can just get tough. Navigating difficult symptoms, stressors, unsettling life events on our own can be challenging. Therapy can help you find relief and hope for a better tomorrow. Being vulnerable and discussing difficult areas of our lives can be hard to do - but the long term benefits of working on yourself are worth it… You are worth it! And I am here to help.
My specialties include treatment of children, teens, and adults struggling with symptoms related to trauma, anxiety, depression/mood disorders, postpartum/perinatal disorders, life transitions, stress management, as well as grief and loss.
Thank you for visiting my page. Everyone needs help from time to time - sometimes things can just get tough. Navigating difficult symptoms, stressors, unsettling life events on our own can be challenging. Therapy can help you find relief and hope for a better tomorrow. Being vulnerable and discussing difficult areas of our lives can be hard to do - but the long term benefits of working on yourself are worth it… You are worth it! And I am here to help.
(716) 589-4426 View (716) 589-4426
Photo of Ellen Silver Lcswr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Erie County, NY
Ellen Silver Lcswr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
West Seneca, NY 14224  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is a journey toward self discovery, self realization, growth and change. Many people find themselves struggling with issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, fear and depression. They create inaccurate beliefs about themselves based on false and negative thoughts. The secret to building positive self-esteem is to learn to see the whole you not just your mistakes, failures or imperfections. "To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance" Oscar Wilde
Therapy is a journey toward self discovery, self realization, growth and change. Many people find themselves struggling with issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, fear and depression. They create inaccurate beliefs about themselves based on false and negative thoughts. The secret to building positive self-esteem is to learn to see the whole you not just your mistakes, failures or imperfections. "To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance" Oscar Wilde
(716) 216-5241 View (716) 216-5241
Photo of Amber Kurosky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Erie County, NY
Amber Kurosky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Amherst, NY 14051
I specialize in recovery from trauma, learning to effectively cope with anxiety & depression, improving interpersonal relationships, navigating thought & mood disorders and also learning to overcome issues from addiction.
Seeking out help is not an easy thing to do. My focus is to help you overcome your life's obstacles. I want to help you identify, understand and accept all of your parts. I want to help guide you to heal. I believe in the importance of the therapeutic relationship and that transparency is an important part of the process.
I specialize in recovery from trauma, learning to effectively cope with anxiety & depression, improving interpersonal relationships, navigating thought & mood disorders and also learning to overcome issues from addiction.
Seeking out help is not an easy thing to do. My focus is to help you overcome your life's obstacles. I want to help you identify, understand and accept all of your parts. I want to help guide you to heal. I believe in the importance of the therapeutic relationship and that transparency is an important part of the process.
(716) 442-3196 View (716) 442-3196
Photo of Carla R Kuhl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Erie County, NY
Carla R Kuhl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14228
Struggling PTSD, or anxiety/depression? As a trauma therapist, I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a skills-based therapy which assists clients with issues in areas of communication, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and mindfulness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Buffalo, practicing as a therapist and life-style coach. I work with my clients to provide them with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives. I have extensive experience and training in empirically-based treatments, such as DBT, ACT, EMDR, Schema therapy, IFS and have worked in a complex trauma clinic getting experience in many areas impacting the adult community. My practice provides treatment to adults 18 or older. Offering TELEHEALTH (PHONE and/or WEBCAM SESSIONS).
Struggling PTSD, or anxiety/depression? As a trauma therapist, I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a skills-based therapy which assists clients with issues in areas of communication, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and mindfulness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Buffalo, practicing as a therapist and life-style coach. I work with my clients to provide them with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives. I have extensive experience and training in empirically-based treatments, such as DBT, ACT, EMDR, Schema therapy, IFS and have worked in a complex trauma clinic getting experience in many areas impacting the adult community. My practice provides treatment to adults 18 or older. Offering TELEHEALTH (PHONE and/or WEBCAM SESSIONS).
(716) 953-3570 View (716) 953-3570
Photo of DiMario Bell in Erie County, NY
DiMario Bell
LMHC-P
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14203
A little on edge? Feeling empty? Afraid to trust? Things can feel overwhelming until they’re dissected and explained. Anxiety just wants a plan. Depression is just pointing to a hole or void in our life. Trauma just wants assurance that the traumatic thing won’t happen to us again. All of these are just smoke alarms put in place to keep us safe and whole. Everything we feel makes sense; we aren’t crazy and we aren’t lost causes. Areas Of Focus: Anxiety, depression, youth and family dynamics, finding meaning and purpose, and trauma and adjustment disorders. Catch me on “Fatal Attraction” S13E8! ... Tiktok: dimariobell
A little on edge? Feeling empty? Afraid to trust? Things can feel overwhelming until they’re dissected and explained. Anxiety just wants a plan. Depression is just pointing to a hole or void in our life. Trauma just wants assurance that the traumatic thing won’t happen to us again. All of these are just smoke alarms put in place to keep us safe and whole. Everything we feel makes sense; we aren’t crazy and we aren’t lost causes. Areas Of Focus: Anxiety, depression, youth and family dynamics, finding meaning and purpose, and trauma and adjustment disorders. Catch me on “Fatal Attraction” S13E8! ... Tiktok: dimariobell
(716) 340-4645 View (716) 340-4645
Photo of Jeffrey Fazzino, Counselor in Erie County, NY
Jeffrey Fazzino
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orchard Park, NY 14127
Now offering video, phone and in-person sessions! I am clinical mental health counselor specializing in depression, anxiety, and marital/relationship concerns. My practice is currently accepting new clients and I am excited about working with new individuals. I offer counseling services to adolescents, adults, families, and couples. We will work in a collaborative relationship to get your needs met. Counseling involves exploring thoughts, feelings and behaviors in order to improve clients lives. If you are looking for a new and unique opportunity to explore yourself, contact me for more information on counseling services.
Now offering video, phone and in-person sessions! I am clinical mental health counselor specializing in depression, anxiety, and marital/relationship concerns. My practice is currently accepting new clients and I am excited about working with new individuals. I offer counseling services to adolescents, adults, families, and couples. We will work in a collaborative relationship to get your needs met. Counseling involves exploring thoughts, feelings and behaviors in order to improve clients lives. If you are looking for a new and unique opportunity to explore yourself, contact me for more information on counseling services.
(716) 903-6036 View (716) 903-6036
Photo of Sharon Medina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Erie County, NY
Sharon Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14221  (Online Only)
I have been a practicing clinician since 2013. I graduated from Fordham University with a concentration in clinical social work. As a therapist, I like to learn about your life as a whole. I truly believe that our life experiences, current coping skills, and resources affect the way we live life. I have personal experience with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Trauma and REALLY enjoy working in these areas. I have worked with individuals from all walks of life who are experiencing relationship issues, professional burnout, stress, anxiety and depression.
I have been a practicing clinician since 2013. I graduated from Fordham University with a concentration in clinical social work. As a therapist, I like to learn about your life as a whole. I truly believe that our life experiences, current coping skills, and resources affect the way we live life. I have personal experience with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Trauma and REALLY enjoy working in these areas. I have worked with individuals from all walks of life who are experiencing relationship issues, professional burnout, stress, anxiety and depression.
(646) 798-1846 View (646) 798-1846
Photo of Roy Golia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Erie County, NY
Roy Golia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, NY 14221
I have experience helping people who have anxiety, depression, trauma and/or problematic substance use.
We are all resilient people that are amazing at adapting and changing with our environments. When those places are unstable, unsafe or inconsistent, we figure out ways to survive. These patterns or beliefs can soothe us, keep us in control or help us to express ourselves. However for many of us, they can also become a burden and themselves a source of suffering. A complicated mix of discomfort as well as serving a meaningful function. No wonder it’s so hard to make changes, even when we have every good reason to. Taking on these patterns may seem overwhelming, however we can begin anywhere and set goals that makes sense for you.
I have experience helping people who have anxiety, depression, trauma and/or problematic substance use.
We are all resilient people that are amazing at adapting and changing with our environments. When those places are unstable, unsafe or inconsistent, we figure out ways to survive. These patterns or beliefs can soothe us, keep us in control or help us to express ourselves. However for many of us, they can also become a burden and themselves a source of suffering. A complicated mix of discomfort as well as serving a meaningful function. No wonder it’s so hard to make changes, even when we have every good reason to. Taking on these patterns may seem overwhelming, however we can begin anywhere and set goals that makes sense for you.
(716) 249-4063 View (716) 249-4063
Photo of Nancy Marcussen, Counselor in Erie County, NY
Nancy Marcussen
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14202
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed mental health and addictions counselor. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults facing major life challenges, feeling overwhelmed by daily stressors, coping with grief and loss, experiencing depression, anxiety, and medical / chronic pain issues. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to process your thoughts, feelings, and any struggles that you may be experiencing, as well as offer empathetic listening and guidance.
I am a licensed mental health and addictions counselor. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults facing major life challenges, feeling overwhelmed by daily stressors, coping with grief and loss, experiencing depression, anxiety, and medical / chronic pain issues. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to process your thoughts, feelings, and any struggles that you may be experiencing, as well as offer empathetic listening and guidance.
(716) 567-8263 View (716) 567-8263
Photo of Jean M Brandt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Erie County, NY
Jean M Brandt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Amherst, NY 14228
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, difficulties coping with life transitions, and the emotional effects of physical illnesses.
Not accepting new clients at this time. Sometimes people find themselves thinking about going into counseling for a number of reasons such as feelings of sadness, excessive worry, sleep difficulties, irritability, low energy, loss of interest in activities, or due to problems in relationships. The decision of whether or not to start counseling and who to see, is not an easy one, and can take trial and error in finding the "right fit". I recognize that there are many options in the Buffalo/Niagara area, but I would like to offer you something different from what you may have experienced or heard about counselors in the past.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, difficulties coping with life transitions, and the emotional effects of physical illnesses.
Not accepting new clients at this time. Sometimes people find themselves thinking about going into counseling for a number of reasons such as feelings of sadness, excessive worry, sleep difficulties, irritability, low energy, loss of interest in activities, or due to problems in relationships. The decision of whether or not to start counseling and who to see, is not an easy one, and can take trial and error in finding the "right fit". I recognize that there are many options in the Buffalo/Niagara area, but I would like to offer you something different from what you may have experienced or heard about counselors in the past.
(716) 437-6520 View (716) 437-6520
Photo of Anthony Lobuzzetta, Counselor in Erie County, NY
Anthony Lobuzzetta
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kenmore, NY 14217
I work with children, teens, adults, and families to develop skills and strategies for confronting issues such as anxiety, trauma, panic-attacks, suicidal ideations, depression, grief, and anger management.
Everyone deserves someone in their life whom they can trust. You deserve to be heard, and to have someone in your life that is actually listening. My goal is to be that person for my clients. Through a therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy and genuineness, we can work together to give you the power to tackle the issues most concerning you. By using cognitive-behavioral skills and mindfulness techniques, my goal is to expose my clients to the value of self-worth, the importance of nurturing one’s self-worth, and ultimately crafting a more optimistic version of one's self and their future.
I work with children, teens, adults, and families to develop skills and strategies for confronting issues such as anxiety, trauma, panic-attacks, suicidal ideations, depression, grief, and anger management.
Everyone deserves someone in their life whom they can trust. You deserve to be heard, and to have someone in your life that is actually listening. My goal is to be that person for my clients. Through a therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy and genuineness, we can work together to give you the power to tackle the issues most concerning you. By using cognitive-behavioral skills and mindfulness techniques, my goal is to expose my clients to the value of self-worth, the importance of nurturing one’s self-worth, and ultimately crafting a more optimistic version of one's self and their future.
(716) 412-2064 View (716) 412-2064
Photo of Kelly S. Ghani, Counselor in Erie County, NY
Kelly S. Ghani
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14202
I am a professional, well-established leader in the counseling and wellness field. I have been working as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and advocate for over 18 years. My experience includes working with adults, young adults, and teens experiencing mental health and behavioral struggles. My professional specialties include: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief / loss, anger, job-related stress, transitional concerns, interpersonal issues, communication difficulties, eating disorders, self-injury, suicidal thinking / behaviors, and impulsivity. I work with individuals with co-morbid medical concerns, those struggling with alcohol / substance use, and individuals who require court-mandated services in a confidential setting.
I am a professional, well-established leader in the counseling and wellness field. I have been working as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and advocate for over 18 years. My experience includes working with adults, young adults, and teens experiencing mental health and behavioral struggles. My professional specialties include: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief / loss, anger, job-related stress, transitional concerns, interpersonal issues, communication difficulties, eating disorders, self-injury, suicidal thinking / behaviors, and impulsivity. I work with individuals with co-morbid medical concerns, those struggling with alcohol / substance use, and individuals who require court-mandated services in a confidential setting.
(716) 462-0284 View (716) 462-0284
Ann Chojnacki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Seneca, NY 14224
I work with you to develop coping skills that help manage anxiety and depression and to process traumas that have led to PTSD.
There are a lot of people who move through life in emotional pain. I am an EMDR trained therapist who specializes in helping you understand the impact that life events have on your current thoughts and behaviors. Once this understanding is created it allows us to move forward with treatment that creates a pathway for improved mental health and inner peace. I also help you to understand the relationships in your life, improve communication and manage the interactions.
I work with you to develop coping skills that help manage anxiety and depression and to process traumas that have led to PTSD.
There are a lot of people who move through life in emotional pain. I am an EMDR trained therapist who specializes in helping you understand the impact that life events have on your current thoughts and behaviors. Once this understanding is created it allows us to move forward with treatment that creates a pathway for improved mental health and inner peace. I also help you to understand the relationships in your life, improve communication and manage the interactions.
(716) 376-4013 View (716) 376-4013
Photo of Kayla Napierala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Erie County, NY
Kayla Napierala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsville, NY 14221
Waitlist for new clients
I have had the privilege to gain experience in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, communication, relationship struggles, life transitions and substance use.
Emotions come in all sizes. Sometimes it is hard to even name the emotions we are feeling. Whatever it is that brings you here today, I want to normalize how you are feeling. It is my goal to help you name and process those emotions, together in a therapeutic way. I strive to create a safe, non judgemental space to heal and grow into the 'you' you want to be. I understand that reaching out can be frightening, and making the decision to enter therapy shows a lot of strength. I would like to help make this transition as smooth as possible.
I have had the privilege to gain experience in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, communication, relationship struggles, life transitions and substance use.
Emotions come in all sizes. Sometimes it is hard to even name the emotions we are feeling. Whatever it is that brings you here today, I want to normalize how you are feeling. It is my goal to help you name and process those emotions, together in a therapeutic way. I strive to create a safe, non judgemental space to heal and grow into the 'you' you want to be. I understand that reaching out can be frightening, and making the decision to enter therapy shows a lot of strength. I would like to help make this transition as smooth as possible.
(716) 303-0729 x3 View (716) 303-0729 x3
Photo of Meagan E Reed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Erie County, NY
Meagan E Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamburg, NY 14075
Waitlist for new clients
A wise person once said, "Call your therapist!" Oh! That was me! Well, this is uncomfortable. Similar to how therapy can feel when you get started. Let's break through that uncomfortable wall together and get your healing process started. If you're someone who has or is currently struggling with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, trouble creating and maintaining meaningful relationships, behavior struggles, ADHD, various personality disorders or have childhood trauma; you have come to the right place. Paddling in our canoe of life together, we can row together and help you reach your mental health goals to improve your life!
A wise person once said, "Call your therapist!" Oh! That was me! Well, this is uncomfortable. Similar to how therapy can feel when you get started. Let's break through that uncomfortable wall together and get your healing process started. If you're someone who has or is currently struggling with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, trouble creating and maintaining meaningful relationships, behavior struggles, ADHD, various personality disorders or have childhood trauma; you have come to the right place. Paddling in our canoe of life together, we can row together and help you reach your mental health goals to improve your life!
(716) 466-5922 View (716) 466-5922
Photo of Andrea Massabini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Erie County, NY
Andrea Massabini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamburg, NY 14075
Throughout our lives, we experience emotions such as anxiety, anger, sorrow, shame, depression, or worthlessness.
I am a licensed clinical social worker that provides therapeutic counseling to adolescents, adults and families. I have over 15 years experience working with depression, anxiety, personality disorders,Bipolar disorder, OCD , trauma ,grief, and ADHD.
Throughout our lives, we experience emotions such as anxiety, anger, sorrow, shame, depression, or worthlessness.
I am a licensed clinical social worker that provides therapeutic counseling to adolescents, adults and families. I have over 15 years experience working with depression, anxiety, personality disorders,Bipolar disorder, OCD , trauma ,grief, and ADHD.
(716) 215-2650 View (716) 215-2650
Photo of Donna Fazekas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Erie County, NY
Donna Fazekas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Hamburg, NY 14075
I have a diversified adult private practice. I have been counseling for over 25 years. I specialize in treating single adults (21 years of age and older), and adults over age 65 who are encountering various problems. I specialize in treating anxiety and depression, grief and loss, change of life/different seasons counseling, senior adult issues, relationship issues, health related issues, divorce recovery, co-dependency counseling, health related issues, mindfulness, and meditation. I provide an eclectic approach primarily focusing on cognitive behavioral therapy.
I have a diversified adult private practice. I have been counseling for over 25 years. I specialize in treating single adults (21 years of age and older), and adults over age 65 who are encountering various problems. I specialize in treating anxiety and depression, grief and loss, change of life/different seasons counseling, senior adult issues, relationship issues, health related issues, divorce recovery, co-dependency counseling, health related issues, mindfulness, and meditation. I provide an eclectic approach primarily focusing on cognitive behavioral therapy.
(716) 265-6085 View (716) 265-6085
Photo of Education Training Center, Inc. in Erie County, NY
Education Training Center, Inc.
MS
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14221  (Online Only)
Counseling can be a vital experience for those with a sensitivity, depression, anxiety, or having stress, those wanting to adjust in some facet of life, or have complex problems to solve. If meaning and purpose, coping skills and practical solutions are sought, they will be found. The answers will deepen our life experience and quality of life. Common in our culture are isolation, loneliness, relationship issues, lack of meaning and purpose, depression and anxiety which can be successfully addressed with willingness and openness to examine them. ​
Counseling can be a vital experience for those with a sensitivity, depression, anxiety, or having stress, those wanting to adjust in some facet of life, or have complex problems to solve. If meaning and purpose, coping skills and practical solutions are sought, they will be found. The answers will deepen our life experience and quality of life. Common in our culture are isolation, loneliness, relationship issues, lack of meaning and purpose, depression and anxiety which can be successfully addressed with willingness and openness to examine them. ​
(716) 466-9658 View (716) 466-9658

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.