Depression Psychiatrists in 30030

Photo of Dr. Judith Ngulefac, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 30030, GA
Dr. Judith Ngulefac
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Depression.
Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, DOT-CME is an experienced doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience in diverse health care settings providing high-quality care to clients. Dr. Ngulefac believes that your mental health is as important as your physical health and requires the same attention. She provides an initial psychiatric evaluation that will enable her to diagnose & develop an individualized treatment plan with routine follow-up visits to monitor symptoms and medication effectiveness.
Depression.
Dr. Judith Ngulefac, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, DOT-CME is an experienced doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience in diverse health care settings providing high-quality care to clients. Dr. Ngulefac believes that your mental health is as important as your physical health and requires the same attention. She provides an initial psychiatric evaluation that will enable her to diagnose & develop an individualized treatment plan with routine follow-up visits to monitor symptoms and medication effectiveness.
(470) 348-2404 View (470) 348-2404
Photo of Stacey Velimesis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 30030, GA
Stacey Velimesis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
conditions, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, childhood mood disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders and more.
Stacey Velimesis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) is dedicated to delivering compassionate and comprehensive mental health care across all stages of life. With a keen ability to listen attentively, she is deeply committed to addressing the unique needs of her patients. Stacey's holistic approach integrates evidence-based interventions spanning physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, fostering a nurturing environment conducive to healing. At the core of Stacey's clinical practice is the empowerment of her patients to actively participate in their mental health and wellness journey.
conditions, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, childhood mood disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders and more.
Stacey Velimesis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) is dedicated to delivering compassionate and comprehensive mental health care across all stages of life. With a keen ability to listen attentively, she is deeply committed to addressing the unique needs of her patients. Stacey's holistic approach integrates evidence-based interventions spanning physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, fostering a nurturing environment conducive to healing. At the core of Stacey's clinical practice is the empowerment of her patients to actively participate in their mental health and wellness journey.
(470) 888-7943 View (470) 888-7943
Photo of David Sogbamu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 30030, GA
David Sogbamu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
His clinical emphasis extends to a spectrum of conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, eating disorders, and Schizophrenia.
David Sogbamu, APRN, PMHNP–BC, stands at the forefront of psychiatric and Mental Health care, bringing a wealth of expertise and a compassionate approach to his practice. As a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on the entire lifespan, David has dedicated his career to the comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. With specialized training covering a diverse range of issues, David is adept at addressing the unique
His clinical emphasis extends to a spectrum of conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, eating disorders, and Schizophrenia.
David Sogbamu, APRN, PMHNP–BC, stands at the forefront of psychiatric and Mental Health care, bringing a wealth of expertise and a compassionate approach to his practice. As a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a focus on the entire lifespan, David has dedicated his career to the comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions. With specialized training covering a diverse range of issues, David is adept at addressing the unique
(404) 637-0116 View (404) 637-0116
Photo of Stacey Velimesis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 30030, GA
Stacey Velimesis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
My thorough training equips me to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide array of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more!.
Stacey Velimesis, as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. Listening attentively to my patients is paramount to me, as I'm deeply passionate about meeting their unique needs. My approach to care is holistic, integrating evidence-based interventions that encompass physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This creates a nurturing and supportive environment conducive to healing, where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their mental health and wellness journey.
My thorough training equips me to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide array of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more!.
Stacey Velimesis, as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. Listening attentively to my patients is paramount to me, as I'm deeply passionate about meeting their unique needs. My approach to care is holistic, integrating evidence-based interventions that encompass physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This creates a nurturing and supportive environment conducive to healing, where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their mental health and wellness journey.
(678) 661-6351 View (678) 661-6351
Photo of Dr. Monifa Seawell, Psychiatrist in 30030, GA
Dr. Monifa Seawell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
Hi there! I'm Dr. Monifa Seawell (Mo-knee-fah See-well). I'm a physician and Board Certified Forensic Psychiatrist. When I'm not listening to Beyonce', I provide affirming, patient centered psychiatric care for anxiety & depression. There are 4 core beliefs that form the foundation of my work as a psychiatrist: 1) You deserve to have a voice in your healthcare decisions. Your opinions & questions matter. 2) You deserve to receive a clear explanation of your diagnosis & treatment plan. 3) You deserve to not feel rushed during your appointments. 4) You deserve to feel safe to show up to your appointments as your authentic self.
Hi there! I'm Dr. Monifa Seawell (Mo-knee-fah See-well). I'm a physician and Board Certified Forensic Psychiatrist. When I'm not listening to Beyonce', I provide affirming, patient centered psychiatric care for anxiety & depression. There are 4 core beliefs that form the foundation of my work as a psychiatrist: 1) You deserve to have a voice in your healthcare decisions. Your opinions & questions matter. 2) You deserve to receive a clear explanation of your diagnosis & treatment plan. 3) You deserve to not feel rushed during your appointments. 4) You deserve to feel safe to show up to your appointments as your authentic self.
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Photo of Deborah Obinwa @ Psychiatric and Wellness Connect , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 30030, GA
Deborah Obinwa @ Psychiatric and Wellness Connect
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, MHA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified PMHNP, and I am currently accepting new patients virtually in GA, WA, & FL. I treat patients across the lifespan with a greater emphasis on adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population. At Psychiatric and Wellness Connect, our mission is to empower individuals and families on their journey to mental wellness by providing evidence-based, compassionate, and personalized psychiatric care, fostering resilience, and promoting a holistic approach to mental well-being. Some of the conditions I treat include Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, psychosis, Substance Use, and Sleep Disorders.
I am a board-certified PMHNP, and I am currently accepting new patients virtually in GA, WA, & FL. I treat patients across the lifespan with a greater emphasis on adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population. At Psychiatric and Wellness Connect, our mission is to empower individuals and families on their journey to mental wellness by providing evidence-based, compassionate, and personalized psychiatric care, fostering resilience, and promoting a holistic approach to mental well-being. Some of the conditions I treat include Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar, psychosis, Substance Use, and Sleep Disorders.
(678) 736-6143 View (678) 736-6143
Photo of Maria Elizabeth Johnson, Psychiatrist in 30030, GA
Maria Elizabeth Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I'm excited to help you get back in your stride. I can be there for you in your highs and your lows. You may wish to find that person you used to be or you may desire to move into a new version of yourself. Regardless, the options are full of hope and possibility. I treat a wide range of conditions, from Autism, Asperger's Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar, Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Schizophrenia. My clients seek greater understanding about themselves and relief from disabling symptoms.
I'm excited to help you get back in your stride. I can be there for you in your highs and your lows. You may wish to find that person you used to be or you may desire to move into a new version of yourself. Regardless, the options are full of hope and possibility. I treat a wide range of conditions, from Autism, Asperger's Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar, Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Schizophrenia. My clients seek greater understanding about themselves and relief from disabling symptoms.
(678) 504-6670 View (678) 504-6670
Photo of Karla A Viera-Negron, Psychiatrist in 30030, GA
Karla A Viera-Negron
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I treat adults 18+ that reside in the state of Georgia. If you have been feeling depressed, anxious, stressed, and are having trouble functioning in multiple aspects of your daily life; is time to seek professional help. Sometimes it is difficult to know where to start. This is the start! As humans, we all seek connection, direction, and living a life with meaning and purpose. At times in life we just feel like we are surviving instead of living. Everyday seems like a struggle, and we wonder if this is it, if there is hope. Let me help you find that hope again. Let's connect, let's figure it out together.
I treat adults 18+ that reside in the state of Georgia. If you have been feeling depressed, anxious, stressed, and are having trouble functioning in multiple aspects of your daily life; is time to seek professional help. Sometimes it is difficult to know where to start. This is the start! As humans, we all seek connection, direction, and living a life with meaning and purpose. At times in life we just feel like we are surviving instead of living. Everyday seems like a struggle, and we wonder if this is it, if there is hope. Let me help you find that hope again. Let's connect, let's figure it out together.
(678) 647-9053 View (678) 647-9053
Photo of Toyin Adekunle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 30030, GA
Toyin Adekunle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues, or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help.
Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, yoga, and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues, or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help.
Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, yoga, and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
(678) 941-1890 View (678) 941-1890
Photo of Keldreca Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 30030, GA
Keldreca Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, sexual disorders, intimacy concerns, trauma and behavioral issues. I understand that it can be difficult to make positive changes in your life, but I am here to support you. My focus is on serving clients who are open-minded, solution-focused, and ready to take control of their personal growth and development.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, sexual disorders, intimacy concerns, trauma and behavioral issues. I understand that it can be difficult to make positive changes in your life, but I am here to support you. My focus is on serving clients who are open-minded, solution-focused, and ready to take control of their personal growth and development.
(470) 745-4737 View (470) 745-4737
Photo of Chenhang Zou, Psychiatrist in 30030, GA
Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Dr. Zou is welcoming new patients seeking specialized treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric concerns. As a holistic psychiatrist, Dr. Zou draws from a wide-ranging toolbox of treatment options - including psychotherapy, psycho-education and lifestyle adaptations in addition to medication where appropriate. Consequently, patients benefit from a well-integrated approach to care that is both systematic and thorough.
Dr. Zou is welcoming new patients seeking specialized treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric concerns. As a holistic psychiatrist, Dr. Zou draws from a wide-ranging toolbox of treatment options - including psychotherapy, psycho-education and lifestyle adaptations in addition to medication where appropriate. Consequently, patients benefit from a well-integrated approach to care that is both systematic and thorough.
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Photo of Anthony Campanella, Physician Assistant in 30030, GA
Anthony Campanella
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I am a Physician Assistant with 3 years experience working in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. I have also recently been awarded a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Psychiatry by the NCCPA. Originally from the state of FL, I graduated from then University of FL with my bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies before earning my PA degree from the University of South Alabama in 2020. I diagnose and help patients to manage conditions including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, sleep issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and much more.
I am a Physician Assistant with 3 years experience working in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. I have also recently been awarded a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Psychiatry by the NCCPA. Originally from the state of FL, I graduated from then University of FL with my bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies before earning my PA degree from the University of South Alabama in 2020. I diagnose and help patients to manage conditions including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, sleep issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and much more.
(678) 853-7404 View (678) 853-7404
Photo of Patrick Robbins, Psychiatrist in 30030, GA
Patrick Robbins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I have extensive training in both psychotherapy and medications to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, and addiction; as well as difficulties navigating other stressors of life.
Our brains are complex systems of competing parts, each part influencing the others and contributing to our larger personality. This interplay between competing systems allows us to respond to the infinite challenges we face in life, but it can also become imbalanced, with different brain regions exerting too much or too little influence over our larger psyche. Oftentimes, this imbalance is initially an adaptation to something in our environment – stress, trauma, grief – but over time, it can cause the symptoms of mental illness.
I have extensive training in both psychotherapy and medications to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, and addiction; as well as difficulties navigating other stressors of life.
Our brains are complex systems of competing parts, each part influencing the others and contributing to our larger personality. This interplay between competing systems allows us to respond to the infinite challenges we face in life, but it can also become imbalanced, with different brain regions exerting too much or too little influence over our larger psyche. Oftentimes, this imbalance is initially an adaptation to something in our environment – stress, trauma, grief – but over time, it can cause the symptoms of mental illness.
(404) 574-4683 View (404) 574-4683
Photo of Integrity Psychiatry and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 30030, GA
Integrity Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, gender dysphoria, unmanageable stress, and loss of hopefulness.
Hi, I'm Lois Schwarze, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management and believe that medications work best when they are a part of a wider plan of care. I co-founded Integrity Psychiatry and Wellness with Ella Laura Johannaber, a therapeutic coach and wellness educator, so that our clients have more choices for getting the support they need. I am passionate about mental health and I've witnessed that healing happens through authentic connection. I spend time with my clients, listen, and treat each person as a unique individual.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, gender dysphoria, unmanageable stress, and loss of hopefulness.
Hi, I'm Lois Schwarze, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I offer medication management and believe that medications work best when they are a part of a wider plan of care. I co-founded Integrity Psychiatry and Wellness with Ella Laura Johannaber, a therapeutic coach and wellness educator, so that our clients have more choices for getting the support they need. I am passionate about mental health and I've witnessed that healing happens through authentic connection. I spend time with my clients, listen, and treat each person as a unique individual.
(404) 383-8756 View (404) 383-8756
Photo of Jessica Kettell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 30030, GA
Jessica Kettell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Whatever problems you are facing right now, let’s tackle them together. You are not alone. I am here to help you restore your mental health through individualized and integrative solutions and empower you to live your life to your fullest potential. You deserve to be happy and enjoy your life! My lifelong dream has been to make mental health care more accessible to individuals and to reduce the stigma associated with mental health treatment. Just as it is normal to seek treatment for diabetes, it should be natural to seek treatment for anxiety, low mood or poor focus. I specialize in treating depression and anxiety in all ages.
Whatever problems you are facing right now, let’s tackle them together. You are not alone. I am here to help you restore your mental health through individualized and integrative solutions and empower you to live your life to your fullest potential. You deserve to be happy and enjoy your life! My lifelong dream has been to make mental health care more accessible to individuals and to reduce the stigma associated with mental health treatment. Just as it is normal to seek treatment for diabetes, it should be natural to seek treatment for anxiety, low mood or poor focus. I specialize in treating depression and anxiety in all ages.
(888) 588-8995 View (888) 588-8995
Photo of Ross F Grumet, Psychiatrist in 30030, GA
Ross F Grumet
Psychiatrist, MD, LFAPA
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
My psychiatric practice handles wide range of adult issues such as depression, ADHD (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse, Focalin, etc), bipolar, addictions (Suboxone buprenorphine for pain opioid medication problems)alcohol (naltrexone, acamprosate,etc.) I use medication in combination with brief therapy (cognitive, hypnosis, ACT) and coordinate with other therapists if necessary.. For insomnia, insufficient sleep, fatigue see SleepAdvocate.com. See my blogs at psychiatryatlanta.com. At first visit we usually discuss findings, alternative treatment options, your preferences, and start or continue medication with your informed consent. OK to bring another person if you believe this will be useful.
My psychiatric practice handles wide range of adult issues such as depression, ADHD (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse, Focalin, etc), bipolar, addictions (Suboxone buprenorphine for pain opioid medication problems)alcohol (naltrexone, acamprosate,etc.) I use medication in combination with brief therapy (cognitive, hypnosis, ACT) and coordinate with other therapists if necessary.. For insomnia, insufficient sleep, fatigue see SleepAdvocate.com. See my blogs at psychiatryatlanta.com. At first visit we usually discuss findings, alternative treatment options, your preferences, and start or continue medication with your informed consent. OK to bring another person if you believe this will be useful.
(404) 369-4636 View (404) 369-4636
Photo of Jonathan Edward Guy, Psychiatrist in 30030, GA
Jonathan Edward Guy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I provide psychiatric mental health care treatment for adults, adolescents, and children, in both Spanish and English. I listen to my patients and try to understand who they are, what their problems are, and how they are suffering. I believe it is important to understand each patient's unique life including learning about their interpersonal relationships, work life, home life, and what their hopes and dreams are. Psychiatric treatment is a partnership between me and my patients. By working together we can decrease pain and suffering, and create happiness, peacefulness, and the ability to live and enjoy life.
I provide psychiatric mental health care treatment for adults, adolescents, and children, in both Spanish and English. I listen to my patients and try to understand who they are, what their problems are, and how they are suffering. I believe it is important to understand each patient's unique life including learning about their interpersonal relationships, work life, home life, and what their hopes and dreams are. Psychiatric treatment is a partnership between me and my patients. By working together we can decrease pain and suffering, and create happiness, peacefulness, and the ability to live and enjoy life.
(470) 215-1841 View (470) 215-1841
Photo of Psych Care ATL, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 30030, GA
Psych Care ATL
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
Psych Care ATL is a small practice with a big heart. Woman-owned and founded in 2022 with a desire to offer holistic, customized mental health services where you feel seen and supported. We are proud to provide psychiatric care for adults as well as ADHD management support and treatment for substance use and addictions.
Psych Care ATL is a small practice with a big heart. Woman-owned and founded in 2022 with a desire to offer holistic, customized mental health services where you feel seen and supported. We are proud to provide psychiatric care for adults as well as ADHD management support and treatment for substance use and addictions.
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Photo of Patrice Barnhill Adams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 30030, GA
Patrice Barnhill Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CPNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Patrice Barnhill is a board-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who joined the Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals group in April 2018, and is currently seeing patients at our Decatur and Stockbridge locations. Prior to starting with GBHP, Patrice worked in a pediatric primary care setting, where she cared for patients with acute and chronic health conditions, as well as provided preventative care, mental health and developmental screenings. She has always been the most passionate in her care of children, adolescents and young adults with mental health concerns.
Patrice Barnhill is a board-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who joined the Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals group in April 2018, and is currently seeing patients at our Decatur and Stockbridge locations. Prior to starting with GBHP, Patrice worked in a pediatric primary care setting, where she cared for patients with acute and chronic health conditions, as well as provided preventative care, mental health and developmental screenings. She has always been the most passionate in her care of children, adolescents and young adults with mental health concerns.
(404) 471-3367 View (404) 471-3367
Photo of Corey Allen Beck, Psychiatrist in 30030, GA
Corey Allen Beck
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I believe that a combination of skilled psychotherapy and proper medication management helps people recover faster. My goal is to get you back to living your life to its fullest as quickly as possible.
I believe that a combination of skilled psychotherapy and proper medication management helps people recover faster. My goal is to get you back to living your life to its fullest as quickly as possible.
(678) 712-2924 View (678) 712-2924
Depression Psychiatrists

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.