“Depression” as a medical condition, called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, is more than feeling sad or having a difficult week. It can leak into every aspect of your life, affecting how you think, feel, and function. The good news is that depression is highly treatable. At Bridge to Balance in Voorhees, New Jersey, we offer several evidence-based therapy approaches that can reduce symptoms of depression and support long-term emotional well-being. The right modality will depend on your experiences, preferences, and goals, but we’re here to offer an overview of your options.

The Many Treatment Options for Depression

People living with depression may experience:

• An ongoing low mood
• Loss of interest in activities
• Intense fatigue
• Sleep disturbances
• Changes in appetite
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness

Many of those suffering from depression find it difficult to summon the energy to seek treatment, so you should be proud you’ve come this far! There are several therapy approaches that can provide you with a better understanding of your condition and hope for the future. Here at Bridge to Balance, we offer:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most widely used treatments for depression. Individuals with depression will experience negative thought patterns, such as self-criticism and hopeless predictions about the future. CBT teaches a person to identify and challenge these patterns, then replace them with more balanced and realistic perspectives. Over time, clients develop practical coping tools to manage their symptoms.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy combines acceptance strategies with CBT skills for change. These methods can be especially helpful when depression is accompanied by intense emotions, mood swings, or self-destructive behaviors. Clients learn emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness to stabilize their mood and reduce impulsive reactions.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Mindfulness-based therapy teaches individuals to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Rather than becoming overwhelmed by negative emotions, you will learn to respond with awareness and self-compassion. This approach can reduce rumination—a common feature of depression—and promote a calmer, more grounded mindset. Mindfulness is useful in a wide variety of situations, not just for depression.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

For some individuals, their symptoms are closely tied to unresolved trauma or a series of distressing life events. EMDR helps the brain reprocess painful memories so they no longer carry the same emotional intensity. By addressing these underlying experiences, EMDR can relieve depressive symptoms that have been rooted in trauma.

Animal-Assisted Therapy

Animal-assisted therapy can be a meaningful complement to traditional counseling. Interacting with a certified therapy dog during talk therapy sessions may reduce stress, ease feelings of isolation, and help you feel more comfortable. The calming presence of a therapy animal can also make it easier to engage in the therapeutic process.

A Client-Centered, Trauma-Informed Approach to Depression Therapy

With the right support and evidence-based care, meaningful change is possible—and at Bridge to Balance, you are in capable, caring hands. We recognize that depression looks different for every individual, and we take the time to understand your story, strengths, and goals. Our clinicians are trained in several methods of trauma-informed care, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based therapy, and EMDR. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all solution, we thoughtfully integrate approaches to create a plan tailored to your needs.

Ready to give it a try? Request an appointment today at our office in Voorhees or another of our convenient locations. Whether you are new to depression therapy or returning after previous treatment, you will be met with professionalism, warmth, and respect.