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Offered in-person & online

Our therapists provide depression counseling in Cambridge, MA

Start in-person or online sessions with a provider you can trust. We accept most major insurances. Book online or by giving us a call

Get in-person or online care, and cover the majority of the costs with your insurance. Scheduling is easy — call our team and they’ll help you find your perfect match.

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2,687 people sought depression counseling help at Cambridge in the last year

Discover how starting depression counseling can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

Meet with a depression therapist as soon as this week

10  therapists available in Cambridge

As an international student, I bring a unique cross-cultural perspective that helps me connect with people from diverse background...

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My goal is to create a safe space where folks feel seen, heard, and comfortable sharing their struggles — together, we'll work on ...

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As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is key to your success in therapy, where you ca...

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As a therapist, I offer a warm and supportive space where clients feel empowered to grow, heal, and thrive....

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I seek to understand the complexities of what it means to be human in a rapidly changing environment....

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I’ve had the privilege of working in a wide range of mental health settings, from substance abuse treatment facilities to crisis s...

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I love helping individuals become the greatest versions of themselves....

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Jennifer Royster is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who has experience working with diverse populations acro...

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As a human being, I understand the myriad of psychiatric, psychological, and mental health problems that humans face throughout th...

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I understand the complex and dynamic needs associated with mental health challenges—and can help you fulfill those needs....

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Look for a confirmation email in your inbox shortly. We'll help find you a provider and guide you through everything you should know about starting care at Thriveworks.

Hear from our clinicians

What is your go-to approach for depression counseling?

Leyla: My go-to approach for treating depression involves using empathetic and nonjudgmental listening to create a safe space to explore the client's depression and the factors contributing to it.

Kate : "My go-to approach for treating depression is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I find the best benefit in CBT because it helps clients challenge negative thought patterns that keep them stuck, while also encouraging small behavioral changes that improve mood. I also enjoy weaving in behavioral activation, since it encourages clients to re-engage with activities that bring a sense of purpose, structure, and enjoyment. Even small actions, like taking a short walk, making a phone call, or completing a simple task, can start to shift energy and motivation levels. Additionally:

  • I often combine CBT with mindfulness practices to help clients notice depressive thoughts without over-identifying with them.
  • For clients who struggle with deep self-criticism, I bring in self-compassion techniques to soften the inner dialogue.
  • If relational stress plays a big role, I’ll lean into interpersonal therapy (IPT) skills to address conflict, role changes, or grief.
  • My overall style balances structure with flexibility, starting with evidence-based strategies while tailoring the approach to each client’s unique needs and values.
"

What tools do you teach in depression counseling?

Leyla: I teach the following tools in depression therapy:

  • Emotion identification
  • Identifying and challenging negative self-talk and cognitive distortions
  • Challenging negative core beliefs
  • Distress tolerance
  • Communication skills
  • Mindfulness
  • Goal-setting

Kate : "I teach the following tools in depression counseling:

  • Behavioral activation: Encouraging clients to schedule and engage in meaningful or enjoyable activities, even when motivation is low, to help shift mood and build momentum.
  • Cognitive restructuring: Helping clients identify negative thought patterns (like “I’m a failure,” or “Nothing will ever change”) and replace them with more balanced, compassionate perspectives.
  • Mood tracking: Using journals, apps, or worksheets to monitor mood patterns, triggers, and small improvements over time.
  • Self-compassion practices: Teaching clients to soften self-critical inner dialogue through affirmations, compassionate imagery, or treating themselves as they would a friend.
  • Problem-solving skills: Breaking larger stressors into manageable steps and practicing structured problem-solving to reduce feelings of helplessness.
  • Mindfulness & grounding exercises: Practicing present-moment awareness through breathwork, body scans, or mindful walking to reduce rumination.
  • Gratitude or positive focus: Encouraging clients to notice and record even small positive experiences or wins each day to rebalance attention away from negativity.
  • Values clarification: Exploring what matters most to the client and connecting small actions to those values, which can rebuild motivation and meaning.
  • Relaxation & stress-relief tools: Techniques like guided imagery or calming routines to lower overall stress that often worsens depression.
"

How do you know when a client is making meaningful progress in depression counseling?

Leyla: I know a client is making meaningful progress in depression counseling when they notice some alleviation in symptoms, are better able to identify and manage negative thoughts, and improve self-esteem.

Kate : "I know a client is making meaningful progress in depression counseling when they begin re-engaging in activities and relationships that once felt overwhelming or meaningless. This shift shows they’re regaining motivation, energy, and hope. Some behavioral examples:

  • They report more balanced thinking, with less self-criticism and more self-compassion.
  • Their daily routines improve, like sleeping more consistently, eating regularly, or practicing self-care.
  • They experience increased energy and are less weighed down by fatigue or apathy.
  • They demonstrate reduced avoidance, such as attending work, school, or social events they previously avoided.
  • They describe moments of joy or interest, even brief ones, which signal that emotional numbness is softening.
  • They begin setting and working toward small goals, which reflects growing motivation and a sense of agency.
  • They report feeling more connected to others, less isolated, and more open to support.
  • They can recognize and interrupt depressive thought spirals using skills learned in therapy instead of getting completely stuck.
"

What can clients do in their personal time to supplement depression counseling?

Leyla: Clients can supplement their time in depression counseling by practicing and continuing to explore skills and topics brought up in session.

Kate : "Clients can supplement their time in depression counseling with healthy daily practices that support mood, structure, and self-compassion. Some examples:

  • Regular physical activity: Even light movement like walking or stretching can boost mood by releasing endorphins and lowering stress.
  • Journaling: Writing down thoughts and feelings can increase self-awareness and help track patterns of improvement.
  • Sleep hygiene: Going to bed and waking up at consistent times supports emotional regulation and energy.
  • Balanced nutrition: Eating regular, nourishing meals stabilizes energy and mood.
  • Mindfulness or meditation: Practicing short mindfulness exercises or guided meditations helps clients stay present and reduce rumination.
  • Social connection: Reaching out to supportive friends, family, or groups reduces isolation and helps rebuild connection.
  • Pleasant activity scheduling: Planning at least one enjoyable or meaningful activity each day (no matter how small) helps counteract social withdrawal.
  • Gratitude or positive focus: Keeping a short list of small wins or moments of appreciation each day helps retrain the brain to notice positives.
  • Creative outlets: Engaging in art, music, or writing allows for expression and emotional release.
  • Self-compassion practices: Practicing gentle inner dialogue instead of harsh self-criticism helps build resilience.
"

What should someone do to prepare for starting depression counseling?

Leyla: To prepare for your first depression counseling session, you can identify the symptoms you are experiencing and goals you have for therapy.

Kate : "To prepare for your first depression counseling session, you can take some time to reflect on your needs, goals, and current struggles. Some suggestions:

  • Write down your goals: Think about what you’d like to get out of counseling. (Examples: “I want to feel more motivated,” “I want to reduce negative self-talk,” or “I want to reconnect with things I enjoy.”)
  • Notice your patterns: Pay attention to when your depression feels strongest, what tends to trigger it, and how it affects your daily life. Jotting this down can help your therapist understand your experience.
  • List past attempts at coping: Bring in what you’ve already tried, whether it’s journaling, exercise, medication, or distraction, so your therapist knows what has or hasn’t worked.
  • Plan your schedule: Try not to book something stressful right after your session, since therapy can bring up strong emotions.
  • Set realistic expectations: The first session is mostly about sharing your story and building comfort with your therapist, it’s not about solving everything in one meeting.
  • Bring questions: Write down anything you’re curious about, like how often you’ll meet, what your therapists style is, or how your progress is measured.
"

Starting Depression counseling in Cambridge

What can counseling do for those who suffer with depression?

Depression counseling can help those with major depression, minor depression, postpartum depression, persistent depressive disorder, and more. The providers at Thriveworks in Cambridge, MA will develop a unique treatment plan based on your specific experience, needs, and goals.

Is it worth going to therapy for depression?

It is absolutely worth going to therapy for depression — depression counseling helps people better manage their symptoms and get back to living happier lives again.

How does depression counseling work?

Depression counseling works by helping people pinpoint life problems, distorted thought patterns, and other causes of their depression, then process and work through them in order to mitigate the negative effects those factors have on their lives.

Signs of depression

Common signs of depression include:

  • Consistent low mood
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Oversleeping or difficulty sleeping
  • Changes in diet (eating much more or less)
  • Withdrawal and isolation
  • Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
  • Feelings of hopelessness
  • Loss of interest in previous hobbies or activities
  • Excessive substance use

Is depression counseling conducted in person or online?

Thriveworks depression counseling in Cambridge, MA is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How often should you attend depression therapy sessions?

Depression counseling can last for a few weeks, months, or longer, dependent on the severity of one’s depression as well as their needs and preferences.

How much does depression counseling cost?

At Thriveworks, we accept most major insurance plans, allowing many clients to pay as little as $0–$50 per session with their co-pay. We also offer self-pay options for those out-of-network or without insurance. Self-pay rates for talk therapy range from $160 to $240 for intake sessions and $135 to $195 for follow-ups, depending on your state. For psychiatry services, self-pay intake sessions are $255–$375, with follow-ups ranging from $175–$300, also varying by state. More information on current self-pay costs is available on our pricing page.

Need more help deciding?

Depression Counseling Solutions – Counselors and Therapists in Cambridge

Once depression arrives, it can seem like it will never leave. Thriveworks Cambridge Depression counselors and psychologists are helping our friends and neighbors in the Cambridge, VA confront their depression and move forward, and we can help you, too.

Call our office at (617) 380-4651 to schedule your session today.

The Different Types and Symptoms of Depression 

The method through which depression is treated by our mental health professionals depends on the way that this emotional disorder manifests itself in your life. It’s also essential to know that depression isn’t just a single disorder: It’s an umbrella term for many different forms that this condition can present itself as. As we said, there’s many, but the most common types of depression that our psychologists and psychiatrists treat are:

  •   Minor depression: As the name suggests, minor depression is related to major depression—it’s typically severe in its effect and duration. Still, those with this condition still will seem distant, withdrawn, or overwhelmed with sadness. Minor depression can be harder to detect.
  •   Bipolar Disorder: This mental health condition can alter someone’s emotions wildly, ranging from elation in one moment to overwhelming despair in the next. Those with bipolar disorder might find it hard to maintain close relationships or jobs due to their unpredictable mood swings.
  •   Major depressive disorder: This condition captures the popular perception of depression. Those with major depression experience emotional detachment and hopelessness. These factors usually take away from their work, relationships and hobbies.
  •   Postpartum depression: Postpartum depression is a mood disorder that arises after a woman gives birth. Women who undergo caesarian sections or experience a miscarriage are even more likely to experience this type of depression.

The wide variety of different depressive disorders only highlights that this condition isn’t about just feeling down all the time. For those with minor depression or bipolar disorder, it can become an exhausting roller coaster ride—for others, it might seem like things will just never improve, and that their situation is hopeless. The triggers for depression also vary, but typically life events can act as instigators for this mood disorder. Some common events or circumstances include:

  • Breakups or divorce
  • The effects of a chronic health condition
  • Stress from work or relatives
  • Divorce
  • Financial issues
  • The death of someone close

Get Treatment for Depression with Thriveworks 

Regardless of the mental health professional you connect with, Thriveworks in Stockton, CA is dedicated to placing your mental health needs before anything else. We want to provide you with the resources and professional guidance you need to manage your depression better. Give our office a call today at (617) 380-4651.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 360+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our therapists and counselors in Cambridge accept 24 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO)

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS

  • Carelon

  • Carelon | Medicare Advantage

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Compsych

  • Fallon Health | Medicare Advantage

  • Firefly Health Plan | Cigna PPO Network

  • First Health Network

  • Harvard Pilgrim

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Self-pay costs at Cambridge
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

4.6 Learn about verified reviews
★★★★★
The therapist asked thoughtful questions and her responses were thoughtful and professional. It showed her understanding of mental health issues
Sharon Apr 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
She listened to me. The first time we met she asked me all sorts of questions and then sat back and let me talk. She was THE FIRST to really listen and diagnose me. Once I had the diagnosis, my best friend and I said finally. I'm now on medication and feel like I'm functioning fully for the first time in years.
Read more She listened to me. The first time we met she asked me all sorts of questions and then sat back and let me talk. She was THE FIRST to really listen and diagnose me. Once I had the diagnosis, my best friend and I said finally. I'm now on medication and feel like I'm functioning fully for the first time in years.
Nicole Apr 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Very good attention to detail and caring about my life. I really appreciate everything.
Pierre Apr 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I love my provider (Karissa Peoples). She is very thoughtful, professional and understanding. She has done wonders for my mental health and inner peace. 10/10
Joseph Apr 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
My provider has given me tools to work through my challenges.
Alicia Apr 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Marissa does great work, especially given that our appointments are just 30 minutes
Benjamin Apr 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
The patient can talk to his/her doctor using Zoom. It saves time and traveling.
Joseph Apr 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
The honesty of my therapist and how I am always excepted with them.
Robert Apr 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Cambridge is located off of Massachusetts Ave, on the north side of the Charles River. Our office is in the Cambridge Tower next to Apollo Travel and Tours, Tanjore, and Cambridge Premier Realty. The closest bus stop is Massachusetts Ave opp Lee St. If you have trouble finding our office or have any questions about how to get here, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Phone number

(617) 380-4651

Languages spoken by MA providers

  • Persian
  • English
  • Spanish
  • Creole
  • French
  • Japanese
  • Farsi
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

Tuesday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

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