Bring the life back into your days
Personalized, Evidence-based Therapy for Depression in Tampa
Depression, at any capacity, takes the life out of you. Physically, mentally, our days feel heavier. However, with treatment, depression is a manageable condition with a number of proven treatment options. Located in South Tampa, Psychology House is home to highly trained psychologists specializing in today’s most pressing mental health issues, including depression and its evidence-based treatments. Prioritizing comfort, safety, and connection, Psychology House has cultivated an environment that feels like home. Where adults, children, and teens who are ready to put the life back into their days can find specialists ready to talk them through it.
Proven treatments for depression
Know you’re on the right track with research based treatment approaches for depression, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally-focused Therapy (EFT), and more.
Feel at home
Heal in the comfort and privacy of our curated rooms; equipped with tea and water, beverages, blankets, and all the comforts of home.
Can’t make it into the office? No worries, we’ve got you covered with Teletherapy.
The Hearts Behind the Work
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Sarah Carpenter, Ph.D.
Founder & Licensed Psychologist Specializing In Trauma, Addiction, & Relationship Issues
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Olivia Hoffman, LCSW
Child & Adolescent Therapist Specializing In Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, & Behavior Issues
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Irene Thompson, LMHC
Couples & Family Therapist Specializing In Relationship Challenges, Trauma, & Addiction
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Rachel Brunelle, RMHCI
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern Specializing in Maternity, Grief, & Relationships
In-person & remote options
Conveniently located in South Tampa - Just minutes from Palma Ceia, Hyde Park, Davis Island, & Westshore. Can’t make it into the office? No worries, we’ve got you covered with Teletherapy.
Address
3414 W Bay to Bay Blvd Suite 100 Tampa, FL 33629
Call or text
(813) 736-6281
In-network insurance
Many of our clinicians are in-network with Aetna, United Healthcare (UHC), GEHA, Oxford, & Oscar. However, participation varies by clinician. Our Care Team can help you confirm if your insurance is accepted. We can also provide monthly Superbills for out-of-network reimbursement. For Self-Pay clients, we provide simple & secure auto billing.
Treatment approaches
Know you are on the right track with depression treatments proven by research and tested by time.
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Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most commonly used psychological treatments today. Supported by countless research studies, CBT has been found to have significant improvements in patient’s functioning and quality of life. To briefly put it, CBT focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and thinking patterns, as well as unhealthy and problematic behaviors. CBT emphasizes the interconnectedness between our thoughts and behaviors, and uses strategies to help gain awareness and understanding of how our thoughts affect what we do (and vice versa). Through efforts of changing unhelpful thoughts and behavioral patterns, we also change how we feel, which helps us to cope with our issues and life’s stressors.
Click here to learn more about CBT.
Treatment Applications - Depression | Anxiety | Addiction | Trauma | Relationship Issues | And more
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is one of the most widely used therapy approaches. Using a variety of techniques, you learn the importance of approaching and accepting your unwanted emotions, rather than avoiding or suppressing them. Acceptance of one’s emotions is learning how to accept one’s self – that our emotional experiences are understandable, important, and make sense. Once acceptance of emotions is achieved, ACT focuses on ways to commit to positive change and living a life aligned by one’s values. ACT postulates that our emotional experiences do not necessarily need to be “fixed,” rather they need attention and permission to be experienced fully, which allows us to experience life more fully. In addition to acceptance and committed action, ACT practices cognitive defusion (observing rather than reacting to a distressing thought), being in the present (mindfulness skills), self as context (realizing we are greater than our thoughts and emotions), and valued living (embracing activities that give meaning and satisfaction).
Click here to learn more about ACT.
Treatment Applications - Depression | Anxiety | Trauma | Chronic Pain | Addiction | OCD | Psychosis | Stress/Burnout
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Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a structured therapy that focuses on how to manage intense emotions and relationship challenges. It is often used for those with strong impulses and self-destructive behaviors to help change unhelpful thinking and behavioral patterns. It encourages the practice of skills that are organized by four areas – emotion regulation (managing intense emotions), distress tolerance (tolerating unpleasant emotions instead of escaping from them), mindfulness (non-judgmental awareness of emotions), and interpersonal effectiveness (healthy social and communication skills). DBT skills are often used in conjunction with other therapies.
Click here to learn more about DBT.
Treatment Applications - Personality Disorders (including borderline personality disorder) | Self-harm | PTSD | Eating Disorders | Mood Disorders | Anxiety | Addiction
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Emotion-focused therapy (EFT) is a therapeutic approach that emphasizes the role emotions play in our overall well-being. Our emotions construct the way we interpret our reality, motivate our behaviors, and directly affect our self-esteem. EFT focuses on several core components: (1) increasing emotional awareness, (2) healthy ways to express emotions, (3) how to regulate intense or unpleasant emotions, (4) understanding the purpose and function of emotions, and (5) increasing compassion for emotional reactions. EFT helps us learn how to be emotionally attuned to our needs, and therefore strengthening our relationship with ourselves and sense of worth. Emotional change is key to sustainable change. Many therapies overemphasize ways to think differently and enact healthier behaviors, while EFT acknowledges the foundational role of emotional change in these processes. Emotional avoidance/suppression exacerbates and perpetuates stress, depression, trauma, and anxiety. EFT helps to increase emotional awareness and regulation, which helps us learn how to tolerate emotions we tend to avoid. The idea is we must feel through our emotions to heal.
Click here to learn more about EFT
Treatment Applications - Trauma-related Issues | Stress/Burnout | Depression | Anxiety | Personality Disorders | Relationship Issues
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Compassion-focused therapy (CFT) is a therapeutic approach used for those with low self-esteem, a strong inner critic, and issues with shame. Most of us struggle with being highly critical and judgmental of ourselves, which only increases stress and mental health issues. We tend to ignore, reject, or suppress our physical and mental discomforts, which reinforces the message that our inner world is broken or wrong. CFT encourages ways to be accepting of and compassionate towards the parts of us that we tend to ignore by using compassionate visual imagery, positive self-talk, and mindfulness of our thoughts, emotions, and body sensations. When we start to turn towards our unwanted experiences, we learn to develop a healthier relationship with ourselves, which significantly impacts our self-esteem and even how we view others. Mind and body awareness is imperative to nurturing, rather than criticizing, ourselves.
Click here to learn more about CFT.
Treatment Applications - Low Self-esteem | Self-criticism | Body Image Issues | Mood Disorders | Anxiety | Trauma | Anger Issues
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Supportive therapy is an approach that highlights the importance of empathy and compassion on behalf of the therapist, and aims to create a safe and non-judgmental space for those to freely express their unfiltered thoughts and feelings. Many of us lack a strong social support system and do not have many friends or family to turn to during times of need, or lack people in their lives to help us in the ways we need. Supportive therapy offers comfort to those who need it through the healing power of the therapeutic relationship and genuine conversation. A supportive therapist actively listens and empathizes with one’s emotional pain and distress, and offers practical tools and knowledge to help cope. Supportive therapists also tend to incorporate other therapeutic modalities (e.g., cognitive and behavioral skills, self-compassionate visual imagery, mindfulness skills, etc.) as they see fit to help the healing process. Above all else, supportive therapy provides emotional support for those going through difficult times and who would benefit from insight, guidance, and validation.
Click here to learn more about supportive therapy.
Treatment Applications - Low Self-esteem | Depression | Anxiety | Trauma-related Issues | Stress/Burnout | Relationship Issues | Grief
Clients we work with
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![Psychological services for adults. From young adults (18+) through older adults (65+)]()
Adults
From young adults (18+) to older adults (65+)
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![psychology services for professionals, attorneys, doctors, lawyers, educators]()
Professionals
Attorneys, doctors, executives, educators, & more
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![Tampa psychology services for couples. Marriage counseling]()
Couples
At any stage of their relationship (married/unmarried)
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![Image of a happy child reading a book. A depiction of a Tampa child therapy client]()
Children
Children starting at age 10
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![An image of three teenage girls. A depiction of teen/adolescent therapy clients.]()
Teenagers
Teenagers between the ages of 13 through 19
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![Image of a college student. Depiction of a young adult therapy client]()
College Students
Young adults navigating college and early careers
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![Tampa family therapy psychology services]()
Families
Relationship struggles within families
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![Tampa psychologist serving veterans & active duty military members]()
Veterans
Veterans and active duty military members
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![Tampa therapy services for LGBTQ+, Diverse genders, sexualities, identities, & more]()
LGBTQ+
Diverse genders, sexualities, identities, & more
Frequently asked questions about depression, answered
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Sadness is a normal emotion in response to life’s challenges or losses and typically resolves with time. Depression, on the other hand, is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in activities, lasting for at least two weeks. Depression often interferes with daily functioning and is accompanied by physical and cognitive symptoms.
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Symptoms of depression can vary, but common signs include:
Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Fatigue or lack of energy
Changes in appetite (overeating or loss of appetite)
Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
Difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
Restlessness or slowed physical movements
Recurrent thoughts of death, self-harm, or suicide
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Depression can have multiple causes, including:
Biological Factors: Imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine) or hormonal changes.
Genetic Factors: A family history of depression may increase the risk.
Environmental Factors: Stress, trauma, abuse, or major life changes can trigger depression.
Medical Conditions: Chronic illnesses, pain, or certain medications can contribute to depression.
Psychological Factors: Negative thought patterns, low self-esteem, or a history of other mental health disorders.
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Depression is diagnosed by a healthcare professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, through:
Clinical Interview: A thorough assessment of emotional, physical, and behavioral symptoms, as well as personal and family history.
Screening Tools: Questionnaires like the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) or Beck Depression Inventory.
Diagnostic Criteria: Meeting the criteria outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition).
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Treatment for depression often involves a combination of approaches:
Psychotherapy:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Psychodynamic Therapy
Medications:
Antidepressants such as SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline) or SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine, duloxetine).
Lifestyle Changes:
Regular exercise, healthy diet, and adequate sleep.
Alternative Therapies:
Mindfulness, yoga, or acupuncture.
Advanced Interventions:
For severe cases, treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) or Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) may be considered.
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While there is no universal "cure" for depression, we can achieve significant relief from symptoms and lead fulfilling lives through appropriate treatment. Depression can also go into remission, meaning symptoms improve or disappear entirely with the right combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.
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Listen and be supportive: Be empathetic and non-judgmental. Let them express their feelings.
Encourage professional help: Suggest therapy or visiting a healthcare provider.
Educate yourself: Learn about depression to better understand their experience.
Offer practical help: Assist with everyday tasks or accompany them to appointments.
Avoid minimizing their feelings: Avoid phrases like “snap out of it” or “just be positive.”
Check in regularly: Stay connected and let them know you care.
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You should seek professional help if:
Symptoms persist for more than two weeks and interfere with daily functioning.
There are thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
The depression is accompanied by significant physical symptoms, such as severe insomnia or weight changes.
You or someone you know cannot manage symptoms despite self-help efforts.
Remember, reaching out for professional help is a sign of strength, and effective treatment is available. Click here to learn more about when to seek professional help.
Choose your path to care
Pick the option that works best for you
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Contact us now
Call, text, or email—our CareTeam is available Monday through Friday from 9a - 5p
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Schedule a call
Book a New Client Inquiry & Setup Call with our CareTeam at a time that’s best for you
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Submit an intake form
Request a free consultation or first session & match with a clinician on our team
Bring life back into your days. Get started with Psychology House, today.
Resource Library
Checkout free resources on Depression from our library.
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This article offers a comprehensive overview of the signs of depression and the proven treatments used to manage it, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT).
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This guide explains what anxiety and depression are, why they often go hand-in-hand, and how effective treatments are helping people in Tampa get back to feeling like themselves again.
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In this post, we’ll explore what CBT is, the benefits of CBT, its proven effectiveness, and why it might be the right fit for you if you’re seeking lasting transformation.
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This article explores what ACT is, how it works, its benefits, effectiveness, and what one of our Tampa patients would typically experience undergoing Acceptance & Commitment Therapy.
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Is teletherapy right for you? In this post, we explore the pros and cons of using teletherapy in Florida to treat anxiety and depression. We'll also look at how effective it really is and what to consider when choosing a virtual therapist in the Sunshine State.
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In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for, the different therapy approaches available, and how to make a choice that fits your personal and financial needs.
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Every day, people overcome depression and find their way back to joy, connection, and purpose. In this article, we’ll explore inspiring depression recovery stories and the proven strategies that helped people heal—including approaches used right here in Tampa, FL.
FAQs about Psychology House
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We are located in South Tampa at:
3414 W Bay to Bay Blvd Suite 100 Tampa, FL 33629
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We work with adults, children, and teens.
Our child therapists work with children and adolescents as young as 5 and as old as college aged adults navigating academia and early careers.
Our adult-focused clinicians work with adults, professionals, couples, families, veterans, and LGBTQ+ clientele.
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During your initial intake call, we'll identify the right clinician for you and schedule your first session. Often times, this first session is used as an opportunity to get to know one another and provide more context around the struggles you are facing. There may be a few administrative tasks to take care of and your clinician will likely set expectations for what you can expect treatment to look like going forward. Click here to learn more about how to prepare for your first therapy session.
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Fit is important, and there is no shame in choosing to work with a different member of our team after a few visits. If for some reason you don’t feel a good fit within our team, we’ll connect you with other highly rated practices in the area; just so you’re not starting back at square one.
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We currently work with Aetna, United Healthcare (UHC), GEHA, Oxford, and Oscar. Additionally, we have simple & secure self-pay and out-of-network options.
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Many insurance plans offer out-of-network benefits, allowing you to work with the provider of your choice while still covering a percentage of your costs. If we do not work with your insurance, you may be able to receive out-of-network coverage with your current insurance plan. To learn more about our out-of-network option, click here. You can also self-pay with our simple & secure online billing.
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Yes! We offer secure, HIPAA compliant video Telehealth sessions.
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Many of our clinicians are PsyPact certified, allowing them to practice across multiple states. If you live out of state, plan to move soon, or travel a lot, you may still be able to work with a clinician of your choice. To learn more about our PsyPact team members, click here.
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We are located on the first floor of our building, however, our doorway is raised 4 inches off the ground, which could make it difficult for some mobility devices. Additionally, our parking lot does not have a dedicated handicap space, but does have two curb-side parking spaces that provide adequate space on one side.