Positive Pathways and Wellness Center offers in-person therapy for depression at our office in downtown Hagerstown. Our nurse practitioners are trained psychotherapists, and sessions focus on practical, evidence-based work that helps people feel more like themselves again.
What depression can look like
Depression is more than a bad week. It often shows up as a low or flat mood that lasts, loss of interest in things that used to matter, sleeping too little or too much, changes in appetite, low energy, trouble concentrating and a harsh inner critic. For some people it looks like irritability, pulling away from friends and family, or simply going through the motions. In children and teenagers it may appear as irritability, slipping grades or withdrawal rather than obvious sadness.
When these patterns last two weeks or more and get in the way of work, school or relationships, a therapy evaluation is a sensible next step.
How we treat depression in therapy
Our core approach is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), one of the most widely studied treatments for depression. CBT looks at the connection between thoughts, feelings and actions, and builds concrete skills to use between sessions.
- Behavioral activation – rebuilding routines and re-engaging with activities that bring energy, connection and a sense of accomplishment, in small, manageable steps.
- Cognitive restructuring – noticing patterns such as all-or-nothing thinking or self-blame, and testing them against the evidence.
- Problem-solving skills – breaking overwhelming situations into steps that can actually be worked on.
- Relapse prevention – recognizing early warning signs and building a plan to stay well once mood improves.
Treatment is collaborative. Goals are set together in the first sessions and progress is reviewed regularly, so the work stays focused on what matters most to each person.
Who we see
We work with adults, adolescents and children. For younger patients, parents or caregivers are involved so that skills practiced in session carry over at home and at school.
What to expect at the first visit
The first appointment is 60 minutes. The clinician will ask about current concerns, history, sleep, stress, relationships and what the person would like to be different. By the end of the visit there is a clear, shared plan, including how often sessions will take place. Early in treatment, sessions are usually weekly or every other week.
Common questions
How long does therapy for depression take?
Many people notice changes within the first several weeks of consistent CBT, and a typical course runs about 12 to 20 sessions. The length depends on goals and circumstances and is reviewed together along the way.
Is a referral needed?
No referral is needed to book with us. Some insurance plans have their own rules, so it is worth checking with the plan before the first visit.
Scheduling, insurance and location
- Same-week appointments are often available for new patients.
- Evening hours available.
- We accept most major commercial insurance plans and Maryland Medicaid.
- All visits are in person at our office at 28 Jonathan St, Hagerstown, MD 21740, convenient for patients from Washington County, Frederick, Cumberland and Westminster.
In an emergency
This page is not for emergencies. Anyone thinking about suicide or in immediate danger should call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or call 911.
Related therapy services
- Anxiety therapy in Hagerstown
- Trauma and PTSD therapy in Hagerstown
- OCD therapy in Hagerstown
- All therapy services in Hagerstown
Take the first step
Book online or call (240) 413-1255 to schedule a first visit.