Escaping Depression

About the Book

Escaping Depression is rooted in 55 years of a psychotherapist’s clinical experience and adds a fresh perspective on the nature of joy and sadness. It challenges what most people have been persuaded to believe about “negative feelings,” the nature of depression and that certain emotional experiences constitute mental illnesses which can be cured by antidepressant medications.

About the Author

Dr. Snyder received his doctorate in 1967 from the University of Pennsylvania. He was subsequently appointed an Instructor in Psychiatry in the School of Medicine to train psychiatric interns and residents in relational psychotherapy, using an approach developed under grants from the National Institute of Mental Health. For fi fty-fi ve years, Dr. Snyder devoted his professional life to the independent practice of clinical psychology. He helped hundreds of people overcome depression, the pain of estrangement in relationships, and to live more rewarding lives. In the capacity of supervisor, John shaped the practices of many psychiatrists, psychologists, and family therapists. His innovative approach to relational dynamics is outlined in his 2005 book Flying Lessons: The Psychology of Intimacy and Anxiety. A second book, Overcoming Depression explores how music helps us access our feelings. It retells the life story of composer Gustaf Mahler and recommends musical selections. A licensed pilot and avid sailor, Dr Snyder lives in the Chesapeake Bay town of Annapolis with his wife, Carolyn Mills. He owns a pair of dancing shoes.