Depression Counselling in Guildford

Photo of Kate Brady, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Kate Brady
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU3  (Online Only)
I specialise in helping with anxiety, depression, trauma, lack of self esteem and relationship issues.
Hi, I'm Kate Brady and after over thirty years experience as a therapist I offer friendly, flexible online therapy centred around you as a unique individual. With a wide range of therapeutic tools learnt over the years, we can explore the approach which will best suit you and help you to meet life's challenges. This might involve healing and releasing difficulties from the past, letting go negative beliefs that hold you back or bringing understanding to all aspects of your personality so you can discover new inner resources. As well as offering traditional 'talk therapy', I also offer EMDR and IFS based therapy where helpful.
I specialise in helping with anxiety, depression, trauma, lack of self esteem and relationship issues.
Hi, I'm Kate Brady and after over thirty years experience as a therapist I offer friendly, flexible online therapy centred around you as a unique individual. With a wide range of therapeutic tools learnt over the years, we can explore the approach which will best suit you and help you to meet life's challenges. This might involve healing and releasing difficulties from the past, letting go negative beliefs that hold you back or bringing understanding to all aspects of your personality so you can discover new inner resources. As well as offering traditional 'talk therapy', I also offer EMDR and IFS based therapy where helpful.
01483 967209 View 01483 967209
Photo of Evelyn Gaunt
Evelyn Gaunt
Verified Verified
Guildford GU3
Although I see people for all manner of difficulties including anxiety, depression, grief, pain and trauma, I specialise in trauma utilising both EMDR Therapy and Talking Therapy.
I provide a safe space for Talking Therapy and EMDR Therapy sessions. EMDR Therapy can be helpful for PTSD and Trauma, whether a one off incident or chronic trauma such as childhood abuse or neglect and many other mental health presentations, such as body dysmorphia, grief, self-esteem, chronic pain, anxiety, sexual assault, childhood neglect, domestic abuse and more. Many of these presentations can leave you feeling isolated, frustrated and helpless, by processing these via bilateral stimulation to a resolution, life can become more manageable and less triggering, allowing you to achieve your goals.
Although I see people for all manner of difficulties including anxiety, depression, grief, pain and trauma, I specialise in trauma utilising both EMDR Therapy and Talking Therapy.
I provide a safe space for Talking Therapy and EMDR Therapy sessions. EMDR Therapy can be helpful for PTSD and Trauma, whether a one off incident or chronic trauma such as childhood abuse or neglect and many other mental health presentations, such as body dysmorphia, grief, self-esteem, chronic pain, anxiety, sexual assault, childhood neglect, domestic abuse and more. Many of these presentations can leave you feeling isolated, frustrated and helpless, by processing these via bilateral stimulation to a resolution, life can become more manageable and less triggering, allowing you to achieve your goals.
01483 694867 View 01483 694867
Photo of Dr Ben J Mead, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Ben J Mead
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU5
Hello, my name is Ben and I am a Clinical Psychologist, Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Counsellor practising in Surrey (Guildford), Hampshire (Basingstoke) and also online via a secure, encrypted network. My extensive training and experience ensures I am able to help adults and children with a number of difficulties, including (but not limited to): Anxiety, Depression, Low self-esteem, Loneliness, Grief / Loss, Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Post-traumatic stress (PTSD), Relationship difficulties (including break-ups), Social anxiety, Sleep difficulties and Work / exam stress
Hello, my name is Ben and I am a Clinical Psychologist, Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Counsellor practising in Surrey (Guildford), Hampshire (Basingstoke) and also online via a secure, encrypted network. My extensive training and experience ensures I am able to help adults and children with a number of difficulties, including (but not limited to): Anxiety, Depression, Low self-esteem, Loneliness, Grief / Loss, Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Post-traumatic stress (PTSD), Relationship difficulties (including break-ups), Social anxiety, Sleep difficulties and Work / exam stress
07723 467204 View 07723 467204
Photo of Imogen Mayhew, MBACP, Counsellor
Imogen Mayhew
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guildford GU2
If you seeking to feel safe with a therapist, my goal is to provide you with a feeling of trust and security. You may feel this sense of safety in our first session, or it may take many sessions to build. I believe that when you are relaxed, open and comfortable, that is when the most fruitful work can take place. You may be struggling with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, childhood issues, self-harm or suicidal thoughts; or perhaps you aren't sure how to put into words what you're going through, you just know that you need to speak to someone.
If you seeking to feel safe with a therapist, my goal is to provide you with a feeling of trust and security. You may feel this sense of safety in our first session, or it may take many sessions to build. I believe that when you are relaxed, open and comfortable, that is when the most fruitful work can take place. You may be struggling with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, childhood issues, self-harm or suicidal thoughts; or perhaps you aren't sure how to put into words what you're going through, you just know that you need to speak to someone.
01793 540202 View 01793 540202
Photo of Dawn Nunney - Shropshire Lass Counselling, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Shropshire Lass Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU4
Experienced in bereavement, anxiety and depression counselling.
Counselling is my passion and I look to provide a safe, private space for you to be heard when no one else is listening.
Experienced in bereavement, anxiety and depression counselling.
Counselling is my passion and I look to provide a safe, private space for you to be heard when no one else is listening.
01483 930162 View 01483 930162
Photo of Paul Alistair Byford, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Paul Alistair Byford
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Therapeutic intervention is beneficial for those suffering from depression, anxiety, bereavement, PTSD, OCD, alcohol / drug misuse, low self-esteem, panic attacks/phobias, and stress.
Paul has a wealth of experience of psychological intervention having worked in various multi-disciplinary work settings including NHS IAPT services (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies). Alcohol and Drug misuse services, renowned private residential rehabs and prison. He has also had a successful private practice in Harley Street and in the Home Counties and now works from Guildford and Godalming in Surrey. Paul will use various contemporary research and evidence based therapeutic models including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), MET (Motivational Enhancement Therapy) and Humanistic Person Centred Therapy to help facilitate change and help people with various issues to live more balanced lives.
Therapeutic intervention is beneficial for those suffering from depression, anxiety, bereavement, PTSD, OCD, alcohol / drug misuse, low self-esteem, panic attacks/phobias, and stress.
Paul has a wealth of experience of psychological intervention having worked in various multi-disciplinary work settings including NHS IAPT services (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies). Alcohol and Drug misuse services, renowned private residential rehabs and prison. He has also had a successful private practice in Harley Street and in the Home Counties and now works from Guildford and Godalming in Surrey. Paul will use various contemporary research and evidence based therapeutic models including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), MET (Motivational Enhancement Therapy) and Humanistic Person Centred Therapy to help facilitate change and help people with various issues to live more balanced lives.
07480 486605 View 07480 486605
Photo of Deborah Cockram, MBACP, Counsellor
Deborah Cockram
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I'm Deborah. Sometimes, we realise we need some support to cope with how we feel, but we may think it is too small to mention, or that it would be too much to share. You might be working through relationship, work or family challenges? Perhaps, you are feeling low, but not quite sure why? Just having someone to listen and support you in a non-judgmental way can help with perspective and recognising patterns or coping mechanisms. I have much experience in helping clients with anxiety, depression, stress, loss, sexual abuse, traumatic events, relationship issues or family conflicts.
Hello, I'm Deborah. Sometimes, we realise we need some support to cope with how we feel, but we may think it is too small to mention, or that it would be too much to share. You might be working through relationship, work or family challenges? Perhaps, you are feeling low, but not quite sure why? Just having someone to listen and support you in a non-judgmental way can help with perspective and recognising patterns or coping mechanisms. I have much experience in helping clients with anxiety, depression, stress, loss, sexual abuse, traumatic events, relationship issues or family conflicts.
01793 540637 View 01793 540637
Photo of Jane Barnfield Jukes - The Practice, MBACP, Psychotherapist
The Practice
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
We can all have difficulties in everyday life and encounter problems that we simply find hard to cope with alone. You may feel worried, anxious, low, confused, isolated or may be experience difficulties in relationships. You may be suffering from feelings of low self esteem or low self confidence. You may have been diagnosed with anxiety, generalised anxiety disorder, depression, or maybe you are just feeling sad. When these feelings and thoughts persist and become overwhelming it may be difficult to know which way to turn.
We can all have difficulties in everyday life and encounter problems that we simply find hard to cope with alone. You may feel worried, anxious, low, confused, isolated or may be experience difficulties in relationships. You may be suffering from feelings of low self esteem or low self confidence. You may have been diagnosed with anxiety, generalised anxiety disorder, depression, or maybe you are just feeling sad. When these feelings and thoughts persist and become overwhelming it may be difficult to know which way to turn.
07480 486415 View 07480 486415
Photo of Martin Bennett, MBACP, Counsellor
Martin Bennett
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
I am qualified as an integrative counsellor and my busy private practice reflects a broad range of clients and their issues. I work with people of all ages, from all backgrounds struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction and stress. I also have experience of clients with bereavement, loss, panic attacks, trauma, sex and pornography addiction, anger and eating disorders. I work with individuals and couples and favour a systemic approach looking at context, social environment and behaviour patterns as well as attachments from the past that impact the present.
I am qualified as an integrative counsellor and my busy private practice reflects a broad range of clients and their issues. I work with people of all ages, from all backgrounds struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction and stress. I also have experience of clients with bereavement, loss, panic attacks, trauma, sex and pornography addiction, anger and eating disorders. I work with individuals and couples and favour a systemic approach looking at context, social environment and behaviour patterns as well as attachments from the past that impact the present.
07480 779802 View 07480 779802
Photo of Nic Perrins, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Nic Perrins
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or panic attacks? Perhaps you're struggling with grief or feeling lost. It’s okay to seek help, and I’m here to support you on your journey to wellness. My name is Nic, and I am a highly qualified integrative therapist with extensive experience in helping clients navigate their emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. Taking that first step can be daunting, but I provide a safe, non-judgemental space to explore your feelings. Contact me for a free introductory call, and let's navigate your path to wellness together.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or panic attacks? Perhaps you're struggling with grief or feeling lost. It’s okay to seek help, and I’m here to support you on your journey to wellness. My name is Nic, and I am a highly qualified integrative therapist with extensive experience in helping clients navigate their emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. Taking that first step can be daunting, but I provide a safe, non-judgemental space to explore your feelings. Contact me for a free introductory call, and let's navigate your path to wellness together.
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Photo of Naomi Brewer, MA, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Naomi Brewer
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
You are brave to get this far, I am here to help you go further; to become strong in your mental and emotional health. I believe that when pain we carry is faced in counselling, with insight, gentleness and compassion, healing comes. Healing then releases energy which enables you to be and to live well. Many people survive through not just childhood, but large junks of their lives and need to re-learn how to thrive instead. At times your true self and needs are so removed from your focus that functioning on a daily basis isan uphill challenge as you carry anxiety, depression, PTSD or battle negative feelings or feel misunderstood.
You are brave to get this far, I am here to help you go further; to become strong in your mental and emotional health. I believe that when pain we carry is faced in counselling, with insight, gentleness and compassion, healing comes. Healing then releases energy which enables you to be and to live well. Many people survive through not just childhood, but large junks of their lives and need to re-learn how to thrive instead. At times your true self and needs are so removed from your focus that functioning on a daily basis isan uphill challenge as you carry anxiety, depression, PTSD or battle negative feelings or feel misunderstood.
0121 728 2349 View 0121 728 2349
Photo of Emma K Smith, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Emma K Smith
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
I have experience working with a broad range of psychological and emotional issues, including depression, anxiety/stress and low mood, bereavement/grief and loss.
Are you experiencing a difficult or challenging time in your life? Perhaps you are feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Whatever your reason for considering therapy and viewing my profile, it is often the case that we 'hit the wall' or 'crash' emotionally before we can identify that we may need professional support. When our usual coping mechanisms no longer work the struggle can be overwhelming. As your therapist I recognise this as your first and critical step toward positive change. You are, I'm sure, familiar with the phrase 'if you do what you've always done...you get what you've always got' and how true it is.....
I have experience working with a broad range of psychological and emotional issues, including depression, anxiety/stress and low mood, bereavement/grief and loss.
Are you experiencing a difficult or challenging time in your life? Perhaps you are feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Whatever your reason for considering therapy and viewing my profile, it is often the case that we 'hit the wall' or 'crash' emotionally before we can identify that we may need professional support. When our usual coping mechanisms no longer work the struggle can be overwhelming. As your therapist I recognise this as your first and critical step toward positive change. You are, I'm sure, familiar with the phrase 'if you do what you've always done...you get what you've always got' and how true it is.....
01689 666191 View 01689 666191
Photo of Carolina Parker Frohlich, MBACP, Counsellor
Carolina Parker Frohlich
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU5
A warm welcome to private individual therapy with Carolina. I specialise in acute anxiety, depression, relationship issues, childhood trauma, ADHD, anger, stress, burnout, insomnia, family issues, parenting, children's difficulties, bereavement, addictions, trauma, and PTSD. I provide bespoke Integrative psychotherapy, counselling, coaching—in-person and online. With a compassionate demeanour, I bring a unique blend of clinical expertise and a nuanced understanding of human behaviour, drawing from a wealth of experience and a rich professional background in the corporate world, high-performing sectors, education, academia, and life.
A warm welcome to private individual therapy with Carolina. I specialise in acute anxiety, depression, relationship issues, childhood trauma, ADHD, anger, stress, burnout, insomnia, family issues, parenting, children's difficulties, bereavement, addictions, trauma, and PTSD. I provide bespoke Integrative psychotherapy, counselling, coaching—in-person and online. With a compassionate demeanour, I bring a unique blend of clinical expertise and a nuanced understanding of human behaviour, drawing from a wealth of experience and a rich professional background in the corporate world, high-performing sectors, education, academia, and life.
01279 598235 View 01279 598235
Photo of John Hugh Patrick O'Connor, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
John Hugh Patrick O'Connor
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
Dr John O'Connor is a Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Director of Malone Psychology Services. He is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council and is an Associate Fellow of The British Psychological Society. Dr O'Connor identifies and treats psychological problems across the entire spectrum with particular expertise in depression, anxiety and trauma. His Doctoral research explored the diagnosis of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and was completed at The Institute of Psychotrauma in London.
Dr John O'Connor is a Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Director of Malone Psychology Services. He is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council and is an Associate Fellow of The British Psychological Society. Dr O'Connor identifies and treats psychological problems across the entire spectrum with particular expertise in depression, anxiety and trauma. His Doctoral research explored the diagnosis of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and was completed at The Institute of Psychotrauma in London.
01483 608517 View 01483 608517
Photo of Tim O'Neill, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred, Counsellor
Tim O'Neill
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
My name is Tim. I have 26 years experience as a BACP Senior Accredited Counsellor/Psychotherapist. I offer counselling to adults of all ages and young people. I also offer online sessions and Walk & Talk therapy. The areas of counselling I have specialisms in are young people, various Anxiety disorders, Stress, Depression and Bereavement. I also offer counselling to trainee counsellors. I am a qualified supervisor of experienced and trainee counsellors. I also have BUPA recognition. Other Issues i work with include: family issues, relationship breakdown, panic disorder and self-harm. I offer a Free initial 20 min phone consultation.
My name is Tim. I have 26 years experience as a BACP Senior Accredited Counsellor/Psychotherapist. I offer counselling to adults of all ages and young people. I also offer online sessions and Walk & Talk therapy. The areas of counselling I have specialisms in are young people, various Anxiety disorders, Stress, Depression and Bereavement. I also offer counselling to trainee counsellors. I am a qualified supervisor of experienced and trainee counsellors. I also have BUPA recognition. Other Issues i work with include: family issues, relationship breakdown, panic disorder and self-harm. I offer a Free initial 20 min phone consultation.
07723 428530 View 07723 428530
Photo of Maria Midson, MBACP, Counsellor
Maria Midson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
Hello, my name is Maria and I'm an experienced, professional BACP counsellor. I recognise you've taken a bold step to reach out for help and it can be daunting to find a therapist who you can trust and connect with. Being sensitive, curious, non judgemental, along with a sense of humour enables my clients to feel safe, to be open and vulnerable with themselves and others. Perhaps your experiencing difficulties with life, relationships or work and cope by keeping busy, numbing yourself or avoiding your thoughts and feelings. These strategies may leave you feeling anxious, stressed, lonely or depressed if not dealt with.
Hello, my name is Maria and I'm an experienced, professional BACP counsellor. I recognise you've taken a bold step to reach out for help and it can be daunting to find a therapist who you can trust and connect with. Being sensitive, curious, non judgemental, along with a sense of humour enables my clients to feel safe, to be open and vulnerable with themselves and others. Perhaps your experiencing difficulties with life, relationships or work and cope by keeping busy, numbing yourself or avoiding your thoughts and feelings. These strategies may leave you feeling anxious, stressed, lonely or depressed if not dealt with.
07723 494704 View 07723 494704
Photo of Charlotte Musgrove, MBACP, Counsellor
Charlotte Musgrove
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guildford GU2
I welcome your needs, be that uncovering the source of your anxiety, beginning to work with your depression, reflecting on relationships and your own patterns of relating, or together voyaging into what is your extrinsic meaning, who and how am I in this world? The therapeutic space I offer is yours to focus on any aspect of life. I am a committed, genuine, caring therapist, that is invested in developing our therapeutic relationship. Together, every step of the way and in your own time, we can explore your life experience and discover where emotions may have got stuck and are now impacting your present.
I welcome your needs, be that uncovering the source of your anxiety, beginning to work with your depression, reflecting on relationships and your own patterns of relating, or together voyaging into what is your extrinsic meaning, who and how am I in this world? The therapeutic space I offer is yours to focus on any aspect of life. I am a committed, genuine, caring therapist, that is invested in developing our therapeutic relationship. Together, every step of the way and in your own time, we can explore your life experience and discover where emotions may have got stuck and are now impacting your present.
01483 968825 View 01483 968825
Photo of Judith Jacobs, MBACP, Counsellor
Judith Jacobs
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
I see clients with a wide range of mental health issues, for example; Depression, anxiety and stress, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, grief and loss, body image, eating disorders, self-esteem and confidence, relationship issues, addictions, panic attacks and more.
I am a qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor with experience working with adults and 11-18 year olds. My approach is non-clinical as I want to provide a space where you can be yourself, feel relaxed, and explore you're issues with me in ways you find the most helpful. My approach is very much 'one size does NOT fit all' so you will lead our sessions in ways you find beneficial and I will offer you a variety of techniques and tools which we can work with together towards your goal(s).
I see clients with a wide range of mental health issues, for example; Depression, anxiety and stress, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, grief and loss, body image, eating disorders, self-esteem and confidence, relationship issues, addictions, panic attacks and more.
I am a qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor with experience working with adults and 11-18 year olds. My approach is non-clinical as I want to provide a space where you can be yourself, feel relaxed, and explore you're issues with me in ways you find the most helpful. My approach is very much 'one size does NOT fit all' so you will lead our sessions in ways you find beneficial and I will offer you a variety of techniques and tools which we can work with together towards your goal(s).
01428 774962 View 01428 774962
Photo of Maggie King, MBACP, Counsellor
Maggie King
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guildford GU1
I am a compassionate and empathetic individual dedicated to supporting my clients through challenging times. My counseling services are available to both men and women, providing a safe and confidential environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and make sense of troubling life experiences. I have extensive experience working with issues such as addiction, loss, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and work-related stress.
I am a compassionate and empathetic individual dedicated to supporting my clients through challenging times. My counseling services are available to both men and women, providing a safe and confidential environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and make sense of troubling life experiences. I have extensive experience working with issues such as addiction, loss, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and work-related stress.
01483 940015 View 01483 940015
Photo of Pippa Rashbrook, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Pippa Rashbrook
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Guildford GU4
My passion is to help people overcome issues they feel limit them, enabling them to live more satisfying, fulfilled lives. We all have times when life just doesn’t seem to work how we would like it to. I provide a professional space where your concerns can be safely explored, facilitating you to come to a greater understanding of yourself, so you can make more informed choices going forward, bringing a greater sense of well-being. I am experienced in supporting issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, low self-esteem, panic attacks and the legacy of trauma. I have worked with many students, young adults and adults.
My passion is to help people overcome issues they feel limit them, enabling them to live more satisfying, fulfilled lives. We all have times when life just doesn’t seem to work how we would like it to. I provide a professional space where your concerns can be safely explored, facilitating you to come to a greater understanding of yourself, so you can make more informed choices going forward, bringing a greater sense of well-being. I am experienced in supporting issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, low self-esteem, panic attacks and the legacy of trauma. I have worked with many students, young adults and adults.
01276 535583 View 01276 535583

See more therapy options for Guildford

Depression Counsellors

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognise and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioural activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.