Depression Counselling in Shannon
![Photo of Jayne Leonard - Jayne Leonard Vive Counselling, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e2c6d37-5c62-4e1a-9861-6c03766a2fe9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, stress, or low self-esteem? Or, maybe you have experienced sexual or domestic violence? Counselling can help you explore your concerns, learn new coping skills, and develop and work toward your goals. I am an accredited counsellor in Ennis, Co. Clare, and I also offer online sessions using Zoom. As an integrative therapist, I use a range of counselling approaches and methods. Examples include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness therapy, creative techniques, and lifestyle and dietary changes.
Are you struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, stress, or low self-esteem? Or, maybe you have experienced sexual or domestic violence? Counselling can help you explore your concerns, learn new coping skills, and develop and work toward your goals. I am an accredited counsellor in Ennis, Co. Clare, and I also offer online sessions using Zoom. As an integrative therapist, I use a range of counselling approaches and methods. Examples include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness therapy, creative techniques, and lifestyle and dietary changes.
![Photo of Shane O'Hara, MPSI, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbaaa509-b2be-4d70-80c9-665598c02363/2/320x400.png)
I work with all age groups and have helped people with issues such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, and trauma.
www.shaneoharatherapy.com
I work with all age groups and have helped people with issues such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, and trauma.
www.shaneoharatherapy.com
![Photo of Lucy Greene, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b28d7ff6-8c67-41da-81bc-3ee7a101d0b8/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with aspects of your mental health affected on becoming a mother or father eg.., anxiety, depression, Infertility, pregnancy loss, artificial reproductive technology, pre-natal crisis pregnancy, child bereavement, parenting styles, relationships, separation,domestic violence, and how adverse childhood experiences and trauma are affecting your experience of parenthood. I have a special interest in Peri-Natal Mental Health. This includes understanding issues arising for mothers and fathers from the time of conception up until the child is 5 years old.
I work with aspects of your mental health affected on becoming a mother or father eg.., anxiety, depression, Infertility, pregnancy loss, artificial reproductive technology, pre-natal crisis pregnancy, child bereavement, parenting styles, relationships, separation,domestic violence, and how adverse childhood experiences and trauma are affecting your experience of parenthood. I have a special interest in Peri-Natal Mental Health. This includes understanding issues arising for mothers and fathers from the time of conception up until the child is 5 years old.
![Photo of Ciaran Carey - Ciaran Carey MyMove Counselling, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f35bf275-5067-41c5-8264-ad18a97d59f4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our philosophy as part of MyMove counselling is to provide affordable and confidental support and hope that the people we work with become the best possible version of themselves. My skills lie in not only mental health issues but also the ability to combine addiction and mental health issues. I use the humanistic approach to help the person to consider the whole person mind, body and spirit. My experience includes anxiety, anger management, bereavement and loss, bullying, substance and alcohol related issues, gambling, depression and the harbouring of suicidal ideation at various points in ones life.
Our philosophy as part of MyMove counselling is to provide affordable and confidental support and hope that the people we work with become the best possible version of themselves. My skills lie in not only mental health issues but also the ability to combine addiction and mental health issues. I use the humanistic approach to help the person to consider the whole person mind, body and spirit. My experience includes anxiety, anger management, bereavement and loss, bullying, substance and alcohol related issues, gambling, depression and the harbouring of suicidal ideation at various points in ones life.
![Photo of Laura Hayes, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8db90866-6203-4f97-bea7-80600a46bcbf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients who may be feeling lost, confused or directionless in life, but who now want to commit to achieving their goals through self discovery, and self advocacy in the sharing of their experience.
I work with clients who may be feeling lost, confused or directionless in life, but who now want to commit to achieving their goals through self discovery, and self advocacy in the sharing of their experience.
![Photo of Cara Gibbons - Emotional And Binge Eating Specialist, MSc, APCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d52b497-1ac1-4dc2-8068-8f8250dfaac3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cara Gibbons - Emotional And Binge Eating Specialist
Psychotherapist, MSc, APCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shannon, County Clare V14 (Online Only)
Do you feel like food is ruling your life? Are you overcome with stress or painful life experiences and find yourself eating all your emotions? Are you fed up with the struggle with the binge/restrict cycle of various diets? Are you worried that your relationship with food is affecting your health? What would it mean for you to feel free from secrecy, guilt, and shame around food? Would you like to start caring for yourself and appreciating your body? To feel more present and at ease around eating and not have food on your mind constantly. If you answered yes to any of these questions, then perhaps I can help you.
Do you feel like food is ruling your life? Are you overcome with stress or painful life experiences and find yourself eating all your emotions? Are you fed up with the struggle with the binge/restrict cycle of various diets? Are you worried that your relationship with food is affecting your health? What would it mean for you to feel free from secrecy, guilt, and shame around food? Would you like to start caring for yourself and appreciating your body? To feel more present and at ease around eating and not have food on your mind constantly. If you answered yes to any of these questions, then perhaps I can help you.
![Photo of Robert Rackley - Robert Rackley Counselling And Psychotherapy , MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe80ae6a-7356-48d5-86b1-d49f072296b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Rackley Counselling And Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Verified Verified
Shannon, County Clare V14
ADHD Specialist therapist in Anxiety, Autism and ADHD in Limerick and online. I was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. My practice is for anyone experiencing mental health difficulties and I specialise in anxiety reduction using CBT. I fully support all sexual orientation and gender diversity, and all individual rights are respected. I work with Neurodivergent individuals including Autism, ADHD and Asperger’s, my practice is accredited as Autism Friendly by ASIAM. Professionalism and standards are essential to my practise. Currently studying a masters in autism and related neurodevelopmental conditions. IACP fully accredited member.
ADHD Specialist therapist in Anxiety, Autism and ADHD in Limerick and online. I was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. My practice is for anyone experiencing mental health difficulties and I specialise in anxiety reduction using CBT. I fully support all sexual orientation and gender diversity, and all individual rights are respected. I work with Neurodivergent individuals including Autism, ADHD and Asperger’s, my practice is accredited as Autism Friendly by ASIAM. Professionalism and standards are essential to my practise. Currently studying a masters in autism and related neurodevelopmental conditions. IACP fully accredited member.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Michele Farrell, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4c6f420-c3e8-48fe-aa75-d62b67f4ed3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I cover all areas of general counselling including stress, anxiety, grief and loss, depression, and trauma.
I am a qualified Psychotherapist with a BSc (Hons) in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy. I work with individuals aged 18 years and over, providing a professional, confidential service. I believe that the unique relationship between the therapist and client is key to the success of therapy as the relationship facilitates the trusting environment within which a client's concerns can be shared, explored, and addressed. My approach is Humanistic and Integrative, Person-Centred with elements of Gestalt, CBT, Family Systems, Expressive Art and Mindfulness.
I cover all areas of general counselling including stress, anxiety, grief and loss, depression, and trauma.
I am a qualified Psychotherapist with a BSc (Hons) in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy. I work with individuals aged 18 years and over, providing a professional, confidential service. I believe that the unique relationship between the therapist and client is key to the success of therapy as the relationship facilitates the trusting environment within which a client's concerns can be shared, explored, and addressed. My approach is Humanistic and Integrative, Person-Centred with elements of Gestalt, CBT, Family Systems, Expressive Art and Mindfulness.
![Photo of Zoe Reddan, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/695a6aea-0816-413c-96f8-5bdba1ad7625/2/320x400.jpeg)
Specialties: Self-Esteem Body Image/Eating Disorders Confidence Building Anxiety Anger Management Suicidal Ideation Stress Depression Relationship Issues Let's Connect: I understand how daunting it can be to reach out for help.
I'm Zoe Reddan, an experienced online-based integrative therapist passionate about mental health and dedicated to supporting your mental and emotional well-being. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. About Me: I hold a BA (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences (ICHAS) and have completed additional certificates in dream work, facilitating online therapy, and working with teenagers. I plan to pursue an MA in Psychodynamics soon
Specialties: Self-Esteem Body Image/Eating Disorders Confidence Building Anxiety Anger Management Suicidal Ideation Stress Depression Relationship Issues Let's Connect: I understand how daunting it can be to reach out for help.
I'm Zoe Reddan, an experienced online-based integrative therapist passionate about mental health and dedicated to supporting your mental and emotional well-being. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. About Me: I hold a BA (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences (ICHAS) and have completed additional certificates in dream work, facilitating online therapy, and working with teenagers. I plan to pursue an MA in Psychodynamics soon
![Photo of Bríd Kennedy, MSc, CPsychol PSI, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b05d8df9-d2e0-404b-ac5f-320d43264c9f/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you are experiencing issues that may be stopping you from living your best life, please feel free to get in touch. Everyone comes with their own story and life experiences, and you can be sure of meeting a warm, sensitive, empathic therapist when you meet me. I am happy to draw from a wide range of therapeutic and psychological skills and experience to support you in your goals.
If you are experiencing issues that may be stopping you from living your best life, please feel free to get in touch. Everyone comes with their own story and life experiences, and you can be sure of meeting a warm, sensitive, empathic therapist when you meet me. I am happy to draw from a wide range of therapeutic and psychological skills and experience to support you in your goals.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Miriam O'Shea, MA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1775f2a-8687-4a67-8e21-896c7076ad4c/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with addiction, adoption, cancer support, relationships issues, eating issues, self-esteem, anger management, abuse, parenting, divorce, unemployment, self-esteem, mental wellbeing, bullying, personal development, suicide, illness to name a few. I qualified as a psychotherapist in 2009 and am currently finishing an honours degree in psychotherapy. My Masters included a module on art therapy. I have online, face to face and walk and talk psychotherapy options. I have experience working in a treatment centre, a family resource centre, with autism/mental challenges and running a helpline for depression.
I have experience working with addiction, adoption, cancer support, relationships issues, eating issues, self-esteem, anger management, abuse, parenting, divorce, unemployment, self-esteem, mental wellbeing, bullying, personal development, suicide, illness to name a few. I qualified as a psychotherapist in 2009 and am currently finishing an honours degree in psychotherapy. My Masters included a module on art therapy. I have online, face to face and walk and talk psychotherapy options. I have experience working in a treatment centre, a family resource centre, with autism/mental challenges and running a helpline for depression.
![Photo of Michelle M Fowler - Balance Psychotherapy , MSc, Pre-Accredited Member IACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7643fbd-95b4-472f-9096-21b962350fe4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Balance Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Verified Verified
Enniscorthy, County Wexford Y21
I cater for a range of issues from self-esteem, anxiety, depression, communication issues, relationship issues and psychosexual issues to name a few. I particularly like to work with past or childhood trauma within the adult today. I provide a unique style of therapy drawing from a background in early childhood education and care, additional needs and integrative counselling and psychotherapy. I have over 10 years experience supporting persons in crisis or just generally dissatisfied within themselves or their place in life presently.
I cater for a range of issues from self-esteem, anxiety, depression, communication issues, relationship issues and psychosexual issues to name a few. I particularly like to work with past or childhood trauma within the adult today. I provide a unique style of therapy drawing from a background in early childhood education and care, additional needs and integrative counselling and psychotherapy. I have over 10 years experience supporting persons in crisis or just generally dissatisfied within themselves or their place in life presently.
![Photo of Claire Moloney, MSc, CPsychol PSI, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2d659e4-b923-4299-ae22-e2885be8ec82/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with thirty years experience. I provide consultations on mental health issues including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, trauma, PTSD, bereavement, OCD, self-harm, psychosis, suicidality, grief, loss, anger, addiction, violence, personality disorder, work-related problems, bullying, psychosis, bipolar disorder, stress, shame and confidence issues. Trained in CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, CRM and MBT. I am recognised by VHI, Laya, Corkmarket and Irish Life for up to 50% rebates of consultation fee. Consultations available re concerns about the mental health of a family member or employee.
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with thirty years experience. I provide consultations on mental health issues including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, trauma, PTSD, bereavement, OCD, self-harm, psychosis, suicidality, grief, loss, anger, addiction, violence, personality disorder, work-related problems, bullying, psychosis, bipolar disorder, stress, shame and confidence issues. Trained in CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, CRM and MBT. I am recognised by VHI, Laya, Corkmarket and Irish Life for up to 50% rebates of consultation fee. Consultations available re concerns about the mental health of a family member or employee.
![Photo of John Anthony Hoare - Rose Cottage Holistic Therapy, ACI, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9806493-518d-4f17-b14a-d98893b50be8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Well done! If your looking here, consider you have made a brave move towards reaching out for guidance and support. Whatever it is that's troubling you or leaving you stuck in life, always remember there is a solution for everything. Only you have the answers to be explored with my help. Life presents us with many challenges, more for some than others, the trick is to move through these and come out the other side. We learn from the lessons received through hardship and how we cope through them makes us stronger people. Fear, loss, depression, anxiety keep us stuck, life's too short not to do something about it and move on...
Well done! If your looking here, consider you have made a brave move towards reaching out for guidance and support. Whatever it is that's troubling you or leaving you stuck in life, always remember there is a solution for everything. Only you have the answers to be explored with my help. Life presents us with many challenges, more for some than others, the trick is to move through these and come out the other side. We learn from the lessons received through hardship and how we cope through them makes us stronger people. Fear, loss, depression, anxiety keep us stuck, life's too short not to do something about it and move on...
![Photo of Ellen Joyce, MIACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a5dbfb5-aedf-43f8-a16f-e3ec3f921222/1/320x400.jpeg)
Throughout my career, I have worked with a wide range of issues, distress, anxiety, panic attacks, developmental trauma , Post Traumatic Stress(PTSD), depression, life-changing illness, terminal illness, bereavement .
My name is Ellen.I am an accredited counsellor/supervisor with 20 years experience. I work online and from my rooms located in Midleton, and Kinsale. I understand how difficult it can be to ask for help. My approach is to create a safe, welcoming, compassionate, and inclusive space.
Throughout my career, I have worked with a wide range of issues, distress, anxiety, panic attacks, developmental trauma , Post Traumatic Stress(PTSD), depression, life-changing illness, terminal illness, bereavement .
My name is Ellen.I am an accredited counsellor/supervisor with 20 years experience. I work online and from my rooms located in Midleton, and Kinsale. I understand how difficult it can be to ask for help. My approach is to create a safe, welcoming, compassionate, and inclusive space.
![Photo of Derek Waugh, Pre-Accredited Member IACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e75299c3-6eb0-4286-86cb-213d61f5ca87/2/320x400.jpeg)
Derek Waugh
Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cork, County Cork T12
Areas of expertise include stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, fostering mindfulness, personal development and existential issues.
Therapy is a life-long tool that one can reach for in times of difficulty and in times of growth and personal development. Using a collaborative approach I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment where each individual is supported to explore their life and any issue of concern. As an integrative therapist, I appreciate the autonomy and uniqueness of every individual. I meet and accept my clients where they are at in life’s journey, and every part of you is welcome. I aim to support my clients to develop a deeper understanding of who they are and what they feel.
Areas of expertise include stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, fostering mindfulness, personal development and existential issues.
Therapy is a life-long tool that one can reach for in times of difficulty and in times of growth and personal development. Using a collaborative approach I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment where each individual is supported to explore their life and any issue of concern. As an integrative therapist, I appreciate the autonomy and uniqueness of every individual. I meet and accept my clients where they are at in life’s journey, and every part of you is welcome. I aim to support my clients to develop a deeper understanding of who they are and what they feel.
![Photo of Petrina Timoney, MA, MIAHIP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e42c890-4f75-4c0e-9ca8-77e790435c82/2/320x400.jpeg)
Petrina Timoney
Psychotherapist, MA, MIAHIP
Verified Verified
Roscommon, County Roscommon F42 (Online Only)
A fully qualified, accredited and experienced psychotherapist, I have experience in working with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, low self esteem, bereavement, grief, loss, depression, abuse, trauma, sexuality, emotional crisis and personal growth. There are times in our lives where we can find ourselves feeling stuck, anxious, stressed, confused, saddened or overwhelmed. Our thoughts, feelings, beliefs and behaviours may be impacting negatively on our ability to live a fulfilled life. Having a safe space to talk about issues that are troubling you can be helpful, and in time, facilitate change.
A fully qualified, accredited and experienced psychotherapist, I have experience in working with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, low self esteem, bereavement, grief, loss, depression, abuse, trauma, sexuality, emotional crisis and personal growth. There are times in our lives where we can find ourselves feeling stuck, anxious, stressed, confused, saddened or overwhelmed. Our thoughts, feelings, beliefs and behaviours may be impacting negatively on our ability to live a fulfilled life. Having a safe space to talk about issues that are troubling you can be helpful, and in time, facilitate change.
![Photo of John Luke Trench, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32de31ac-c9ed-4f06-9c8a-355334c915c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I cover all areas of general counselling including stress, anxiety, grief and loss, and depression.
I am a qualified Psychotherapist and hold a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Holistic Counselling and Psychotherapy. I also hold a Bachelor of Commerce Degree and have worked in the self-employed sector for many years. I feel I have a broad range of life experience and can particularly relate to the pressures associated with balancing family and business life. I work with individuals aged 18 years and over, providing a professional confidential service. I work on both a private basis and have also worked for a range of organisations in Galway City including Galway University. Proconsult and Lets Get Talking providing counselling services.
I cover all areas of general counselling including stress, anxiety, grief and loss, and depression.
I am a qualified Psychotherapist and hold a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Holistic Counselling and Psychotherapy. I also hold a Bachelor of Commerce Degree and have worked in the self-employed sector for many years. I feel I have a broad range of life experience and can particularly relate to the pressures associated with balancing family and business life. I work with individuals aged 18 years and over, providing a professional confidential service. I work on both a private basis and have also worked for a range of organisations in Galway City including Galway University. Proconsult and Lets Get Talking providing counselling services.
![Photo of Aimee Ford, MIACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34fb201d-3e89-411d-8894-92b6c5a4065d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Aimee Ford
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Verified Verified
Mullingar, County Westmeath N91
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Aimee. I'm a qualified Counsellor and Psychotherapist and an accredited member of IACP. I am a therapist who offers honesty, empathy, acceptance, congruence, and many more. Having experienced a wide range of issues such as anxiety, addiction, self-esteem, bereavement, depression, relationships, stress, suicide intervention, sexual issues, sexual assaults, and more. I offer a therapeutic counseling approach tailored to the individual needs of the client.
Hi, I'm Aimee. I'm a qualified Counsellor and Psychotherapist and an accredited member of IACP. I am a therapist who offers honesty, empathy, acceptance, congruence, and many more. Having experienced a wide range of issues such as anxiety, addiction, self-esteem, bereavement, depression, relationships, stress, suicide intervention, sexual issues, sexual assaults, and more. I offer a therapeutic counseling approach tailored to the individual needs of the client.
![Photo of Karen Downey Counselling Psychotherapy, MA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ccc556e-c4a2-4b25-be89-faa3869933e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Having spent many years working as a volunteer with adolescents in difficulties, suffering from anxiety, stress and depression I have great respect for the demands both adolescents and adults face.
Sometimes we need a non-bias“outside” perspective to hear our own voices. As an integrative therapist I utilize approaches including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, person centered, Solution focused, mindfulness etc. depending on the needs and requests of each individual. Pulling apart what may often feel like a tangled ball of wool in ones head in order to recognise, prioritize and cope with the sometimes over whelming thoughts, feeling and behaviors that present. Providing a secure, non-judgmental, confidential environment in which you can safely express your thoughts, feelings, and concerns at a rate that is comfortable to you
Having spent many years working as a volunteer with adolescents in difficulties, suffering from anxiety, stress and depression I have great respect for the demands both adolescents and adults face.
Sometimes we need a non-bias“outside” perspective to hear our own voices. As an integrative therapist I utilize approaches including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, person centered, Solution focused, mindfulness etc. depending on the needs and requests of each individual. Pulling apart what may often feel like a tangled ball of wool in ones head in order to recognise, prioritize and cope with the sometimes over whelming thoughts, feeling and behaviors that present. Providing a secure, non-judgmental, confidential environment in which you can safely express your thoughts, feelings, and concerns at a rate that is comfortable to you
See more therapy options for Shannon
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.