Depression Psychiatrists in Cypress, TX

Photo of Chinwe Linda Osuagwu - MindHaven Behavioral Health Services , MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MindHaven Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433  (Online Only)
Chinwe offers a range of mental health services, such as addressing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and more.
Do you often encounter emotions of being misunderstood and not having enough support? Do you desire to establish a connection with someone who is receptive and impartial? Let me introduce you to Chinwe, the founder and owner of MindHaven Behavioral Health Services. With more than 16 years of expertise in the mental health domain, Chinwe prioritizes patient-centered care and crafting personalized interpersonal treatment strategies, guaranteeing meticulous attention to your mental health needs. Please visit Mindhavenbehavioralhealthservices.com.
Chinwe offers a range of mental health services, such as addressing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and more.
Do you often encounter emotions of being misunderstood and not having enough support? Do you desire to establish a connection with someone who is receptive and impartial? Let me introduce you to Chinwe, the founder and owner of MindHaven Behavioral Health Services. With more than 16 years of expertise in the mental health domain, Chinwe prioritizes patient-centered care and crafting personalized interpersonal treatment strategies, guaranteeing meticulous attention to your mental health needs. Please visit Mindhavenbehavioralhealthservices.com.
(281) 984-6780 View (281) 984-6780
Photo of Dr. Ololade Bello - Neuron Psychiatry PLLC, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Neuron Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433  (Online Only)
Bello offers expert diagnosis and treatment of adolescent and adult psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression ADHD, bipolar disorder, chronic stress, and panic disorder.
Embark on a journey to mental well-being with compassionate care. Dr. Bello, DNP, PMHNP-BC has worked in mental health since 2017, and she is committed to guiding you towards a brighter, balanced life. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, she has worked for the largest academic psychiatric hospital in the nation. She is passionate about providing holistic and patient center. Your mental health is your greatest wealth, and Dr. Bello's goal is to help you thrive. Let's navigate the path to healing together, where understanding meets expertise.
Bello offers expert diagnosis and treatment of adolescent and adult psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression ADHD, bipolar disorder, chronic stress, and panic disorder.
Embark on a journey to mental well-being with compassionate care. Dr. Bello, DNP, PMHNP-BC has worked in mental health since 2017, and she is committed to guiding you towards a brighter, balanced life. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, she has worked for the largest academic psychiatric hospital in the nation. She is passionate about providing holistic and patient center. Your mental health is your greatest wealth, and Dr. Bello's goal is to help you thrive. Let's navigate the path to healing together, where understanding meets expertise.
(281) 519-3622 View (281) 519-3622
Photo of Michael Adelowo, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433
Any client feeling stuck, anxious, depressed, and overwhelmed with their personal, social, or occupational relationships.
I am an experienced psychiatric NP who is committed to developing patient-centered care involving psychotherapy, medication management, education, and empowerment. I treat patients and families with respect and compassion. My goal is to find solutions to your challenges, restore hope, and create a healthy and happier you. I work one-on-one with my clients, tailoring their treatment to their unique experience and their disease process. Every treatment starts with us building a therapeutic relationship of trust. I believe the client is a product of their social environment and culture. So I focus on the holistic approach to care.
Any client feeling stuck, anxious, depressed, and overwhelmed with their personal, social, or occupational relationships.
I am an experienced psychiatric NP who is committed to developing patient-centered care involving psychotherapy, medication management, education, and empowerment. I treat patients and families with respect and compassion. My goal is to find solutions to your challenges, restore hope, and create a healthy and happier you. I work one-on-one with my clients, tailoring their treatment to their unique experience and their disease process. Every treatment starts with us building a therapeutic relationship of trust. I believe the client is a product of their social environment and culture. So I focus on the holistic approach to care.
(832) 688-4685 View (832) 688-4685
Photo of Jessica B Holt, MD, Psychiatrist
Jessica B Holt
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77429
As a working mother, spouse, and physician, I understand the challenges facing women and men in the Houston area. As life becomes more stressful and as we do less to take care of ourselves, problems with mood ( depression) and anxiety are likely to emerge, particularly in those with personal or family histories of such disorders. I see patients ages 18 and above and am interested in the social, academic,occupational, marital and emotional difficulties which often arise at various turning points in life and as responsibility accrues throughout our lifetime. It's never too late to get help or seek change.
As a working mother, spouse, and physician, I understand the challenges facing women and men in the Houston area. As life becomes more stressful and as we do less to take care of ourselves, problems with mood ( depression) and anxiety are likely to emerge, particularly in those with personal or family histories of such disorders. I see patients ages 18 and above and am interested in the social, academic,occupational, marital and emotional difficulties which often arise at various turning points in life and as responsibility accrues throughout our lifetime. It's never too late to get help or seek change.
(713) 338-9236 View (713) 338-9236
Photo of Natalie Keller - Your Family Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist
Your Family Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cypress, TX 77429
Our psychiatrists treat many common mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety, autism, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, and perinatal mood disorders.
The Cypress and NW Houston communities are growing, and we are here to provide comprehensive individualized treatment for its residents. Our psychiatrists treat patients of all ages as we are all subspecialty trained in children and adolescents after completing training in adult psychiatry. With children and adolescents, we pride ourselves in taking a family oriented approach to treatment. The initial interview includes meeting the child and parent(s) separately to develop an accurate diagnosis. After individual interviews, we meet together to discuss the treatment options that would best improve quality of life.
Our psychiatrists treat many common mental health conditions including ADHD, anxiety, autism, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, and perinatal mood disorders.
The Cypress and NW Houston communities are growing, and we are here to provide comprehensive individualized treatment for its residents. Our psychiatrists treat patients of all ages as we are all subspecialty trained in children and adolescents after completing training in adult psychiatry. With children and adolescents, we pride ourselves in taking a family oriented approach to treatment. The initial interview includes meeting the child and parent(s) separately to develop an accurate diagnosis. After individual interviews, we meet together to discuss the treatment options that would best improve quality of life.
(281) 761-6988 View (281) 761-6988
Photo of Dr. Joye Lewis - Dawn of Grace Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dawn of Grace Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433
Is it time to make some changes in your life? Are struggling in ways you don't understand? Depression and anxiety are real. Whether it is lack of knowledge, embarrassment, or misinformation, mental health is the topic many individuals and families would rather avoid. This leads to undiagnosed and untreated mental health struggles that can many times cause one to feel lost, invisible, alone, and unheard—but this does not have to be! Your mental health struggles do not have to control your destiny. You can take contorl and change the trajectory of your life. Let me help.
Is it time to make some changes in your life? Are struggling in ways you don't understand? Depression and anxiety are real. Whether it is lack of knowledge, embarrassment, or misinformation, mental health is the topic many individuals and families would rather avoid. This leads to undiagnosed and untreated mental health struggles that can many times cause one to feel lost, invisible, alone, and unheard—but this does not have to be! Your mental health struggles do not have to control your destiny. You can take contorl and change the trajectory of your life. Let me help.
(346) 567-8256 View (346) 567-8256
CyFair Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77429
At Cyfair Psychiatry we treat some of the most debilitating mental illnesses which include Major Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD and Psychotic Disorders. We are also experts in treating all Childhood Depression, Anxiety and Mood Disorders.
At Cyfair Psychiatry we treat some of the most debilitating mental illnesses which include Major Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD and Psychotic Disorders. We are also experts in treating all Childhood Depression, Anxiety and Mood Disorders.
(281) 609-9580 View (281) 609-9580
Photo of Nadia McFarlane - Impireum Psychiatric Group® , MD, Psychiatrist
Impireum Psychiatric Group®
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433
Impireum led by Dr. Nadia A. McFarlane, MD offers Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and ADHD testing, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Neurofeedback to individuals seeking care for various mental health concerns. Our ideal client is someone who is looking for evidence-based treatment modalities to address issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other related disorders, intending to achieve improved mental well-being and a higher quality of life. They want effective and innovative therapies that go beyond traditional approaches and desire lasting positive change in their mental health and overall functioning.
Impireum led by Dr. Nadia A. McFarlane, MD offers Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and ADHD testing, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Neurofeedback to individuals seeking care for various mental health concerns. Our ideal client is someone who is looking for evidence-based treatment modalities to address issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other related disorders, intending to achieve improved mental well-being and a higher quality of life. They want effective and innovative therapies that go beyond traditional approaches and desire lasting positive change in their mental health and overall functioning.
(346) 483-2682 View (346) 483-2682
Photo of Dr. Martha St. John, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Martha St. John
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77429
We are not a crisis center, but if you are struggling with OCD, depression, or regular suicidal thoughts, you may be a good candidate for TMS or ketamine.
Is medication not enough? Do you keep trying new medications and nothing is working? We offer cutting edge treatments for depression and OCD, with treatment plans always customized to your needs. TMS therapy is a ground breaking treatment for depression and OCD which is non-invasive and free from common antidepressant side effects. Another option for the treatment of depression is ketamine therapy. Unlike many practices, we administer ketamine under the constant supervision of an infusion nurse. We are with you at every step to make sure your path to recovery is as comfortable as possible.
We are not a crisis center, but if you are struggling with OCD, depression, or regular suicidal thoughts, you may be a good candidate for TMS or ketamine.
Is medication not enough? Do you keep trying new medications and nothing is working? We offer cutting edge treatments for depression and OCD, with treatment plans always customized to your needs. TMS therapy is a ground breaking treatment for depression and OCD which is non-invasive and free from common antidepressant side effects. Another option for the treatment of depression is ketamine therapy. Unlike many practices, we administer ketamine under the constant supervision of an infusion nurse. We are with you at every step to make sure your path to recovery is as comfortable as possible.
(281) 916-6210 View (281) 916-6210
Photo of Amina Wane - Delighted Psychiatry and Wellness Care, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Delighted Psychiatry and Wellness Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Cypress, TX 77429
Have you struggled to find a provider that will take the time to really get to know you and support you? It can be difficult to find a professional who is qualified and has the ability to really see and hear you. You might be experiencing depression, anxiety, or symptoms from past trauma. I specialize in helping people learn how to overcome such symptoms, as well as deal with many other mental health and wellness struggles. Most importantly, I’m here to listen and help you understand yourself. Through building the right skills you can create your own toolbox to use anytime you need to feel more in control of your life.
Have you struggled to find a provider that will take the time to really get to know you and support you? It can be difficult to find a professional who is qualified and has the ability to really see and hear you. You might be experiencing depression, anxiety, or symptoms from past trauma. I specialize in helping people learn how to overcome such symptoms, as well as deal with many other mental health and wellness struggles. Most importantly, I’m here to listen and help you understand yourself. Through building the right skills you can create your own toolbox to use anytime you need to feel more in control of your life.
(346) 788-6037 View (346) 788-6037
Photo of Karel Winner, PMHNP, ADHD-CC, CTP, ASDCS, CYMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karel Winner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ADHD-CC, CTP, ASDCS, CYMHS
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Cypress, TX 77433  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Beyond medication management, I use various therapies which include: internal family systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (for anxiety and depression), Exposure Response Prevention (for OCD), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (for Trauma) and Solution-Focused Therapy (for immediate improvement and better outcomes).
My style is not about quick appointments and hurried prescriptions; instead, it’s about integrative, personalized care combining medication management with multiple therapies in a conversational manner. This approach allows you to comfortably dig deep, often without realizing how much progress you make with each session. It provides the added benefit of accessing my extensive medical knowledge developed over decades of patient care, reinforced by my unwavering commitment to understanding and nurturing every aspect of your being. This style of care is not just enriching and empowering—but is highly successful at helping you heal.
Beyond medication management, I use various therapies which include: internal family systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (for anxiety and depression), Exposure Response Prevention (for OCD), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (for Trauma) and Solution-Focused Therapy (for immediate improvement and better outcomes).
My style is not about quick appointments and hurried prescriptions; instead, it’s about integrative, personalized care combining medication management with multiple therapies in a conversational manner. This approach allows you to comfortably dig deep, often without realizing how much progress you make with each session. It provides the added benefit of accessing my extensive medical knowledge developed over decades of patient care, reinforced by my unwavering commitment to understanding and nurturing every aspect of your being. This style of care is not just enriching and empowering—but is highly successful at helping you heal.
(346) 810-6610 View (346) 810-6610
Photo of Trenice Johnson - Aftercare, PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aftercare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433
Dr. Trenice Johnson, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is an experienced national board certified nurse practitioner who has practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services. She strongly believes in the importance of mental healthcare and she is thrilled to continue to embark upon. Helping clients with the goals of developing insight into their emotions and behaviors during the course of their treatment, while allowing her to gain trust and respect from those whom suffer from the problems of stress, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders and culture stress problems.
Dr. Trenice Johnson, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is an experienced national board certified nurse practitioner who has practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services. She strongly believes in the importance of mental healthcare and she is thrilled to continue to embark upon. Helping clients with the goals of developing insight into their emotions and behaviors during the course of their treatment, while allowing her to gain trust and respect from those whom suffer from the problems of stress, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders and culture stress problems.
(281) 603-1126 View (281) 603-1126
Photo of Tom Rodriguez - Houston Mind Body Counseling, PhD, RN, ANP, PMHCNS, CCH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Houston Mind Body Counseling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, RN, ANP, PMHCNS, CCH
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433
They may have problems with opening up or connecting to others, low self-esteem, self-hatred, marital difficulties, interpersonal communication issues, parent-child problems, addictions, depression, mood swings, obsessions/compulsions, or even paranoia or hallucinations.
I am an adult psychiatric clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner. My practice is located at HWY 290 and Hollister in Houston, Texas. I provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication, and psychotherapy. I treat individuals, couples, families, and groups. My Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Program was completed through the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology. Additionally, I have training in cognitive behavioral therapy, couple's counseling, family therapy, group therapy, and as a clinical hypnotherapist.
They may have problems with opening up or connecting to others, low self-esteem, self-hatred, marital difficulties, interpersonal communication issues, parent-child problems, addictions, depression, mood swings, obsessions/compulsions, or even paranoia or hallucinations.
I am an adult psychiatric clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner. My practice is located at HWY 290 and Hollister in Houston, Texas. I provide psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication, and psychotherapy. I treat individuals, couples, families, and groups. My Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Program was completed through the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, and Psychology. Additionally, I have training in cognitive behavioral therapy, couple's counseling, family therapy, group therapy, and as a clinical hypnotherapist.
(713) 234-6185 View (713) 234-6185
Photo of Dr. Sohail Nibras Md - Novus Beginning Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Novus Beginning Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cypress, TX 77429
Many of us struggle with anxiety, depression, mood difficulties, relationship issues, and psychosis. These conditions can be from normal life stressors or from our genetics, and living with them may be difficult for us or our loved ones. Seeking help can be hard when the stigma around mental health is high. However, you know you need help and if you are reading this, then you are at the right place because our goal is to provide you with a Novus (new) Beginning for your life. We strive to provide excellent care which includes therapy and medications as indicated.
Many of us struggle with anxiety, depression, mood difficulties, relationship issues, and psychosis. These conditions can be from normal life stressors or from our genetics, and living with them may be difficult for us or our loved ones. Seeking help can be hard when the stigma around mental health is high. However, you know you need help and if you are reading this, then you are at the right place because our goal is to provide you with a Novus (new) Beginning for your life. We strive to provide excellent care which includes therapy and medications as indicated.
(281) 248-8474 View (281) 248-8474
Photo of Yahya Saeed - Dr Yahya Saeed - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr Yahya Saeed - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433
Dr. Yahya Saeed is a long time Houstonian, having graduated from Stratford High School and from the University of Houston. He has also been a general psychiatry resident at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, and then completed his addiction psychiatry fellowship at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. He is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Urdu/Hindi, and accepts patients who speak these languages. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine.
Dr. Yahya Saeed is a long time Houstonian, having graduated from Stratford High School and from the University of Houston. He has also been a general psychiatry resident at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, and then completed his addiction psychiatry fellowship at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. He is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Urdu/Hindi, and accepts patients who speak these languages. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine.
(281) 317-6346 View (281) 317-6346
Photo of Dr. Funmilola Sijuade, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Funmilola Sijuade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433
I am a doctorally prepared, multi-state-licensed, and board-certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have been working in the mental health field for over a decade. I received my doctorate, master’s, and bachelors from Chamberlain University and post-master’s certificate from the University of Cincinnati. For the past 10 years, I have worked in several settings including inpatient and outpatient, correctional, community, and academic settings. Expertise includes Psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy.
I am a doctorally prepared, multi-state-licensed, and board-certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I have been working in the mental health field for over a decade. I received my doctorate, master’s, and bachelors from Chamberlain University and post-master’s certificate from the University of Cincinnati. For the past 10 years, I have worked in several settings including inpatient and outpatient, correctional, community, and academic settings. Expertise includes Psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy.
(512) 269-0396 View (512) 269-0396
Photo of Joy Oche, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joy Oche
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77429
I am passionate about patient care, fostering positive relationships and self-love, patient empowerment, and patient-centered care.
I am passionate about patient care, fostering positive relationships and self-love, patient empowerment, and patient-centered care.
(281) 552-8079 View (281) 552-8079
Photo of Rebecca Antwi - Bright Star Behavioral, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bright Star Behavioral
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cypress, TX 77433
Welcome and great job reaching this far! I am so glad you have taken the time to visit my site. I believe getting to know you as a person, not just as a patient is an important part of a successful therapeutic alliance. This is a supportive space where you can talk about your emotional and mental health and get important questions about medication answered: What medication is right for me? What will I feel or experience with this medication? How long would I need to take it? Together, we will develop a treatment plan that will help you manage your symptoms so you can live life with more stability, ease and balance.
Welcome and great job reaching this far! I am so glad you have taken the time to visit my site. I believe getting to know you as a person, not just as a patient is an important part of a successful therapeutic alliance. This is a supportive space where you can talk about your emotional and mental health and get important questions about medication answered: What medication is right for me? What will I feel or experience with this medication? How long would I need to take it? Together, we will develop a treatment plan that will help you manage your symptoms so you can live life with more stability, ease and balance.
(401) 249-4997 View (401) 249-4997
Photo of Ebike Ale-Opinion, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ebike Ale-Opinion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433  (Online Only)
Ebike is a certified Family and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has always been passionate about mental health care and worked as a psychiatric and mental health nurse with adults and children in inpatient psychiatry for several years. Ebike is passionate about providing mental health with compassion and respect
Ebike is a certified Family and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has always been passionate about mental health care and worked as a psychiatric and mental health nurse with adults and children in inpatient psychiatry for several years. Ebike is passionate about providing mental health with compassion and respect
(832) 789-3724 View (832) 789-3724
Photo of Alicia Sandoval-Alexander, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alicia Sandoval-Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cypress, TX 77429
Evening and Weekend Appointments available! Mental health issues and mental illness affects everyone in some capacity, whether it is self or someone close to us. It is never too late to get the help needed. I am a board certified family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric nurse practitioner that takes a holistic approach in providing therapeutic treatment in a non-judgmental way. I will listen to your concerns and we will collaborate together to determine the best course of action.
Evening and Weekend Appointments available! Mental health issues and mental illness affects everyone in some capacity, whether it is self or someone close to us. It is never too late to get the help needed. I am a board certified family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric nurse practitioner that takes a holistic approach in providing therapeutic treatment in a non-judgmental way. I will listen to your concerns and we will collaborate together to determine the best course of action.
(832) 850-3110 View (832) 850-3110
1
Depression Psychiatrists

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 recognize 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 behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral 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.