Depression Therapists in 36608

Photo of Julianne G Jackson, MEd, MS, LPC, CCPS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julianne G Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC, CCPS
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals who are depressed, anxious, grieving, in crisis, and/or struggling to discern their God given purpose, worth and dignity.
I am a positive psychology practitioner. I help my clients to identify their underlying problems, but then assist them to know and embrace their personal character strengths in order to grow in resiliency. I help each of my clients to discover his/her best version of self through this strengths faith based perspective.
I work with individuals who are depressed, anxious, grieving, in crisis, and/or struggling to discern their God given purpose, worth and dignity.
I am a positive psychology practitioner. I help my clients to identify their underlying problems, but then assist them to know and embrace their personal character strengths in order to grow in resiliency. I help each of my clients to discover his/her best version of self through this strengths faith based perspective.
(251) 333-6187 View (251) 333-6187
Photo of Shenika Brewer, MS, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shenika Brewer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36608
Need help navigating stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions? Struggling to balance everything in your life? Unsure of where life is taking you and feeling stuck? You’re not alone, and I'm here to help. Whether you're dealing with overwhelming stress, navigating through anxiety, battling with depression, or undergoing significant changes in your life, I'm committed to providing a safe and understanding environment for you to explore and address these issues. Let's work together to boost your self-esteem, improve your emotional well-being, and help you find direction and purpose.
Need help navigating stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions? Struggling to balance everything in your life? Unsure of where life is taking you and feeling stuck? You’re not alone, and I'm here to help. Whether you're dealing with overwhelming stress, navigating through anxiety, battling with depression, or undergoing significant changes in your life, I'm committed to providing a safe and understanding environment for you to explore and address these issues. Let's work together to boost your self-esteem, improve your emotional well-being, and help you find direction and purpose.
(205) 270-5497 View (205) 270-5497
Photo of Stephanie Williamson - Neuroflourish, LLC, MA, LPC, ICP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Neuroflourish, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ICP
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
Condtions that we treat successfully are ADD/ADHD, anxiety, asperger's, autism, brain fog, concussion symptom, depression, eating disorders, fibromyalgia, migraines, OCD, sleeping disorders, PTSD, and TBI.
Neuroflourish is where psychology and technology meet! We are a company founded by licensed professional therapists here on the gulf coast. Our holistic approach is based on a client-specific protocol. We review history and severity of symptoms, analyze lifestyle habits, and evaluate complementary therapies when needed. Using a methodology such as this which focuses on on the “whole person” allows us to be extremely dynamic in our approach with clients. Our goal is to transform the lives of people suffering from debilitating conditions brought about due to illness, injuries, mental health disorders, stress, and trauma.
Condtions that we treat successfully are ADD/ADHD, anxiety, asperger's, autism, brain fog, concussion symptom, depression, eating disorders, fibromyalgia, migraines, OCD, sleeping disorders, PTSD, and TBI.
Neuroflourish is where psychology and technology meet! We are a company founded by licensed professional therapists here on the gulf coast. Our holistic approach is based on a client-specific protocol. We review history and severity of symptoms, analyze lifestyle habits, and evaluate complementary therapies when needed. Using a methodology such as this which focuses on on the “whole person” allows us to be extremely dynamic in our approach with clients. Our goal is to transform the lives of people suffering from debilitating conditions brought about due to illness, injuries, mental health disorders, stress, and trauma.
(251) 202-4573 View (251) 202-4573
Photo of Afiya K Hooker - The Sunshine's Haven Counseling Center, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Sunshine's Haven Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
Welcome to The Sunshine's Haven Counseling Center! My name is Afiya K. Hooker and I am a Licensed Psychotherapist with 17 years of mental wellness experience. The clients I serve may endure feelings of depression, anxiety, and/or trauma, while possibly coping with self awareness concerns, interpersonal relationships and/or familial issues. I have a passion for helping my clients gain clarity, increase awareness, utilize positive and practical coping strategies and create positive change within their everyday lives. Allow me to help you on your journey by scheduling an appointment on my website today or calling my office.
Welcome to The Sunshine's Haven Counseling Center! My name is Afiya K. Hooker and I am a Licensed Psychotherapist with 17 years of mental wellness experience. The clients I serve may endure feelings of depression, anxiety, and/or trauma, while possibly coping with self awareness concerns, interpersonal relationships and/or familial issues. I have a passion for helping my clients gain clarity, increase awareness, utilize positive and practical coping strategies and create positive change within their everyday lives. Allow me to help you on your journey by scheduling an appointment on my website today or calling my office.
(251) 257-0190 View (251) 257-0190
Photo of Al Wright, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Al Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
Al’ Wright is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling / Psychology and Bachelor’s Degrees in Behavioral Science and Psychology. Al is skilled in assisting clients with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and adjustment issues.
Al’ Wright is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling / Psychology and Bachelor’s Degrees in Behavioral Science and Psychology. Al is skilled in assisting clients with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and adjustment issues.
(251) 313-1549 View (251) 313-1549
Photo of Kim Baxter, ALC, MS, NCC, Counselor
Kim Baxter
Counselor, ALC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
My goal is to meet you wherever you are as you begin your counseling journey. Perhaps you feel out of control, exhausted by life, anxious, or depressed. Maybe your marriage or relationship has reached a breaking point or you are in the middle of a life transition. I believe that the symptoms you are dealing with make sense in your unique story, and show the incredible resilience that we have to deal with life as we have known it. Sometimes these coping mechanisms no longer serve us. It is okay to realize things are not working! I have been there myself and would love to help you begin to find healing, hope, and a new path forward.
My goal is to meet you wherever you are as you begin your counseling journey. Perhaps you feel out of control, exhausted by life, anxious, or depressed. Maybe your marriage or relationship has reached a breaking point or you are in the middle of a life transition. I believe that the symptoms you are dealing with make sense in your unique story, and show the incredible resilience that we have to deal with life as we have known it. Sometimes these coping mechanisms no longer serve us. It is okay to realize things are not working! I have been there myself and would love to help you begin to find healing, hope, and a new path forward.
(251) 333-9093 View (251) 333-9093
Photo of LaJuan Humbert, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaJuan Humbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
I utilize evidence-based methods with adolescents, adults & couples dealing with the effects of trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, loss/grief & emotional/relational issues.
We each have a unique story. Often, those stories can include very difficult & painful events or seasons that can negatively impact our view of ourselves, how we relate with others, & our ability to live & cope with life in the ways that we desire. This can lead to feeling confused, overwhelmed, exhausted, stuck, or even hopeless. Trauma, loss, difficult relationships, & other life disappointments can all wreak havoc on our bodies, minds, emotions & relationships. Things CAN be different. Relief, growth & healing are possible. It takes tremendous courage to reach out for help. We are not meant to walk our journeys alone.
I utilize evidence-based methods with adolescents, adults & couples dealing with the effects of trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, loss/grief & emotional/relational issues.
We each have a unique story. Often, those stories can include very difficult & painful events or seasons that can negatively impact our view of ourselves, how we relate with others, & our ability to live & cope with life in the ways that we desire. This can lead to feeling confused, overwhelmed, exhausted, stuck, or even hopeless. Trauma, loss, difficult relationships, & other life disappointments can all wreak havoc on our bodies, minds, emotions & relationships. Things CAN be different. Relief, growth & healing are possible. It takes tremendous courage to reach out for help. We are not meant to walk our journeys alone.
(251) 298-8028 View (251) 298-8028
Photo of Susie Boucher, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susie Boucher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
In today’s world, children and adolescents face a number of difficult challenges, including peer pressure, low self-esteem, bullying, stress from home and school, anxiety and depression. If you’re looking through these sites, it means that you or a family member are feeling overwhelmed and could use some support. I work with children, teens, adults, and families, using a flexible and collaborative approach to personalize treatment for every individual.
In today’s world, children and adolescents face a number of difficult challenges, including peer pressure, low self-esteem, bullying, stress from home and school, anxiety and depression. If you’re looking through these sites, it means that you or a family member are feeling overwhelmed and could use some support. I work with children, teens, adults, and families, using a flexible and collaborative approach to personalize treatment for every individual.
(251) 316-0060 View (251) 316-0060
Photo of Alison Grace Hampton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Grace Hampton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you need relationship counseling, life coaching, or clinical counseling for OCD, depression, or substance abuse, my aim is to partner with you to bring about the change you desire. I work well with older teens, adults, and couples of all ages. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy as well as The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
Whether you need relationship counseling, life coaching, or clinical counseling for OCD, depression, or substance abuse, my aim is to partner with you to bring about the change you desire. I work well with older teens, adults, and couples of all ages. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy as well as The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
(251) 714-9930 View (251) 714-9930
Photo of Hope Jackson, PhD, Psychologist
Hope Jackson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
While my practice includes a wide variety of issues, from mood disorders to couples therapy to self-injury, my specific areas of focus are the emotional disorders, including eating disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and depression.
My practice serves people looking for modern, evidence-based therapy in a warm, open setting. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy has a mountain of research behind it, supporting its use for a wide variety of psychological and interpersonal problems. For many of these problems, it is the treatment of choice. My approach to therapy is collaborative but directive; the therapy hour follows an agenda that you help to create based on your goals, and includes the psycho-education, challenging questions, and specific homework assignments that will help you to reach those goals.
While my practice includes a wide variety of issues, from mood disorders to couples therapy to self-injury, my specific areas of focus are the emotional disorders, including eating disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and depression.
My practice serves people looking for modern, evidence-based therapy in a warm, open setting. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy has a mountain of research behind it, supporting its use for a wide variety of psychological and interpersonal problems. For many of these problems, it is the treatment of choice. My approach to therapy is collaborative but directive; the therapy hour follows an agenda that you help to create based on your goals, and includes the psycho-education, challenging questions, and specific homework assignments that will help you to reach those goals.
(251) 545-3043 View (251) 545-3043
Photo of Lanya Daffin, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lanya Daffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36608
I have 5+ years assisting individuals in working through issues such as substance abuse, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger management as well as other life issues.
I believe the therapy process involves forming a relationship with someone who you can share your innermost thoughts and struggles with. Everyone should be able to share their problems with a trusted individual in an environment that is safe and free from judgement. I provide my clients with an environment free from judgement where you can let your guard down and just be you. Admitting that you need help doesn’t mean something is wrong with you, it means you are ready to grow and better understand yourself.
I have 5+ years assisting individuals in working through issues such as substance abuse, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger management as well as other life issues.
I believe the therapy process involves forming a relationship with someone who you can share your innermost thoughts and struggles with. Everyone should be able to share their problems with a trusted individual in an environment that is safe and free from judgement. I provide my clients with an environment free from judgement where you can let your guard down and just be you. Admitting that you need help doesn’t mean something is wrong with you, it means you are ready to grow and better understand yourself.
(251) 758-4974 x5412 View (251) 758-4974 x5412
Photo of Sage M Moye, MA, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sage M Moye
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
I am also experienced in anxiety, depression, grief and high conflict relationships.
The clients that I typically encounter are looking to make a change that will create a better life environment for themselves and those that love them. They want to do something different and are open and willing to explore the uncomfortable to grow in the therapeutic process. I want clients to trust that they can be whoever the need to be in a session.
I am also experienced in anxiety, depression, grief and high conflict relationships.
The clients that I typically encounter are looking to make a change that will create a better life environment for themselves and those that love them. They want to do something different and are open and willing to explore the uncomfortable to grow in the therapeutic process. I want clients to trust that they can be whoever the need to be in a session.
(251) 250-0784 View (251) 250-0784
Photo of Jay Stone, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jay Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36608
I believe that counseling offers a path to a happier and healthier life, and it is my goal to collaborate with you to achieve those goals. I work with adolescents and adults dealing with issues such as substance abuse, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, codependency, suicidal ideation, trauma and relationship issues. Many of these challenges feel insurmountable and it is my goal to offer guidance, support, and empathy in a safe and relaxed environment to help you overcome them. I can assist you in processing the underlying causes of your life disturbances and adopt healthier and more beneficial coping skills.
I believe that counseling offers a path to a happier and healthier life, and it is my goal to collaborate with you to achieve those goals. I work with adolescents and adults dealing with issues such as substance abuse, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, codependency, suicidal ideation, trauma and relationship issues. Many of these challenges feel insurmountable and it is my goal to offer guidance, support, and empathy in a safe and relaxed environment to help you overcome them. I can assist you in processing the underlying causes of your life disturbances and adopt healthier and more beneficial coping skills.
(251) 276-5712 View (251) 276-5712
Photo of Wendy Lipham, MS, ALC, NCC, Counselor
Wendy Lipham
Counselor, MS, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
When past memories and daily life are overwhelming, throwing us off balance, we are often left feeling powerless to effect change. Our efforts to protect ourselves from feeling painful emotions can leave us with depression, anxiety, anger, and relational issues, as well as keep us from experiencing the positive emotions we so desperately desire. As a trauma-informed therapist, I address trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD using Narrative Focused trauma intervention, EMDR, ART, and MESE. I am also trained as an 'Unwanted Guide' to help people find freedom from unwanted sexual behaviors that lead to shame and self-contempt.
When past memories and daily life are overwhelming, throwing us off balance, we are often left feeling powerless to effect change. Our efforts to protect ourselves from feeling painful emotions can leave us with depression, anxiety, anger, and relational issues, as well as keep us from experiencing the positive emotions we so desperately desire. As a trauma-informed therapist, I address trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD using Narrative Focused trauma intervention, EMDR, ART, and MESE. I am also trained as an 'Unwanted Guide' to help people find freedom from unwanted sexual behaviors that lead to shame and self-contempt.
(251) 237-8382 View (251) 237-8382
Photo of Virginia Inge Gordon, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Virginia Inge Gordon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36608
I support clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship concerns, suicidal ideation, and more. I have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse. My counseling style is centered around empowering clients and helping them discover their own solutions. I seek to listen first, and always strive to gain a thorough understanding of an individual so that I acquire a keen awareness of their experiences. I believe in the utmost need for connection and a trusting therapeutic alliance for positive outcomes to be a result of counseling.
I support clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship concerns, suicidal ideation, and more. I have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse. My counseling style is centered around empowering clients and helping them discover their own solutions. I seek to listen first, and always strive to gain a thorough understanding of an individual so that I acquire a keen awareness of their experiences. I believe in the utmost need for connection and a trusting therapeutic alliance for positive outcomes to be a result of counseling.
(251) 732-7474 View (251) 732-7474
Photo of Beverly B Steinhauer, RN, MS, LPC, CSAT, CMAT, Counselor
Beverly B Steinhauer
Counselor, RN, MS, LPC, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
Treatment for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, boundary issues, trauma resolution and anger management is also available.
Whether you are struggling with everyday problems or more complex issues, learning to manage your problems so they do not manage you sometimes requires assistance. Your choice of therapist is important. With over thirty years of experience in nursing and counseling, I work with individuals and couples dealing with sex addiction, relationship and infidelity issues, while helping you learn to utilize the tools necessary and move beyond addiction. My office provides a comfortable level of privacy for those in high level or sensitive positions. Visit www.beverlysteinhauer.com.
Treatment for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, boundary issues, trauma resolution and anger management is also available.
Whether you are struggling with everyday problems or more complex issues, learning to manage your problems so they do not manage you sometimes requires assistance. Your choice of therapist is important. With over thirty years of experience in nursing and counseling, I work with individuals and couples dealing with sex addiction, relationship and infidelity issues, while helping you learn to utilize the tools necessary and move beyond addiction. My office provides a comfortable level of privacy for those in high level or sensitive positions. Visit www.beverlysteinhauer.com.
(251) 732-2596 View (251) 732-2596
Photo of Elisa Kessler, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elisa Kessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608  (Online Only)
I am an LICSW Psychotherapist in Alabama who can help you break free from limiting thoughts and beliefs that create fear, anxiety, depression and emotional pain. As a trauma-informed therapist, I also seek to reduce self-sabotaging behaviors and patterns of toxic relationships. I provide a wide variety of psychoeducational materials and techniques to promote a higher level of knowledge, insight and coping skills. I help clients reach their goals and navigate through the healing journey. I utilize different treatment modalities tailored for individual needs.
I am an LICSW Psychotherapist in Alabama who can help you break free from limiting thoughts and beliefs that create fear, anxiety, depression and emotional pain. As a trauma-informed therapist, I also seek to reduce self-sabotaging behaviors and patterns of toxic relationships. I provide a wide variety of psychoeducational materials and techniques to promote a higher level of knowledge, insight and coping skills. I help clients reach their goals and navigate through the healing journey. I utilize different treatment modalities tailored for individual needs.
(251) 220-3249 View (251) 220-3249
Photo of Cheryl Lynn Holmes - Cheryl Lynn Holmes, MS, LPCS, CCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl Lynn Holmes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCS, CCH
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
BIG news! I take Medicare now! I I use a variety of proven modalities: Systemic Sex Therapy, Therapy for Trauma: CBT, EMDR, DBT, EFT (for PTSD, Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome and Religious Trauma) and The Neurobiology of Attachment Styles and Effective Treatment. I specialize in Marriage and /or Couple's therapy. Open Tuesday-Saturday! Expect Miracles! Learn how to manifest your Life's Purpose and remove all the obstacles-most common: Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Weight, and Communication. See you Soon!
BIG news! I take Medicare now! I I use a variety of proven modalities: Systemic Sex Therapy, Therapy for Trauma: CBT, EMDR, DBT, EFT (for PTSD, Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome and Religious Trauma) and The Neurobiology of Attachment Styles and Effective Treatment. I specialize in Marriage and /or Couple's therapy. Open Tuesday-Saturday! Expect Miracles! Learn how to manifest your Life's Purpose and remove all the obstacles-most common: Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Weight, and Communication. See you Soon!
(251) 333-0826 View (251) 333-0826
Photo of Paul Swaim-Sanders, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paul Swaim-Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36608
I work with LGBTQ+, life-stage transition, dysphoria, pain, adjustment, anxiety, depression, couples, sexual issues and substance use.
I practice a holistic approach to therapy where you and I work together to help you as a whole person, not just one concern. I believe in reinforcing what strengths you already have while challenging which patterns slow down or stop progress or growth. There's no "right or wrong, good or bad" in addressing concerns. There's what works and what doesn't. Together, we can find what works to do more of it, and less of what doesn't.
I work with LGBTQ+, life-stage transition, dysphoria, pain, adjustment, anxiety, depression, couples, sexual issues and substance use.
I practice a holistic approach to therapy where you and I work together to help you as a whole person, not just one concern. I believe in reinforcing what strengths you already have while challenging which patterns slow down or stop progress or growth. There's no "right or wrong, good or bad" in addressing concerns. There's what works and what doesn't. Together, we can find what works to do more of it, and less of what doesn't.
(251) 237-7133 View (251) 237-7133
Photo of Jenny Thurber, MS, LPC, Counselor
Jenny Thurber
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
Every person has an inherent need to feel seen, heard, and understood. When these critical needs aren't met, it's common for coping mechanisms that are both ineffective and self-destructive to take shape, which can then lead to feelings of frustration, isolation, and a sense of being "stuck." Whether your negative feelings manifest themselves as anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors, addiction, or the inability to connect with others, navigating these struggles alone can be overwhelming. No matter how helpless you may feel, it's important to know that you're not alone. Finding healing and freedom is possible!
Every person has an inherent need to feel seen, heard, and understood. When these critical needs aren't met, it's common for coping mechanisms that are both ineffective and self-destructive to take shape, which can then lead to feelings of frustration, isolation, and a sense of being "stuck." Whether your negative feelings manifest themselves as anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors, addiction, or the inability to connect with others, navigating these struggles alone can be overwhelming. No matter how helpless you may feel, it's important to know that you're not alone. Finding healing and freedom is possible!
(251) 325-6393 View (251) 325-6393
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Depression Therapists

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.