Depression Therapists in 85383
![Photo of Kendra Marie Richardson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d50878f-03c9-46d5-b439-e5695dc3d8fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kendra Marie Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85383 (Online Only)
As human beings we inherently experience life stressors, sometimes severe ones, that can begin to unravel our lives. This can present through anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship breakdown, and addiction. I am passionate and committed to helping individuals arrive at a place of healing and wholeness. I believe that healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires empathy and compassion without judgment.
As human beings we inherently experience life stressors, sometimes severe ones, that can begin to unravel our lives. This can present through anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship breakdown, and addiction. I am passionate and committed to helping individuals arrive at a place of healing and wholeness. I believe that healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires empathy and compassion without judgment.
![Photo of David W Clegg - Alliance Counseling, LLC, EdD, MEd, LPC, LMHC, NBCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ea14e2d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I counsel adults, couples, teens,& children to address a wide range of challenges: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and parenting.
I invite you to interview me at No Charge by phone. As a WA licensed mental health counselor/AZ licensed professional counselor (master's degree in counseling) I respect clients regardless of their life challenges and recognize them as the one in charge of the counseling. All individuals will have emotional issues at one time or another. I believe those who seek counseling exemplify traits of personal courage & strength. I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques from the cognitive-behavioral & psychoanalytic approaches & address codependency & addiction.
I counsel adults, couples, teens,& children to address a wide range of challenges: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and parenting.
I invite you to interview me at No Charge by phone. As a WA licensed mental health counselor/AZ licensed professional counselor (master's degree in counseling) I respect clients regardless of their life challenges and recognize them as the one in charge of the counseling. All individuals will have emotional issues at one time or another. I believe those who seek counseling exemplify traits of personal courage & strength. I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques from the cognitive-behavioral & psychoanalytic approaches & address codependency & addiction.
![Photo of David Clegg - Alliance Counseling LLC, EdD, LPC, LMHC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8039a37d-0f58-4465-8dfb-9e24b9c66651/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alliance Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LMHC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85383
I counsel adults, couples, teens,& children to address a wide range of challenges: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and parenting.
I invite you to interview me at No Charge by phone. As a WA licensed mental health counselor/AZ licensed professional counselor (master's degree in counseling) I respect clients regardless of their life challenges and recognize them as the one in charge of the counseling. All individuals will have emotional issues at one time or another. I believe those who seek counseling exemplify traits of personal courage & strength. I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques from the cognitive-behavioral & psychoanalytic approaches & address codependency & addiction.
I counsel adults, couples, teens,& children to address a wide range of challenges: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and parenting.
I invite you to interview me at No Charge by phone. As a WA licensed mental health counselor/AZ licensed professional counselor (master's degree in counseling) I respect clients regardless of their life challenges and recognize them as the one in charge of the counseling. All individuals will have emotional issues at one time or another. I believe those who seek counseling exemplify traits of personal courage & strength. I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques from the cognitive-behavioral & psychoanalytic approaches & address codependency & addiction.
![Photo of Laressa McCloyn, MA, LAC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84113ac4-cb75-48e4-b3a3-bb49598a3bed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laressa is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) and has been in the behavioral health field for over 6 years. She has experience working in crisis with a range of individuals: children and adults from all ethnic backgrounds and economic levels that may be having an acute crisis and/or struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, and low self-esteem. If you have been exposed to any of those issues and feel it is impossible to move forward, she will provide a safe and confidential space for you to work on goals and identify tools to succeed.
Laressa is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) and has been in the behavioral health field for over 6 years. She has experience working in crisis with a range of individuals: children and adults from all ethnic backgrounds and economic levels that may be having an acute crisis and/or struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, and low self-esteem. If you have been exposed to any of those issues and feel it is impossible to move forward, she will provide a safe and confidential space for you to work on goals and identify tools to succeed.
![Photo of Lyndsey Young, MA, LPC, LCMHC, CEDS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3148ce5-f18c-4e57-9c71-82e45e64df7d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients! Counseling is a space to be heard and get to work on the healing you deserve. Living your life wrapped up in anxiety, depression and stress is not the life you dreamed for yourself, and change is possible. I am committed to creating a space to facilitate healing, growth, and change. I believe people deserve an intentional space, non-judgmental guidance, and strategic treatment for their unique struggles. You are brave and worth the change you are seeking, and I would be honored to work with you.
Accepting New Clients! Counseling is a space to be heard and get to work on the healing you deserve. Living your life wrapped up in anxiety, depression and stress is not the life you dreamed for yourself, and change is possible. I am committed to creating a space to facilitate healing, growth, and change. I believe people deserve an intentional space, non-judgmental guidance, and strategic treatment for their unique struggles. You are brave and worth the change you are seeking, and I would be honored to work with you.
![Photo of Josh Kaplan - Josh Kaplan - OCD, Anxiety & Depression Specialist, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc86d5e6-32fb-45ec-9286-735c9e56c132/1/320x400.png)
Josh Kaplan - OCD, Anxiety & Depression Specialist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85383
Hi, and thanks for viewing my profile. My name is Josh Kaplan, I’m a compassionate and experienced therapist with a mission to help individuals overcome Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Depression. With over a decade of experience specializing in these areas, I have developed a deep understanding of these conditions and their profound impact on one's life. Whether you are dealing with the recurrent cycle of OCD, endless thoughts of anxiety, or the deep sadness of depression, I'm here to guide you through your recovery journey.
Hi, and thanks for viewing my profile. My name is Josh Kaplan, I’m a compassionate and experienced therapist with a mission to help individuals overcome Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Depression. With over a decade of experience specializing in these areas, I have developed a deep understanding of these conditions and their profound impact on one's life. Whether you are dealing with the recurrent cycle of OCD, endless thoughts of anxiety, or the deep sadness of depression, I'm here to guide you through your recovery journey.
![Photo of Andee Loren Bufkin, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e7b9a18-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andee Bufkin is a master's level Professional Counselor licensed with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health. Andee has over a decade of experience in the counseling field working with individual adults, adolescents, and families. Andee's goal is to provide you with goal-oriented, confidential therapy in a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. Her specialties include dealing with anxiety related issues, depression, mood disorders, ADHD symptoms, communication skills, as well as child/adolescent behavioral disorders. Andee is also trained in EMDR techniques to assist clients who are struggling with Post traumatic stress disorder.
Andee Bufkin is a master's level Professional Counselor licensed with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health. Andee has over a decade of experience in the counseling field working with individual adults, adolescents, and families. Andee's goal is to provide you with goal-oriented, confidential therapy in a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. Her specialties include dealing with anxiety related issues, depression, mood disorders, ADHD symptoms, communication skills, as well as child/adolescent behavioral disorders. Andee is also trained in EMDR techniques to assist clients who are struggling with Post traumatic stress disorder.
![Photo of Jessica Ann Van Leer, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae349837-044e-4970-8fce-13a0db5f110a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Ann Van Leer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85383 (Online Only)
If you're facing depression, anxiety, or the challenges life presents, I'm here to assist in developing the skills to navigate these obstacles. Whether it's self-blame, guilt, or shame, our collaboration aims to explore effective solutions for relief. Our therapeutic journey includes creating a space to delve into your unique experiences and challenges. I am committed to offering personalized, empathetic support, and tailoring coping mechanisms to your needs. Taking this courageous step, we embark on a journey to address concerns and empower you with tools for long-term well-being.
If you're facing depression, anxiety, or the challenges life presents, I'm here to assist in developing the skills to navigate these obstacles. Whether it's self-blame, guilt, or shame, our collaboration aims to explore effective solutions for relief. Our therapeutic journey includes creating a space to delve into your unique experiences and challenges. I am committed to offering personalized, empathetic support, and tailoring coping mechanisms to your needs. Taking this courageous step, we embark on a journey to address concerns and empower you with tools for long-term well-being.
![Photo of Marissa Sandoval, LCSW, BC-THM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b77a1a16-a955-494b-9bc4-bf1eaf97067e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marissa Sandoval
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-THM
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85383 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW clients! Life can be challenging after the last few years and Marissa wants to meet you where you are in this journey to help you not only survive but also thrive in life in whatever manner that looks like for you. You might be someone who is currently living or has lived through trauma, anxiety, not being able to leave the house or even suffering from depression. Marissa is committed to helping you reach the goals of living your fullest life with the least amount of mental and physical discomfort that has brought to you. Marissa is kind, caring and attentive to details when it comes to the care that you need.
Accepting NEW clients! Life can be challenging after the last few years and Marissa wants to meet you where you are in this journey to help you not only survive but also thrive in life in whatever manner that looks like for you. You might be someone who is currently living or has lived through trauma, anxiety, not being able to leave the house or even suffering from depression. Marissa is committed to helping you reach the goals of living your fullest life with the least amount of mental and physical discomfort that has brought to you. Marissa is kind, caring and attentive to details when it comes to the care that you need.
![Photo of Zachary Arrington, LMSW, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0cc6d858-7ab1-43ef-9b26-7e586a57b463/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zachary Arrington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85383 (Online Only)
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, or other challenges and are ready to make a change, I am here to support you. I am ready to collaborate in identifying problems and solutions for minor to severe challenges. Those clients that are fully ready or might just be dipping their toes into therapy I am ready to work on creating goals specific for your needs.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, or other challenges and are ready to make a change, I am here to support you. I am ready to collaborate in identifying problems and solutions for minor to severe challenges. Those clients that are fully ready or might just be dipping their toes into therapy I am ready to work on creating goals specific for your needs.
![Photo of Alice Pickering, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25238e72-4e0c-4338-81a1-4afdea2406ad/3/320x400.jpeg)
I treat issues related to depression and anxiety, relationship challenges, and communication difficulties.
I believe that prioritizing your mental health should be a non-negotiable. If you're struggling, I want you to know that you really can get better. I'm certain a part of you believes this too, even though it may not totally feel like it right now.
I treat issues related to depression and anxiety, relationship challenges, and communication difficulties.
I believe that prioritizing your mental health should be a non-negotiable. If you're struggling, I want you to know that you really can get better. I'm certain a part of you believes this too, even though it may not totally feel like it right now.
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![Photo of Troy J Loosle - Lone Rock Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/839de52e-34bc-464d-b821-6113e6b37b1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lone Rock Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85383 (Online Only)
I have worked with adults for over 14 years in the areas of anxiety, depression, death, dying, and aging in both a clinical and medical setting.
Is the way you're spending your days, not the way you envisioned spending your life? Are you caught in a season of your life where you feel lost and unsure how to prioritize your own needs again? If you are trying to trudge through anxiety, depression, or both; stages of grief, loss or anticipatory grief; or a transitional stage of your life or coping with aging, I look forward to the opportunity to empower you and help realign your actions with your values. Sometimes we need permission to feel our feelings, to reset and focus on the basics, learn how to set boundaries with ourselves and others, and simply make a daily commitment.
I have worked with adults for over 14 years in the areas of anxiety, depression, death, dying, and aging in both a clinical and medical setting.
Is the way you're spending your days, not the way you envisioned spending your life? Are you caught in a season of your life where you feel lost and unsure how to prioritize your own needs again? If you are trying to trudge through anxiety, depression, or both; stages of grief, loss or anticipatory grief; or a transitional stage of your life or coping with aging, I look forward to the opportunity to empower you and help realign your actions with your values. Sometimes we need permission to feel our feelings, to reset and focus on the basics, learn how to set boundaries with ourselves and others, and simply make a daily commitment.
![Photo of Dr. Brad A. MacNeil, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecd98ca2-27f6-4cf7-a488-8ffdd496a30e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychological assessment and therapy services for: OCD, eating disorders, depression, PTSD, anxiety, phobias, negative body image, disordered eating in men, social anxiety, panic, general stress, and college student mental health.
Accepting new patients Spring/Summer 2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with content expertise in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, eating disorders, and PTSD. At my private telepsychology practice I provide evidence-based assessment and psychological treatment services. I hold formal certifications in cognitive and behavioral approaches to psychotherapy (Diplomate - Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy), healthcare leadership, and telepsychology.
Psychological assessment and therapy services for: OCD, eating disorders, depression, PTSD, anxiety, phobias, negative body image, disordered eating in men, social anxiety, panic, general stress, and college student mental health.
Accepting new patients Spring/Summer 2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with content expertise in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, eating disorders, and PTSD. At my private telepsychology practice I provide evidence-based assessment and psychological treatment services. I hold formal certifications in cognitive and behavioral approaches to psychotherapy (Diplomate - Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy), healthcare leadership, and telepsychology.
![Photo of Jennifer Sander, LPC, CCTP, CCFP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06facaad-6660-4e8d-bcdf-76e0cf7ae94a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Sander
Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CCFP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85383 (Online Only)
When your body is thrown a curveball due to a major medical condition, it’s normal to feel alone, anxious, and depressed. Similarly, if you’re in a role that’s focused on serving others - whether in your personal life, professional life, or both - often your own needs get pushed aside. This leads to burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma. By using telehealth services at Sandstone Counseling, you can reclaim control over the trajectory of your life. Through evidence-based techniques, you'll learn additional coping skills, adjust to major life stressors, and reinvent yourself to become the person you want to be.
When your body is thrown a curveball due to a major medical condition, it’s normal to feel alone, anxious, and depressed. Similarly, if you’re in a role that’s focused on serving others - whether in your personal life, professional life, or both - often your own needs get pushed aside. This leads to burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma. By using telehealth services at Sandstone Counseling, you can reclaim control over the trajectory of your life. Through evidence-based techniques, you'll learn additional coping skills, adjust to major life stressors, and reinvent yourself to become the person you want to be.
![Photo of Rebecca Andersen, MAPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f4a1c7c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Treatment areas include: anxiety; depression; self-esteem; spiritual growth; grief; recovery issues; body image; and more.
I have a passion for helping hurting people and restoring broken relationships. My goal is to come alongside hurting clients, and provide a safe and understanding place for them to share their burdens and address the issues that are causing them distress. I encourage, support, and guide clients into learning skills and developing tools that can assist them in accomplishing their counseling goals. I provide a Christian-based perspective for those seeking to integrate their Christian faith into the counseling process; however, I welcome the opportunity to work with any clients regardless of their spiritual beliefs.
Treatment areas include: anxiety; depression; self-esteem; spiritual growth; grief; recovery issues; body image; and more.
I have a passion for helping hurting people and restoring broken relationships. My goal is to come alongside hurting clients, and provide a safe and understanding place for them to share their burdens and address the issues that are causing them distress. I encourage, support, and guide clients into learning skills and developing tools that can assist them in accomplishing their counseling goals. I provide a Christian-based perspective for those seeking to integrate their Christian faith into the counseling process; however, I welcome the opportunity to work with any clients regardless of their spiritual beliefs.
![Photo of Jennifer Montgomery, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a890799-8be8-49a4-9115-4d32db2d292b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85383
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR therapy which can be used to treat a multitude of presenting issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and phobias.
I specialize in Autism Spectrum Disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD in children, teens, and adults. I provide individual and family counseling to children, adolescents and adults.
I am trained in EMDR therapy which can be used to treat a multitude of presenting issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and phobias.
I specialize in Autism Spectrum Disorders, mood disorders, and ADHD in children, teens, and adults. I provide individual and family counseling to children, adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Jody Light Cecil, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8ae857d-a71d-4646-9e51-b44d8780940a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jody Light Cecil
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85383
My experience includes working with issues related to trauma and abuse including the symptoms that we experience like anxiety and depression, emotional dysregulation, grief and loss, and relational issues.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my desire is to partner with clients to help them find hope and healing. Using evidenced-based treatments, I strive to be a light in the lives of my clients and provide them with insights and tools that will help them to accomplish their goals. While the specific therapeutic approaches are important, the unique relationship between client and counselor is a major factor in the healing process. It is important to counsel the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
My experience includes working with issues related to trauma and abuse including the symptoms that we experience like anxiety and depression, emotional dysregulation, grief and loss, and relational issues.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my desire is to partner with clients to help them find hope and healing. Using evidenced-based treatments, I strive to be a light in the lives of my clients and provide them with insights and tools that will help them to accomplish their goals. While the specific therapeutic approaches are important, the unique relationship between client and counselor is a major factor in the healing process. It is important to counsel the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
![Photo of Mary Ashworth - Ashworth Counseling, LLC, MACP, BA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dab38e2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Other areas of specialization: support to ministry families, relationship concerns, marriage and family issues, major life cycle transitions, unexpected events, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief, abandonment, loss, abuse and trauma, self esteem, career issues, and spirituality.
I have been investing in individuals and families for over 20 years. I am passionate about impacting lives, partnering with others, and equipping those I serve to live a life of vitality. Seeking relief, healing, and change is usually very personal. It isn't something you do every day. Most of us seek more support when we are feeling stuck or even overwhelmed. When we meet, we will talk about the challenges that brought you to my office, and we will work together to tailor sessions to meet your hopes, goals and personal needs.
Other areas of specialization: support to ministry families, relationship concerns, marriage and family issues, major life cycle transitions, unexpected events, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief, abandonment, loss, abuse and trauma, self esteem, career issues, and spirituality.
I have been investing in individuals and families for over 20 years. I am passionate about impacting lives, partnering with others, and equipping those I serve to live a life of vitality. Seeking relief, healing, and change is usually very personal. It isn't something you do every day. Most of us seek more support when we are feeling stuck or even overwhelmed. When we meet, we will talk about the challenges that brought you to my office, and we will work together to tailor sessions to meet your hopes, goals and personal needs.
![Photo of Robyn Scott, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c09cd1f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, codependency, addictions, and grief in both individuals and adolescents.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in practice for many years, I specialize in working with adults and couples, utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral approach. I understand the challenges many people encounter with anxiety, depression,addictions, grief, family issues, parenting, and marital problems, often times becoming overwhelmed by the intensity of these problematic situations. I support you in taking an often difficult but most important step in seeking assistance in changing these difficult situations! Call to set up your initial visit and take that first step!
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, codependency, addictions, and grief in both individuals and adolescents.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in practice for many years, I specialize in working with adults and couples, utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral approach. I understand the challenges many people encounter with anxiety, depression,addictions, grief, family issues, parenting, and marital problems, often times becoming overwhelmed by the intensity of these problematic situations. I support you in taking an often difficult but most important step in seeking assistance in changing these difficult situations! Call to set up your initial visit and take that first step!
![Photo of Kristan Farley, MA, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88e220dd-4d46-4f21-9175-ce4b54808691/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide a safe environment, offering understanding, expertise and keys to healing and growth. I want to know your unique story, develop a plan that fits your goals and work together to make progress. I am experienced in helping individuals, couples and families deal with conflict, anxiety, depression, communication issues, self esteem, abuse, anger issues, guilt, shame, spiritual concerns, loss and the impact of life's painful circumstances. I am trained in EMDR, IFS, CBT, NVC and other helpful techniques and therapies to support you in your journey!
I provide a safe environment, offering understanding, expertise and keys to healing and growth. I want to know your unique story, develop a plan that fits your goals and work together to make progress. I am experienced in helping individuals, couples and families deal with conflict, anxiety, depression, communication issues, self esteem, abuse, anger issues, guilt, shame, spiritual concerns, loss and the impact of life's painful circumstances. I am trained in EMDR, IFS, CBT, NVC and other helpful techniques and therapies to support you in your journey!
See more therapy options for 85383
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.