Depression Therapists in Opelika, AL

Photo of Jenny Marie Filush-Glaze, MEd,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Marie Filush-Glaze
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
Depression, Stress, Anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, Family Conflict and Relationship issues are also a focus of mine and I offer individual, family and group support, as well as TeleHealth sessions.
"My purpose today is clearer today than it has been in years: Love, Courage, Truth...The best way we can serve people is to listen." - Glennon Doyle Melton I chose this quote to emphasize that by "listening" to one another, by being present, we provide a safe place for those who are willing to sacrifice and own their pain by sharing it with others. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to walk alongside you as you process life's challenges and show you that by speaking your truth, by digging deep, together, we are able to demonstrate that taking care of our Mental Health is the ultimate sign of strength.
Depression, Stress, Anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, Family Conflict and Relationship issues are also a focus of mine and I offer individual, family and group support, as well as TeleHealth sessions.
"My purpose today is clearer today than it has been in years: Love, Courage, Truth...The best way we can serve people is to listen." - Glennon Doyle Melton I chose this quote to emphasize that by "listening" to one another, by being present, we provide a safe place for those who are willing to sacrifice and own their pain by sharing it with others. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to walk alongside you as you process life's challenges and show you that by speaking your truth, by digging deep, together, we are able to demonstrate that taking care of our Mental Health is the ultimate sign of strength.
(334) 319-9988 View (334) 319-9988
Photo of Michael Azar, ALC, NCC
Michael Azar
Associate Licensed Counselor, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
I specialize in depression, anxiety, substance abuse and addictions counseling, and grief counseling.
Are you having a difficult time adjusting to a new life change? Do you experience anxiety and/or depression? Do grief and trauma seem to take over your life at times? If you answered "yes" to any of these situations, I might be able to help you. Together, we can work to build a solid foundation from which you can begin to adjust to whatever life brings you. I incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques into my practice to help my clients ground themselves in the present moment and be able to take the techniques they develop in session into their daily life.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, substance abuse and addictions counseling, and grief counseling.
Are you having a difficult time adjusting to a new life change? Do you experience anxiety and/or depression? Do grief and trauma seem to take over your life at times? If you answered "yes" to any of these situations, I might be able to help you. Together, we can work to build a solid foundation from which you can begin to adjust to whatever life brings you. I incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques into my practice to help my clients ground themselves in the present moment and be able to take the techniques they develop in session into their daily life.
(334) 758-8836 View (334) 758-8836
Photo of Leslie Carol Gaultney, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Carol Gaultney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
I know that unexpected events, changes and transitional challenges can occur in people's lives, often resulting in depression, anxiety and maybe even trauma.
Hello, My name is Leslie Gaultney. I am a Licensed Profession Counselor with over 31 years of experience working with individual adults. I have recently started my private practice, Perception Therapy. I accept BCBS, United Healthcare and American Behavioral Insurance. I offer sessions at a reduced rate for people without insurance and who are unable to pay the full fee. My specialties are Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Social Phobia, Trauma, PTSD and Dementia. I offer an eclectic client focused approach.
I know that unexpected events, changes and transitional challenges can occur in people's lives, often resulting in depression, anxiety and maybe even trauma.
Hello, My name is Leslie Gaultney. I am a Licensed Profession Counselor with over 31 years of experience working with individual adults. I have recently started my private practice, Perception Therapy. I accept BCBS, United Healthcare and American Behavioral Insurance. I offer sessions at a reduced rate for people without insurance and who are unable to pay the full fee. My specialties are Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Social Phobia, Trauma, PTSD and Dementia. I offer an eclectic client focused approach.
(334) 781-5676 View (334) 781-5676
Photo of Gaye Hagan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gaye Hagan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
Life can be difficult and hard to handle on your own. If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship problems, take a step by reaching out for help. I am interested in helping you through the journey of change. I can help you learn new ways of handling your concerns that can make a difference in how you think and feel. I offer a supportive environment in which you can grow and have a better future.
Life can be difficult and hard to handle on your own. If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship problems, take a step by reaching out for help. I am interested in helping you through the journey of change. I can help you learn new ways of handling your concerns that can make a difference in how you think and feel. I offer a supportive environment in which you can grow and have a better future.
(334) 564-1914 View (334) 564-1914
Photo of Kevin Mullins, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin Mullins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
Kevin Mullins is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in helping individuals struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Kevin Mullins is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in helping individuals struggling with trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
(334) 697-8119 View (334) 697-8119
Photo of Glen Vollenweider, PhD, Psychologist
Glen Vollenweider
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
Dr. Vollenweider was born and raised in the New Orleans area. He is a licensed psychologist who earned his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Auburn University in 2000. He is a member of the American Psychological Association. He offers individual psychotherapy for school-aged children, adolescents, college students, and other adults. Dr. Vollenweider also provides family and couples therapy. The most common issues addressed in psychotherapy include anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder, adjustment difficulties, and ADHD.
Dr. Vollenweider was born and raised in the New Orleans area. He is a licensed psychologist who earned his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Auburn University in 2000. He is a member of the American Psychological Association. He offers individual psychotherapy for school-aged children, adolescents, college students, and other adults. Dr. Vollenweider also provides family and couples therapy. The most common issues addressed in psychotherapy include anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder, adjustment difficulties, and ADHD.
(334) 230-7318 View (334) 230-7318
Photo of Angela Nelms-Griffin - Auburn Marriage and Family Therapy, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Auburn Marriage and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
You or your partner may notice your relationship seems off track. You realize that you feel disconnected and you seem to have the same conflict. Perhaps there has been infidelity or some other trust violation that is overwhelming. Perhaps one person is dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma that isolates you from each other. You may notice that you don’t feel like yourself anymore. You realize that you are easily overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, feel bad about yourself. Perhaps you have experienced a traumatic or stressful event that you haven't been able to "let go”. Perhaps you are grieving the lost of a love one.
You or your partner may notice your relationship seems off track. You realize that you feel disconnected and you seem to have the same conflict. Perhaps there has been infidelity or some other trust violation that is overwhelming. Perhaps one person is dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma that isolates you from each other. You may notice that you don’t feel like yourself anymore. You realize that you are easily overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, feel bad about yourself. Perhaps you have experienced a traumatic or stressful event that you haven't been able to "let go”. Perhaps you are grieving the lost of a love one.
(334) 316-5386 View (334) 316-5386
Photo of Ashley Jordan - Perspective Counseling, MSW, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Perspective Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
Please visit my website: www.perspectivecounselingauburn.com I relate to women. As a working mother, I am passionate about supporting women through the good, the bad, and the heartbreaking experiences life has to offer. Depression and anxiety can be lonely. Many women feel alone in their struggling with the most basic parts of daily life. I want you to know that you are not alone. You may not be the person you once knew yourself to be, but I assure you, you can find the best version of yourself!
Please visit my website: www.perspectivecounselingauburn.com I relate to women. As a working mother, I am passionate about supporting women through the good, the bad, and the heartbreaking experiences life has to offer. Depression and anxiety can be lonely. Many women feel alone in their struggling with the most basic parts of daily life. I want you to know that you are not alone. You may not be the person you once knew yourself to be, but I assure you, you can find the best version of yourself!
(334) 329-6063 View (334) 329-6063
Photo of L. Chris Ross, MS, MDiv, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
L. Chris Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MDiv, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
Are you tired of your anxiety, depression, and/or trauma running your life? Want to change the way you think and behave? You can learn practical tools to manage your symptoms. You don't have to go through life continuing to struggle. If you are open to learning how to connect your body, mind, and soul in a way that helps you thrive, give me a call.
Are you tired of your anxiety, depression, and/or trauma running your life? Want to change the way you think and behave? You can learn practical tools to manage your symptoms. You don't have to go through life continuing to struggle. If you are open to learning how to connect your body, mind, and soul in a way that helps you thrive, give me a call.
(334) 402-2382 View (334) 402-2382
Photo of Rene J Britt, PhD, Psychologist
Rene J Britt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
In most cases, she provides cognitive therapy that is effective with acute stress, clinical depression/anxiety and relationship issues.
Dr. Britt earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Auburn University in 1998. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and the Alabama Psychological Association. She has worked in the Auburn-Opelika community for the last 21 years. Her practice is focused on providing effective, research-based therapeutic treatment to address both clinical problems as well as overwhelming stress in today's world. The clients seen in Dr. Britt's practice range from adolescence through adulthood.
In most cases, she provides cognitive therapy that is effective with acute stress, clinical depression/anxiety and relationship issues.
Dr. Britt earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Auburn University in 1998. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and the Alabama Psychological Association. She has worked in the Auburn-Opelika community for the last 21 years. Her practice is focused on providing effective, research-based therapeutic treatment to address both clinical problems as well as overwhelming stress in today's world. The clients seen in Dr. Britt's practice range from adolescence through adulthood.
(334) 715-0939 View (334) 715-0939
Photo of Scott Grantland, ALC, MEd, Counselor
Scott Grantland
Counselor, ALC, MEd
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
As you work on questions and traumas pertaining to identity, anxiety, depression, family, grief, faith (or its deconstruction), and relationships, I will help guide you in identifying what you need in order to move forward.
Exploring who we are; reflecting on what we value; learning to trust ourselves and our feelings: these are all important steps on our journey. There are times in which these answers are clear, and seasons in which answers seem impossible. Regardless of where you find yourself on this journey, I consider it a privilege to join you in your quest toward wholeness and meaning. Using an integrative approach drawing from Depth Psychology, Mindfulness, and CBT, my desire is to meet you where you are. I can assure you that no matter where you find yourself, you will be accepted exactly as you are, and where you are.
As you work on questions and traumas pertaining to identity, anxiety, depression, family, grief, faith (or its deconstruction), and relationships, I will help guide you in identifying what you need in order to move forward.
Exploring who we are; reflecting on what we value; learning to trust ourselves and our feelings: these are all important steps on our journey. There are times in which these answers are clear, and seasons in which answers seem impossible. Regardless of where you find yourself on this journey, I consider it a privilege to join you in your quest toward wholeness and meaning. Using an integrative approach drawing from Depth Psychology, Mindfulness, and CBT, my desire is to meet you where you are. I can assure you that no matter where you find yourself, you will be accepted exactly as you are, and where you are.
(334) 689-6950 View (334) 689-6950
Photo of Charlotte P. J. Windom, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte P. J. Windom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
I have extensive expertise in working with families, teenagers, college students, and adults who are navigating through issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, poor interpersonal relationships, setting boundaries, work/school challenges, and grief.
Have you ever found yourself uttering, "I am alright, everything will be okay." only to realize that perhaps you require support beyond your immediate circle of family and friends? Are you currently grappling with life's myriad challenges and feeling overwhelmed? We are dedicated to assisting you in acquiring healthy coping strategies and offering a secure environment for navigating the ebb and flow of life. Embark on your path to recovery with us. Permit us to guide you in discovering illumination amidst life's darkest moments.
I have extensive expertise in working with families, teenagers, college students, and adults who are navigating through issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, poor interpersonal relationships, setting boundaries, work/school challenges, and grief.
Have you ever found yourself uttering, "I am alright, everything will be okay." only to realize that perhaps you require support beyond your immediate circle of family and friends? Are you currently grappling with life's myriad challenges and feeling overwhelmed? We are dedicated to assisting you in acquiring healthy coping strategies and offering a secure environment for navigating the ebb and flow of life. Embark on your path to recovery with us. Permit us to guide you in discovering illumination amidst life's darkest moments.
(334) 423-2784 View (334) 423-2784
Photo of Davina Gjennestad - Davina Gjennestad-Achieve Wellness Counseling, MS, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Davina Gjennestad-Achieve Wellness Counseling
Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
I work with issues related to anxiety, depression, religious trauma, medical trauma, PTSD, CPSTD, ADHD, life transitions/adjustments, LGBTQ+, Aspergers/Autism, Attachment, Personality Disorders, emotional dysregulation, Chronic Illnesses, Immunodeficiency Disorders, and cancer. I can assist you to tap into your strengths and to make the lasting changes you want to see in your life.
I work with issues related to anxiety, depression, religious trauma, medical trauma, PTSD, CPSTD, ADHD, life transitions/adjustments, LGBTQ+, Aspergers/Autism, Attachment, Personality Disorders, emotional dysregulation, Chronic Illnesses, Immunodeficiency Disorders, and cancer. I can assist you to tap into your strengths and to make the lasting changes you want to see in your life.
(334) 310-4846 View (334) 310-4846
Photo of Memendra Harris - Summerlane Counseling, MEd, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Summerlane Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression and unsure how to feel better? Do you feel like you are stuck, and you are not where you thought you would be? Are you missing the laughter with your partner and wondering how to reconnect? Are you undergoing a big life change or adjustment? Have you recently lost a loved one or a close friend? Is your child struggling with expressing emotions? Do you feel like you are alone, that no one understands you? So if you answered yes to any of these questions, it is time you seek solutions. We are here to SERVE! "Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." George Shaw
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression and unsure how to feel better? Do you feel like you are stuck, and you are not where you thought you would be? Are you missing the laughter with your partner and wondering how to reconnect? Are you undergoing a big life change or adjustment? Have you recently lost a loved one or a close friend? Is your child struggling with expressing emotions? Do you feel like you are alone, that no one understands you? So if you answered yes to any of these questions, it is time you seek solutions. We are here to SERVE! "Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." George Shaw
(334) 845-1629 View (334) 845-1629
Photo of Monica R Molt - Prevail Counseling and Wellness, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Prevail Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36802
We specialize in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, and self-esteem issues, utilizing evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), reality therapy, and strengths-based interventions.
At Prevail Counseling and Wellness, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to adults, children, and couples. Our practice is built on the belief that everyone has the strength to overcome life’s challenges, and our goal is to help you harness that strength in a supportive and nurturing environment. We believe in working together with you to create lasting, positive change. We are here to support you on your journey to wellness, offering a safe space where you can explore, heal, and thrive.
We specialize in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, and self-esteem issues, utilizing evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), reality therapy, and strengths-based interventions.
At Prevail Counseling and Wellness, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to adults, children, and couples. Our practice is built on the belief that everyone has the strength to overcome life’s challenges, and our goal is to help you harness that strength in a supportive and nurturing environment. We believe in working together with you to create lasting, positive change. We are here to support you on your journey to wellness, offering a safe space where you can explore, heal, and thrive.
(334) 357-8456 View (334) 357-8456
Photo of Tonya Strand, LICSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tonya Strand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
Some of the difficulties I have helped people with include depression, anxiety, parenting, trauma, grief and loss and relationship issues.
Sometimes we all need support when life's challenges become overwhelming or difficult to manage alone. Working with a therapist can help you address difficult feelings, relationships or whatever else you may be facing. We will walk together through your concerns with compassion, intentionality and often even a little laughter. My goal is to get you feeling better as quickly as possible.
Some of the difficulties I have helped people with include depression, anxiety, parenting, trauma, grief and loss and relationship issues.
Sometimes we all need support when life's challenges become overwhelming or difficult to manage alone. Working with a therapist can help you address difficult feelings, relationships or whatever else you may be facing. We will walk together through your concerns with compassion, intentionality and often even a little laughter. My goal is to get you feeling better as quickly as possible.
(334) 471-4679 View (334) 471-4679
Photo of Archie Schnuelle, LMFT, MPA, MAC, EMDR, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Archie Schnuelle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MPA, MAC, EMDR, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
I've worked with a wide variety of people with issues like trauma, addiction, anger management, relational, family, anxiety, depression and PTSD.
Thank you for the opportunity for considering me to work with you. My background is unique and varied which provides a broad range of knowledge, and experiences from having served in the U.S. Army, worked in Law Enforcement for over twenty-five years, worked on a church staff and as Therapist. I find it rewarding to help individuals realize their potential, see hope in a better future and becoming their best selves in life. We should not be defined by the negative beliefs we hold about ourselves but in the positive changes we can make. I have worked with individuals, couples, families, groups, adults, and adolescents.
I've worked with a wide variety of people with issues like trauma, addiction, anger management, relational, family, anxiety, depression and PTSD.
Thank you for the opportunity for considering me to work with you. My background is unique and varied which provides a broad range of knowledge, and experiences from having served in the U.S. Army, worked in Law Enforcement for over twenty-five years, worked on a church staff and as Therapist. I find it rewarding to help individuals realize their potential, see hope in a better future and becoming their best selves in life. We should not be defined by the negative beliefs we hold about ourselves but in the positive changes we can make. I have worked with individuals, couples, families, groups, adults, and adolescents.
(334) 275-0608 View (334) 275-0608
Photo of Ashelay Webb Wiggs - Ashley Webb Wiggs-Achieve Wellness Counseling, LPC, ADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Webb Wiggs-Achieve Wellness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, frustration, stress, alcohol & drug abuse, legal concerns, mood disorders, personality disorders, relationships distress, all of these and much more can be treated as long as the effort and dedication to want to do and be better is present. I am a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. Whether you'd like to work on bettering your mental health and/or addressing your substance abuse concerns, together we can develop a plan to aid in your future overall wellness, so you have what you need to succeed.
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, frustration, stress, alcohol & drug abuse, legal concerns, mood disorders, personality disorders, relationships distress, all of these and much more can be treated as long as the effort and dedication to want to do and be better is present. I am a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. Whether you'd like to work on bettering your mental health and/or addressing your substance abuse concerns, together we can develop a plan to aid in your future overall wellness, so you have what you need to succeed.
(334) 641-8215 View (334) 641-8215
Photo of Bridget Finlen Smith, PhD, Psychologist
Bridget Finlen Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Opelika, AL 36801
Dr. Smith is the Clinical Director at Psychological Assessment Center in the Auburn/Opelika community. She is a Licensed Psychologist with 36 years of experience in the treatment and evaluation of children, adolescents and adults. Assessments provided include: Cognitive and Academic Issues (Intellectual Functioning, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disorders), Developmental Delays, Mood Disorders ( Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD), Memory Concerns, and Surgery Assessments.
Dr. Smith is the Clinical Director at Psychological Assessment Center in the Auburn/Opelika community. She is a Licensed Psychologist with 36 years of experience in the treatment and evaluation of children, adolescents and adults. Assessments provided include: Cognitive and Academic Issues (Intellectual Functioning, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disorders), Developmental Delays, Mood Disorders ( Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD), Memory Concerns, and Surgery Assessments.
(334) 234-3339 View (334) 234-3339
Photo of Charles 'Chad' Manuel Smith, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charles 'Chad' Manuel Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
Anxiety/ Depression steal our joy! Uncertainty creates fear.
I am grateful for your consideration of my services. For 23 years I have been working with Adults, Adolescents and Couples. I provide Christian/Faith-Based Therapy when a client requests. Rapport is crucial to the therapy process. I strive to provide a welcoming, non-judgmental, and comfortable setting for each person I am fortunate to visit with. I am ever thankful for the remarkable, brave and determined individuals from whom I have learned so much. Walking difficult paths with others' is both an honor and deeply humbling.
Anxiety/ Depression steal our joy! Uncertainty creates fear.
I am grateful for your consideration of my services. For 23 years I have been working with Adults, Adolescents and Couples. I provide Christian/Faith-Based Therapy when a client requests. Rapport is crucial to the therapy process. I strive to provide a welcoming, non-judgmental, and comfortable setting for each person I am fortunate to visit with. I am ever thankful for the remarkable, brave and determined individuals from whom I have learned so much. Walking difficult paths with others' is both an honor and deeply humbling.
(334) 370-1059 View (334) 370-1059
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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.