Depression Therapists in Phenix City, AL

Photo of Miranda N Dennis, LCSW, LICSW, DBTC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miranda N Dennis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, DBTC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phenix City, AL 36867  (Online Only)
Together we can fight back depression,worry, stress, bad relationships, weakened faith or a rough patch along your journey.
Here at Oasis Clinical Services we affirm that both Therapy and Prayer can co exist as effective methods of healing! We are committed to providing quality virtual therapy services that move you from where you are, to where you want to be. Depression, anxiety or confusion does not have to be your fate. Living a life of peace, direction and fulfilment is possible. We have immediate openings in Virginia with our LMSW at our sliding scale rate. We also have immediate openings in Virginia and Alabama with our LCSW.
Together we can fight back depression,worry, stress, bad relationships, weakened faith or a rough patch along your journey.
Here at Oasis Clinical Services we affirm that both Therapy and Prayer can co exist as effective methods of healing! We are committed to providing quality virtual therapy services that move you from where you are, to where you want to be. Depression, anxiety or confusion does not have to be your fate. Living a life of peace, direction and fulfilment is possible. We have immediate openings in Virginia with our LMSW at our sliding scale rate. We also have immediate openings in Virginia and Alabama with our LCSW.
(757) 271-9030 View (757) 271-9030
Photo of Elizabeth R Ivie - War Room Christian Counseling & Coaching, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
War Room Christian Counseling & Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phenix City, AL 36867
If you are facing the burden of anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other life challenges, please understand that you're not alone.
We see individuals who seek guidance grounded in Christian morals to address a range of deeply personal challenges. Our clients grapple with issues such as anxiety, depression, negative body image, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem struggles, substance use disorders, grief and loss, relationship distress, and difficult life transitions. Their needs are diverse, but at the core, they yearn for a compassionate ally who will honor their unique stories and empower them throughout their healing journey. Our clients desire not just temporary relief from their struggles but also the enduring strength to confront future challenges.
If you are facing the burden of anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other life challenges, please understand that you're not alone.
We see individuals who seek guidance grounded in Christian morals to address a range of deeply personal challenges. Our clients grapple with issues such as anxiety, depression, negative body image, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem struggles, substance use disorders, grief and loss, relationship distress, and difficult life transitions. Their needs are diverse, but at the core, they yearn for a compassionate ally who will honor their unique stories and empower them throughout their healing journey. Our clients desire not just temporary relief from their struggles but also the enduring strength to confront future challenges.
(334) 421-5923 View (334) 421-5923
Photo of Dr. Cheryl Sapp, LPC, MAC, NCC, CPCS, DBS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Cheryl Sapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC, NCC, CPCS, DBS
Verified Verified
Phenix City, AL 36867
Are you experiencing feelings of stress, depression, anxiety and confusion.
I have over 30 years in the field of counseling specializing in addiction and co-occurring disorders. I also have vast experience with the Military ASAP program as well with other private treatment facilities. I earned my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Psychology and Counseling from Troy University. I hold the credentials of Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor and Certified Addiction Counselor II.
Are you experiencing feelings of stress, depression, anxiety and confusion.
I have over 30 years in the field of counseling specializing in addiction and co-occurring disorders. I also have vast experience with the Military ASAP program as well with other private treatment facilities. I earned my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Psychology and Counseling from Troy University. I hold the credentials of Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor and Certified Addiction Counselor II.
(706) 685-6190 View (706) 685-6190
Photo of Donna Cairns Plummer, LPC, CEAP, SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna Cairns Plummer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
Phenix City, AL 36869
I am an experienced therapist with clinical specialties in addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety job stress, relationship problems and military family issues.
My treatment philosophy is to help clients understand their situation and selves better so they can cope effectively with any life crisis. People often have the answers to their situations but need a safe, supportive environment with a person who listens. I do solution-focused, CBT and client-centered therapy.
I am an experienced therapist with clinical specialties in addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety job stress, relationship problems and military family issues.
My treatment philosophy is to help clients understand their situation and selves better so they can cope effectively with any life crisis. People often have the answers to their situations but need a safe, supportive environment with a person who listens. I do solution-focused, CBT and client-centered therapy.
(762) 227-1662 View (762) 227-1662
Photo of Latoya Lockhart, ALC, Counselor
Latoya Lockhart
Counselor, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phenix City, AL 36867  (Online Only)
My expertise spans a range of areas, including children's behavioral challenges, grief and loss, developing coping strategies, enhancing self-esteem, resolving family conflicts, managing anger, and addressing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I am accepting new clients! Facing life's challenges can be overwhelming, whether it's managing stress, coping with loss, or healing from trauma. It's natural to seek support during these times. Despite the stigma often associated with therapy, imagine having a compassionate listener, a safe space to be vulnerable, and a guide to help you navigate your past, present, and future. My mission is to empower and support you as you find your path to inner peace, one step at a time. Let's embark on this journey together.
My expertise spans a range of areas, including children's behavioral challenges, grief and loss, developing coping strategies, enhancing self-esteem, resolving family conflicts, managing anger, and addressing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I am accepting new clients! Facing life's challenges can be overwhelming, whether it's managing stress, coping with loss, or healing from trauma. It's natural to seek support during these times. Despite the stigma often associated with therapy, imagine having a compassionate listener, a safe space to be vulnerable, and a guide to help you navigate your past, present, and future. My mission is to empower and support you as you find your path to inner peace, one step at a time. Let's embark on this journey together.
(334) 489-1810 View (334) 489-1810
Photo of Juana J Lyles - L.I.T. Wellness Center, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
L.I.T. Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phenix City, AL 36870
I offer assistance with healing from Trauma, Depression, and Anxiety using Brainspotting and/or CBT.
Are you feeling stressed out, anxious or have an irritable mood that leads to anger? Does it seem like you are stuck, lost or unmotivated? Are you struggling with healing from a traumatic event, even from childhood? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. I know seeking help can be hard. You’ve likely been debating seeking help for months, if not years, but I’m so glad you have taken the courageous step of being here.
I offer assistance with healing from Trauma, Depression, and Anxiety using Brainspotting and/or CBT.
Are you feeling stressed out, anxious or have an irritable mood that leads to anger? Does it seem like you are stuck, lost or unmotivated? Are you struggling with healing from a traumatic event, even from childhood? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. I know seeking help can be hard. You’ve likely been debating seeking help for months, if not years, but I’m so glad you have taken the courageous step of being here.
(706) 230-9580 View (706) 230-9580
Photo of Timothy Birt, MS, LPC, LMFT, CCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Timothy Birt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phenix City, AL 36867
Therapy works! Begin the healing process to transform yourself and your relationships. Help your children thrive. Find new purpose together. Working together we can help you on your road to healing, recovery, and happiness. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with couples seeking counseling, parents wanting help with their children and adolescents, and individuals seeking healing from grief, depression, anxiety, addiction, or abuse. In therapy, we work together with your family members to heal, grow, and progress. Therapy works as you open yourself to changes in thought, feeling, and behavior.
Therapy works! Begin the healing process to transform yourself and your relationships. Help your children thrive. Find new purpose together. Working together we can help you on your road to healing, recovery, and happiness. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with couples seeking counseling, parents wanting help with their children and adolescents, and individuals seeking healing from grief, depression, anxiety, addiction, or abuse. In therapy, we work together with your family members to heal, grow, and progress. Therapy works as you open yourself to changes in thought, feeling, and behavior.
(706) 417-9357 View (706) 417-9357
Photo of Archie Schnuelle, LMFT, MPA, MAC, EMDR, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Archie Schnuelle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MPA, MAC, EMDR, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phenix City, AL 36867
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 Dominique Jones, MS, ALC, Counselor
Dominique Jones
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phenix City, AL 36869  (Online Only)
My specialty area includes but is not limited to anxiety, depression, emotional distress, self-esteem issues, familial issues, coping mechanisms, & behavioral dysfunctions.
Life can present each of us with tumultuous situations that can leave impactful wounds. My work with you is to help you through those life pitfalls and assist you on the journey to growth and recovery. I am here as an assistant and teammate to your growth by giving you the necessary tools and guidance, in a client-centered environment of work. Together, we can bridge the gaps and regain homeostasis in your life. I am available to service clients throughout the state of Alabama.
My specialty area includes but is not limited to anxiety, depression, emotional distress, self-esteem issues, familial issues, coping mechanisms, & behavioral dysfunctions.
Life can present each of us with tumultuous situations that can leave impactful wounds. My work with you is to help you through those life pitfalls and assist you on the journey to growth and recovery. I am here as an assistant and teammate to your growth by giving you the necessary tools and guidance, in a client-centered environment of work. Together, we can bridge the gaps and regain homeostasis in your life. I am available to service clients throughout the state of Alabama.
(334) 689-6976 View (334) 689-6976
Photo of Monica Acoff - TAG Counseling And Consulting Services , LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
TAG Counseling And Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Phenix City, AL 36867
Our staff has extensive experience in working with trauma, grief and loss, adjustment and relationship issues, depression, behavioral issues, and anxiety.
Here at TAG, we understand that you want and need a therapist who is experienced in assisting clients with dealing with trauma, depression, grief and loss, maintaining relationships, or just dealing with the stressors of life. You are not alone and we want to work with you to build healthy coping skills to improve your quality of life. Reach out to our team at TAG Counseling & Consulting and we will help you decide which team member is best for you and your needs.
Our staff has extensive experience in working with trauma, grief and loss, adjustment and relationship issues, depression, behavioral issues, and anxiety.
Here at TAG, we understand that you want and need a therapist who is experienced in assisting clients with dealing with trauma, depression, grief and loss, maintaining relationships, or just dealing with the stressors of life. You are not alone and we want to work with you to build healthy coping skills to improve your quality of life. Reach out to our team at TAG Counseling & Consulting and we will help you decide which team member is best for you and your needs.
(334) 986-3097 View (334) 986-3097
Photo of Elizabeth Parks - LMP Health, LLC, Serving All of Alabama , LICSW, CCTP, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LMP Health, LLC, Serving All of Alabama
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Phenix City, AL 36870  (Online Only)
If you are struggling, feeling overwhelmed, unable to motivate self, feeling isolated, anxious or depressed, in an unhealthy relationship, struggling with low self-esteem, dealing with loss, and not sure where to turn, I use a person-centered approach in my practice. We start where you are. I provide services for teens, adults and seniors. You no longer have to face your struggles alone. I provide a strength-based, trauma-informed approach in treatment and look forward to hearing from you so we can begin your healing process.
If you are struggling, feeling overwhelmed, unable to motivate self, feeling isolated, anxious or depressed, in an unhealthy relationship, struggling with low self-esteem, dealing with loss, and not sure where to turn, I use a person-centered approach in my practice. We start where you are. I provide services for teens, adults and seniors. You no longer have to face your struggles alone. I provide a strength-based, trauma-informed approach in treatment and look forward to hearing from you so we can begin your healing process.
(334) 602-4682 View (334) 602-4682
Photo of Anslee Carroll - Serenity Now Counseling Services, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Serenity Now Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phenix City, AL 36867
I have extensive history in treating those with various mood disorders, anxiety, addiction and grief. I believe that some times life can become overwhelming with daily life stress, lack of coping skills or support and this can have a negative impact on a person's overall wellness. I like to help clients find balance and work on necessary concerns. I like to work with the client to come up with attainable goals and set the focus on making changes that better their overall well being.
I have extensive history in treating those with various mood disorders, anxiety, addiction and grief. I believe that some times life can become overwhelming with daily life stress, lack of coping skills or support and this can have a negative impact on a person's overall wellness. I like to help clients find balance and work on necessary concerns. I like to work with the client to come up with attainable goals and set the focus on making changes that better their overall well being.
(706) 309-6174 View (706) 309-6174
Photo of Tiffany Gibson, Ed S, ALC, NCC, Counselor
Tiffany Gibson
Counselor, Ed S, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phenix City, AL 36867
No two people are the same. That’s why the approach that I take in my services is highly-personalized and refined to fit the exact needs of my clients. I will help you recognize your underlying problems, fully realize your strengths and help you adjust to a new, healthier lifestyle. Book your appointment at www.thejewelprofessor.com.
No two people are the same. That’s why the approach that I take in my services is highly-personalized and refined to fit the exact needs of my clients. I will help you recognize your underlying problems, fully realize your strengths and help you adjust to a new, healthier lifestyle. Book your appointment at www.thejewelprofessor.com.
(334) 367-4707 View (334) 367-4707
Photo of Dixie Powers, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dixie Powers
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phenix City, AL 36867
Waitlist for new clients
Hey! My name is Dixie. I have a Ph.D in Counselor Education and Supervision from Auburn University and have been a counselor for over ten years. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you learn more about your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, while joining you in the process of change. I will be active and intentional with therapy, and collaboratively set goals to develop a strong therapeutic relationship. We will work together to explore, address, and resolve your concerns. My job is to be a listener, facilitator, and guide to help you see solutions in your life.
Hey! My name is Dixie. I have a Ph.D in Counselor Education and Supervision from Auburn University and have been a counselor for over ten years. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you learn more about your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, while joining you in the process of change. I will be active and intentional with therapy, and collaboratively set goals to develop a strong therapeutic relationship. We will work together to explore, address, and resolve your concerns. My job is to be a listener, facilitator, and guide to help you see solutions in your life.
(706) 420-3164 View (706) 420-3164
Photo of Dr. Jaylin Alexander, ACL, BCL, MEd, CPsyD
Dr. Jaylin Alexander
ACL, BCL, MEd, CPsyD
Verified Verified
Phenix City, AL 36869
Alexander Enterprise provides spiritual psychotherapeutic solutions and counseling services with a holistic approach to address the psyche, traumas, and conditions of the Afrikan Community. Alexander Enterprise provides Individual Therapy, Group Therapy, Adolescent Therapy, and Marriage & Family Therapy in the interest of providing spiritual psychotherapeutic solutions and counseling services with a holistic approach to address the psyche, traumas, and conditions of the Afrikan Community.
Alexander Enterprise provides spiritual psychotherapeutic solutions and counseling services with a holistic approach to address the psyche, traumas, and conditions of the Afrikan Community. Alexander Enterprise provides Individual Therapy, Group Therapy, Adolescent Therapy, and Marriage & Family Therapy in the interest of providing spiritual psychotherapeutic solutions and counseling services with a holistic approach to address the psyche, traumas, and conditions of the Afrikan Community.
(334) 292-4502 View (334) 292-4502
Photo of John Michael Duffey, MAcc, ABD, DMHA, NCC, LPC, CCBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Michael Duffey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAcc, ABD, DMHA, NCC, LPC, CCBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phenix City, AL 36867
PTSD doesn't develop only in those people who have experienced combat. You need a counselor who is aware of the many facets and forms of trauma and how they shape the person you are and how you experience the symptoms of PTSD. Veterans often have difficulty in working with therapists because many therapists have never experienced the military culture and the chaotic world of warfare. Having a therapist who is also a combat veteran enhances client trust, progress, and the working alliance. Having a counselor who is also aware of the trauma of Domestic Violence enhances your progress. I am very sensitive to the needs of PTSD people.
PTSD doesn't develop only in those people who have experienced combat. You need a counselor who is aware of the many facets and forms of trauma and how they shape the person you are and how you experience the symptoms of PTSD. Veterans often have difficulty in working with therapists because many therapists have never experienced the military culture and the chaotic world of warfare. Having a therapist who is also a combat veteran enhances client trust, progress, and the working alliance. Having a counselor who is also aware of the trauma of Domestic Violence enhances your progress. I am very sensitive to the needs of PTSD people.
(334) 408-4689 View (334) 408-4689
Photo of Colvin Jeffrey Brogdon, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colvin Jeffrey Brogdon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phenix City, AL 36867
Life has many challenges. It's difficult to move forward if you're paralyzed by hurts and traumatic events of the past. Even present day situations can create feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. "What's the use?!" "I'll never get better!" "Why am I even here?" If those are some of your questions, give me a call. Let's talk it out together.
Life has many challenges. It's difficult to move forward if you're paralyzed by hurts and traumatic events of the past. Even present day situations can create feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. "What's the use?!" "I'll never get better!" "Why am I even here?" If those are some of your questions, give me a call. Let's talk it out together.
(706) 406-4532 View (706) 406-4532
Photo of Janna O'Loughlin - Janna O'Loughlin, LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janna O'Loughlin, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phenix City, AL 36867
I provide counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. At your first appointment, we will begin working together to set goals and create a plan for therapy. Sessions will be based on your therapy goals and will involve learning and practicing new skills to manage problems and improve overall health and well being. I work with clients to improve their ability to manage stress, problem solve, cope with distress, and to create a life they enjoy living.
I provide counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. At your first appointment, we will begin working together to set goals and create a plan for therapy. Sessions will be based on your therapy goals and will involve learning and practicing new skills to manage problems and improve overall health and well being. I work with clients to improve their ability to manage stress, problem solve, cope with distress, and to create a life they enjoy living.
(706) 717-6457 View (706) 717-6457
Photo of Gwendolyn Coley McLeod - The PEACH Pit, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The PEACH Pit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phenix City, AL 36867
Tired of talk therapy? We do little talking in sessions, whether with Equine-assisted Psychotherapy or Accelerated Resolution Therapy. We do "work" therapy. With EAP, you'll participate in activities outdoors on the ground with our team: a licensed mental health professional, an equine specialist and horses. When you trust the horse to be part of your counseling team, you feel more empowered to make changes. Horses are reflective and intuitive, and don't judge. ART uses rapid eye movement to help you reprogram how traumatic memories affect you. Keep the memory; lose the pain. Come "experience" therapy with us.
Tired of talk therapy? We do little talking in sessions, whether with Equine-assisted Psychotherapy or Accelerated Resolution Therapy. We do "work" therapy. With EAP, you'll participate in activities outdoors on the ground with our team: a licensed mental health professional, an equine specialist and horses. When you trust the horse to be part of your counseling team, you feel more empowered to make changes. Horses are reflective and intuitive, and don't judge. ART uses rapid eye movement to help you reprogram how traumatic memories affect you. Keep the memory; lose the pain. Come "experience" therapy with us.
(478) 449-0578 View (478) 449-0578
Photo of Lisa O McDaniel, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CDBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa O McDaniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CDBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phenix City, AL 36867
End Stigma Reach Out! You're searching for hope, during this difficult time in your life. You're feeling confused about the REAL YOU. You desire change in your life. You often find yourself in a rocky relationship. You feel lost and unsure about where your life is, where you will go and who will be with you. You're ready to unleash your pain and suffering. You can leave all the stress, anger ,fear, and pain on the counseling space floor. So what if you cry or scream or laugh. You're human after all. You're not a robot! Therapy is a gift you deserve.
End Stigma Reach Out! You're searching for hope, during this difficult time in your life. You're feeling confused about the REAL YOU. You desire change in your life. You often find yourself in a rocky relationship. You feel lost and unsure about where your life is, where you will go and who will be with you. You're ready to unleash your pain and suffering. You can leave all the stress, anger ,fear, and pain on the counseling space floor. So what if you cry or scream or laugh. You're human after all. You're not a robot! Therapy is a gift you deserve.
(334) 258-8603 View (334) 258-8603
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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.