Depression Therapists in Prattville, AL

Photo of Thomas Charles Bates, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas Charles Bates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36067
I work with individuals to help with anxiety, compulsive issues, depression, grief, life changes and self-worth issues as well as a host of other emotional difficulties. I work with couples to help with conflict resolution, trust difficulties and improve communication. I have a personal understanding of special needs and can help adults as well as caregivers of individuals with mild Autism or other social phobias and difficulties.
I work with individuals to help with anxiety, compulsive issues, depression, grief, life changes and self-worth issues as well as a host of other emotional difficulties. I work with couples to help with conflict resolution, trust difficulties and improve communication. I have a personal understanding of special needs and can help adults as well as caregivers of individuals with mild Autism or other social phobias and difficulties.
(334) 380-0071 View (334) 380-0071
Photo of Oddesty Langham - Oddesty K & Associates, MS, LPC, NCC
Oddesty K & Associates
MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prattville, AL 36066  (Online Only)
Text "New Client" to 205-528-8162 to start or send us a message. Immediate availability with some therapists in reduced fee program. Our commitment to clients is to provide a safe space where you will feel seen, heard and valued in a none-judgmental space. We have therapist trained to work with individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Family Conflict, Relationship Concerns, Stress, Postpartum Depression and Anxiety, Women's Issues, Men's Issues, Anger Concerns, Concerns related to identity or sexual identity, Religion, Parenting and Substance Abuse. LGBTQ+ Friendly. Single Mom Friendly. Veteran Friendly.
Text "New Client" to 205-528-8162 to start or send us a message. Immediate availability with some therapists in reduced fee program. Our commitment to clients is to provide a safe space where you will feel seen, heard and valued in a none-judgmental space. We have therapist trained to work with individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Family Conflict, Relationship Concerns, Stress, Postpartum Depression and Anxiety, Women's Issues, Men's Issues, Anger Concerns, Concerns related to identity or sexual identity, Religion, Parenting and Substance Abuse. LGBTQ+ Friendly. Single Mom Friendly. Veteran Friendly.
(205) 927-5946 View (205) 927-5946
Photo of Sandra Segall, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Segall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36068  (Online Only)
I understand how debilitating depression and anxiety can be.
I have been in practice helping people for over 35 years and in all likelihood I can help you. I am sort of jack of all trades. I treat children and adults with depression and anxiety. I do much relationship and marriage counseling . Infidelity, anxiety and communication are some of my specialties. There isn't anything I haven't heard. I am non judgmental. . Depression and anxiety get worse with isolation. I know what you are going through. I would like to help you get to a better, special place.
I understand how debilitating depression and anxiety can be.
I have been in practice helping people for over 35 years and in all likelihood I can help you. I am sort of jack of all trades. I treat children and adults with depression and anxiety. I do much relationship and marriage counseling . Infidelity, anxiety and communication are some of my specialties. There isn't anything I haven't heard. I am non judgmental. . Depression and anxiety get worse with isolation. I know what you are going through. I would like to help you get to a better, special place.
(334) 398-6375 View (334) 398-6375
Photo of Claudette E. Rogers, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudette E. Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36066
Provides therapy for issues associated with Anxiety, Depression, Codependency, Trauma, PTSD, MDD, Bipolar DO, Schizoaffective DO, DV and SA survivors.
You matter! I am an experienced Psychotherapist, trained EMDR Therapist and a Believer/Christian. I am passionate about helping you achieve and maintain mental wellness, and recover from trauma. Provided individual counseling and psychotherapy groups that included Women and Families of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Individual male and female Felony and Misdemeanor clients, Incarcerated women in Montgomery prisons, and Individuals with mental disorders. Spent 30 plus years providing services to people in need. You cannot do what you don't know, nor give what you don't have, I will help you get there.
Provides therapy for issues associated with Anxiety, Depression, Codependency, Trauma, PTSD, MDD, Bipolar DO, Schizoaffective DO, DV and SA survivors.
You matter! I am an experienced Psychotherapist, trained EMDR Therapist and a Believer/Christian. I am passionate about helping you achieve and maintain mental wellness, and recover from trauma. Provided individual counseling and psychotherapy groups that included Women and Families of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Individual male and female Felony and Misdemeanor clients, Incarcerated women in Montgomery prisons, and Individuals with mental disorders. Spent 30 plus years providing services to people in need. You cannot do what you don't know, nor give what you don't have, I will help you get there.
(334) 326-2802 View (334) 326-2802
Photo of Patricia Ford, DSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36066
I work with clients to develop an individualized plan for long-term management of their psychological distress, anxiety and depression through lifestyle changes, stress management, and developing healthy coping skills.
I am a licensed mental health therapist that specializes in providing individual therapy for a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, grief/bereavement, and loss. My approach to therapy is grounded in evidence-based practices, such as culturally responsive cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies. I work with my clients to identify the underlying cause of their symptoms and develop an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs and goals.
I work with clients to develop an individualized plan for long-term management of their psychological distress, anxiety and depression through lifestyle changes, stress management, and developing healthy coping skills.
I am a licensed mental health therapist that specializes in providing individual therapy for a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, grief/bereavement, and loss. My approach to therapy is grounded in evidence-based practices, such as culturally responsive cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies. I work with my clients to identify the underlying cause of their symptoms and develop an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs and goals.
(334) 432-8752 View (334) 432-8752
Photo of Candace Bailey, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Candace Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36067  (Online Only)
I offer confidential and professional counseling to adults and adolescents who are in need of talk therapy for life stressors, depression, anxiety, family/marriage issues, career/school issues, LGBTQIA affirming, trauma/grief, and other various mental health concerns. My goal is to help clients overcome the mental obstacles that are holding them back from growing into their ultimate potential in life, in an unbiased, safe, and comfortable setting. Please call and make an appointment with my office staff today.
I offer confidential and professional counseling to adults and adolescents who are in need of talk therapy for life stressors, depression, anxiety, family/marriage issues, career/school issues, LGBTQIA affirming, trauma/grief, and other various mental health concerns. My goal is to help clients overcome the mental obstacles that are holding them back from growing into their ultimate potential in life, in an unbiased, safe, and comfortable setting. Please call and make an appointment with my office staff today.
(334) 954-1207 View (334) 954-1207
Photo of Sarah Goff McCrory, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Goff McCrory
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36066
I have experience working with adults and children with attachment trauma, depression and anxiety.
My name is Sarah, and I’m a counselor. My husband and I founded Sanctuary Counseling and Wellness with the idea that a sanctuary represents a place of retreat and rest. I believe that in order to process and work through the difficult things that are a part of our stories, we have to feel safe. Many of us may logically know we are safe, but we may not have FELT safe. It is my goal that at Sanctuary you will feel a sense of peace and emotional safety, which will lead to the ability to be yourself and start working on living the life you were born to live.
I have experience working with adults and children with attachment trauma, depression and anxiety.
My name is Sarah, and I’m a counselor. My husband and I founded Sanctuary Counseling and Wellness with the idea that a sanctuary represents a place of retreat and rest. I believe that in order to process and work through the difficult things that are a part of our stories, we have to feel safe. Many of us may logically know we are safe, but we may not have FELT safe. It is my goal that at Sanctuary you will feel a sense of peace and emotional safety, which will lead to the ability to be yourself and start working on living the life you were born to live.
(334) 258-1561 View (334) 258-1561
Photo of Savannah Sims, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Savannah Sims
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36066  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief, parenting, and other life issues in adult women.
The best time for a new beginning is now. Whether you are struggling with adjustment to life changes, dealing with depression, anxiety, or any other issue, know that healing is possible. As a licensed psychotherapist, Up 4 Healing can help. We use a holistic strength-based approach to the therapeutic process. Our goal is to provide each person the knowledge, skills, and techniques needed to conquer each day and live your best life. We strive to create a safe and supportive environment that allows you to feel valued, understood and free to express yourself authentically without judgment.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief, parenting, and other life issues in adult women.
The best time for a new beginning is now. Whether you are struggling with adjustment to life changes, dealing with depression, anxiety, or any other issue, know that healing is possible. As a licensed psychotherapist, Up 4 Healing can help. We use a holistic strength-based approach to the therapeutic process. Our goal is to provide each person the knowledge, skills, and techniques needed to conquer each day and live your best life. We strive to create a safe and supportive environment that allows you to feel valued, understood and free to express yourself authentically without judgment.
(334) 231-5726 View (334) 231-5726
Photo of Morgan C. Parks, MA, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan C. Parks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prattville, AL 36067  (Online Only)
Heyyyy! I’m a licensed therapist dedicated to supporting women on their journeys toward healing, empowerment, and self-discovery. I specialize in addressing self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and the complexities of romantic relationships and adult friendships. Together, we’ll work to unpack the narratives that have shaped your self-esteem, address feelings of anxiety or depression, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you’re navigating the ups and downs of romantic relationships or seeking to cultivate meaningful adult friendships, I’m here to guide you in building the fulfilling life you deserve.
Heyyyy! I’m a licensed therapist dedicated to supporting women on their journeys toward healing, empowerment, and self-discovery. I specialize in addressing self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and the complexities of romantic relationships and adult friendships. Together, we’ll work to unpack the narratives that have shaped your self-esteem, address feelings of anxiety or depression, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you’re navigating the ups and downs of romantic relationships or seeking to cultivate meaningful adult friendships, I’m here to guide you in building the fulfilling life you deserve.
(205) 883-1846 View (205) 883-1846
Photo of Thea Barnes Langley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thea Barnes Langley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prattville, AL 36067
I specialize in working with issues of anxiety, and depression in adolescents and adults, mediation with families transitioning through divorce, working with couples experiencing problems in their marriage as well as couples who desire to strengthen their relationship.
My passion is helping my clients to live the best life possible by teaching them how to deal with the stress and anxiety of life. We all desire positive, productive relationships that enhance the quality of our lives, however, we often have a difficult time sustaining these relationships. I work with my clients teaching them easy ways to make small changes in their lives which can yield BIG changes in their attitudes and relationships! It doesn't happen overnight, but it does happen. We all have the potential to make positive changes; you can take the first step TODAY!
I specialize in working with issues of anxiety, and depression in adolescents and adults, mediation with families transitioning through divorce, working with couples experiencing problems in their marriage as well as couples who desire to strengthen their relationship.
My passion is helping my clients to live the best life possible by teaching them how to deal with the stress and anxiety of life. We all desire positive, productive relationships that enhance the quality of our lives, however, we often have a difficult time sustaining these relationships. I work with my clients teaching them easy ways to make small changes in their lives which can yield BIG changes in their attitudes and relationships! It doesn't happen overnight, but it does happen. We all have the potential to make positive changes; you can take the first step TODAY!
(334) 203-4019 View (334) 203-4019
Photo of Brandi Hendley Rhodes, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandi Hendley Rhodes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Prattville, AL 36067
I encourage you to take the brave step of reaching out if you are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, anger, grief, self-esteem issues, existential questions, trauma, problems in your relationships, or if you desire to increase your coping skills to meet the many difficulties that come our way in life.
Life brings about many issues that we often want help working through. Irvin Yalom wrote “it’s the relationship that heals," and I aim to build a strong therapeutic alliance with each of my clients in a safe, warm, and empathic environment where we will work together to determine your specific goals for therapy, identify strategies to make your desired changes, heal wounds, increase your coping skills, and improve your overall health.
I encourage you to take the brave step of reaching out if you are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, anger, grief, self-esteem issues, existential questions, trauma, problems in your relationships, or if you desire to increase your coping skills to meet the many difficulties that come our way in life.
Life brings about many issues that we often want help working through. Irvin Yalom wrote “it’s the relationship that heals," and I aim to build a strong therapeutic alliance with each of my clients in a safe, warm, and empathic environment where we will work together to determine your specific goals for therapy, identify strategies to make your desired changes, heal wounds, increase your coping skills, and improve your overall health.
(334) 518-6046 View (334) 518-6046
Photo of Mary R Graydon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary R Graydon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36066
I've developed expertise in helping clients with: navigating relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma resulting from chronic exposure, abuse, or single events, chronic pain, chronic illness, family of origin issues.
I echo these words from Dr. Brené Brown: "When we deny the story, it defines us. When we own the story, we can write a brave new ending." I enjoy working as a team with my clients to create new endings through understanding personal narratives, pin-pointing sources blocking growth, and identifying steps towards achieving desired outcomes. I provide a relatable, empathic, creative, and professional environment. Because each person holds unique qualities and circumstances, I work to holistically understand clients and tailor the counseling experience around clients' specific needs and desires.
I've developed expertise in helping clients with: navigating relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma resulting from chronic exposure, abuse, or single events, chronic pain, chronic illness, family of origin issues.
I echo these words from Dr. Brené Brown: "When we deny the story, it defines us. When we own the story, we can write a brave new ending." I enjoy working as a team with my clients to create new endings through understanding personal narratives, pin-pointing sources blocking growth, and identifying steps towards achieving desired outcomes. I provide a relatable, empathic, creative, and professional environment. Because each person holds unique qualities and circumstances, I work to holistically understand clients and tailor the counseling experience around clients' specific needs and desires.
(334) 468-6413 View (334) 468-6413
Photo of Jason Southall Orrock, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Southall Orrock
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prattville, AL 36066
I specialize in following areas: Couples Counseling, PTSD, Anxiety, Adolescents and Depression.
It is my mission to foster greater self awareness and self care, while improving individuals' ability to love their self and others, ultimately striving to live a fulfilled life. I strive to support the community by providing individual, couples, group and family counseling in Montgomery, AL. I am experienced in working with individuals 18 & up that suffer from: anxiety, anger, blended families, career exploration, couples counseling, depression, family conflict, PTSD, relationships, self-control, sex counseling, sexual orientation, social skills, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, trauma and sports performance in athletics.
I specialize in following areas: Couples Counseling, PTSD, Anxiety, Adolescents and Depression.
It is my mission to foster greater self awareness and self care, while improving individuals' ability to love their self and others, ultimately striving to live a fulfilled life. I strive to support the community by providing individual, couples, group and family counseling in Montgomery, AL. I am experienced in working with individuals 18 & up that suffer from: anxiety, anger, blended families, career exploration, couples counseling, depression, family conflict, PTSD, relationships, self-control, sex counseling, sexual orientation, social skills, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, trauma and sports performance in athletics.
(334) 686-0532 View (334) 686-0532
Photo of Sherika L Thomas-Miller - Holistic Minds, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holistic Minds, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36066
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when faced alone. However, you don't have to endure the toll they take on your mind, body, and spirit alone. Taking proactive steps toward personal growth marks the initial stride toward discovering your purpose and fostering inner transformation. Whether grappling with substance abuse, grief, depression, anxiety, stress, or other mental health issues, Holistic Minds, LLC stands ready to provide comprehensive support. Please note that email is our preferred mode of communication.
Life's challenges can feel overwhelming when faced alone. However, you don't have to endure the toll they take on your mind, body, and spirit alone. Taking proactive steps toward personal growth marks the initial stride toward discovering your purpose and fostering inner transformation. Whether grappling with substance abuse, grief, depression, anxiety, stress, or other mental health issues, Holistic Minds, LLC stands ready to provide comprehensive support. Please note that email is our preferred mode of communication.
(334) 586-5862 View (334) 586-5862
Photo of Laura Glass, MA, ALC, Counselor
Laura Glass
Counselor, MA, ALC
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36066
I work with individuals ranging in age from adolescence to the elderly. I have worked with my clients who have a wide variety of experiences from Anxiety and Depression, Attachment and Boundary issues, Grief, Trauma, Addictions, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. I believe that successful counseling takes the client and the therapist to develop goals that the client feels are best for them and work together to achieve the client's desired change. My goal as a counselor is to help my clients heal emotionally and to grow in learning more about themselves mentally and emotionally.
I work with individuals ranging in age from adolescence to the elderly. I have worked with my clients who have a wide variety of experiences from Anxiety and Depression, Attachment and Boundary issues, Grief, Trauma, Addictions, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. I believe that successful counseling takes the client and the therapist to develop goals that the client feels are best for them and work together to achieve the client's desired change. My goal as a counselor is to help my clients heal emotionally and to grow in learning more about themselves mentally and emotionally.
(334) 586-5910 View (334) 586-5910
Photo of Ilene D Holcombe - Individualized Pursuance of Hope, LLC, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Individualized Pursuance of Hope, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36066
I believe in a mantra of "Always Keep It Moving", never let anything or anyone stop you from achieving your goals/dreams. There may be some delays or setbacks and that doesn't mean you have to quit. Use those times to reorganize and restrategize. "Where there is life there is always hope." I provide counseling to individuals with various issues that include Stress, Anger, Self-Esteem, Depression, Anxiety, Life Skills, Communication, Crisis Intervention and whatever is unique for the individual.
I believe in a mantra of "Always Keep It Moving", never let anything or anyone stop you from achieving your goals/dreams. There may be some delays or setbacks and that doesn't mean you have to quit. Use those times to reorganize and restrategize. "Where there is life there is always hope." I provide counseling to individuals with various issues that include Stress, Anger, Self-Esteem, Depression, Anxiety, Life Skills, Communication, Crisis Intervention and whatever is unique for the individual.
(334) 398-6297 View (334) 398-6297
Photo of Dr. Tammie McCurry, LMFT, LCPC, HS-BCP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Tammie McCurry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC, HS-BCP
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36067
Specializing in the areas of anxiety; depression; trauma; self-esteem; relationship challenges; stress management; and anger management, I use the treatment approach that best fits you.
I believe that life is a journey and there are times when we all need a little assistance to manage the "ships" in our life. I am committed to helping you maneuver your "ships"-ownership (personal development); relationship (marriage or significant other); kinship (family dynamics); leadership (professional development); friendship (platonic dynamics); and stewardship (finances). With over 20 years of mental health counseling; substance use counseling; and marriage and family therapy experience, I utilize a holistic and person-centered approach to help you navigate the challenges of life.
Specializing in the areas of anxiety; depression; trauma; self-esteem; relationship challenges; stress management; and anger management, I use the treatment approach that best fits you.
I believe that life is a journey and there are times when we all need a little assistance to manage the "ships" in our life. I am committed to helping you maneuver your "ships"-ownership (personal development); relationship (marriage or significant other); kinship (family dynamics); leadership (professional development); friendship (platonic dynamics); and stewardship (finances). With over 20 years of mental health counseling; substance use counseling; and marriage and family therapy experience, I utilize a holistic and person-centered approach to help you navigate the challenges of life.
(334) 258-1717 View (334) 258-1717
Photo of Angelia Clausell Davis, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angelia Clausell Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prattville, AL 36068  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing therapy for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress-related issues.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking help for their mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship issues. They are motivated to work on their issues and are open to exploring new coping strategies and treatment options. Their needs revolve around feeling supported, validated, and understood in a nonjudgmental and safe environment. They are looking for guidance and direction to navigate through their struggles and make positive changes in their life. Their goals may include improving their self-esteem, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and creating more fulfilling relationships.
I specialize in providing therapy for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress-related issues.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking help for their mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship issues. They are motivated to work on their issues and are open to exploring new coping strategies and treatment options. Their needs revolve around feeling supported, validated, and understood in a nonjudgmental and safe environment. They are looking for guidance and direction to navigate through their struggles and make positive changes in their life. Their goals may include improving their self-esteem, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and creating more fulfilling relationships.
(251) 250-0851 View (251) 250-0851
Photo of Family Center - Family Guidance Center of Alabama, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Family Guidance Center of Alabama
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prattville, AL 36067
There comes a time in all of our lives when there is great benefit in reaching out to someone trained and dedicated to helping us understand ourselves. Our professional therapists work toward the achievement of agreed-upon goals within the counseling process. Counseling focuses on problem areas such as marriage, parent-child relationships, child/adolescent adjustment, step-family relationships, single parenting, divorce adjustment and adult life adjustment.
There comes a time in all of our lives when there is great benefit in reaching out to someone trained and dedicated to helping us understand ourselves. Our professional therapists work toward the achievement of agreed-upon goals within the counseling process. Counseling focuses on problem areas such as marriage, parent-child relationships, child/adolescent adjustment, step-family relationships, single parenting, divorce adjustment and adult life adjustment.
(334) 518-3144 View (334) 518-3144
Photo of Michael Thornton, MS, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Thornton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Prattville, AL 36068
Are you having trouble with your child? Let's talk about it. I am a licensed professional counselor who has spent over 20 years working with kids and adolescents in various settings, and I have authored a book to help mental health professionals, educators, and youth workers assist children and adolescents with relevant issues.
Are you having trouble with your child? Let's talk about it. I am a licensed professional counselor who has spent over 20 years working with kids and adolescents in various settings, and I have authored a book to help mental health professionals, educators, and youth workers assist children and adolescents with relevant issues.
(334) 234-2150 View (334) 234-2150
1

See more therapy options for Prattville

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.