Photo of Grace Mendoza - Grace for the Journey Counseling, MSc, LAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grace for the Journey Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374
Waitlist for new clients
We are all on a journey of some sort, whether it is one of healing, new beginnings, pleasure, or life transition. Sometimes we encounter storms and obstacles that shake us and may make us feel as if we are lost or maybe incapable of overcoming the storm. These storms may be recognized as anxiety, depression, loss of a loved one, job or home. Creating therapeutic trust and emotional safety are two of my greatest strengths in my practice. We will work with you to create an environment in which you can discover your own truth and authentic self, and increase your capacity to make healthy life choices and find fulfilling relationships.
We are all on a journey of some sort, whether it is one of healing, new beginnings, pleasure, or life transition. Sometimes we encounter storms and obstacles that shake us and may make us feel as if we are lost or maybe incapable of overcoming the storm. These storms may be recognized as anxiety, depression, loss of a loved one, job or home. Creating therapeutic trust and emotional safety are two of my greatest strengths in my practice. We will work with you to create an environment in which you can discover your own truth and authentic self, and increase your capacity to make healthy life choices and find fulfilling relationships.
(520) 231-8398 View (520) 231-8398
Photo of Wendy J Pauluk, PsyD, Psychologist
Wendy J Pauluk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85379  (Online Only)
As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD), I've helped thousands of clients of every age, gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation recapture their lives from bipolar & mood disorders, TBI, anxiety and depression, struggles with domestic & sexual abuse, PTSD, fears, trauma, and coping with situations surrounding death & dying. Having the highest level of medical credential in Psychology and Psychotherapy, you can rely on getting a treatment regime customized for you, whether it's using psychoeducation, gestalt principles, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The force that is derailing your life can be tamed or banished altogether.
As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD), I've helped thousands of clients of every age, gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation recapture their lives from bipolar & mood disorders, TBI, anxiety and depression, struggles with domestic & sexual abuse, PTSD, fears, trauma, and coping with situations surrounding death & dying. Having the highest level of medical credential in Psychology and Psychotherapy, you can rely on getting a treatment regime customized for you, whether it's using psychoeducation, gestalt principles, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The force that is derailing your life can be tamed or banished altogether.
(928) 267-6122 View (928) 267-6122
Photo of Kaitlyn Johnson, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlyn Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85379
As a counselor at Lifeline Professional Counseling, my goal is to equip you to reach yours. I provide a variety of services for all ages, and I enjoy working with individuals and families. I specialize in relationship issues and emotional disturbance. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of family conflicts, couples concerns, relationship issues and personality corrections. I help clients through issues of domestic violence, anger management, anxiety, depression and trauma.
As a counselor at Lifeline Professional Counseling, my goal is to equip you to reach yours. I provide a variety of services for all ages, and I enjoy working with individuals and families. I specialize in relationship issues and emotional disturbance. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of family conflicts, couples concerns, relationship issues and personality corrections. I help clients through issues of domestic violence, anger management, anxiety, depression and trauma.
(480) 725-0722 View (480) 725-0722
Photo of Christina Van Arsdale - Wolfpack Counseling, LLC, CCFC, NCC, LAC
Wolfpack Counseling, LLC
CCFC, NCC, LAC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374
Accepting new clients. All clients deserve a safe, supportive space that encourages acceptance, understanding, and emotional growth. My approach to your therapy is one where we work as a collaborative unit to identify and enact solutions to work through the issues brought to treatment. I have training to assist with your goals and with work you can accomplish your path. This united spirit allows you to make meaningful breakthroughs to improve your life and relationships. Was there trauma in your past that maybe affecting you currently? I use EMDR to assist with your experience. I also use play therapy with children and adolescents.
Accepting new clients. All clients deserve a safe, supportive space that encourages acceptance, understanding, and emotional growth. My approach to your therapy is one where we work as a collaborative unit to identify and enact solutions to work through the issues brought to treatment. I have training to assist with your goals and with work you can accomplish your path. This united spirit allows you to make meaningful breakthroughs to improve your life and relationships. Was there trauma in your past that maybe affecting you currently? I use EMDR to assist with your experience. I also use play therapy with children and adolescents.
(623) 526-8510 View (623) 526-8510
Photo of Ryan Shelby Butler, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryan Shelby Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85374
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), working under the private agency: Becoming Transformed, LLC. I come from a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry, where I was able to apply my unique counseling skills in a diverse community of teaching, accounting/finance, analytics, and guidance for students and school leadership. I spend much of my spare time with family, serving in church leadership, reading/writing, and enjoying the great outdoors.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), working under the private agency: Becoming Transformed, LLC. I come from a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry, where I was able to apply my unique counseling skills in a diverse community of teaching, accounting/finance, analytics, and guidance for students and school leadership. I spend much of my spare time with family, serving in church leadership, reading/writing, and enjoying the great outdoors.
(623) 526-4743 View (623) 526-4743

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of David W Clegg - Alliance Counseling, LLC, EdD, MEd, LPC, LMHC, NBCC, Counselor
Alliance Counseling, LLC
Counselor, EdD, MEd, LPC, LMHC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85383
I counsel adults, couples, teens,& children to address a wide range of challenges: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and parenting.
I invite you to interview me at No Charge by phone. As a WA licensed mental health counselor/AZ licensed professional counselor (master's degree in counseling) I respect clients regardless of their life challenges and recognize them as the one in charge of the counseling. All individuals will have emotional issues at one time or another. I believe those who seek counseling exemplify traits of personal courage & strength. I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques from the cognitive-behavioral & psychoanalytic approaches & address codependency & addiction.
I counsel adults, couples, teens,& children to address a wide range of challenges: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and parenting.
I invite you to interview me at No Charge by phone. As a WA licensed mental health counselor/AZ licensed professional counselor (master's degree in counseling) I respect clients regardless of their life challenges and recognize them as the one in charge of the counseling. All individuals will have emotional issues at one time or another. I believe those who seek counseling exemplify traits of personal courage & strength. I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques from the cognitive-behavioral & psychoanalytic approaches & address codependency & addiction.
(360) 215-5143 View (360) 215-5143

Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa Lavella, PsyD, BC-TMH, Psychologist
Lisa Lavella
Psychologist, PsyD, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255  (Online Only)
Welcome to EMPOWER YOU EXPERTS! I have 30 years of diverse experience, and hold Clinical Psychologist Licenses in Arizona and Illinois. My focus is to guide you towards becoming unstuck and creating positive changes in your life, such as alleviating anxiety and depression, reducing stress, restoring love and family relationships, healing past and present wounds, and transforming anger into positive, constructive emotions and actions. I offer a FREE phone consultation prior to your first appointment and a Sliding Fee Scale.
Welcome to EMPOWER YOU EXPERTS! I have 30 years of diverse experience, and hold Clinical Psychologist Licenses in Arizona and Illinois. My focus is to guide you towards becoming unstuck and creating positive changes in your life, such as alleviating anxiety and depression, reducing stress, restoring love and family relationships, healing past and present wounds, and transforming anger into positive, constructive emotions and actions. I offer a FREE phone consultation prior to your first appointment and a Sliding Fee Scale.
(480) 848-4411 View (480) 848-4411
Photo of Alyssa Mandel, LCSW, MSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Mandel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
We have a comprehensive practice that includes: Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, Alcohol Abuse, Marriage/Couples Counseling, Family Therapy, Adolescent Issues and more.
I am the founder and Director of The Mandel Center of Arizona and have created an environment to promote psychotherapeutic healing to people in need. My philosophy centers on empowering clients through the therapeutic relationship. I feel that by working with patients from a non-judgmental perspective, fostering a comfortable and trusting environment and "being where the client is", the time spent in treatment is made more productive for all involved. I provide a safe environment that promotes personal growth using proven therapeutic techniques and over 25+ years of experience.
We have a comprehensive practice that includes: Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, Alcohol Abuse, Marriage/Couples Counseling, Family Therapy, Adolescent Issues and more.
I am the founder and Director of The Mandel Center of Arizona and have created an environment to promote psychotherapeutic healing to people in need. My philosophy centers on empowering clients through the therapeutic relationship. I feel that by working with patients from a non-judgmental perspective, fostering a comfortable and trusting environment and "being where the client is", the time spent in treatment is made more productive for all involved. I provide a safe environment that promotes personal growth using proven therapeutic techniques and over 25+ years of experience.
(520) 549-3063 View (520) 549-3063
Photo of Molly Mahoney, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Mahoney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
I am Independently licensed and have 20 yrs of experience treating individuals who may be struggling with the following: depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, substance use, life transitions and relationship struggles.
Making the decision to begin therapy is not an easy one, but the therapeutic process can help you to understand the reason for your symptoms and behaviors, and assist you in making desired changes. My perspective is strength based and together we can work to identify obstacles, which may be getting in the way of achieving your goals. My approach is warm, respectful and empathetic. I am committed to best practices and am trained in EMDR and ERP. Incorporating various treatment modalities, I offer individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults, and am trained in couples and family therapy.
I am Independently licensed and have 20 yrs of experience treating individuals who may be struggling with the following: depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, substance use, life transitions and relationship struggles.
Making the decision to begin therapy is not an easy one, but the therapeutic process can help you to understand the reason for your symptoms and behaviors, and assist you in making desired changes. My perspective is strength based and together we can work to identify obstacles, which may be getting in the way of achieving your goals. My approach is warm, respectful and empathetic. I am committed to best practices and am trained in EMDR and ERP. Incorporating various treatment modalities, I offer individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults, and am trained in couples and family therapy.
(480) 800-8121 View (480) 800-8121
Photo of Pattie Freeman, BCHT, CI, MST
Pattie Freeman
BCHT, CI, MST
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Anxiety, Self Confidence, Stress and Depression.
Working with clients on all types of issues ends in such positive results. My services are a private one-on-one in office/phone sessions. Ask about Groups for those needing interaction. Each session is customized to that individual with the recording of that session. I help them get results and let them take control of their life once again. Many of my clients come back for other sessions which includes stop smoking, weight-loss, anxiety, Lap Band Weight loss, dating/relationship issues, women and mens issues, sports and more.
Anxiety, Self Confidence, Stress and Depression.
Working with clients on all types of issues ends in such positive results. My services are a private one-on-one in office/phone sessions. Ask about Groups for those needing interaction. Each session is customized to that individual with the recording of that session. I help them get results and let them take control of their life once again. Many of my clients come back for other sessions which includes stop smoking, weight-loss, anxiety, Lap Band Weight loss, dating/relationship issues, women and mens issues, sports and more.
(602) 497-4889 View (602) 497-4889
Photo of Ralph Earle - PCS- Psychological Counseling Services, PhD, LMFT, CSAT, Psychologist
PCS- Psychological Counseling Services
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
PCS has over 40 years of experience offering outpatient psychological care. We have more than 25 therapists to provide individual, marriage, family, and group counseling. We help people with depression, anxiety, sex addiction and other compulsive disorders among other life issues. Search and learn about our clinical therapists by visiting our website www.pcsearle.com. And feel free to call and speak to any of our friendly schedulers about appointment scheduling and fees.
PCS has over 40 years of experience offering outpatient psychological care. We have more than 25 therapists to provide individual, marriage, family, and group counseling. We help people with depression, anxiety, sex addiction and other compulsive disorders among other life issues. Search and learn about our clinical therapists by visiting our website www.pcsearle.com. And feel free to call and speak to any of our friendly schedulers about appointment scheduling and fees.
(480) 470-8285 View (480) 470-8285
Photo of Lorrie Henderson - Scottsdale Wellness and Integrated Care, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scottsdale Wellness and Integrated Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Everyone experiences difficulties at some point in their life. There are times when some help coping and overcoming these challenges is just what is needed. Whether it is difficult relationships, feeling depressed or anxious, a health issue, assistance with a specific mental health issue that is negatively affecting your life or just adjusting to the many challenges everyone faces, we are here to help. We utilize evidenced-based and best practices to get the most desirable results possible. We maintain the utmost privacy and confidentiality.
Everyone experiences difficulties at some point in their life. There are times when some help coping and overcoming these challenges is just what is needed. Whether it is difficult relationships, feeling depressed or anxious, a health issue, assistance with a specific mental health issue that is negatively affecting your life or just adjusting to the many challenges everyone faces, we are here to help. We utilize evidenced-based and best practices to get the most desirable results possible. We maintain the utmost privacy and confidentiality.
(602) 704-5608 View (602) 704-5608
Photo of D.j. Diebold, CAC, LISAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
D.j. Diebold
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CAC, LISAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I specialize in addictions, being half street and half academia, including depression, anxiety, trauma and relationships.
I consider myself to be half street and half academia. And I always ask the question, Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Addiction is like a deep, dark hole that seemingly has no way out. This is my specialty and I am very skilled at it. I consider myself half "Street" and half academia. Please go to www.dieboldbehavioralcounseling.com for a more detailed biography. The healing begins with a phone call. It can be scary after we've been hurt and lost, but the way back home is always worth the effort. I'm always amazed at the courage of my clients.
I specialize in addictions, being half street and half academia, including depression, anxiety, trauma and relationships.
I consider myself to be half street and half academia. And I always ask the question, Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Addiction is like a deep, dark hole that seemingly has no way out. This is my specialty and I am very skilled at it. I consider myself half "Street" and half academia. Please go to www.dieboldbehavioralcounseling.com for a more detailed biography. The healing begins with a phone call. It can be scary after we've been hurt and lost, but the way back home is always worth the effort. I'm always amazed at the courage of my clients.
(480) 646-4697 View (480) 646-4697
Photo of Joleena Abrams, CCTAS, CBTC, CMEMI, MA
Joleena Abrams
CCTAS, CBTC, CMEMI, MA
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018  (Online Only)
Joleena is Certified in the Treatment of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Joleena is Certified in the Treatment of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(520) 652-1674 View (520) 652-1674
Photo of Paul Ryan Burton, MS, LAC, Counselor
Paul Ryan Burton
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Tired of carrying around your anxiety and depression every day? Does it feel like you’re wearing a full backpack all the time? Do work and relationships add to your life or just use up your energy? If you’re tired of life feeling heavy, I can help you with that. There is a reason for the way you feel, and we will uncover and resolve that reason. Gaining new information that allows manageable change in our lives lightens our daily burden and improves relationships, work, and life. Are you ready to take off that backpack and live less seriously and more freely? If so, I hope you'll email me.
Tired of carrying around your anxiety and depression every day? Does it feel like you’re wearing a full backpack all the time? Do work and relationships add to your life or just use up your energy? If you’re tired of life feeling heavy, I can help you with that. There is a reason for the way you feel, and we will uncover and resolve that reason. Gaining new information that allows manageable change in our lives lightens our daily burden and improves relationships, work, and life. Are you ready to take off that backpack and live less seriously and more freely? If so, I hope you'll email me.
(480) 729-5975 View (480) 729-5975
Family Strategies Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85210
We provide a variety of specialties at our agency among our 24 therapists. Programming for pornography and sexual addiction (adults, couples and teens), betrayal trauma, marriage therapy, parenting, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, suicide prevention, trauma, self-harm and other mental health concerns. We treat children, youth and adults. Our counselors have specialized training and expertise in their specific areas of emphasis. We also work closely with HOPE foundation to help clients who need financial support for therapeutic services.
We provide a variety of specialties at our agency among our 24 therapists. Programming for pornography and sexual addiction (adults, couples and teens), betrayal trauma, marriage therapy, parenting, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, suicide prevention, trauma, self-harm and other mental health concerns. We treat children, youth and adults. Our counselors have specialized training and expertise in their specific areas of emphasis. We also work closely with HOPE foundation to help clients who need financial support for therapeutic services.
(480) 666-9041 View (480) 666-9041
Photo of David Abrams - Life Works AZ, PLLC, MAPC, LPC, CAGS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Life Works AZ, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC, CAGS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I work with CHILDREN,TEENS, FAMILIES, ADULTS to create change in these areas: depression, anxiety, unhealthy- behaviors, self-esteem, ,anger, motivation in school, and more. I am passionate about my work. I love working with: adults, adolescents, couples,and families .I am able to connect with tots to teens to adults. Kids quickly feel safe and comfortable and parents feel encouraged with great results. I work with ADULTS: to effectively alleviate depressive and anxious moods, and learn to cope with grief, loss, and difficult and painful life situations. I work teaching skills to manage stress, create health and happiness in your life.
I work with CHILDREN,TEENS, FAMILIES, ADULTS to create change in these areas: depression, anxiety, unhealthy- behaviors, self-esteem, ,anger, motivation in school, and more. I am passionate about my work. I love working with: adults, adolescents, couples,and families .I am able to connect with tots to teens to adults. Kids quickly feel safe and comfortable and parents feel encouraged with great results. I work with ADULTS: to effectively alleviate depressive and anxious moods, and learn to cope with grief, loss, and difficult and painful life situations. I work teaching skills to manage stress, create health and happiness in your life.
(480) 409-2459 View (480) 409-2459
Photo of Dr. Randi Gray, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Randi Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
I strongly believe that everyone has the ability to mend and heal the broken parts of their soul and find peace, happiness and contentment. I have experienced the power and effectiveness of embarking on the journey of healing through counseling and felt the positive influences in my own life. I assist others in overcoming depression, anxiety, addiction, broken relationships, past traumatic experiences, loss and low self-esteem. I have the privilege of walking the path of healing with my clients allowing them to become strong, resilient, happy and healthy individuals who enjoy life and all that it has to offer.
I strongly believe that everyone has the ability to mend and heal the broken parts of their soul and find peace, happiness and contentment. I have experienced the power and effectiveness of embarking on the journey of healing through counseling and felt the positive influences in my own life. I assist others in overcoming depression, anxiety, addiction, broken relationships, past traumatic experiences, loss and low self-esteem. I have the privilege of walking the path of healing with my clients allowing them to become strong, resilient, happy and healthy individuals who enjoy life and all that it has to offer.
(480) 568-1134 View (480) 568-1134
Photo of Scott Fuller, LPC Intern
Scott Fuller
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
Among the areas that I have experience with are anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and PTSD.
It is no secret that life is unpredictable. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude for taking the first step toward discovering yourself and developing your potential. In addition to fostering a personalized approach to healing and growth, I am passionate about the mind-body connection. As a counselor, I strive to help others realize their potential and find hope in life.  The goal of my practice as a person-centered therapist is to create a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment. It is my pleasure to support you whether it pertains to depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, spirituality, sex life, or self-esteem.
Among the areas that I have experience with are anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and PTSD.
It is no secret that life is unpredictable. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude for taking the first step toward discovering yourself and developing your potential. In addition to fostering a personalized approach to healing and growth, I am passionate about the mind-body connection. As a counselor, I strive to help others realize their potential and find hope in life.  The goal of my practice as a person-centered therapist is to create a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment. It is my pleasure to support you whether it pertains to depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, spirituality, sex life, or self-esteem.
(480) 906-4687 View (480) 906-4687
Photo of Shawn Foltz Emmons, PhD, Psychologist
Shawn Foltz Emmons
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I enjoy doing all types of therapy for all different issues to include depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use and abuse, health and wellness, grief, trauma, parental alienation, developmental challenges, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, codependency, work stress and relationship conflict. I work with people to identify treatment goals and create a treatment regimen that fits their needs which includes psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, behavior modification, interpersonal therapy, sport psychology and coaching.
I enjoy doing all types of therapy for all different issues to include depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use and abuse, health and wellness, grief, trauma, parental alienation, developmental challenges, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, codependency, work stress and relationship conflict. I work with people to identify treatment goals and create a treatment regimen that fits their needs which includes psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, behavior modification, interpersonal therapy, sport psychology and coaching.
(480) 207-3432 View (480) 207-3432
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.