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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Camea Ursula Peca, PhD, MSc, GradDip, CFTP, CCTSI
Camea Ursula Peca
PhD, MSc, GradDip, CFTP, CCTSI
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85379
My practice is rooted in compassion, kindness, growth, creativity. I will present you with a customized plan based on my years of training and experience that will meet you where you are at and push you into the future. I am open to working will all ages and stages and have experience from birth to 75! I look at each person as an individual and enjoy supporting and being of service to anyone that is looking to be the best version of themselves! I specialize in healing the brain and body of trauma and taking control back from fear!
My practice is rooted in compassion, kindness, growth, creativity. I will present you with a customized plan based on my years of training and experience that will meet you where you are at and push you into the future. I am open to working will all ages and stages and have experience from birth to 75! I look at each person as an individual and enjoy supporting and being of service to anyone that is looking to be the best version of themselves! I specialize in healing the brain and body of trauma and taking control back from fear!
(602) 962-1621 View (602) 962-1621

Online Therapists

Photo of Aleesha Gosal, LMSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aleesha Gosal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Aleesha has served a diverse population(s) including those living with Autism, trauma, abuse/neglect, depression, self esteem issues, grief, anger, emotional dysregulation, ADHD, impulsive behaviours, social/emotional struggles, transitions, parent/family dynamics.
Aleesha is a neuro affirming therapist who works with children between 3-13 years of age. Aleesha works to create a therapeutic environment that is inclusive and supports individuals in understanding and embracing their identities while also addressing difficulities and challenges that may arise. Aleesha tailors the interventions and strategies used throughout her sessions to meet the specific needs and strenghts of your child. Her continued training and supervision in play therapy and EMDR afford her the opportunity to create an environment that fosters a sense of self acceptance, self adovcacy, and well being.
Aleesha has served a diverse population(s) including those living with Autism, trauma, abuse/neglect, depression, self esteem issues, grief, anger, emotional dysregulation, ADHD, impulsive behaviours, social/emotional struggles, transitions, parent/family dynamics.
Aleesha is a neuro affirming therapist who works with children between 3-13 years of age. Aleesha works to create a therapeutic environment that is inclusive and supports individuals in understanding and embracing their identities while also addressing difficulities and challenges that may arise. Aleesha tailors the interventions and strategies used throughout her sessions to meet the specific needs and strenghts of your child. Her continued training and supervision in play therapy and EMDR afford her the opportunity to create an environment that fosters a sense of self acceptance, self adovcacy, and well being.
(623) 232-0886 View (623) 232-0886
Photo of Brooke Lavarias, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brooke Lavarias
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Maricopa, AZ 85138  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions or adjustments? Maybe you are struggling as a parent or have a child with behavioral concerns? Do you have a teenager who could benefit from developing healthy communication, building self-esteem, and addressing the unique challenges of adolescence. No matter your struggle, we'll work collaboratively to explore strengths, address challenges, and create a roadmap to a more fulfilling life. You are not alone on this beautiful yet sometimes challenging journey. Taking the vulnerable step to find support can come with relief, self-awareness, healing, and growth.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions or adjustments? Maybe you are struggling as a parent or have a child with behavioral concerns? Do you have a teenager who could benefit from developing healthy communication, building self-esteem, and addressing the unique challenges of adolescence. No matter your struggle, we'll work collaboratively to explore strengths, address challenges, and create a roadmap to a more fulfilling life. You are not alone on this beautiful yet sometimes challenging journey. Taking the vulnerable step to find support can come with relief, self-awareness, healing, and growth.
(480) 405-7725 View (480) 405-7725
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
Photo of Erica Sims - Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions, MAPC, LPC, CCTP, CAGSSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC, CCTP, CAGSSAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Our clinicians specialize in the treatment of a wide array of issues such as the effects of trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, family conflict, life/career changes and much more.
At Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions we believe whole people connecting with one another enhances the well-being of the family and the community. Similarly, people living and working together as whole communities will make the world better for all of us. Additionally, we all need places where we can speak without fear of judgement or rejection. When these needs are met, barriers to growth and well being can be removed. Our goal is to provide an environment that fosters the kind of individual growth that comes from intentional change by promoting health, healing and restoration.
Our clinicians specialize in the treatment of a wide array of issues such as the effects of trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, family conflict, life/career changes and much more.
At Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions we believe whole people connecting with one another enhances the well-being of the family and the community. Similarly, people living and working together as whole communities will make the world better for all of us. Additionally, we all need places where we can speak without fear of judgement or rejection. When these needs are met, barriers to growth and well being can be removed. Our goal is to provide an environment that fosters the kind of individual growth that comes from intentional change by promoting health, healing and restoration.
(602) 598-5373 View (602) 598-5373
Photo of Alexandra Trusty, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Alexandra Trusty
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85041
I believe that we all have the capacity for healing within ourselves. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and caregivers. My goal is to instill hope and healing for clients presenting with concerns related to post-traumatic stress, attachment, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, disruptive behaviors, social skills, parenting, and/or relational distress.
I believe that we all have the capacity for healing within ourselves. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and caregivers. My goal is to instill hope and healing for clients presenting with concerns related to post-traumatic stress, attachment, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, disruptive behaviors, social skills, parenting, and/or relational distress.
(480) 637-3413 View (480) 637-3413
McGady & Associates Psychological Services, PLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85302
McGady and Associates Psychological Services (MAAPS) provides a variety of clinical, forensic, consultation, supervision, and training services to the greater phoenix area. Clinical services include individual, couples', and family psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults to address a wide array of issues including depression, anxiety, parenting issues, anger issues, trauma and more. Psychological evaluations are another service provided by MAAPS to assist with diagnostic clarification and treatment planning. The types of evaluations offered include comprehensive, autism diagnostic and psychosexual evaluations.
McGady and Associates Psychological Services (MAAPS) provides a variety of clinical, forensic, consultation, supervision, and training services to the greater phoenix area. Clinical services include individual, couples', and family psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults to address a wide array of issues including depression, anxiety, parenting issues, anger issues, trauma and more. Psychological evaluations are another service provided by MAAPS to assist with diagnostic clarification and treatment planning. The types of evaluations offered include comprehensive, autism diagnostic and psychosexual evaluations.
(602) 456-4817 View (602) 456-4817
Photo of Stacy Gerson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacy Gerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
I have assisted a wide range of people with: acquiring positive coping skills, working through anxiety, depression, unstable mood, problems at home and/or school/work, with/around others, relationships with others, self esteem, and adjustment issues.
I am Accepting New Clients for both In-Person & Telehealth appointments. I am ready and willing to provide a safe space, to help you and/or your loved one face and take on any life stressors or challenges. This can include issues contributing to anxiety, depression, relational problems, trauma, unhealthy coping skills, self-esteem issues, stress and much more. Services are offered for Couples, families, teens, young adults, and adults. I’d be happy to answer any questions/ concerns- Please reach out!
I have assisted a wide range of people with: acquiring positive coping skills, working through anxiety, depression, unstable mood, problems at home and/or school/work, with/around others, relationships with others, self esteem, and adjustment issues.
I am Accepting New Clients for both In-Person & Telehealth appointments. I am ready and willing to provide a safe space, to help you and/or your loved one face and take on any life stressors or challenges. This can include issues contributing to anxiety, depression, relational problems, trauma, unhealthy coping skills, self-esteem issues, stress and much more. Services are offered for Couples, families, teens, young adults, and adults. I’d be happy to answer any questions/ concerns- Please reach out!
(520) 210-5404 View (520) 210-5404
Photo of Tamara Woodard, LCSW, MSW, ADHD-CS, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Woodard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, ADHD-CS, ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85210
Are you the parent who understands that your child needs more than a bandaid approach or a one-size-fits-all solution? Are outbursts, panic attacks, or shutting down preventing your child from truly thriving? Perhaps you are an adult struggling with social anxiety or depression that gets in the way of you living your best life. Tamara provides a customized therapeutic approach that will help with, not only overcoming the immediate challenges of today, but help to make changes that will lead to thriving for the future.
Are you the parent who understands that your child needs more than a bandaid approach or a one-size-fits-all solution? Are outbursts, panic attacks, or shutting down preventing your child from truly thriving? Perhaps you are an adult struggling with social anxiety or depression that gets in the way of you living your best life. Tamara provides a customized therapeutic approach that will help with, not only overcoming the immediate challenges of today, but help to make changes that will lead to thriving for the future.
(480) 608-9130 View (480) 608-9130
Photo of Anita Lindsey, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Lindsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
ACCepting New Clients! Are you struggling with relationships, self love, anxiety, loss of a loved one, depression, suicidal thoughts, or family issues? I have worked with All AGES and their families who have experienced a range of COMPLEX traumas, grief and loss, and coped with developmental disabilities. I have an Attachment and Emotion Focused Approach along with other skills such as Cognitive Behavior Therapist and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I have also helped families and caretakers navigate the emotional complexities of foster care and adoption. Knowledgeable on resources and helping families decide approaches.
ACCepting New Clients! Are you struggling with relationships, self love, anxiety, loss of a loved one, depression, suicidal thoughts, or family issues? I have worked with All AGES and their families who have experienced a range of COMPLEX traumas, grief and loss, and coped with developmental disabilities. I have an Attachment and Emotion Focused Approach along with other skills such as Cognitive Behavior Therapist and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I have also helped families and caretakers navigate the emotional complexities of foster care and adoption. Knowledgeable on resources and helping families decide approaches.
(480) 800-0249 View (480) 800-0249
Photo of Dwayne Kruse -Attainable Family Solutions Llc, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dwayne Kruse -Attainable Family Solutions Llc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Now Hiring for interns! - Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy and Master Certified Life Coaching available for Individual, Couple, Child, and Family Counseling. I offer real solutions for Communication, Anger, Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD. When we stress our reactivity leads to regressive and unhealthy coping behaviors. The mental health field often uses diagnoses to label behavior. You are not your diagnosis. We provide counseling around attachment, communication and various coping skills. Our therapeutic process includes removing or reducing stress and establishing a healthy, constructive coping strategy.
Now Hiring for interns! - Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy and Master Certified Life Coaching available for Individual, Couple, Child, and Family Counseling. I offer real solutions for Communication, Anger, Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD. When we stress our reactivity leads to regressive and unhealthy coping behaviors. The mental health field often uses diagnoses to label behavior. You are not your diagnosis. We provide counseling around attachment, communication and various coping skills. Our therapeutic process includes removing or reducing stress and establishing a healthy, constructive coping strategy.
(520) 678-1115 View (520) 678-1115
Photo of Roxanne Dalpos, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roxanne Dalpos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
I am a licensed psychotherpist in AZ and nationally certified. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of trauma, abuse, neglect, addiction, and personality corrections. In addition, I can provide testing for behavioral, emotional, personality, and psychological concerns. As the clinical director, I coordinate and oversee our groups and IOP (intensive outpatient) programs. My team includes Spanish speaking services and the ability to work with those who have other concerns such as anxiey, bipolar, depression, ADHD, and emotional dysregulation as part of individual, group, IOP counseling.
I am a licensed psychotherpist in AZ and nationally certified. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of trauma, abuse, neglect, addiction, and personality corrections. In addition, I can provide testing for behavioral, emotional, personality, and psychological concerns. As the clinical director, I coordinate and oversee our groups and IOP (intensive outpatient) programs. My team includes Spanish speaking services and the ability to work with those who have other concerns such as anxiey, bipolar, depression, ADHD, and emotional dysregulation as part of individual, group, IOP counseling.
(480) 382-1929 View (480) 382-1929
Photo of Jenny Baumgardner, PhD, Psychologist
Jenny Baumgardner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Goodyear, AZ 85338  (Online Only)
Feeling anxious, depressed or don't know how to cope? You may feel frustrated, but determined to find relief. Using best practices, including teletherapy, you can have confidence in working with me to be happy again! We will work to clear up your problem and return you quickly to your work and hobbies. I often tell new patients, "You're not telling me anything I don't think we can work through". Reach out and find out how I can help you! I want you to thrive and be happy!
Feeling anxious, depressed or don't know how to cope? You may feel frustrated, but determined to find relief. Using best practices, including teletherapy, you can have confidence in working with me to be happy again! We will work to clear up your problem and return you quickly to your work and hobbies. I often tell new patients, "You're not telling me anything I don't think we can work through". Reach out and find out how I can help you! I want you to thrive and be happy!
(832) 305-5996 View (832) 305-5996
Photo of Tamara Woodard, LCSW, ADHD-CS, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Woodard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADHD-CS, ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85210
Tamara has helped 1000+ children, young adults, & couples struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, meltdowns, shutting down, low self-esteem, & symptoms related to ADHD, autism or neurodivergence.
Are you the parent who understands that your child needs more than a bandaid approach or a one-size-fits-all solution? Are outbursts, panic attacks, or shutting down preventing your child from truly thriving? Perhaps you are an adult struggling with social anxiety or depression that gets in the way of you living your best life. Tamara offers diagnostic autism evaluations as well as individual, family, & group counseling for ages 12 months to young adults. She will help with, not only overcoming the immediate challenges of today, but making changes that will lead to thriving for the future.
Tamara has helped 1000+ children, young adults, & couples struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, meltdowns, shutting down, low self-esteem, & symptoms related to ADHD, autism or neurodivergence.
Are you the parent who understands that your child needs more than a bandaid approach or a one-size-fits-all solution? Are outbursts, panic attacks, or shutting down preventing your child from truly thriving? Perhaps you are an adult struggling with social anxiety or depression that gets in the way of you living your best life. Tamara offers diagnostic autism evaluations as well as individual, family, & group counseling for ages 12 months to young adults. She will help with, not only overcoming the immediate challenges of today, but making changes that will lead to thriving for the future.
(928) 371-7829 View (928) 371-7829
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 Daniela Ruiz, MC, LAC, Counselor
Daniela Ruiz
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
I want to inspire others to take action in prioritizing their mental health. As someone who personally struggled with their mental health, I know how hard this journey can be and what it takes to manifest the life that you desire and you are worthy. Healing rarely comes without difficulty and you have taken the first step by searching for a therapist. As a therapist my goal is to help you gain the tools needed to nourish your mind, body and soul. I pride myself in my ability to connect with my clients by providing a safe, relaxing, an judgment free environment that align with growth and healing.
I want to inspire others to take action in prioritizing their mental health. As someone who personally struggled with their mental health, I know how hard this journey can be and what it takes to manifest the life that you desire and you are worthy. Healing rarely comes without difficulty and you have taken the first step by searching for a therapist. As a therapist my goal is to help you gain the tools needed to nourish your mind, body and soul. I pride myself in my ability to connect with my clients by providing a safe, relaxing, an judgment free environment that align with growth and healing.
(480) 660-3331 View (480) 660-3331
Photo of Dr. Karen Ruskin, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Karen Ruskin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
YOU deserve the best! Couple crisis (infidelity, intimacy, sexual, traditional, non-traditional, LS, conflict, communication, trust, deciding-stay or go, parenting, infertility)? As an expert in relational health, I offer a safe space to provide you with the solution-focused help you deserve. Marriage saving? Dating? Divorced? Be your best self? Men's or Women's issues? Young adult? Youth? Stress related body ailments? Anxiety? Trauma? Grief/Loss? Stuck? Hi, I'm Dr. Karen & I get it! I'm a nationally renowned leader in mental and relational wellness providing individual, couple & family counseling for ANY challenge & TV contributor.
YOU deserve the best! Couple crisis (infidelity, intimacy, sexual, traditional, non-traditional, LS, conflict, communication, trust, deciding-stay or go, parenting, infertility)? As an expert in relational health, I offer a safe space to provide you with the solution-focused help you deserve. Marriage saving? Dating? Divorced? Be your best self? Men's or Women's issues? Young adult? Youth? Stress related body ailments? Anxiety? Trauma? Grief/Loss? Stuck? Hi, I'm Dr. Karen & I get it! I'm a nationally renowned leader in mental and relational wellness providing individual, couple & family counseling for ANY challenge & TV contributor.
(781) 241-7837 View (781) 241-7837
Photo of Raman Saini - Aura Psychological Services, PLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Aura Psychological Services, PLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
Aura psychological services was founded with the intention to provide the highest quality mental health treatment to individuals, families, and couples. We are a group practice comprised of skilled and diverse psychologists with extensive and complex educational and training backgrounds and highly qualified to evaluate your concerns and provide effective treatment. We provide therapy and psychological evaluation and testing services, including ADHD testing, to individuals, couples, and family. We work with children (ages 6+), adolescents, and adults. We also accept most major insurances, including Medicare and some AHCCCS plans.
Aura psychological services was founded with the intention to provide the highest quality mental health treatment to individuals, families, and couples. We are a group practice comprised of skilled and diverse psychologists with extensive and complex educational and training backgrounds and highly qualified to evaluate your concerns and provide effective treatment. We provide therapy and psychological evaluation and testing services, including ADHD testing, to individuals, couples, and family. We work with children (ages 6+), adolescents, and adults. We also accept most major insurances, including Medicare and some AHCCCS plans.
(623) 294-3913 View (623) 294-3913
Photo of Julia White, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Sometimes, life presents us with painful experiences that can leave us feeling overwhelmed. These unresolved and unhealed wounds can hinder our ability to move forward and live an empowered life. In therapy, my goal is to provide you with a safe space to examine and remove unhelpful patterns from your past, and allow for transformational healing to occur. I incorporate what I have learned from my experience as a clinician at multiple residential eating disorder treatment centers as well as a residential PTSD/trauma treatment center.
Sometimes, life presents us with painful experiences that can leave us feeling overwhelmed. These unresolved and unhealed wounds can hinder our ability to move forward and live an empowered life. In therapy, my goal is to provide you with a safe space to examine and remove unhelpful patterns from your past, and allow for transformational healing to occur. I incorporate what I have learned from my experience as a clinician at multiple residential eating disorder treatment centers as well as a residential PTSD/trauma treatment center.
(844) 303-6187 View (844) 303-6187
Photo of Julie Reese - Julie Reese, DBH, LCSW, LICSW, DBH, LCSW, LICSW, PHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Reese, DBH, LCSW, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW, LICSW, PHP
Verified Verified
Goodyear, AZ 85395  (Online Only)
If you are struggling as an individual, couple or family, Dr. Reese can absolutely assist. Please reach out if you are struggling with emotional and mental fatigue, worries, frustrations, grief, loneliness, parenting, domestic violence, past childhood abuse and trauma, insomnia, nightmares/terrors, self-confidence, sexual assault, and feelings of hopelessness. If you have a child struggling with behaviors, divorce, emotional dysfunction, bullying, and making friends please call. We all have the capacity to overcome and be resilient and at times, need assistance to see the path ahead. You are a survivor!
If you are struggling as an individual, couple or family, Dr. Reese can absolutely assist. Please reach out if you are struggling with emotional and mental fatigue, worries, frustrations, grief, loneliness, parenting, domestic violence, past childhood abuse and trauma, insomnia, nightmares/terrors, self-confidence, sexual assault, and feelings of hopelessness. If you have a child struggling with behaviors, divorce, emotional dysfunction, bullying, and making friends please call. We all have the capacity to overcome and be resilient and at times, need assistance to see the path ahead. You are a survivor!
(623) 254-7534 View (623) 254-7534

See more therapy options for Wittmann

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.