Depression Therapists in Fort Collins, CO

Photo of Kaylen Compton, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaylen Compton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Kaylen is particularly passionate about addressing anxiety, depression, and gender identity issues.
Kaylen Compton, an empathetic and culturally sensitive Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) at LifeStance Health, provides therapeutic support to clients in Colorado. Understanding that each individual comes from a unique cultural background, Kaylen meets clients where they are, recognizing the significant influence of culture on one's worldview. She sees herself as walking alongside her clients through life's journey, offering compassion and empathy while forming a supportive relationship. Once this relationship is established, she encourages her clients to strive for their best selves, becoming their biggest cheerleader.
Kaylen is particularly passionate about addressing anxiety, depression, and gender identity issues.
Kaylen Compton, an empathetic and culturally sensitive Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) at LifeStance Health, provides therapeutic support to clients in Colorado. Understanding that each individual comes from a unique cultural background, Kaylen meets clients where they are, recognizing the significant influence of culture on one's worldview. She sees herself as walking alongside her clients through life's journey, offering compassion and empathy while forming a supportive relationship. Once this relationship is established, she encourages her clients to strive for their best selves, becoming their biggest cheerleader.
(970) 469-9709 View (970) 469-9709
Photo of Ashley Nielsen, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Nielsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, depression, self esteem, relationship issues, life transitions, and trauma.
I believe that every person deserves to live a fulfilling and authentic life. I strive to create a safe, warm, and compassionate environment for clients to share their unique stories, current struggles, and future aspirations. With a trauma-informed lens, I use a holistic and eclectic approach, mindfulness-based techniques, and attachment theory to help my clients explore their stories at their own pace and create the future they want. I utilize person-centered and strengths-based modalities, as well as EMDR, to help empower my clients to take steps to transform their lives in positive and long-lasting ways.
I specialize in working with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, depression, self esteem, relationship issues, life transitions, and trauma.
I believe that every person deserves to live a fulfilling and authentic life. I strive to create a safe, warm, and compassionate environment for clients to share their unique stories, current struggles, and future aspirations. With a trauma-informed lens, I use a holistic and eclectic approach, mindfulness-based techniques, and attachment theory to help my clients explore their stories at their own pace and create the future they want. I utilize person-centered and strengths-based modalities, as well as EMDR, to help empower my clients to take steps to transform their lives in positive and long-lasting ways.
(970) 289-4964 View (970) 289-4964
Photo of Kaitlyn Lomartire, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlyn Lomartire
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I specialize in working with folks who have experienced sexual and interpersonal/relationship trauma (i.e., domestic violence, complex trauma) and who are interested in engaging in deeper work to feel liberated from the impact of these experiences and pursue a more empowered sense of self. I also work with folks who are struggling with depression, anxiety, attachment and relational issues, and chronic illness. I work to help clients realize their own autonomy in their healing process and reclaim their own innate strengths and power.
I specialize in working with folks who have experienced sexual and interpersonal/relationship trauma (i.e., domestic violence, complex trauma) and who are interested in engaging in deeper work to feel liberated from the impact of these experiences and pursue a more empowered sense of self. I also work with folks who are struggling with depression, anxiety, attachment and relational issues, and chronic illness. I work to help clients realize their own autonomy in their healing process and reclaim their own innate strengths and power.
(970) 714-3497 View (970) 714-3497
Photo of Annie M May - Cope Counseling and Consulting, LLC, MS, LPC, EMDR, KAP-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cope Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, KAP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80521  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and relationships.
Cope Counseling and Consulting, LLC was founded in 2023 with a mission of reducing barriers and increasing accessibility for all. We do this by accepting private and public insurance and providing sliding scale fees to keep therapy affordable. We are a telehealth-based company to help expand our reach. Additionally, I am a multiracial therapist serving all communities and people in Colorado.
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and relationships.
Cope Counseling and Consulting, LLC was founded in 2023 with a mission of reducing barriers and increasing accessibility for all. We do this by accepting private and public insurance and providing sliding scale fees to keep therapy affordable. We are a telehealth-based company to help expand our reach. Additionally, I am a multiracial therapist serving all communities and people in Colorado.
(720) 707-3917 View (720) 707-3917
Photo of Nicholas Moon
Nicholas Moon
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addictions are heavy weights to carry.
“I can’t calm my mind down and my thoughts keep spinning.” “I’m broken, I’ll never be fixed.” “I feel so alone.” Change can feel daunting, but I'm here to help. I employ a solutions-focused approach that incorporates understanding, growth, and collaboration. If you want to make some meaningful change and aren’t sure how to begin, I encourage you to reach out and see if we’d be a good fit. I’d be happy to help lighten the load for you.
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addictions are heavy weights to carry.
“I can’t calm my mind down and my thoughts keep spinning.” “I’m broken, I’ll never be fixed.” “I feel so alone.” Change can feel daunting, but I'm here to help. I employ a solutions-focused approach that incorporates understanding, growth, and collaboration. If you want to make some meaningful change and aren’t sure how to begin, I encourage you to reach out and see if we’d be a good fit. I’d be happy to help lighten the load for you.
(970) 442-5612 View (970) 442-5612
Photo of Dr. Diana M Houghton - Houghton Somatic Practice, PhD, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Houghton Somatic Practice
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80528  (Online Only)
I approach my clients from where they are coming from and what their needs are. While my specialty is trauma, depression, and anxiety, I hold a safe space for any needs. Together we will work to integrate what brings you into therapy. I believe diversity is a strength. Being Latina has helped me see this first hand. I use a multicultural point of view with an intercultural understanding. My pronouns are she/her, I am cishet, and I believe in respect for all people.
I approach my clients from where they are coming from and what their needs are. While my specialty is trauma, depression, and anxiety, I hold a safe space for any needs. Together we will work to integrate what brings you into therapy. I believe diversity is a strength. Being Latina has helped me see this first hand. I use a multicultural point of view with an intercultural understanding. My pronouns are she/her, I am cishet, and I believe in respect for all people.
(970) 616-6737 View (970) 616-6737
Photo of John R. Fishbein, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
John R. Fishbein
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80528
For immediate help with couples communication difficulties, unsatisfactory intimacy, depression, anxiety, etc. please refer to my web site, www.johnfishbein.com, where you will find all 300-pages of a book I wrote, entitled Emotional First-Aid. There you will read about the principles and methods I use in helping individuals and couples rapidly and successfully accomplish their goals and solve their problems, usually within 1 to 12 sessions. This is accomplished by, 1) determining the goal, 2) developing a plan, and 3) providing the principles, practices, encouragement, and follow-up necessary for success.
For immediate help with couples communication difficulties, unsatisfactory intimacy, depression, anxiety, etc. please refer to my web site, www.johnfishbein.com, where you will find all 300-pages of a book I wrote, entitled Emotional First-Aid. There you will read about the principles and methods I use in helping individuals and couples rapidly and successfully accomplish their goals and solve their problems, usually within 1 to 12 sessions. This is accomplished by, 1) determining the goal, 2) developing a plan, and 3) providing the principles, practices, encouragement, and follow-up necessary for success.
(408) 676-9987 View (408) 676-9987
Photo of Margaret Johnson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Maggie works with adult individuals, and couples, on a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, identity, relationships, trauma, abuse, grief, and sexual assault.
When you meet with Maggie, you'll be welcomed into a safe space where there's no judgement. You'll feel comfortable to be honest with yourself, validated, and encouraged to set aside defenses and build insight into coping mechanisms or patterns that my no longer be working for you. Working with Maggie, you will be supported as you make choices about how to overcome the challenges you're facing. She believes we all heal through authentic connection and will model a safe and growth-enhancing relationship. At the end of your work together, you'll feel like you've truly been seen and heard.
Maggie works with adult individuals, and couples, on a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, identity, relationships, trauma, abuse, grief, and sexual assault.
When you meet with Maggie, you'll be welcomed into a safe space where there's no judgement. You'll feel comfortable to be honest with yourself, validated, and encouraged to set aside defenses and build insight into coping mechanisms or patterns that my no longer be working for you. Working with Maggie, you will be supported as you make choices about how to overcome the challenges you're facing. She believes we all heal through authentic connection and will model a safe and growth-enhancing relationship. At the end of your work together, you'll feel like you've truly been seen and heard.
(970) 579-3512 View (970) 579-3512
Photo of Kelly Sonnenfeld, PhD, Psychologist
Kelly Sonnenfeld
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I help people who have tried lots of things to feel better, but are still having trouble making changes. If you struggle with any of the following, I can help: feeling like your emotions overwhelm you, frequent ups and downs in your relationships, problems with anger, addictive or compulsive behavior, self-harm, feelings of hopelessness or depression, and the after-effects of trauma. These struggles do not have to be a part of your life forever. I provide compassionate and effective therapy that will help you learn new skills and launch you in the direction you want to be moving.
I help people who have tried lots of things to feel better, but are still having trouble making changes. If you struggle with any of the following, I can help: feeling like your emotions overwhelm you, frequent ups and downs in your relationships, problems with anger, addictive or compulsive behavior, self-harm, feelings of hopelessness or depression, and the after-effects of trauma. These struggles do not have to be a part of your life forever. I provide compassionate and effective therapy that will help you learn new skills and launch you in the direction you want to be moving.
(970) 672-1942 View (970) 672-1942
Photo of Haley Ford, PhD, Psychologist
Haley Ford
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80524
I am a clinical psychologist with expertise in treating PTSD, anxiety, depression, challenges related to emerging adulthood, & questions about your identity (e.
If you are struggling with difficult emotions, you are not alone or broken. You may have also asked yourself, “Who am I?” & “What do I want from life?” Or, perhaps you wrestle with other existential concerns. There is something within you that longs to be expressed; yet this is the part of you that is often hidden beneath your surface. Emotional wounds need to be opened in order to heal and vulnerabilities explored to promote growth and increased satisfaction. I can help you connect to this inner part of yourself to foster healing, growth, and fulfillment by providing a safe, supportive space in which we can explore your concerns.
I am a clinical psychologist with expertise in treating PTSD, anxiety, depression, challenges related to emerging adulthood, & questions about your identity (e.
If you are struggling with difficult emotions, you are not alone or broken. You may have also asked yourself, “Who am I?” & “What do I want from life?” Or, perhaps you wrestle with other existential concerns. There is something within you that longs to be expressed; yet this is the part of you that is often hidden beneath your surface. Emotional wounds need to be opened in order to heal and vulnerabilities explored to promote growth and increased satisfaction. I can help you connect to this inner part of yourself to foster healing, growth, and fulfillment by providing a safe, supportive space in which we can explore your concerns.
(970) 541-0310 View (970) 541-0310
Photo of Michael Webster Sewell, MA, LPC, Counselor
Michael Webster Sewell
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience providing therapy to people dealing with; depression, anxiety, relationship issues and substance use.
I am currently accepting new clients via telehealth and in-person sessions on Mondays. Also accepting clients utilizing Aetna, United/Optum, UMR, Oscar and Oxford insurance. life’s problems are often complex and can leave you feeling lost or trapped. I aim to help you forge your own path forward by providing a space which supports exploration and nurtures creativity. In our work together you will have the opportunity to try out new ways of being and express your authentic feelings in an unbiased space. I believe that you not only have the potential to face life's challenges, but also the ability to grow and evolve in the process.
I have experience providing therapy to people dealing with; depression, anxiety, relationship issues and substance use.
I am currently accepting new clients via telehealth and in-person sessions on Mondays. Also accepting clients utilizing Aetna, United/Optum, UMR, Oscar and Oxford insurance. life’s problems are often complex and can leave you feeling lost or trapped. I aim to help you forge your own path forward by providing a space which supports exploration and nurtures creativity. In our work together you will have the opportunity to try out new ways of being and express your authentic feelings in an unbiased space. I believe that you not only have the potential to face life's challenges, but also the ability to grow and evolve in the process.
(720) 408-7999 View (720) 408-7999
Photo of Fran Marmor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fran Marmor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80524
I understand that choosing a therapist can be overwhelming. With a positive attitude, sensitivity, and sense of humor, I will work closely with you to get your life or relationship back on track. No issue is too small or too big, and I truly believe that things can improve with hard work. I've helped with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, anger, etc. I work with individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families, and those who are skeptical about whether counseling can help are definitely welcome. I know therapy truly makes a difference if people are willing to try!
I understand that choosing a therapist can be overwhelming. With a positive attitude, sensitivity, and sense of humor, I will work closely with you to get your life or relationship back on track. No issue is too small or too big, and I truly believe that things can improve with hard work. I've helped with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, anger, etc. I work with individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families, and those who are skeptical about whether counseling can help are definitely welcome. I know therapy truly makes a difference if people are willing to try!
(970) 331-0480 View (970) 331-0480
Photo of Ben Smith, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I specialize in helping people with anxiety and depression.
A good therapist will work to put themselves out of job. Think about it, if therapy is actually working, you should need it less and less over time. When I ask people about their previous experiences in therapy I often hear “It was ok, we mostly just talked about my week”. Most people generally come to therapy with a specific issue to address but reviewing the week’s stressors is not a direct way to solving the problem.
I specialize in helping people with anxiety and depression.
A good therapist will work to put themselves out of job. Think about it, if therapy is actually working, you should need it less and less over time. When I ask people about their previous experiences in therapy I often hear “It was ok, we mostly just talked about my week”. Most people generally come to therapy with a specific issue to address but reviewing the week’s stressors is not a direct way to solving the problem.
(970) 840-9003 View (970) 840-9003
Photo of Dayna Mosley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dayna Mosley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80524
This change in mindset can help clients to overcome depression, anxiety, relational issues, grief and loss, everyday stress, and trauma.
You'll feel welcomed into a caring, accepting and comfortable environment when you meet with Dayna. She's dedicated to creating a space where you'll feel free to express your inner thoughts and feelings, which can increase self-awareness and self-acceptance. The humor she uses from time to time will help you feel at ease and lighten the mood. She strongly believes that you are the expert on your life, and will take a non-directive approach to treatment and let you guide the way toward your healing. Dayna's clients can learn to overcome and re-frame maladaptive ways of thinking about themselves and the world.
This change in mindset can help clients to overcome depression, anxiety, relational issues, grief and loss, everyday stress, and trauma.
You'll feel welcomed into a caring, accepting and comfortable environment when you meet with Dayna. She's dedicated to creating a space where you'll feel free to express your inner thoughts and feelings, which can increase self-awareness and self-acceptance. The humor she uses from time to time will help you feel at ease and lighten the mood. She strongly believes that you are the expert on your life, and will take a non-directive approach to treatment and let you guide the way toward your healing. Dayna's clients can learn to overcome and re-frame maladaptive ways of thinking about themselves and the world.
(970) 442-8393 View (970) 442-8393
Photo of Joel Coram, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joel Coram
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Joel welcomes you into a therapeutic relationship with understanding, kindness, and compassion. While working with him, you can gain education and coping skills to overcome this crazy world we live in and hopefully thrive moving forward. You can learn to navigate your own personal hurdles in life. Joel works with children as young as 8 years old, adults, couples, and families experiencing a variety of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, substance issues, grief, and trauma. He is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with a Family Systems twist.
Joel welcomes you into a therapeutic relationship with understanding, kindness, and compassion. While working with him, you can gain education and coping skills to overcome this crazy world we live in and hopefully thrive moving forward. You can learn to navigate your own personal hurdles in life. Joel works with children as young as 8 years old, adults, couples, and families experiencing a variety of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, substance issues, grief, and trauma. He is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with a Family Systems twist.
(970) 676-3232 View (970) 676-3232
Photo of Erica Hope, PhD, LP, EMDR, Psychologist
Erica Hope
Psychologist, PhD, LP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I frequently work with clients who are experiencing concerns around anxiety, depression, relationships, stress, grief, trauma and perinatal challenges.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stressed or anxious? Are you grieving a loss or struggling with infertility or perinatal challenges? Are you looking to improve your relationships so you feel more connected and at peace? I understand life can be difficult and overwhelming. If you need support outside your circle or community, someone to listen, understand and support you through these challenges or if you’re looking to heal and make a significant change, I would be honored to assist you along your journey. I often work with clients experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression and grief.
I frequently work with clients who are experiencing concerns around anxiety, depression, relationships, stress, grief, trauma and perinatal challenges.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stressed or anxious? Are you grieving a loss or struggling with infertility or perinatal challenges? Are you looking to improve your relationships so you feel more connected and at peace? I understand life can be difficult and overwhelming. If you need support outside your circle or community, someone to listen, understand and support you through these challenges or if you’re looking to heal and make a significant change, I would be honored to assist you along your journey. I often work with clients experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression and grief.
(970) 808-0144 View (970) 808-0144
Photo of Alexander Thompson, PsyD, Psychologist
Alexander Thompson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Thompson offers individual psychotherapy with warmth and compassion to young adults and adults. He enjoys working with individuals involved in higher education, folks in the LGBTQIA+ community, those with diverse, multi-cultural identities, and student-athletes. While primarily a generalist, Dr. Thompson has extensive experience working with people struggling with the anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and concerns of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Whether you are struggling with anxious over-thinking, low self-esteem, difficulties concentrating, a stressful work-life balance, or challenging relationships.
Dr. Thompson offers individual psychotherapy with warmth and compassion to young adults and adults. He enjoys working with individuals involved in higher education, folks in the LGBTQIA+ community, those with diverse, multi-cultural identities, and student-athletes. While primarily a generalist, Dr. Thompson has extensive experience working with people struggling with the anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and concerns of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Whether you are struggling with anxious over-thinking, low self-esteem, difficulties concentrating, a stressful work-life balance, or challenging relationships.
(970) 489-7365 View (970) 489-7365
Photo of Scott Schenck, BA,  MA
Scott Schenck
BA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Depression, bi-polar, schizophrenia, and other mental health problems can distort the way we see ourselves and the world around us. If there ever comes a time when you feel your life is not worth living, know that your friends and family would NOT be better off without you, the world would NOT be better without you in it, your life is NOT a joke, and everyone who knows you would miss you! Happiness is possible- you just need to make it through one more day. I know this might be a bit heavy for some of you to relate to, or perhaps you do relate to it but feel guilt or shame for not being happy 24/7.
Depression, bi-polar, schizophrenia, and other mental health problems can distort the way we see ourselves and the world around us. If there ever comes a time when you feel your life is not worth living, know that your friends and family would NOT be better off without you, the world would NOT be better without you in it, your life is NOT a joke, and everyone who knows you would miss you! Happiness is possible- you just need to make it through one more day. I know this might be a bit heavy for some of you to relate to, or perhaps you do relate to it but feel guilt or shame for not being happy 24/7.
(970) 514-6728 x701 View (970) 514-6728 x701
Photo of Patricia Ferguson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
When you meet Patricia, you'll meet a compassionate therapist devoted to helping you create a healthy future through increasing resiliency and self-awareness. You'll feel supported and understood through her empathetic demeaner and caring presence. You'll find it's easier to share personal thoughts and feelings when she adds gentle humor into your sessions. You'll feel accepted and loved as you travel together on a healing path toward a more harmonious life. Patricia helps clients manage many different problems and life struggles, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and traumatic experiences.
When you meet Patricia, you'll meet a compassionate therapist devoted to helping you create a healthy future through increasing resiliency and self-awareness. You'll feel supported and understood through her empathetic demeaner and caring presence. You'll find it's easier to share personal thoughts and feelings when she adds gentle humor into your sessions. You'll feel accepted and loved as you travel together on a healing path toward a more harmonious life. Patricia helps clients manage many different problems and life struggles, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and traumatic experiences.
(970) 715-6339 View (970) 715-6339
Photo of Timothy Reichner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Timothy Reichner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I specialize in working with adults (and adolescents 16+) with Anxiety, Depression, Sport Performance, Relationship issues, Trauma, Life Transitions, and Career Counseling.
Feeling stuck? Struggling to identify why? or how to navigate through it? How about feeling like the world is closing in or that there isn’t enough time? These are common question that the vast majority of us encounter, and therefore feel the compulsion for quick fixes or to do what worked for someone else expecting the same results. However, to say that we are all the same would be short-sighted, as there is no one way to address an issue. Give me a call for a free consultation, and let's begin the process of creating the "you" that you've envisioned.
I specialize in working with adults (and adolescents 16+) with Anxiety, Depression, Sport Performance, Relationship issues, Trauma, Life Transitions, and Career Counseling.
Feeling stuck? Struggling to identify why? or how to navigate through it? How about feeling like the world is closing in or that there isn’t enough time? These are common question that the vast majority of us encounter, and therefore feel the compulsion for quick fixes or to do what worked for someone else expecting the same results. However, to say that we are all the same would be short-sighted, as there is no one way to address an issue. Give me a call for a free consultation, and let's begin the process of creating the "you" that you've envisioned.
(970) 436-4619 View (970) 436-4619
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Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.