Depression Therapists in Georgia

Photo of Dr. Aletha Clark, PhD, LPC, CPCS, MAC, CACII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Aletha Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPCS, MAC, CACII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Snellville, GA 30078  (Online Only)
I utilize my knowledge working with adolescents and adults to assist them in areas such as: depression, anxiety, addiction recovery and evaluations, diversity issues, relationship issues, anger/stress management, gender and sexual orientation, self-esteem and empowerment, lifestyle changes and adjustments, parenting issues, and codependency.
Therapy is a process that is best achieved by working with a therapist who is a good fit. I work together with my clients through the therapeutic process. I offer my clients an empathic, open, respectful, and non-judgmental environment in which they can feel safe and nurtured to grow. I believe that everyone has the ability to live a healthy and happy life, and working through the counseling process together, I can help you achieve your capabilities.
I utilize my knowledge working with adolescents and adults to assist them in areas such as: depression, anxiety, addiction recovery and evaluations, diversity issues, relationship issues, anger/stress management, gender and sexual orientation, self-esteem and empowerment, lifestyle changes and adjustments, parenting issues, and codependency.
Therapy is a process that is best achieved by working with a therapist who is a good fit. I work together with my clients through the therapeutic process. I offer my clients an empathic, open, respectful, and non-judgmental environment in which they can feel safe and nurtured to grow. I believe that everyone has the ability to live a healthy and happy life, and working through the counseling process together, I can help you achieve your capabilities.
(404) 566-6751 View (404) 566-6751
Photo of Anna Wohleking, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Wohleking
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30601
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor (CPCS) in the state of Georgia with over 8 years of experience partnering with children ages 4-18 and their families who are seeking help with ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, foster care, depression, anger management, mood disorders, and grief or bereavement.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor (CPCS) in the state of Georgia with over 8 years of experience partnering with children ages 4-18 and their families who are seeking help with ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, foster care, depression, anger management, mood disorders, and grief or bereavement.
(706) 460-4738 View (706) 460-4738
Photo of Nakeya Gore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nakeya Gore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Douglasville, GA 30134  (Online Only)
I offer online counseling to help adults recover from childhood wounds. These issues can present as depression, anxiety, stress, low-esteem and interpersonal challenges. I approach counseling as an opportunity to understand your story and help you develop a path to healing. It's human nature to want healthy relationships, meaningful work and activities you enjoy, in order to have a good quality of life. If you're experiencing ineffective communication skills, career dissatisfaction, parenting challenges, family/relationship stress or feelings overwhelm, I would be glad to help you improve upon these problems.
I offer online counseling to help adults recover from childhood wounds. These issues can present as depression, anxiety, stress, low-esteem and interpersonal challenges. I approach counseling as an opportunity to understand your story and help you develop a path to healing. It's human nature to want healthy relationships, meaningful work and activities you enjoy, in order to have a good quality of life. If you're experiencing ineffective communication skills, career dissatisfaction, parenting challenges, family/relationship stress or feelings overwhelm, I would be glad to help you improve upon these problems.
(678) 990-1022 View (678) 990-1022
Photo of Tamiya Bobb, APC, Counselor
Tamiya Bobb
Counselor, APC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30040
Whether it's depression, anxiety, or trauma, I'd like to help you overcome these obstacles.
On the surface, things are going well, but you’ve been feeling anxious and depressed for a long time. You often believe that you don’t want to be a burden to your loved ones, so you keep your battles to yourself. Do you find yourself struggling to reach out for help? Does the thought of asking for help overwhelm you? I'd like to reassure you that therapy is a safe space. Throughout my experience I have found it to be the greatest honor, privilege, and reward to be able to be a witness to the journey towards healing with my clients. I emphasize the importance of creating a space for you to show up as your most authentic self.
Whether it's depression, anxiety, or trauma, I'd like to help you overcome these obstacles.
On the surface, things are going well, but you’ve been feeling anxious and depressed for a long time. You often believe that you don’t want to be a burden to your loved ones, so you keep your battles to yourself. Do you find yourself struggling to reach out for help? Does the thought of asking for help overwhelm you? I'd like to reassure you that therapy is a safe space. Throughout my experience I have found it to be the greatest honor, privilege, and reward to be able to be a witness to the journey towards healing with my clients. I emphasize the importance of creating a space for you to show up as your most authentic self.
(470) 664-1425 View (470) 664-1425
Photo of Diane Crockett, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Crockett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30328  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm so glad you're here! My name is Diane Crockett. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am licensed in the states of Georgia and Illinois. I have a background in Substance Abuse and working with Clients who have Chronic Diseases. I am here to support individuals and families as they address their mental health challenges. My theoretical approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. CBT is an evidence-based that uses talk therapy to help you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave. It's most commonly used to treat anxiety and depression but can be useful for other mental and physical health problems.
Hello! I'm so glad you're here! My name is Diane Crockett. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am licensed in the states of Georgia and Illinois. I have a background in Substance Abuse and working with Clients who have Chronic Diseases. I am here to support individuals and families as they address their mental health challenges. My theoretical approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. CBT is an evidence-based that uses talk therapy to help you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave. It's most commonly used to treat anxiety and depression but can be useful for other mental and physical health problems.
(470) 842-9435 View (470) 842-9435
Photo of Jennifer Del Castillo, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Del Castillo
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080  (Online Only)
My focus is on chronic illness/chronic pain/disability, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, medical trauma, women's issues, and stress management.
Life can be challenging from time to time. Counseling is one way to deal with the life stressors while learning and applying new tools to your toolbox. Therapy is individualized to the person I am working with; not through a one-size-fits-all approach. In 2011, I graduated with a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling & Case Management from Fort Valley State University. I have been in private practice for 12 years as a licensed professional counselor (LPC).
My focus is on chronic illness/chronic pain/disability, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, medical trauma, women's issues, and stress management.
Life can be challenging from time to time. Counseling is one way to deal with the life stressors while learning and applying new tools to your toolbox. Therapy is individualized to the person I am working with; not through a one-size-fits-all approach. In 2011, I graduated with a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling & Case Management from Fort Valley State University. I have been in private practice for 12 years as a licensed professional counselor (LPC).
(470) 594-5598 View (470) 594-5598
Photo of George W Rinker, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
George W Rinker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30329
I am known for helping in the areas of depression, family dynamics, relationship issues, teen growth, career direction, individual identity and life coaching.
As a professional counselor I value the uniqness of each person and in the strength and creativity of the human spirit. Within the counseling relationship is a safe place to define areas for growth, vent feelings, explore the many possibilities, find encouragement and move toward peacefulness. My approach to counseling is gentle and encouraging, although I can be direct when it is helpful. I will support without judging and am respectful of individual and/or cultural differences. My approach draws on a number of theoretical orientations that best suit the group or individual needs.
I am known for helping in the areas of depression, family dynamics, relationship issues, teen growth, career direction, individual identity and life coaching.
As a professional counselor I value the uniqness of each person and in the strength and creativity of the human spirit. Within the counseling relationship is a safe place to define areas for growth, vent feelings, explore the many possibilities, find encouragement and move toward peacefulness. My approach to counseling is gentle and encouraging, although I can be direct when it is helpful. I will support without judging and am respectful of individual and/or cultural differences. My approach draws on a number of theoretical orientations that best suit the group or individual needs.
(404) 566-9095 View (404) 566-9095
Photo of David Ryan, MA
David Ryan
MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hiram, GA 30141
Hello, I'm David Ryan, a masters level clinician dedicated to empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges and thrive. I appreciate you stopping by and taking the first step towards healing. I have experience working with individuals, children, and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, and trauma.
Hello, I'm David Ryan, a masters level clinician dedicated to empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges and thrive. I appreciate you stopping by and taking the first step towards healing. I have experience working with individuals, children, and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, and trauma.
(470) 570-1331 View (470) 570-1331
Photo of Kenneth Denny, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenneth Denny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Savannah, GA 31401
My services include Individual, Couples and Family Psychotherapy, Therapy with Children, Adolescents and Adults to address: Depression, Grief, Loss, Anxiety, Stress Management, Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Self-Esteem Issues, Isolation, Sexual Identity, Cultural Issues, Sexual Abuse, Career Counseling, Life Changes, Adjustment Issues and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder utilizing EMDR.
I have been a therapist for over 20 years and I find psychotherapy an exciting field, particularly with motivated clients like yourself. I approach each new client with a clean slate as your experiences are unique and your deserve a individualized approach tailored to your needs. When you contact me, I will ask you a few questions to make sure the clinical relationship is the right one for you and of course you will have questions of your own. Making the decision to begin or continue is a sign of strength and a willingness to grow.
My services include Individual, Couples and Family Psychotherapy, Therapy with Children, Adolescents and Adults to address: Depression, Grief, Loss, Anxiety, Stress Management, Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Self-Esteem Issues, Isolation, Sexual Identity, Cultural Issues, Sexual Abuse, Career Counseling, Life Changes, Adjustment Issues and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder utilizing EMDR.
I have been a therapist for over 20 years and I find psychotherapy an exciting field, particularly with motivated clients like yourself. I approach each new client with a clean slate as your experiences are unique and your deserve a individualized approach tailored to your needs. When you contact me, I will ask you a few questions to make sure the clinical relationship is the right one for you and of course you will have questions of your own. Making the decision to begin or continue is a sign of strength and a willingness to grow.
(912) 208-0450 View (912) 208-0450
Photo of Grace Domeck - Attento Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace Domeck - Attento Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience providing therapy to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and trauma.
So much of how we see ourselves and the world is based on the beliefs we hold closely, sometimes unknowingly. These beliefs are developed and emphasized over time, feeling more and more like solid truth. All too often, these beliefs are not only untrue, they are harmful to our mental health and perception of who we are and what we're worth. I am dedicated to walking with you as you come to identify, understand and work through those beliefs to move toward self-compassion and growth. I am passionate about helping you to grow in self-awareness surrounding your emotions, relationships and ability to make changes within yourself.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience providing therapy to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and trauma.
So much of how we see ourselves and the world is based on the beliefs we hold closely, sometimes unknowingly. These beliefs are developed and emphasized over time, feeling more and more like solid truth. All too often, these beliefs are not only untrue, they are harmful to our mental health and perception of who we are and what we're worth. I am dedicated to walking with you as you come to identify, understand and work through those beliefs to move toward self-compassion and growth. I am passionate about helping you to grow in self-awareness surrounding your emotions, relationships and ability to make changes within yourself.
(678) 619-0787 View (678) 619-0787
Photo of Thomasina Collins, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Thomasina Collins
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC
Verified Verified
Acworth, GA 30101
Taking the first step towards therapy is a part of the process of gaining the necessary tools towards better mental health. As parents we do our best to help our children to problem solve and it is important to also teach them to ask for help when needed. You may be asking yourself when is a good time to ask for help. If your child is struggling with regulating his or her emotions, anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, and or other issues that come along with being a teen or young adult, the time is now.
Taking the first step towards therapy is a part of the process of gaining the necessary tools towards better mental health. As parents we do our best to help our children to problem solve and it is important to also teach them to ask for help when needed. You may be asking yourself when is a good time to ask for help. If your child is struggling with regulating his or her emotions, anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, and or other issues that come along with being a teen or young adult, the time is now.
(770) 758-9174 View (770) 758-9174
Photo of Jessica Henry, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with more than 10 years of therapy experience. I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with more than 10 years of therapy experience. I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning.
(770) 824-0690 View (770) 824-0690
Photo of Dadron Deon Harris, Dr, LPC, MAC, CAMS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dadron Deon Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, Dr, LPC, MAC, CAMS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
I'm here to address your anxiety, depression, irritable mood triggers, poor relationship building and inconsistency.
Greetings. I am a Counselor/ Therapist that focuses on meeting your needs. We are here for you as our country is undergoing a major crisis. We are offering telemental health video sessions for you. My role as a Licensed Counselor is to provide confidential behavioral health services to adults, children and adolescents in an outpatient or community setting. I focus on identifying core issues. Duties will include, but not limited to individual counseling, group therapy, family counseling and contact within the community in terms of locating employment, self help & housing.
I'm here to address your anxiety, depression, irritable mood triggers, poor relationship building and inconsistency.
Greetings. I am a Counselor/ Therapist that focuses on meeting your needs. We are here for you as our country is undergoing a major crisis. We are offering telemental health video sessions for you. My role as a Licensed Counselor is to provide confidential behavioral health services to adults, children and adolescents in an outpatient or community setting. I focus on identifying core issues. Duties will include, but not limited to individual counseling, group therapy, family counseling and contact within the community in terms of locating employment, self help & housing.
(404) 495-5341 View (404) 495-5341
Photo of Tanya Zeiliger, MS, LPC, CHT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tanya Zeiliger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CHT, NCC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20+ years of experience in counseling for individuals (children, teenagers and adults), couples, and families. I have worked with diverse ethnic populations providing therapy for variety of psychological symptoms, illnesses and conditions such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, stress management and other issues. As a Counselor, my goal is to fully understand the client’s experience and provide specific interventions to help in overcoming concerning life challenges.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20+ years of experience in counseling for individuals (children, teenagers and adults), couples, and families. I have worked with diverse ethnic populations providing therapy for variety of psychological symptoms, illnesses and conditions such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, stress management and other issues. As a Counselor, my goal is to fully understand the client’s experience and provide specific interventions to help in overcoming concerning life challenges.
(678) 635-9596 View (678) 635-9596
Photo of Darice Dodd, EdS, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darice Dodd
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30144  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, ADHD, grief and loss, anger management, etc.
My counseling style is eclectic, meaning I incorporate a variety of therapeutic modalities to create the ideal treatment to meet the client’s needs. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, non-judgemental, and empathic therapeutic environment. I believe that everyone is uniquely different and may not respond to a one size fits all therapeutic modality. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific goals and desires. I tend to work with clients from a strength-based, positive, and affirming perspective.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, ADHD, grief and loss, anger management, etc.
My counseling style is eclectic, meaning I incorporate a variety of therapeutic modalities to create the ideal treatment to meet the client’s needs. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, non-judgemental, and empathic therapeutic environment. I believe that everyone is uniquely different and may not respond to a one size fits all therapeutic modality. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific goals and desires. I tend to work with clients from a strength-based, positive, and affirming perspective.
(678) 661-6475 View (678) 661-6475
Photo of Derrick Sykes, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Derrick Sykes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30152
Derrick Sykes, Licensed Professional Counselor LGBT African American Male professional that is a part of multiple minority groups that has been through hell and back, ready to encounter others to find their healing. I have learned so much from my personal and professional experience that I am here to help you find the best version of yourself through your therapy journey. Let's get to work and welcome. Self-care and self-esteem issues LGBT Black People who are struggling with gender identity, sexual identity and anxiety depression, among other obstacles.
Derrick Sykes, Licensed Professional Counselor LGBT African American Male professional that is a part of multiple minority groups that has been through hell and back, ready to encounter others to find their healing. I have learned so much from my personal and professional experience that I am here to help you find the best version of yourself through your therapy journey. Let's get to work and welcome. Self-care and self-esteem issues LGBT Black People who are struggling with gender identity, sexual identity and anxiety depression, among other obstacles.
(678) 883-7720 View (678) 883-7720
Photo of Zach Holzman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zach Holzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Villa Rica, GA 30180  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor with extensive work with clients and is comprised of managing anxiety disorders, depression disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and numerous other personality and mood disorders. My therapeutic techniques include person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, strength-based therapy, and reality therapy. I believe in the significance of helping others feel inner peace and find purpose in life.
I am a licensed professional counselor with extensive work with clients and is comprised of managing anxiety disorders, depression disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and numerous other personality and mood disorders. My therapeutic techniques include person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, strength-based therapy, and reality therapy. I believe in the significance of helping others feel inner peace and find purpose in life.
(678) 487-8498 View (678) 487-8498
Photo of Rusty Gray, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rusty Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30064
With 30 years in the field experiences ranging from substance abuse, depression, anxiety, crisis intervention, administration, family therapy, criminal justice cases and more; I am a well versed clinician.
Everyone has challenges in life and as these struggles come up most people feel they must face them alone. Well that is not the case, what I have found is that you can speak to someone about these situations in a open and honest way you will realize that you are not alone. Weather you are regretting the past, ot trying to form a better future, there is no way to go through life without facing challenges. There are issues with relationships, loss of loved ones, and trying to live life on one's own terms. I am a solution focused clinician; we will not dwell on your issues but form a plan to go forward in a deliberate fashion.
With 30 years in the field experiences ranging from substance abuse, depression, anxiety, crisis intervention, administration, family therapy, criminal justice cases and more; I am a well versed clinician.
Everyone has challenges in life and as these struggles come up most people feel they must face them alone. Well that is not the case, what I have found is that you can speak to someone about these situations in a open and honest way you will realize that you are not alone. Weather you are regretting the past, ot trying to form a better future, there is no way to go through life without facing challenges. There are issues with relationships, loss of loved ones, and trying to live life on one's own terms. I am a solution focused clinician; we will not dwell on your issues but form a plan to go forward in a deliberate fashion.
(470) 613-7894 View (470) 613-7894
Photo of Sakinah Rasheed, Psychologist
Sakinah Rasheed
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Evans, GA 30809  (Online Only)
Dr. Rasheed holds a PhD in Developmental Psychology from the University of Michigan (1981) and a PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Rutgers University's Graduate School of Applied Professional Psychology. She is a licensed psychologist who has worked in the private sector in solo and well as group private practice. She is a compassionate clinician, and her specialties include working with individual adults and teens overcoming depression, anxiety, stress management, and other emotional challenges by utilizing cognitive behavioral Therapy (CBT) methods and principles.
Dr. Rasheed holds a PhD in Developmental Psychology from the University of Michigan (1981) and a PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Rutgers University's Graduate School of Applied Professional Psychology. She is a licensed psychologist who has worked in the private sector in solo and well as group private practice. She is a compassionate clinician, and her specialties include working with individual adults and teens overcoming depression, anxiety, stress management, and other emotional challenges by utilizing cognitive behavioral Therapy (CBT) methods and principles.
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Photo of Teresa Carter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30344
However, often there is no obvious explanation for the overwhelming feelings that can completely upset life balance and emotional wellbeing resulting in anxiety, depression, couple discord, and even substance use concerns.
Hello, my name is Teresa Carter and I go by Terri. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed by the state of Georgia, where I live and provide therapy across the state via telehealth. I primarily work with adults 18 and older experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and relationship concerns. The modalities I most rely upon include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy-Mindfulness to help my clients progressively regain their life balance.
However, often there is no obvious explanation for the overwhelming feelings that can completely upset life balance and emotional wellbeing resulting in anxiety, depression, couple discord, and even substance use concerns.
Hello, my name is Teresa Carter and I go by Terri. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed by the state of Georgia, where I live and provide therapy across the state via telehealth. I primarily work with adults 18 and older experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and relationship concerns. The modalities I most rely upon include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy-Mindfulness to help my clients progressively regain their life balance.
(470) 693-7908 View (470) 693-7908
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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.