Depression Therapists in Kalamazoo, MI

Photo of Lindsay McClead, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay McClead
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adult clients addressing anxiety, depression, life adjustments, grief, and self worth.
My commitment is to support you in positive changes in an accepting environment. Through a collaborative approach, you will gain insight into maladaptive patterns that may be inhibiting you from creating the life you want to live.
I work with adult clients addressing anxiety, depression, life adjustments, grief, and self worth.
My commitment is to support you in positive changes in an accepting environment. Through a collaborative approach, you will gain insight into maladaptive patterns that may be inhibiting you from creating the life you want to live.
(269) 932-3075 View (269) 932-3075
Photo of Regina Ambs, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Regina Ambs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
I have experience working with clients in a range of areas including but not limited to anxiety, depression, transitional life challenges, family systems, and relational concepts.
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Michigan with over 15 years of experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and individuals seeking support on a variety of levels and concerns. A few of my preferred theoretical approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solutions Based Counseling. I appreciate working with clients from a holistic perspective as well. I have found that tailoring a treatment plan to the specific needs and goals of each person is important for progress and growth.
I have experience working with clients in a range of areas including but not limited to anxiety, depression, transitional life challenges, family systems, and relational concepts.
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Michigan with over 15 years of experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and individuals seeking support on a variety of levels and concerns. A few of my preferred theoretical approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solutions Based Counseling. I appreciate working with clients from a holistic perspective as well. I have found that tailoring a treatment plan to the specific needs and goals of each person is important for progress and growth.
(269) 682-2640 View (269) 682-2640
Photo of Jill P Chestang, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill P Chestang
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
I enjoy and have a strong background in working with such issues as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, family and relationship issues, parenting, life transitions, stress, grief and loss, and coping with injuries following a motor vehicle accident to name a few.
Transformation from depression, anxiety, personal problems, grief, life transitions and other issues can be challenging. It is important to have the right support and a strong, positive relationship with your counselor. I work to provide an environment that is both safe and non-judgmental. I will help you identify the things you want to be different in your life and develop skills and a plan for reaching your desired goals.
I enjoy and have a strong background in working with such issues as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, family and relationship issues, parenting, life transitions, stress, grief and loss, and coping with injuries following a motor vehicle accident to name a few.
Transformation from depression, anxiety, personal problems, grief, life transitions and other issues can be challenging. It is important to have the right support and a strong, positive relationship with your counselor. I work to provide an environment that is both safe and non-judgmental. I will help you identify the things you want to be different in your life and develop skills and a plan for reaching your desired goals.
(269) 626-2547 View (269) 626-2547
Photo of Amanda Hammond, LPC, CAADC, CTP-C, MITS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Hammond
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, CTP-C, MITS
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Need help with your child's behaviors or attitude? I can provide your child and you with the necessary tools to make positive changes. Need help managing depression, anxiety, anger, or substance abuse? Together we can increase your ability to manage life's challenges. I work with children, young adults, and adults. I provide a non-judgmental, client-centered, and relaxed environment. I will assist you in learning about yourself, and how you can make decisions and choices that best support your mental health.
Need help with your child's behaviors or attitude? I can provide your child and you with the necessary tools to make positive changes. Need help managing depression, anxiety, anger, or substance abuse? Together we can increase your ability to manage life's challenges. I work with children, young adults, and adults. I provide a non-judgmental, client-centered, and relaxed environment. I will assist you in learning about yourself, and how you can make decisions and choices that best support your mental health.
(269) 743-5196 View (269) 743-5196
Photo of Jay Maddock, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Jay Maddock
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007  (Online Only)
I'm experienced working with adults and adolescents 16 years and older who are seeking help with challenges around gender identity, sexual orientation, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and major life transitions.
Hello! My name is Jay Maddock. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I aim to foster an open, inclusive, and affirming space where clients feel safe to explore their concerns honestly and authentically. I believe in a person-centered therapeutic approach where I provide support and guidance to help clients build skills they need to grow and stretch as they confront issues in their lives. In my work with clients, I meet clients where they are with honesty, warmth, compassion, and humor. Together we will set goals that feel relevant and achievable and focus on what is important to you.
I'm experienced working with adults and adolescents 16 years and older who are seeking help with challenges around gender identity, sexual orientation, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and major life transitions.
Hello! My name is Jay Maddock. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I aim to foster an open, inclusive, and affirming space where clients feel safe to explore their concerns honestly and authentically. I believe in a person-centered therapeutic approach where I provide support and guidance to help clients build skills they need to grow and stretch as they confront issues in their lives. In my work with clients, I meet clients where they are with honesty, warmth, compassion, and humor. Together we will set goals that feel relevant and achievable and focus on what is important to you.
(269) 256-1232 View (269) 256-1232
Photo of Rachel M Cook, MA, MLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Rachel M Cook
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, MLP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009  (Online Only)
The relationship between the client and therapist is the foundation for any level of therapeutic healing. Creating a safe, comfortable, and honest environment for the client is of upmost importance to me. In this way, I strive to be non-judgmental and empathetic with my clients. I work with a wide range of clients including college students and adults who are dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma.
The relationship between the client and therapist is the foundation for any level of therapeutic healing. Creating a safe, comfortable, and honest environment for the client is of upmost importance to me. In this way, I strive to be non-judgmental and empathetic with my clients. I work with a wide range of clients including college students and adults who are dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma.
(269) 215-2817 View (269) 215-2817
Photo of Ashley Lewis, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Ashley Lewis
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
I work with kids (10 years +), teenagers, and adults on varying concerns such as: anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, anger management, life transitions, self-esteem, school related stressors, trauma, communication skills, interpersonal relationships, coping skills, and much more. I know from personal experience how helpful and impactful therapy can be which is what ultimately led me to becoming a therapist.
I work with kids (10 years +), teenagers, and adults on varying concerns such as: anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, anger management, life transitions, self-esteem, school related stressors, trauma, communication skills, interpersonal relationships, coping skills, and much more. I know from personal experience how helpful and impactful therapy can be which is what ultimately led me to becoming a therapist.
(269) 350-4143 View (269) 350-4143
Photo of Lindsay Stauffer, MA, LPC, Counselor
Lindsay Stauffer
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
It would be a privilege to help you meet your therapy goals, and to find relief from fear, anxiety, depression, etc.
Hello! I am so glad you are here. Life can feel so heavy. I believe that God wants the best for you and does not want you to hurt anymore. Perhaps He led you here so that you don't have to go through this alone. I would love to walk alongside you in your journey of hope and healing. My role is to be an empathetic listening ear, and a confidant where you can feel free to share your thoughts without judgment. The training and experience I've received can offer different perspectives to your situation and teach coping skills as well. Together we can navigate your burdens and find solutions to meet your goals.
It would be a privilege to help you meet your therapy goals, and to find relief from fear, anxiety, depression, etc.
Hello! I am so glad you are here. Life can feel so heavy. I believe that God wants the best for you and does not want you to hurt anymore. Perhaps He led you here so that you don't have to go through this alone. I would love to walk alongside you in your journey of hope and healing. My role is to be an empathetic listening ear, and a confidant where you can feel free to share your thoughts without judgment. The training and experience I've received can offer different perspectives to your situation and teach coping skills as well. Together we can navigate your burdens and find solutions to meet your goals.
(269) 256-2922 View (269) 256-2922
Photo of Sandrena Hall, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandrena Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49048  (Online Only)
Stressful life events can make you feel as though your world is unraveling. Seeking help with navigating challenges can be difficult, overwhelming, and scary; but that is the first step in the healing process. My great passion is supporting adults and teens with stressful or traumatic experiences, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I create a nonjudgmental and empathetic space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and beliefs.
Stressful life events can make you feel as though your world is unraveling. Seeking help with navigating challenges can be difficult, overwhelming, and scary; but that is the first step in the healing process. My great passion is supporting adults and teens with stressful or traumatic experiences, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I create a nonjudgmental and empathetic space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and beliefs.
(269) 367-8357 View (269) 367-8357
Photo of Aaron James Wilson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aaron James Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I enjoy working with clients with many different issues and backgrounds. I have many years of experience working with adolescents, the elderly, and everyone in-between. I have experience helping clients with behavior problems, assisting parents with managing behaviors of their children, helping couples work-out their issues, and assisting individuals with depression, anxiety, and OCD. I seek to understand my clients' challenges, and help them develop skills and strategies to overcome them.
I enjoy working with clients with many different issues and backgrounds. I have many years of experience working with adolescents, the elderly, and everyone in-between. I have experience helping clients with behavior problems, assisting parents with managing behaviors of their children, helping couples work-out their issues, and assisting individuals with depression, anxiety, and OCD. I seek to understand my clients' challenges, and help them develop skills and strategies to overcome them.
(517) 917-0781 View (517) 917-0781
Photo of Maribel Xiomara Diaz Munoz LaForge - Bilingual, MS, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maribel Xiomara Diaz Munoz LaForge - Bilingual
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49006  (Online Only)
I also work with clients who are struggling with life changes, that are enduring issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem,addiction,PTSD, and personality disorders.
BILINGUAL - My cultural background has been a major inspiration in my efforts to guide and empower ethnically diverse people through effective counseling by offering services in both English and Spanish. My comprehensive approach to mental health seeks to deliver holistic, individualized guidance based on the needs of my clients through the implementation of various therapies best suited for their lifestyles: group, individual, interpersonal, family therapy, and more.
I also work with clients who are struggling with life changes, that are enduring issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem,addiction,PTSD, and personality disorders.
BILINGUAL - My cultural background has been a major inspiration in my efforts to guide and empower ethnically diverse people through effective counseling by offering services in both English and Spanish. My comprehensive approach to mental health seeks to deliver holistic, individualized guidance based on the needs of my clients through the implementation of various therapies best suited for their lifestyles: group, individual, interpersonal, family therapy, and more.
(269) 241-3653 View (269) 241-3653
Photo of Jessica Rabe, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Rabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
If you find yourself feeling alone, uncertain and struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma or grief, I am here to help you.
Starting therapy is often the hardest part of therapy itself. In order to begin healing or making changes in our lives, it is important we begin to unravel how our past and present environment shapes how we see ourselves and the world. Therapy allows us to learn things about ourselves that are both uncomfortable and freeing. My approach is to help you identify your strengths, areas of growth and goals you want to meet to begin making changes while accepting that healing and progress are not linear, but rather part of what makes us human.
If you find yourself feeling alone, uncertain and struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma or grief, I am here to help you.
Starting therapy is often the hardest part of therapy itself. In order to begin healing or making changes in our lives, it is important we begin to unravel how our past and present environment shapes how we see ourselves and the world. Therapy allows us to learn things about ourselves that are both uncomfortable and freeing. My approach is to help you identify your strengths, areas of growth and goals you want to meet to begin making changes while accepting that healing and progress are not linear, but rather part of what makes us human.
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Photo of Jacob Crowell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacob Crowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I work with adults and teenagers who experience depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma .
Opening up to another person can be tough and making the steps to start therapy can be difficult. Make the first step easier and schedule a free phone or in person fifteen-minute consultation.We all experience pain, and this can lead to suffering. We experience suffering when we react to pain, get stuck in unhelpful behaviors, thoughts, and emotions, and end up caught in a place we do not want to be. As a counselor I have had the honor of working with great individuals helping them help themselves work through pain and be able to discover and more deeply connect to what is important to them; living a life more fully.
I work with adults and teenagers who experience depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma .
Opening up to another person can be tough and making the steps to start therapy can be difficult. Make the first step easier and schedule a free phone or in person fifteen-minute consultation.We all experience pain, and this can lead to suffering. We experience suffering when we react to pain, get stuck in unhelpful behaviors, thoughts, and emotions, and end up caught in a place we do not want to be. As a counselor I have had the honor of working with great individuals helping them help themselves work through pain and be able to discover and more deeply connect to what is important to them; living a life more fully.
(269) 743-3815 View (269) 743-3815
Photo of Blair Steele, MA, LPC, LLMFT, NCC, Counselor
Blair Steele
Counselor, MA, LPC, LLMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49003  (Online Only)
I work with adolescents, individuals and couples on a wide variety of concerns focused in anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, stress management, life transitions, communication skills, grief, self-esteem, and coping skills.
Everyone has a story that matters. Through a collaborative approach to therapeutic treatment, we can work to establish a safe, encouraging, and trusting environment to promote personal growth. I believe our counseling relationship can help recognize client strengths, goals, and potential. When exploring current ways of thinking or behaving, we can further identify positive solutions that can be maintained over time. It is an honor to be a steppingstone in your journey to healing and I take responsibility in providing the best care to fit your needs.
I work with adolescents, individuals and couples on a wide variety of concerns focused in anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, stress management, life transitions, communication skills, grief, self-esteem, and coping skills.
Everyone has a story that matters. Through a collaborative approach to therapeutic treatment, we can work to establish a safe, encouraging, and trusting environment to promote personal growth. I believe our counseling relationship can help recognize client strengths, goals, and potential. When exploring current ways of thinking or behaving, we can further identify positive solutions that can be maintained over time. It is an honor to be a steppingstone in your journey to healing and I take responsibility in providing the best care to fit your needs.
(269) 280-4812 View (269) 280-4812
Photo of Laura Trombley, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Laura Trombley
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Waitlist for new clients
I take a directive and interactive approach in treatment, giving clients concrete skills to reduce depression, anxiety, and distress.
Now accepting couples for Emotionally Focused Therapy! Is it time to look within to address your needs, heal, and grow? In my practice, I work collaboratively with my clients to find the root cause of their issues. I treat my clients' holistically, making sure all their needs are addressed. I like to make sure each of my clients get what they are looking for out of counseling and that they feel heard. I work with adolescents (12 and up) and adults who have experienced anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, attachment issues, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, interpersonal concerns, low self-esteem and social phobia.
I take a directive and interactive approach in treatment, giving clients concrete skills to reduce depression, anxiety, and distress.
Now accepting couples for Emotionally Focused Therapy! Is it time to look within to address your needs, heal, and grow? In my practice, I work collaboratively with my clients to find the root cause of their issues. I treat my clients' holistically, making sure all their needs are addressed. I like to make sure each of my clients get what they are looking for out of counseling and that they feel heard. I work with adolescents (12 and up) and adults who have experienced anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, attachment issues, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, interpersonal concerns, low self-esteem and social phobia.
(269) 247-6214 View (269) 247-6214
Photo of Dr. Julie Sorenson - Julie Sorenson, DMFT, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Sorenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMFT, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I can help people with their own personal or family struggles, conflict, self-esteem, life adjustment, struggles in school, career, marriage, divorce, grief/loss, critical incident, stress management, anxiety; depression; suicide ideation, concussions, sport transition, time management, organization, and behavior modification.
I believe that counseling allows you to explore who you are. As a counselor, I will assist you, your family, and your children with life challenges. I will help you find which self-care techniques work best for you as an individual. Together we will discover your success and how to find the comfortable path for you to get there. I have worked with individuals and families in various settings for over ten years, using various treatment models promoting individual strengths. I have worked with children, adolescents, and families in different stages of life.
I can help people with their own personal or family struggles, conflict, self-esteem, life adjustment, struggles in school, career, marriage, divorce, grief/loss, critical incident, stress management, anxiety; depression; suicide ideation, concussions, sport transition, time management, organization, and behavior modification.
I believe that counseling allows you to explore who you are. As a counselor, I will assist you, your family, and your children with life challenges. I will help you find which self-care techniques work best for you as an individual. Together we will discover your success and how to find the comfortable path for you to get there. I have worked with individuals and families in various settings for over ten years, using various treatment models promoting individual strengths. I have worked with children, adolescents, and families in different stages of life.
(269) 448-1364 View (269) 448-1364
Photo of Chris Stroven, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Stroven
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
I've worked extensively with adults and college students who have struggled with anxiety, depression, anger, and ADHD.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Whether you're coming into counseling to gain some fresh perspective, or you're looking to work through specific issues, we'll work together to create a clear path forward. As we identify the root causes of your concerns, we’ll adapt techniques based on your needs, so you'll be able to shift and embrace new ways of behaving and responding to the people and situations in your life.
I've worked extensively with adults and college students who have struggled with anxiety, depression, anger, and ADHD.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Whether you're coming into counseling to gain some fresh perspective, or you're looking to work through specific issues, we'll work together to create a clear path forward. As we identify the root causes of your concerns, we’ll adapt techniques based on your needs, so you'll be able to shift and embrace new ways of behaving and responding to the people and situations in your life.
(269) 694-0010 View (269) 694-0010
Photo of Marnie Thomas, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marnie Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I specialize in anger management, women's issues, self-esteem building, depression, anxiety and relationship concerns.
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life! While you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties, there's nothing wrong with seeking extra support when you need it. I provide long lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, redirect damaging patterns and overcome whatever challenges you may face! I can also help you attain a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values. Develop skills for improving your relationships. Cope with stress, anxiety, depression and other emotional pressures. Most importantly improve your self-esteem and boost your self confidence!
I specialize in anger management, women's issues, self-esteem building, depression, anxiety and relationship concerns.
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life! While you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties, there's nothing wrong with seeking extra support when you need it. I provide long lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, redirect damaging patterns and overcome whatever challenges you may face! I can also help you attain a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values. Develop skills for improving your relationships. Cope with stress, anxiety, depression and other emotional pressures. Most importantly improve your self-esteem and boost your self confidence!
(269) 795-6734 View (269) 795-6734
Photo of Joshua Carver, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua Carver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009  (Online Only)
Primarily, my background and expertise mostly lies in trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder.
I believe Irvin Yalom said it best when he said we need to form a unique therapy for every person. We are all unique, our relationships and experiences are unique, and in therapy we need to find your own path forward in life. We can find that as a conversation between two experts, you being the expert in your own life, and me being an expert in this field. Together, we can work to help you find what you are looking for in therapy. Whether it is a skill and action motivated plan, or a space to emotionally process things regularly, or anything in between.
Primarily, my background and expertise mostly lies in trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder.
I believe Irvin Yalom said it best when he said we need to form a unique therapy for every person. We are all unique, our relationships and experiences are unique, and in therapy we need to find your own path forward in life. We can find that as a conversation between two experts, you being the expert in your own life, and me being an expert in this field. Together, we can work to help you find what you are looking for in therapy. Whether it is a skill and action motivated plan, or a space to emotionally process things regularly, or anything in between.
(269) 367-8231 View (269) 367-8231
Photo of Emily Lindsay, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Lindsay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
As the owner of Peak Performance Counseling, I am passionate about supporting individuals on their journey to mental well-being, whether they are athletes aiming to enhance their performance or individuals facing everyday challenges. With a specialization in sports psychology, I empower athletes of all levels to unlock their full potential by addressing performance anxiety, motivation, and mental resilience. In addition to my work with athletes, I also provide comprehensive mental health services for clients dealing with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress management, and relationship concerns.
As the owner of Peak Performance Counseling, I am passionate about supporting individuals on their journey to mental well-being, whether they are athletes aiming to enhance their performance or individuals facing everyday challenges. With a specialization in sports psychology, I empower athletes of all levels to unlock their full potential by addressing performance anxiety, motivation, and mental resilience. In addition to my work with athletes, I also provide comprehensive mental health services for clients dealing with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress management, and relationship concerns.
(269) 220-6594 View (269) 220-6594
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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.