Depression Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Laura Anthony - Collaborative Pathways Wellness Center, PLLC , MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Collaborative Pathways Wellness Center, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You're likely here because something in your life isn't working for you and you want things to change. You want to get unstuck, you want to let go of the past. You want to live a more meaningful life and have healthy thriving relationships. You want to regain your confidence and let go of worry and fear. Or, maybe you're tired of feeling frustrated by depression symptoms. Perhaps you are dealing with the effects of trauma. Whatever your story, there is help for you.
You're likely here because something in your life isn't working for you and you want things to change. You want to get unstuck, you want to let go of the past. You want to live a more meaningful life and have healthy thriving relationships. You want to regain your confidence and let go of worry and fear. Or, maybe you're tired of feeling frustrated by depression symptoms. Perhaps you are dealing with the effects of trauma. Whatever your story, there is help for you.
(980) 292-8306 View (980) 292-8306
Photo of Marlenia Cunningham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marlenia Cunningham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Welcome I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My practice is rooted in North Carolina and South Carolina. I received my Masters from the University of Missouri Kansas City and have been practicing for 20 years I’m committed to serving participants that desire to improve their quality of life. If you are a young or mature adult struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use Disorder or Psychosocial stressors your road to recovery starts here. I am a highly high motivated Christian LCSW held by faith that encouragement and supportive therapy are principles that transforms and cultivates wellness.
Welcome I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My practice is rooted in North Carolina and South Carolina. I received my Masters from the University of Missouri Kansas City and have been practicing for 20 years I’m committed to serving participants that desire to improve their quality of life. If you are a young or mature adult struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use Disorder or Psychosocial stressors your road to recovery starts here. I am a highly high motivated Christian LCSW held by faith that encouragement and supportive therapy are principles that transforms and cultivates wellness.
(980) 982-2342 View (980) 982-2342
Photo of Annada Hypes, PhD, Psychologist
Annada Hypes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Adolescence can be a rocky time for many people, but I believe therapy can be of great help. I work with teenagers and young adults, struggling primarily with mood, identity, and impulse control difficulties. My goals are to help young people build their strengths and relationships in order to find happiness and success as emerging adults. Some of the things I treat are: depression, self-harm, anxiety, family conflict, gender dysphoria, transition to young adulthood stress, and disordered eating habits. Generally I practice cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectal-behavior therapy (DBT) within a caring, humanistic approach.
Adolescence can be a rocky time for many people, but I believe therapy can be of great help. I work with teenagers and young adults, struggling primarily with mood, identity, and impulse control difficulties. My goals are to help young people build their strengths and relationships in order to find happiness and success as emerging adults. Some of the things I treat are: depression, self-harm, anxiety, family conflict, gender dysphoria, transition to young adulthood stress, and disordered eating habits. Generally I practice cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectal-behavior therapy (DBT) within a caring, humanistic approach.
(704) 256-0987 View (704) 256-0987
Photo of Ja' Shaun Blanding, LCSWA, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ja' Shaun Blanding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to find your voice, with feeling unheard, dealing with depression, or anxious thoughts? Life's journey can take unexpected paths and we need support and skills to help us maneuver those paths. Whether you are transitioning from college to the workplace, having relationship concerns, or need someone to hear you, I am here to listen and help you get back on your journey. If you're ready to redefine your path, let's get started today.
Are you struggling to find your voice, with feeling unheard, dealing with depression, or anxious thoughts? Life's journey can take unexpected paths and we need support and skills to help us maneuver those paths. Whether you are transitioning from college to the workplace, having relationship concerns, or need someone to hear you, I am here to listen and help you get back on your journey. If you're ready to redefine your path, let's get started today.
(980) 944-8735 View (980) 944-8735
Photo of Clarissa Elmore, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clarissa Elmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Clarissa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NC practicing since 2019. She earned her Master's degree in Social Work from Winthrop University, where she also obtained her Bachelor's degree. Clarissa has experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults in various settings (i. e. Universities, summer camps, counseling center, etc. ). Clarissa is experienced in the areas of anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, peer relationships, college life and other issues pertaining to wellness and overall mental health.
Clarissa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NC practicing since 2019. She earned her Master's degree in Social Work from Winthrop University, where she also obtained her Bachelor's degree. Clarissa has experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults in various settings (i. e. Universities, summer camps, counseling center, etc. ). Clarissa is experienced in the areas of anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, peer relationships, college life and other issues pertaining to wellness and overall mental health.
(704) 703-7962 View (704) 703-7962
Photo of Jenny O'Brien Adorno, MA, LCMHC, NCC, NBCC, RPT, Counselor
Jenny O'Brien Adorno
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, NBCC, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
She specializes in Parenting, ODD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, and Trauma.
Available Online Only Jenny works with children, teens, and adults using Child-Centered Play Therapy (ages 2-10), Strengths Based Therapy (adolescents and adults), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). She supports clients by helping them acknowledge and express their feelings, work through problems using tools such as Mindfulness and Cognitive Restructuring, and develop skills in and out of session. She believes that parents and guardians are essential to the healing process for children. She focuses on equipping clients with the tools, support and approach to help them live a life that is meaningful to them.
She specializes in Parenting, ODD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, and Trauma.
Available Online Only Jenny works with children, teens, and adults using Child-Centered Play Therapy (ages 2-10), Strengths Based Therapy (adolescents and adults), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). She supports clients by helping them acknowledge and express their feelings, work through problems using tools such as Mindfulness and Cognitive Restructuring, and develop skills in and out of session. She believes that parents and guardians are essential to the healing process for children. She focuses on equipping clients with the tools, support and approach to help them live a life that is meaningful to them.
(704) 741-0592 View (704) 741-0592
Photo of Rachel Merritt, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Merritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
My area of training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat disorders like depression and anxiety.
Hi, my name is Rachel Merritt. I am currently a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate. I have experience working with adults and adolescents who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, ADHD, BPD, & OCD. My area of focus has been working with adults in individual therapy, working with couples through relationships difficulties and intimacy issues and working with groups in the treatment of trauma. My biggest goal is to help you reconnect and become the best version of yourself.
My area of training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat disorders like depression and anxiety.
Hi, my name is Rachel Merritt. I am currently a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate. I have experience working with adults and adolescents who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, ADHD, BPD, & OCD. My area of focus has been working with adults in individual therapy, working with couples through relationships difficulties and intimacy issues and working with groups in the treatment of trauma. My biggest goal is to help you reconnect and become the best version of yourself.
(704) 859-2486 View (704) 859-2486
Photo of Christopher Bordelon, MSW, LCSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christopher Bordelon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Clients I often see grapple with anxiety or depression, seeking coping strategies. Their needs include a safe space for self-expression, validation, and practical tools to improve emotional well-being. Goals involve fostering resilience, improving interpersonal relationships, and cultivating a positive mindset. Motivated by a desire for personal growth, they value introspection and aspire to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, fostering lasting positive change.
Clients I often see grapple with anxiety or depression, seeking coping strategies. Their needs include a safe space for self-expression, validation, and practical tools to improve emotional well-being. Goals involve fostering resilience, improving interpersonal relationships, and cultivating a positive mindset. Motivated by a desire for personal growth, they value introspection and aspire to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, fostering lasting positive change.
(704) 762-1361 View (704) 762-1361
Photo of Laura H. Frohboese, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura H. Frohboese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
Who wants to just "manage" depression? You can manage feelings better in the moment but you also want to understand the root causes of them and make meaningful changes; you don't have to let your feelings control you.
You come to therapy to face hard truths in your life and learn better ways to handle them. Maybe you find yourself repeating the same patterns, having the same interactions, or feeling a certain way about yourself. I balance truth and tact, giving genuine feedback. I have over 20 years of experience helping adults overcome depression, anxiety, and life stress. Sometimes you're depressed & sometimes your life is depressing-usually it's some of both. I address both, helping you change the way you think, act, & feel, while also looking at your whole life situation, environment, lifestyle, friends & stressors.
Who wants to just "manage" depression? You can manage feelings better in the moment but you also want to understand the root causes of them and make meaningful changes; you don't have to let your feelings control you.
You come to therapy to face hard truths in your life and learn better ways to handle them. Maybe you find yourself repeating the same patterns, having the same interactions, or feeling a certain way about yourself. I balance truth and tact, giving genuine feedback. I have over 20 years of experience helping adults overcome depression, anxiety, and life stress. Sometimes you're depressed & sometimes your life is depressing-usually it's some of both. I address both, helping you change the way you think, act, & feel, while also looking at your whole life situation, environment, lifestyle, friends & stressors.
(704) 312-1854 View (704) 312-1854
Photo of Abigail Bates, LCSWA, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, and suicidal ideation.
No matter where you go your mental health will always follow. You can live a better life than what you have been living. It can be difficult taking the first step to start the process of taking control of your mental health journey. Therapy can be scary and finding a therapist who you feel you can trust and feel comfortable with is even harder. You deserve to find a space where you feel seen and heard. Your feelings, emotions, desires, struggles, needs, and experiences matter.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, and suicidal ideation.
No matter where you go your mental health will always follow. You can live a better life than what you have been living. It can be difficult taking the first step to start the process of taking control of your mental health journey. Therapy can be scary and finding a therapist who you feel you can trust and feel comfortable with is even harder. You deserve to find a space where you feel seen and heard. Your feelings, emotions, desires, struggles, needs, and experiences matter.
(704) 834-1608 View (704) 834-1608
Photo of Amy R Jamerson - Amy Jamerson, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Jamerson, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
I have specializations in anxiety, depression, trauma, health issues, and grief & loss.
There are times when life or circumstances can feel overwhelming, making you feel stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You want to be open to people around you and feel good about where you are going in your life. This can mean big changes or subtle shifts in what you are doing now. My style is collaborative and empowering, with the ultimate goal of giving you a better quality of life.
I have specializations in anxiety, depression, trauma, health issues, and grief & loss.
There are times when life or circumstances can feel overwhelming, making you feel stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You want to be open to people around you and feel good about where you are going in your life. This can mean big changes or subtle shifts in what you are doing now. My style is collaborative and empowering, with the ultimate goal of giving you a better quality of life.
(704) 459-1132 View (704) 459-1132
Photo of Trent Morrow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trent Morrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Life can be hard, with many ups and downs, all the unknowns, especially in today’s world. My passion is helping those with anxiety and depression, providing high-quality, effective, evidence-based treatment with children, adolescents, and adults. I’ve worked as a licensed therapist for 20 years and my practice uses an outside the box approach when it comes to therapy.
Life can be hard, with many ups and downs, all the unknowns, especially in today’s world. My passion is helping those with anxiety and depression, providing high-quality, effective, evidence-based treatment with children, adolescents, and adults. I’ve worked as a licensed therapist for 20 years and my practice uses an outside the box approach when it comes to therapy.
(704) 310-5788 View (704) 310-5788
Photo of Dr. Galina Olivera-Celdran, PhD, LCMHC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Galina Olivera-Celdran
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270
I offer counseling for PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD and relationship difficulties. If you experienced trauma in your adulthood or childhood, I will teach you how to use relaxation and grounding to manage distress, process and make sense of traumatic events and equip you to respond rather than react in triggering situations. If you need counseling for anxiety and depression, we will work on skills to regulate your emotions, bring your anxiety to a healthy level, experience joy, purpose and connection with others. If you seek counseling for OCD, I can help you tolerate uncertainty and fears to improve your quality of life.
I offer counseling for PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD and relationship difficulties. If you experienced trauma in your adulthood or childhood, I will teach you how to use relaxation and grounding to manage distress, process and make sense of traumatic events and equip you to respond rather than react in triggering situations. If you need counseling for anxiety and depression, we will work on skills to regulate your emotions, bring your anxiety to a healthy level, experience joy, purpose and connection with others. If you seek counseling for OCD, I can help you tolerate uncertainty and fears to improve your quality of life.
(704) 327-0383 View (704) 327-0383
Photo of Rebecca G Weisenthal, PsyD, Psychologist
Rebecca G Weisenthal
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
I have more than 20+ years experience as a psychologist treating adults of all ages. My areas of specialty include, but are not limited to, depression and anxiety management; bipolar disorder; grief and loss issues; issues related to life transitions; and diversity issues. I provide clinical services based upon empirically validated approaches to therapy that have a proven track record of effectiveness. I will work to assist clients in developing coping skills and increased knowledge regarding self-care for psychological and psychiatric difficulties. I bring a passion to clinical work based on my experience in a variety of community settings.
I have more than 20+ years experience as a psychologist treating adults of all ages. My areas of specialty include, but are not limited to, depression and anxiety management; bipolar disorder; grief and loss issues; issues related to life transitions; and diversity issues. I provide clinical services based upon empirically validated approaches to therapy that have a proven track record of effectiveness. I will work to assist clients in developing coping skills and increased knowledge regarding self-care for psychological and psychiatric difficulties. I bring a passion to clinical work based on my experience in a variety of community settings.
(704) 710-8273 View (704) 710-8273
Photo of Dr. Terri Lynn Tilford, EdD, LCMHC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Terri Lynn Tilford
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
Even the strongest people need a little help to work through some of life's more challenging problems, and most of us have battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you are struggling with grief, anger, depression, or mismanagement, I am here to help as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I specifically specialize in women's issues, Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), and issues that challenge young adults.
Even the strongest people need a little help to work through some of life's more challenging problems, and most of us have battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you are struggling with grief, anger, depression, or mismanagement, I am here to help as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I specifically specialize in women's issues, Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), and issues that challenge young adults.
(704) 228-2844 View (704) 228-2844
Photo of Jamie Peters, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jamie Peters
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
My specialities include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, life transitions, identity crisis, grief, PTSD and medical family therapy.
Seeking help can be a difficult and scary process, especially if you feel like you're in it alone. I am here to provide that safe and non-judgemental environment while we explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I work collaboratively with clients to develop life skills, regulate emotions, and to help you reach your goals through an eclectic approach. I tailor sessions to the needs of each individual utilizing techniques like mindfulness, going outside, art therapy, exposure therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and evidence based techniques.
My specialities include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, life transitions, identity crisis, grief, PTSD and medical family therapy.
Seeking help can be a difficult and scary process, especially if you feel like you're in it alone. I am here to provide that safe and non-judgemental environment while we explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I work collaboratively with clients to develop life skills, regulate emotions, and to help you reach your goals through an eclectic approach. I tailor sessions to the needs of each individual utilizing techniques like mindfulness, going outside, art therapy, exposure therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and evidence based techniques.
(980) 944-4438 View (980) 944-4438
Photo of Ashley Burke, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Ashley Burke
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I currently work with adolescents, adults, and couples struggling with eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, BPD, PTSD, relational issues, and OCD.
Does life feel overwhelming right now? Anxiety, depression, and trauma have a way of dictating our thoughts and taking control. In other words, emotions are hard! It’s incredible how long the human body can hold in all the chaos that life brings. I want to help you let go of all of the distress you’ve been holding on to and take back that control. Life will always be unpredictable, however, together we can find ways to navigate through the storms.
I currently work with adolescents, adults, and couples struggling with eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, BPD, PTSD, relational issues, and OCD.
Does life feel overwhelming right now? Anxiety, depression, and trauma have a way of dictating our thoughts and taking control. In other words, emotions are hard! It’s incredible how long the human body can hold in all the chaos that life brings. I want to help you let go of all of the distress you’ve been holding on to and take back that control. Life will always be unpredictable, however, together we can find ways to navigate through the storms.
(980) 246-4759 View (980) 246-4759
Photo of Andrea Symes, MSW, LCSW, CGCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Symes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CGCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216
Recently I have been working with so many ladies who have been feeling like they are not worthy. As a result, many of my clients struggle with people-pleasing behaviors, anxiety, depression, and a feeling of brokenness. If that's you, just know you are not alone! If you desire to feel whole again, to stop worrying, and to start enjoying your life again, I'm here to help. I understand what you are going through as a result, I am offering a FREE 15-minute consultation. For a LIMITED time, qualified individuals may receive FREE sessions. Call me for more information. We are accepting new clients.
Recently I have been working with so many ladies who have been feeling like they are not worthy. As a result, many of my clients struggle with people-pleasing behaviors, anxiety, depression, and a feeling of brokenness. If that's you, just know you are not alone! If you desire to feel whole again, to stop worrying, and to start enjoying your life again, I'm here to help. I understand what you are going through as a result, I am offering a FREE 15-minute consultation. For a LIMITED time, qualified individuals may receive FREE sessions. Call me for more information. We are accepting new clients.
(980) 294-1034 View (980) 294-1034
Photo of Kirsten Cole, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS-I, Counselor
Kirsten Cole
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS-I
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults on various issues such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, behavioral addictions, and self-esteem.
Do you feel unfulfilled in your life, like something is missing? Are you hiding certain behaviors from friends and family? Are you struggling with self-esteem, anxiety or depression? Are you using unhelpful coping mechanisms such as substance use, shopping, gaming/internet, or gambling to cope with those struggles? It is difficult to understand the "why" of our thought processes and behaviors on our own. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you work through understanding your "why" and assist in handling life transitions, achieving goals, or finding relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, or substance use issues.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults on various issues such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, behavioral addictions, and self-esteem.
Do you feel unfulfilled in your life, like something is missing? Are you hiding certain behaviors from friends and family? Are you struggling with self-esteem, anxiety or depression? Are you using unhelpful coping mechanisms such as substance use, shopping, gaming/internet, or gambling to cope with those struggles? It is difficult to understand the "why" of our thought processes and behaviors on our own. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you work through understanding your "why" and assist in handling life transitions, achieving goals, or finding relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, or substance use issues.
(704) 272-2389 View (704) 272-2389
Photo of Tyeast Edmond, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tyeast Edmond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28217  (Online Only)
As a Psychotherapist, I help clients with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, transitional issues, problem-solving, and effective parenting skills using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Techniques.
Helping people help themselves has always been at the heart of who I am and the services I provide to individuals aged 18 and up. I believe that humans are inherently equipped with the natural skills needed to combat life's challenges. However, these skills are often buried beneath medical, social, economic, relational, and mental health issues, diminishing our ability to see beyond the problems. I teach people how to effectively cope with life's challenges and return to living life at their highest and best!
As a Psychotherapist, I help clients with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, transitional issues, problem-solving, and effective parenting skills using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Techniques.
Helping people help themselves has always been at the heart of who I am and the services I provide to individuals aged 18 and up. I believe that humans are inherently equipped with the natural skills needed to combat life's challenges. However, these skills are often buried beneath medical, social, economic, relational, and mental health issues, diminishing our ability to see beyond the problems. I teach people how to effectively cope with life's challenges and return to living life at their highest and best!
(980) 998-2675 View (980) 998-2675
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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.