Photo of Hope Stephens, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hope Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilson, NC 27896
You may feel alone in your grief, depression, and anxiety.
Do you feel broken? Lost? No clear direction? You are not alone. Let me help. My desire is to create an atmosphere where patients feel comfortable to share their lives without fear of judgment. I meet people where they are, in their brokenness, and work with the patient to develop goals that will help them achieve a happier, healthier lifestyle. I utilize a holistic approach and assist patients in recognizing the connection between the mind, body, and spirit.
You may feel alone in your grief, depression, and anxiety.
Do you feel broken? Lost? No clear direction? You are not alone. Let me help. My desire is to create an atmosphere where patients feel comfortable to share their lives without fear of judgment. I meet people where they are, in their brokenness, and work with the patient to develop goals that will help them achieve a happier, healthier lifestyle. I utilize a holistic approach and assist patients in recognizing the connection between the mind, body, and spirit.
(252) 888-7906 View (252) 888-7906
Photo of Georgia DeFrancia, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Georgia DeFrancia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28806
I have over 20 years experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment and parenting.
Welcome! It takes courage to enter into counseling and I am so glad you are here! I believe that your unique life experiences guide how you build relationships with yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy gives you an opportunity to more deeply understand these relationships as well as your feelings, behaviors, and thoughts. As a clinician I believe that you possess the innate wisdom, strengths and skills that you need. My role is to help guide you back to this wisdom to help you create the life you want.
I have over 20 years experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment and parenting.
Welcome! It takes courage to enter into counseling and I am so glad you are here! I believe that your unique life experiences guide how you build relationships with yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy gives you an opportunity to more deeply understand these relationships as well as your feelings, behaviors, and thoughts. As a clinician I believe that you possess the innate wisdom, strengths and skills that you need. My role is to help guide you back to this wisdom to help you create the life you want.
(828) 332-5678 View (828) 332-5678
Photo of Shannon S Wiggins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon S Wiggins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
I specialize in work with millennial aged clients needing support for anxiety, depression and relationship concerns.
You are NOT WEAK. You simply realize there’s a BETTER WAY to tackle your CHALLENGES. You are NOT CRAZY. You have challenges like EVERYONE else and just want a SAFE place to WORK THEM OUT. You DO NOT want anyone’s PITY; you simply want to BETTER your LIFE. You expect ELITE care, and that’s what I provide. I work with PROFESSIONAL MILLENIALS that want the BEST out of LIFE and are MOTIVATED for change. I provide clients with PRACTICAL TOOLS they can use NOW to start FEELING BETTER FASTER. And I keep WORKING WITH YOU to ensure those changes stick. I help you LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!
I specialize in work with millennial aged clients needing support for anxiety, depression and relationship concerns.
You are NOT WEAK. You simply realize there’s a BETTER WAY to tackle your CHALLENGES. You are NOT CRAZY. You have challenges like EVERYONE else and just want a SAFE place to WORK THEM OUT. You DO NOT want anyone’s PITY; you simply want to BETTER your LIFE. You expect ELITE care, and that’s what I provide. I work with PROFESSIONAL MILLENIALS that want the BEST out of LIFE and are MOTIVATED for change. I provide clients with PRACTICAL TOOLS they can use NOW to start FEELING BETTER FASTER. And I keep WORKING WITH YOU to ensure those changes stick. I help you LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!
(910) 501-2641 View (910) 501-2641
Photo of Will Jordan, MEd, LCMHCA, Counselor
Will Jordan
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I have experience working with grief and loss, identity, masculinity, relationship issues, anxiety and depression.
Therapy can be about reflection, growth, self-discovery, problem-solving, or any combination of these experiences. At its core, therapy is about honesty: being more honest with yourself and others, and learning how to live your life in a way that honors your true self. You are smart and capable, but perhaps you are experiencing a struggle that has left you feeling lost, confused or stuck. You may be seeking a safe place to talk about what you’re going through and find a way to heal. As a therapist, I believe that you are the expert on yourself, not me.
I have experience working with grief and loss, identity, masculinity, relationship issues, anxiety and depression.
Therapy can be about reflection, growth, self-discovery, problem-solving, or any combination of these experiences. At its core, therapy is about honesty: being more honest with yourself and others, and learning how to live your life in a way that honors your true self. You are smart and capable, but perhaps you are experiencing a struggle that has left you feeling lost, confused or stuck. You may be seeking a safe place to talk about what you’re going through and find a way to heal. As a therapist, I believe that you are the expert on yourself, not me.
(938) 837-0593 View (938) 837-0593
Photo of Joy Martin, PhD, LCMHCS, MAC, NCC
Joy Martin
PhD, LCMHCS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
I specialize in the following: depression & anxiety, stress managment, trauma, conflict resolution, intimacy & relationship issues, couples counseling, family counseling, grief & loss, panic attacks & panic disorder, parenting issues & family issues, parenting support, phobias, work & career issues, eating disorders, & substance abuse.
I have been in the helping field for over fifteen years. I work with children, adolescents, couples, & families.Working with all of these age groups has helped me to have a better worldview of how issues affect us throughout different stages of our lives.My approach is cognitive behavioral therapy with family systems, but I also believe that an integrated approach alows us to use the events that have hurt us over the years to actually strengthen us today. I do EMDR as well. It is a process but I am here to guide & support you through getting to a healthier you.I am full of gratitude for the opportunties I have to work with you.
I specialize in the following: depression & anxiety, stress managment, trauma, conflict resolution, intimacy & relationship issues, couples counseling, family counseling, grief & loss, panic attacks & panic disorder, parenting issues & family issues, parenting support, phobias, work & career issues, eating disorders, & substance abuse.
I have been in the helping field for over fifteen years. I work with children, adolescents, couples, & families.Working with all of these age groups has helped me to have a better worldview of how issues affect us throughout different stages of our lives.My approach is cognitive behavioral therapy with family systems, but I also believe that an integrated approach alows us to use the events that have hurt us over the years to actually strengthen us today. I do EMDR as well. It is a process but I am here to guide & support you through getting to a healthier you.I am full of gratitude for the opportunties I have to work with you.
(828) 382-8565 View (828) 382-8565
Photo of Chenille D Smith, MSW, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chenille D Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27406
I have specialized training in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and relational discord.
Nobody tells you this, but sometimes the healing process hurts more than the wound. I understand the demands of life and recognize seeking help is hard at times and requires you to trust someone with your hurts, pains, and fears. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I strive to help clients build connections within themselves and create positive and healthy relationships . In addition, I am dedicated to assisting clients to overcome stressors and challenges they are facing in their lives.
I have specialized training in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and relational discord.
Nobody tells you this, but sometimes the healing process hurts more than the wound. I understand the demands of life and recognize seeking help is hard at times and requires you to trust someone with your hurts, pains, and fears. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I strive to help clients build connections within themselves and create positive and healthy relationships . In addition, I am dedicated to assisting clients to overcome stressors and challenges they are facing in their lives.
(360) 506-6698 View (360) 506-6698
Photo of Tiffany Summers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
You deserve peace and happiness! If you are struggling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to go this alone. Taking the first step towards seeking support is an act of courage and self-care. As a dedicated clinical social worker with a passion for empowering individuals, I am here to support you on your journey toward improved mental well-being and emotional strength.
You deserve peace and happiness! If you are struggling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to go this alone. Taking the first step towards seeking support is an act of courage and self-care. As a dedicated clinical social worker with a passion for empowering individuals, I am here to support you on your journey toward improved mental well-being and emotional strength.
(919) 899-2040 View (919) 899-2040
Photo of Karen Barbee, LCMHC
Karen Barbee
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Dr. Karen Davis S10075. I have been licensed for 11 years in NC. I am a person-centered therapist and my main areas of focus are developing a healthier self-esteem, decreasing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and working with my clients from a strengths-based approach. The environment of my sessions is very relaxed. I seek to build a trusting relationship with my clients where they feel comfortable to share and be who they authentically are without any fear of judgment.
Hi, my name is Dr. Karen Davis S10075. I have been licensed for 11 years in NC. I am a person-centered therapist and my main areas of focus are developing a healthier self-esteem, decreasing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and working with my clients from a strengths-based approach. The environment of my sessions is very relaxed. I seek to build a trusting relationship with my clients where they feel comfortable to share and be who they authentically are without any fear of judgment.
(980) 340-7864 View (980) 340-7864
Photo of Vanessa M. Talley, LCSW, LCASA, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa M. Talley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am humbled by the work done collaboratively with individuals while helping them reach their goals. Healing is a journey, and I am here to assist you in becoming a Happier, Healthier, and more Whole version of yourself. Clients who are ready for change, and the work it takes, reach out to me. Have you ever wondered how to overcome the trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety that prevents you from living your best possible life? If your answer is "yes," let's connect. I use holistic approaches that can help.
I am humbled by the work done collaboratively with individuals while helping them reach their goals. Healing is a journey, and I am here to assist you in becoming a Happier, Healthier, and more Whole version of yourself. Clients who are ready for change, and the work it takes, reach out to me. Have you ever wondered how to overcome the trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety that prevents you from living your best possible life? If your answer is "yes," let's connect. I use holistic approaches that can help.
(919) 877-6495 View (919) 877-6495
Photo of Natalie R Gidney-Cole - NRG-Coaching, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
NRG-Coaching, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
Drawing from over 25 years of dedicated clinical practice, I offer compassionate and professional support for individuals, children, adolescents, and families navigating life's complexities. From fostering healthy relationships to managing anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, trauma and more, I provide tailored solutions rooted in empathy, knowledge, and understanding.
Drawing from over 25 years of dedicated clinical practice, I offer compassionate and professional support for individuals, children, adolescents, and families navigating life's complexities. From fostering healthy relationships to managing anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, trauma and more, I provide tailored solutions rooted in empathy, knowledge, and understanding.
(919) 343-0284 View (919) 343-0284
Photo of Geoff Birch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Geoff Birch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
Is the hurt of a traumatic past still weighing on you? Or maybe you’re struggling with a toxic relationship or can’t find the confidence to stand up for yourself. I can help you learn to let go of the past. Even if it’s been months, years or even decades, there is hope. The idea of rebuilding our life is daunting, but not impossible. Above all, I help people cope with anxiety, depression and substance abuse to get back to living life to the fullest and being the best version of themselves.
Is the hurt of a traumatic past still weighing on you? Or maybe you’re struggling with a toxic relationship or can’t find the confidence to stand up for yourself. I can help you learn to let go of the past. Even if it’s been months, years or even decades, there is hope. The idea of rebuilding our life is daunting, but not impossible. Above all, I help people cope with anxiety, depression and substance abuse to get back to living life to the fullest and being the best version of themselves.
(919) 739-4707 View (919) 739-4707
Photo of Barbara Jean Sorensen, MS, LCMHCA, CHT, CHTP, Counselor
Barbara Jean Sorensen
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, CHT, CHTP
Verified Verified
Greetings and welcome to Mountain Home Counseling! I offer a genuine team approach with you, doing work I am called to from the heart and soul. My specialties are in general mental health counseling, clinical hypnosis and Transpersonal hypnotherapy. Clinical and therapeutic hypnosis along with counseling addresses many forms of mental/emotional/physical issues including undesirable habits, phobias, physical ailments, anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and all manner of fear that hinders our ability to fully love and accept ourselves.
Greetings and welcome to Mountain Home Counseling! I offer a genuine team approach with you, doing work I am called to from the heart and soul. My specialties are in general mental health counseling, clinical hypnosis and Transpersonal hypnotherapy. Clinical and therapeutic hypnosis along with counseling addresses many forms of mental/emotional/physical issues including undesirable habits, phobias, physical ailments, anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and all manner of fear that hinders our ability to fully love and accept ourselves.
(828) 332-5620 View (828) 332-5620
Photo of Margurite Reaves, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margurite Reaves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
Hello, my name is Margurite Reaves; I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I approach the therapeutic process with an individualized approach. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, unhealthy attachment patterns, trauma, and conduct disorders. I have several years of experience working with adults, children/adolescence, and families in areas that include but are not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment issues, defiant behaviors, stress management, and trauma.
Hello, my name is Margurite Reaves; I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I approach the therapeutic process with an individualized approach. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, unhealthy attachment patterns, trauma, and conduct disorders. I have several years of experience working with adults, children/adolescence, and families in areas that include but are not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment issues, defiant behaviors, stress management, and trauma.
(980) 372-6690 View (980) 372-6690
Photo of Stephanie M McGee - SM Counseling Services PLLC , LCMHC, LCAS-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
SM Counseling Services PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Client's seek therapy because they desire positive change and growth in their lives. They want to feel empowered, understood, and supported as they navigate their challenges and work towards achieving their goals. Their motivation may stem from a desire for greater happiness, fulfillment, and overall well-being, as well as a recognition of the value of investing in their mental and emotional health. As a therapist, my role is to support and guide you on this journey, providing the tools, insights, and encouragement you need to overcome obstacles and live life more fully and authentically.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Client's seek therapy because they desire positive change and growth in their lives. They want to feel empowered, understood, and supported as they navigate their challenges and work towards achieving their goals. Their motivation may stem from a desire for greater happiness, fulfillment, and overall well-being, as well as a recognition of the value of investing in their mental and emotional health. As a therapist, my role is to support and guide you on this journey, providing the tools, insights, and encouragement you need to overcome obstacles and live life more fully and authentically.
(704) 327-0310 View (704) 327-0310
Photo of Cindy Saleeby Goulding, MS, LCMHC, NCC, CPT , CHWC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindy Saleeby Goulding
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC, CPT , CHWC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513  (Online Only)
I specialize in stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, relationships, healthy weight, emotional eating, fitness goals and mindfulness.
If you are struggling with a relationship, personal or work stress, health challenges, grief and loss, trauma, negative experiences, emotional eating, anxiety or depression, I can help you on your journey. I am committed to helping you take steps to reach your fullest potential and will honor where you are on your journey. I take a holistic approach to health and wellness and specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness. I value the mind/body connection so you can feel better physically and emotionally. I am here to help you gain understanding and insights in your journey.
I specialize in stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, relationships, healthy weight, emotional eating, fitness goals and mindfulness.
If you are struggling with a relationship, personal or work stress, health challenges, grief and loss, trauma, negative experiences, emotional eating, anxiety or depression, I can help you on your journey. I am committed to helping you take steps to reach your fullest potential and will honor where you are on your journey. I take a holistic approach to health and wellness and specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness. I value the mind/body connection so you can feel better physically and emotionally. I am here to help you gain understanding and insights in your journey.
(984) 213-4724 View (984) 213-4724
Photo of Tasha Ganthier - Inner Peace Counseling Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner Peace Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
She has extensive experience working with complex issues such as: anxiety, stress, depression, attachment, couples/marital challenges, trauma, parenting, adoption, end of life counseling, medically fragile concerns, spirituality, mediation, coping, mindfulness and interpersonal concerns.
"Happiness comes from accepting that we cannot control everything that occurs, but we have power to create balance, beauty and peace in every area of our lives." Tasha Ganthier is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a master's degree from New York University. Her experience in therapy began in 1999. She has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, parents and those struggling with life's transitions. Tasha has a passion for people and utilizes a very organic, holistic and evidence-based approach.
She has extensive experience working with complex issues such as: anxiety, stress, depression, attachment, couples/marital challenges, trauma, parenting, adoption, end of life counseling, medically fragile concerns, spirituality, mediation, coping, mindfulness and interpersonal concerns.
"Happiness comes from accepting that we cannot control everything that occurs, but we have power to create balance, beauty and peace in every area of our lives." Tasha Ganthier is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a master's degree from New York University. Her experience in therapy began in 1999. She has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, parents and those struggling with life's transitions. Tasha has a passion for people and utilizes a very organic, holistic and evidence-based approach.
(704) 727-4989 View (704) 727-4989
Photo of Sarah Harrocks, MSW, LCSW, LMBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Harrocks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMBT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
(919) 858-6073 View (919) 858-6073
Photo of Jerrica Royal, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jerrica Royal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing changes that are inducing anxiety within your professional and personal relationships? Perhaps you are seeking answers to the many curve balls life throws our way? Depression, trauma, grief & loss, divorce, anxiety, relationship conflicts, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and self-image issues are all mental disorders that can cause an individual to feel a loss of control.
Are you experiencing changes that are inducing anxiety within your professional and personal relationships? Perhaps you are seeking answers to the many curve balls life throws our way? Depression, trauma, grief & loss, divorce, anxiety, relationship conflicts, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and self-image issues are all mental disorders that can cause an individual to feel a loss of control.
(336) 656-2855 View (336) 656-2855
Photo of Debra Bergman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra Bergman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27406
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
(678) 257-3426 View (678) 257-3426
Photo of Jody (Jonathan) Youmans, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jody (Jonathan) Youmans
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Youngsville, NC 27596
I have extensive experience with a diverse range of emotional and behavioral issues, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief, adjustment disorder, ADHD, self-esteem, parenting, and peer relationships while working with individuals, couples and families.
My theoretical orientation is from an eclectic approach which provides a balance of the different types of therapies to meet the client where they are at. I also have acquired special training, which provides an opportunity for me to work with children and adults dealing with different traumas they have experienced. I ascribe to treating the whole person and to helping the individual to become his or her own best therapist. It is my belief that as an individual becomes more aware of their thoughts, actions, emotions and beliefs that they have increased ability to face challenges and overcome difficult situations more successfully.
I have extensive experience with a diverse range of emotional and behavioral issues, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief, adjustment disorder, ADHD, self-esteem, parenting, and peer relationships while working with individuals, couples and families.
My theoretical orientation is from an eclectic approach which provides a balance of the different types of therapies to meet the client where they are at. I also have acquired special training, which provides an opportunity for me to work with children and adults dealing with different traumas they have experienced. I ascribe to treating the whole person and to helping the individual to become his or her own best therapist. It is my belief that as an individual becomes more aware of their thoughts, actions, emotions and beliefs that they have increased ability to face challenges and overcome difficult situations more successfully.
(919) 323-4048 View (919) 323-4048
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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.