Photo of Shelby Bollar, LCMHC
Shelby Bollar
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Therapy is for everyone. Life is beautiful, but it can also be brutal. We all go through times in our lives where talking it out with a friend or meditating just doesn't cut it. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, or just feeling stuck in life, I'm here for you. I'll walk alongside you on this journey to help you identify your strengths and coping strategies to help you move forward. We'll also detangle the threads of your past and help you make sense of the story of your life. We'll talk about your childhood trauma as well as what's going on in the present - and how these things interact.
Therapy is for everyone. Life is beautiful, but it can also be brutal. We all go through times in our lives where talking it out with a friend or meditating just doesn't cut it. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, or just feeling stuck in life, I'm here for you. I'll walk alongside you on this journey to help you identify your strengths and coping strategies to help you move forward. We'll also detangle the threads of your past and help you make sense of the story of your life. We'll talk about your childhood trauma as well as what's going on in the present - and how these things interact.
(919) 351-6186 View (919) 351-6186
Photo of Leslie Black, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Hi! I'm Leslie. My speciality is providing down to earth, exploratory, strengths based therapy. I take a collaborative approach with my clients in addressing a variety of concerns ranging from life transitions and relationship issues to anxiety/ depression, stress management, parenting concerns and ADHD (and just about everything in between.) I especially love working with women in all phases of motherhood, as well as young adults and older adolescents. I welcome family and spouse participation in the therapeutic process and I endeavor to provide a compassionate and supportive environment for working through life's challenges.
Hi! I'm Leslie. My speciality is providing down to earth, exploratory, strengths based therapy. I take a collaborative approach with my clients in addressing a variety of concerns ranging from life transitions and relationship issues to anxiety/ depression, stress management, parenting concerns and ADHD (and just about everything in between.) I especially love working with women in all phases of motherhood, as well as young adults and older adolescents. I welcome family and spouse participation in the therapeutic process and I endeavor to provide a compassionate and supportive environment for working through life's challenges.
(910) 335-8795 View (910) 335-8795
Photo of Mandy Bird, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mandy Bird
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Mandy, a licensed psychotherapist, has been in private practice since January of 1993. For her, being a professional counselor and helping people grow is sacred work. She is committed to helping people pursue their own potential and views her work as a therapist as a life-calling. Mandy has a diverse background and range of experiences from working with birth mothers and adoptive families to corporate consulting and executive coaching. As a therapist, Mandy has helped hundreds of people struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, sexual abuse and trauma as well as many other issues.
Mandy, a licensed psychotherapist, has been in private practice since January of 1993. For her, being a professional counselor and helping people grow is sacred work. She is committed to helping people pursue their own potential and views her work as a therapist as a life-calling. Mandy has a diverse background and range of experiences from working with birth mothers and adoptive families to corporate consulting and executive coaching. As a therapist, Mandy has helped hundreds of people struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, sexual abuse and trauma as well as many other issues.
(704) 380-9274 View (704) 380-9274
Photo of Daphne C Wiggins, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, MA, MDiv
Daphne C Wiggins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
I counsel persons with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship stress, etc.
Do you have a habit that is holding you back? Are you struggling with a mood disorder, failure to achieve your goals or imposter syndrome? Has the pandemic or societal upheaval caused you anxiety? Do you practice your faith, but nothing changes? If these questions resonate with you or you're seeking more balance in your life, counseling may be appropriate for you. Counseling is not about being "broken" and having an expert fix you. Instead, it is a process that helps you identify your strengths and realize you are the expert on you. My work is to help you clarify issues and chart a path for change in a safe space.
I counsel persons with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship stress, etc.
Do you have a habit that is holding you back? Are you struggling with a mood disorder, failure to achieve your goals or imposter syndrome? Has the pandemic or societal upheaval caused you anxiety? Do you practice your faith, but nothing changes? If these questions resonate with you or you're seeking more balance in your life, counseling may be appropriate for you. Counseling is not about being "broken" and having an expert fix you. Instead, it is a process that helps you identify your strengths and realize you are the expert on you. My work is to help you clarify issues and chart a path for change in a safe space.
(984) 305-3744 View (984) 305-3744
Photo of Frank Marazzo, LCMHC-A
Frank Marazzo
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
I work especially well with people who have ADHD, depression, anxiety, and substance use / abuse, but am not limited to just those areas.
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make some necessary changes in life but are unsure of where to start. I am passionate about helping individuals find their strengths and increase their confidence in themselves. My philosophy is that we all have innate value and skills that often are overlooked, but, when fully utilized, can put us on a path to be our best and happiest selves. I use a combination of a few theories, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existential Theory, & Solution Focused.
I work especially well with people who have ADHD, depression, anxiety, and substance use / abuse, but am not limited to just those areas.
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make some necessary changes in life but are unsure of where to start. I am passionate about helping individuals find their strengths and increase their confidence in themselves. My philosophy is that we all have innate value and skills that often are overlooked, but, when fully utilized, can put us on a path to be our best and happiest selves. I use a combination of a few theories, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existential Theory, & Solution Focused.
(980) 983-0489 View (980) 983-0489
Photo of Kristin Hammond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dunn, NC 28334  (Online Only)
There are times when life can really throw us some nasty curveballs. It's hard some days to even put one foot in front of another. Our joy can quickly vanish and be replaced by fear and sadness. I know that struggle. I was diagnosed with a significant health issue three years ago which led to horrible depression and anxiety . Now, I truly have a better understanding of where my clients are coming from and just how heavy depression and anxiety can be to carry. I also know it's possible to get your joy and peace of mind back. Whatever your struggles are, they can improve and I would be honored to help guide your path.
There are times when life can really throw us some nasty curveballs. It's hard some days to even put one foot in front of another. Our joy can quickly vanish and be replaced by fear and sadness. I know that struggle. I was diagnosed with a significant health issue three years ago which led to horrible depression and anxiety . Now, I truly have a better understanding of where my clients are coming from and just how heavy depression and anxiety can be to carry. I also know it's possible to get your joy and peace of mind back. Whatever your struggles are, they can improve and I would be honored to help guide your path.
(910) 613-9086 View (910) 613-9086
Photo of Jonathan Hetterly - Jonathan Hetterly, LLC, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonathan Hetterly, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I help those with anxiety, depression, addiction, mental health related life disruption, marital struggles, and parenting problems.
The world is in the midst of great changes and challenges. Our mental health must be prioritized, or we will needlessly suffer as we accept and adapt to what is happening in our lives.
I help those with anxiety, depression, addiction, mental health related life disruption, marital struggles, and parenting problems.
The world is in the midst of great changes and challenges. Our mental health must be prioritized, or we will needlessly suffer as we accept and adapt to what is happening in our lives.
(704) 413-3473 x111 View (704) 413-3473 x111
Photo of Sarah Page .... Therapist Counselor Navigator, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Page .... Therapist Counselor Navigator
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I come from the perspective of a lived experiences and I found my way through both depression / anxiety and addiction.
Are you living with depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, lack of direction, trauma? I believe that we naturally feel a call to live meaningful, loving lives and know intuitively that this is our best path but we often will feel stuck, unsure, fearful and so take no action. Existential therapy calls this a restricted existence and believes the goal of all therapy is to remove the road blocks that are limiting you from moving toward living your best life.
I come from the perspective of a lived experiences and I found my way through both depression / anxiety and addiction.
Are you living with depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, lack of direction, trauma? I believe that we naturally feel a call to live meaningful, loving lives and know intuitively that this is our best path but we often will feel stuck, unsure, fearful and so take no action. Existential therapy calls this a restricted existence and believes the goal of all therapy is to remove the road blocks that are limiting you from moving toward living your best life.
(828) 528-6644 View (828) 528-6644
Photo of George N Gates, DMin, MA, LPA, LPC, NCC
George N Gates
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, DMin, MA, LPA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
I have had good success with working with the resolution of depression and anxiety with clients for over 35 years. I work with people who are trying to improve their marriage or reluctantly must decide another direction. Sometimes men are ambivalent about trusting therapy. While the national norm is that therapist caseloads are 70/30 % women more than men, my norm is an even split between men and women. Men do find they can make headway on stubborn relational or emotional issues. I also see adolescent boys as they make their transition into young manhood.
I have had good success with working with the resolution of depression and anxiety with clients for over 35 years. I work with people who are trying to improve their marriage or reluctantly must decide another direction. Sometimes men are ambivalent about trusting therapy. While the national norm is that therapist caseloads are 70/30 % women more than men, my norm is an even split between men and women. Men do find they can make headway on stubborn relational or emotional issues. I also see adolescent boys as they make their transition into young manhood.
(910) 401-3384 View (910) 401-3384
Photo of Kristen Spell, MA, LCMHC, RPT, NCC
Kristen Spell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with clients with ADHD who are anxious, overwhelmed, and want more out of life. I want to help ADHDers learn how to be connected to their body and improve their relationship with themselves. I work with clients to process their experiences while also sharing realistic tools, skills, and techniques to support anxiety, ADHD, and depression symptoms. During sessions, we may review relationships/attachments, childhood, traumas, family cycles, etc. My goal is to bring awareness to ADHD symptoms, connect clients to appropriate supports, and process emotional responses.
I am passionate about working with clients with ADHD who are anxious, overwhelmed, and want more out of life. I want to help ADHDers learn how to be connected to their body and improve their relationship with themselves. I work with clients to process their experiences while also sharing realistic tools, skills, and techniques to support anxiety, ADHD, and depression symptoms. During sessions, we may review relationships/attachments, childhood, traumas, family cycles, etc. My goal is to bring awareness to ADHD symptoms, connect clients to appropriate supports, and process emotional responses.
(980) 243-4083 View (980) 243-4083
Photo of Ricki L Geiger, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ricki L Geiger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
Online Only. Check your insurance. I can help you unravel difficult experiences-past and present, work through bad feelings and cultivate positive change. As a process relational psychotherapist coupled with a somatic and PolyVagal Theory lens, I specialize in healing childhood abuse/neglect, and trauma related stress and symptoms: shame, depression, loss of self, numbing, anxiety, self-destructive behavior, chronic grief and pain, attachment and trust issues, feeling helpless and hopeless. Over time, you will relinquish old self-defeating internal messages, behaviors; gain confidence and skills and enjoy a fuller life.
Online Only. Check your insurance. I can help you unravel difficult experiences-past and present, work through bad feelings and cultivate positive change. As a process relational psychotherapist coupled with a somatic and PolyVagal Theory lens, I specialize in healing childhood abuse/neglect, and trauma related stress and symptoms: shame, depression, loss of self, numbing, anxiety, self-destructive behavior, chronic grief and pain, attachment and trust issues, feeling helpless and hopeless. Over time, you will relinquish old self-defeating internal messages, behaviors; gain confidence and skills and enjoy a fuller life.
(919) 642-2133 View (919) 642-2133
Photo of Christa G Reid, MSW, LCSW-A, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christa G Reid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Erwin, NC 28339
Areas of strength include diagnosing and treating trauma due to abuse and neglect, helping children overcome anxiety and depression, and working with children and families affected by divorce.
Life can knock you down and keep you there if you let it. I have been a social worker for 18 years, working alongside children and families to preserve wholeness and solidity while providing coping skills, intervention, and case management. I believe for every storm in our life, there is a bright rainbow at the end. Sometimes, we need a nonjudgmental person to lend an ear while discussing our past traumas, hurt, and issues we have endured. Therapy should be focusing on the healing of the past and moving forward to become the best version of ourselves, find our purpose and live it to the fullest.
Areas of strength include diagnosing and treating trauma due to abuse and neglect, helping children overcome anxiety and depression, and working with children and families affected by divorce.
Life can knock you down and keep you there if you let it. I have been a social worker for 18 years, working alongside children and families to preserve wholeness and solidity while providing coping skills, intervention, and case management. I believe for every storm in our life, there is a bright rainbow at the end. Sometimes, we need a nonjudgmental person to lend an ear while discussing our past traumas, hurt, and issues we have endured. Therapy should be focusing on the healing of the past and moving forward to become the best version of ourselves, find our purpose and live it to the fullest.
(910) 601-9781 View (910) 601-9781
Photo of Steven Clemons Jr, MAMFC, LCMHC, LPC
Steven Clemons Jr
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMFC, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Life is unpredictable and often takes unexpected twists and turns. I strive to create a safe and warm environment in order to help you through life challenges, such as life-transitions, anxiety, emetophobia, depression, anger, low self-image, spiritual concerns, grief and loss, OCD, ADD/ADHD, and trauma. I utilize compassion, experience, and straightforwardness, working in collaboration with your willingness and motivation to change in a dynamic combination. I enjoy integrating theology and spirituality into counseling as desired by clients. Clients working with me are ready for healing, growth, and change that is long-term.
Life is unpredictable and often takes unexpected twists and turns. I strive to create a safe and warm environment in order to help you through life challenges, such as life-transitions, anxiety, emetophobia, depression, anger, low self-image, spiritual concerns, grief and loss, OCD, ADD/ADHD, and trauma. I utilize compassion, experience, and straightforwardness, working in collaboration with your willingness and motivation to change in a dynamic combination. I enjoy integrating theology and spirituality into counseling as desired by clients. Clients working with me are ready for healing, growth, and change that is long-term.
(704) 802-1765 x1114 View (704) 802-1765 x1114
Photo of Katie Rubin, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Rubin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
Addiction, anxiety, co-dependency, depression mood disorders, relational issues, grief and loss, life transitions, work Issues, sexual Identity exploration andnself esteem.
As an experienced therapist I lead with compassion and curiosity to help You, the client discover your innate wisdom and inner resources to understand, manage, and resolve internal or external conflict. This may affecting you relationship to self, your personal or work relationships, or causing you ; anxiety, depression, insecurities, addictive behaviors, or maladaptive patterns that get in the way of your fullest life...and true self. I hold a safe, supportive space and engage in the process of self discovery along with you and the parts of you that want to achieve greater internal freedom.
Addiction, anxiety, co-dependency, depression mood disorders, relational issues, grief and loss, life transitions, work Issues, sexual Identity exploration andnself esteem.
As an experienced therapist I lead with compassion and curiosity to help You, the client discover your innate wisdom and inner resources to understand, manage, and resolve internal or external conflict. This may affecting you relationship to self, your personal or work relationships, or causing you ; anxiety, depression, insecurities, addictive behaviors, or maladaptive patterns that get in the way of your fullest life...and true self. I hold a safe, supportive space and engage in the process of self discovery along with you and the parts of you that want to achieve greater internal freedom.
(980) 280-1352 View (980) 280-1352
Photo of Joy P Robbins - Joy Robbins; Creative Counseling & Consulting,PLLC, LPC-S, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joy Robbins; Creative Counseling & Consulting,PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
I specialize in treating mood disorders, like anxiety and depression, in teenagers and adults.
You are one step closer to a new you! I enjoy helping adolescent and adult clients find solutions through a balance of support and challenge. When you're on my couch, I work as hard as you do. I believe in helping you change your thoughts to change your feelings to change your behaviors which will change your life! I have worked in a variety of settings: an inpatient psychiatric hospital, public schools, residential treatment, EAP and private practice. I can help you reach your potential!
I specialize in treating mood disorders, like anxiety and depression, in teenagers and adults.
You are one step closer to a new you! I enjoy helping adolescent and adult clients find solutions through a balance of support and challenge. When you're on my couch, I work as hard as you do. I believe in helping you change your thoughts to change your feelings to change your behaviors which will change your life! I have worked in a variety of settings: an inpatient psychiatric hospital, public schools, residential treatment, EAP and private practice. I can help you reach your potential!
(704) 870-4678 View (704) 870-4678
Photo of David K Massey - David K. Massey, MSW, LCSW, , MSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David K. Massey, MSW, LCSW,
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
I provide individual and couples therapy for people suffering with depression, bipolar and other mood disorders using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as other treatment modalities.
I have the advantage of working at Eastover Psychological and Psychiatric Group, a large private practice with other therapists, psychiatrists and psychologists to be able to provide excellent, comprehensive treatment.
I provide individual and couples therapy for people suffering with depression, bipolar and other mood disorders using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as other treatment modalities.
I have the advantage of working at Eastover Psychological and Psychiatric Group, a large private practice with other therapists, psychiatrists and psychologists to be able to provide excellent, comprehensive treatment.
(980) 368-3591 View (980) 368-3591
Photo of Ann Fields, MSW, LCSW, Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Fields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Coach
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, difficulty managing anger, relationship challenges, concerns with workplace, purpose, and/or identity.
At times, we experience difficult seasons where life does not match our ideal. It is in this space a safe place is needed to unpack the unexpected. Together, we will look at the pieces of your life, set goals, then chart a course. You will be provided with real tools to help overcome challenges, resolve the past, and move forward to attain wellness. My approach is real, insightful, and interactive. The focus is always on you and your well-being. I am kind, but direct. I talk truth and hold my clients accountable.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, difficulty managing anger, relationship challenges, concerns with workplace, purpose, and/or identity.
At times, we experience difficult seasons where life does not match our ideal. It is in this space a safe place is needed to unpack the unexpected. Together, we will look at the pieces of your life, set goals, then chart a course. You will be provided with real tools to help overcome challenges, resolve the past, and move forward to attain wellness. My approach is real, insightful, and interactive. The focus is always on you and your well-being. I am kind, but direct. I talk truth and hold my clients accountable.
(704) 327-0482 View (704) 327-0482
Photo of Chrissy Holiday, MDiv, MA/EdS, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chrissy Holiday
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA/EdS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Marion, NC 28752
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that change is hard but not impossible. I work especially well with people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and spirituality. I work mainly through trauma-informed therapy, reality therapy, EMDR, and internal family systems therapy, though I am open to other approaches to counseling. Individuals and families are welcome in my office to receive empathetic and intentional mental health care. Although I am not able to prescribe medication, I understand it is often a major part of mental wellness and I can coordinate with any prescribing doctors who may already be part of your wellness team.
I believe that change is hard but not impossible. I work especially well with people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and spirituality. I work mainly through trauma-informed therapy, reality therapy, EMDR, and internal family systems therapy, though I am open to other approaches to counseling. Individuals and families are welcome in my office to receive empathetic and intentional mental health care. Although I am not able to prescribe medication, I understand it is often a major part of mental wellness and I can coordinate with any prescribing doctors who may already be part of your wellness team.
(980) 404-2360 x4 View (980) 404-2360 x4
Photo of Halimah A. Hargett, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Halimah A. Hargett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
We're supposed to drink enough water, get enough sleep, exercise, save money, make money, work hard while having work/life balance, be a great spouse/parent/sibling/child, travel more...the list is endless. We are taught to engage life at a grueling and intense pace that is becoming increasingly difficult in the backdrop of a tumultuous world in crisis. I don't view mental health in a vacuum; sometimes depression and anxiety are appropriate and healthy responses to stressful and unprecedented life events. I teach solution-oriented skills to address feelings, improve communication and live in a healthy way that honors your humanity.
We're supposed to drink enough water, get enough sleep, exercise, save money, make money, work hard while having work/life balance, be a great spouse/parent/sibling/child, travel more...the list is endless. We are taught to engage life at a grueling and intense pace that is becoming increasingly difficult in the backdrop of a tumultuous world in crisis. I don't view mental health in a vacuum; sometimes depression and anxiety are appropriate and healthy responses to stressful and unprecedented life events. I teach solution-oriented skills to address feelings, improve communication and live in a healthy way that honors your humanity.
(704) 940-8065 x1001 View (704) 940-8065 x1001
Photo of Jessica Wing, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Jessica Wing
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
Waitlist for new clients
When in the depth of despair, depression, confusion, or anger, it can be blinding to the opportunities around us.
I primarily work with teenagers, older children, families, and young adults. I feel that adolescents have their entire future in front of them, and it is the most opportune time to learn positive thinking patterns, coping skills, and life strategies. Teenagers are at a pivotal point in their lives, facing many large life decisions. Having a neutral person to be open with in life is invaluable. I have worked with clients through many challenges such as (not limited to) depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, trauma, grief, self-harm, self-esteem, sexual identity, school struggles, behavioral/impulse challenges, and anger management.
When in the depth of despair, depression, confusion, or anger, it can be blinding to the opportunities around us.
I primarily work with teenagers, older children, families, and young adults. I feel that adolescents have their entire future in front of them, and it is the most opportune time to learn positive thinking patterns, coping skills, and life strategies. Teenagers are at a pivotal point in their lives, facing many large life decisions. Having a neutral person to be open with in life is invaluable. I have worked with clients through many challenges such as (not limited to) depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, trauma, grief, self-harm, self-esteem, sexual identity, school struggles, behavioral/impulse challenges, and anger management.
(980) 385-5775 View (980) 385-5775
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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.