Depression Therapists in Cape Coral, FL

Photo of Gillian Melendez Harris, LMHC, Counselor
Gillian Melendez Harris
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33909  (Online Only)
My specialties include working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, and addiction.
Contact me via through my website to set up a time to discuss your goals! The classic question, what makes me unique? I can guarantee you have never met a therapist like me. I am Gillian. I am a natural born empath. Do you struggle with the push through mentality? I want the individuals I work with to feel heard, to feel understood, to know they can be 100 percent themselves with zero judgment. I know finding the right therapist can be difficult. My approach is Person Centered based. This means I wholeheartedly believe a person has the capacity for growth.
My specialties include working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, and addiction.
Contact me via through my website to set up a time to discuss your goals! The classic question, what makes me unique? I can guarantee you have never met a therapist like me. I am Gillian. I am a natural born empath. Do you struggle with the push through mentality? I want the individuals I work with to feel heard, to feel understood, to know they can be 100 percent themselves with zero judgment. I know finding the right therapist can be difficult. My approach is Person Centered based. This means I wholeheartedly believe a person has the capacity for growth.
(239) 360-4044 View (239) 360-4044
Photo of Lidice Duran, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lidice Duran
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Coral, FL 33993  (Online Only)
I provide therapy services in Spanish and English, specializing in emotional distress, depression and anxiety, identity development, trauma, and relationship concerns.
Now accepting new clients! Congratulations on taking your first step toward prioritizing your psychological well-being. Welcome! As we embark on your therapeutic journey, I will strive to provide a supportive and inclusive environment, centered around you, where you can feel safe and heard. Therapy is a collaborative process and throughout our sessions I will empower you to take an active role in your healing, as the expert of your own experience and personal vision.
I provide therapy services in Spanish and English, specializing in emotional distress, depression and anxiety, identity development, trauma, and relationship concerns.
Now accepting new clients! Congratulations on taking your first step toward prioritizing your psychological well-being. Welcome! As we embark on your therapeutic journey, I will strive to provide a supportive and inclusive environment, centered around you, where you can feel safe and heard. Therapy is a collaborative process and throughout our sessions I will empower you to take an active role in your healing, as the expert of your own experience and personal vision.
(239) 392-4795 View (239) 392-4795
Photo of Sarah R Ferreira, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah R Ferreira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33904  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping young adults understand and resolve feelings of anxiety and depression that are impacting their quality of life. It’s important to address these issues as early as possible in order to prevent maladaptive behaviors from forming. As a mental health professional, I have had the privilege of helping countless individuals overcome these emotions and get back to living the life they deserve.
I am passionate about helping young adults understand and resolve feelings of anxiety and depression that are impacting their quality of life. It’s important to address these issues as early as possible in order to prevent maladaptive behaviors from forming. As a mental health professional, I have had the privilege of helping countless individuals overcome these emotions and get back to living the life they deserve.
(239) 920-8251 View (239) 920-8251
Photo of Seth Monaco, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seth Monaco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Cape Coral, FL 33904  (Online Only)
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* *ACCEPTS INSURANCES* I can help you obtain motivation when struggling with balance in your life by helping you find Simplicity. Simplicity doesn't eliminate the complexities of life but allows you to develop focus on what's important. I can help you ruffle through feelings of stress, anxiety, depression and inadequacy to discover the joy of living life with direction, forgiveness, and peace. You have the perfect solution to your circumstance and simply need assistance sorting out the truth from a mountain of lies. Let's find simple solutions so you can live a happier life.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* *ACCEPTS INSURANCES* I can help you obtain motivation when struggling with balance in your life by helping you find Simplicity. Simplicity doesn't eliminate the complexities of life but allows you to develop focus on what's important. I can help you ruffle through feelings of stress, anxiety, depression and inadequacy to discover the joy of living life with direction, forgiveness, and peace. You have the perfect solution to your circumstance and simply need assistance sorting out the truth from a mountain of lies. Let's find simple solutions so you can live a happier life.
(239) 228-4947 View (239) 228-4947
Photo of Cynthia Merced, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Merced
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33990  (Online Only)
Are you stressed? Are you feeling stuck? Sometimes you just need someone to talk to who will listen, who is trustworthy and non-judgemental. I provide a safe environment where you can express yourself. If you are going through depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, stress, I am here to listen and I am here to help you feel better. Since everyone is different, I will use counseling techniques that will work for your unique situation. I will guide you on solving some of the issues that are bothering you. Things can get better and you will feel better.
Are you stressed? Are you feeling stuck? Sometimes you just need someone to talk to who will listen, who is trustworthy and non-judgemental. I provide a safe environment where you can express yourself. If you are going through depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, stress, I am here to listen and I am here to help you feel better. Since everyone is different, I will use counseling techniques that will work for your unique situation. I will guide you on solving some of the issues that are bothering you. Things can get better and you will feel better.
(239) 603-6585 View (239) 603-6585
Photo of Liset Chaurero, MS, RMHCI
Liset Chaurero
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33904  (Online Only)
I am a registered intern in Florida with over 4 years of professional work experience. I speak English and Spanish. I work with clients who are suffering from Trauma, Domestic Violence, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Transitional stages of life, and Interpersonal Relationships. In sessions, we will focus on expressing emotions and exploring attempts to avoid distressing thoughts and feelings, explore recurrent themes and patterns, and discuss past experiences and interpersonal relationships.Soy un ser humano con más de 4 años de experiencia profesional y puedo ayudarte a encontar tu camino.
I am a registered intern in Florida with over 4 years of professional work experience. I speak English and Spanish. I work with clients who are suffering from Trauma, Domestic Violence, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Transitional stages of life, and Interpersonal Relationships. In sessions, we will focus on expressing emotions and exploring attempts to avoid distressing thoughts and feelings, explore recurrent themes and patterns, and discuss past experiences and interpersonal relationships.Soy un ser humano con más de 4 años de experiencia profesional y puedo ayudarte a encontar tu camino.
(239) 251-2556 View (239) 251-2556
Photo of Julie Jakobi, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Julie Jakobi
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Coral, FL 33914  (Online Only)
I have many experiences in my life with mental health issues including family members with mental health diagnoses, adopting foster children with diagnoses and behaviors, and my own history of depression and anxiety.
My main focus is working with clients and/or family who are struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder. I utilize DBT and EMDR, among other approaches, to help the client find a way to regulate their symptoms and utilize new ways of approaching issues. I believe in education about what is going on in the mind and body so the client can leave my office with information and skills that can be utilized on a daily basis in order to achieve real change.
I have many experiences in my life with mental health issues including family members with mental health diagnoses, adopting foster children with diagnoses and behaviors, and my own history of depression and anxiety.
My main focus is working with clients and/or family who are struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder. I utilize DBT and EMDR, among other approaches, to help the client find a way to regulate their symptoms and utilize new ways of approaching issues. I believe in education about what is going on in the mind and body so the client can leave my office with information and skills that can be utilized on a daily basis in order to achieve real change.
(239) 323-6614 View (239) 323-6614
Photo of Eleana Coll - Striving Balance, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Striving Balance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Coral, FL 33914  (Online Only)
My experience includes providing culturally appropriate individual, family, and group therapy to the Latino population dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, immigration trauma, and acculturation issues.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, immigration and trauma issues, changes in your life or with your family? I am a bilingual/bicultural Spanish speaking Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist with many years experience of working with children, adults, adolescents and families who have experienced trauma, abuse, crime victimization, and immigration/acculturation issues. My therapeutic approach is to create together a positive, humanistic relationship and environment that will help you process and resolve those difficulties and striving balance in your life.
My experience includes providing culturally appropriate individual, family, and group therapy to the Latino population dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, immigration trauma, and acculturation issues.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, immigration and trauma issues, changes in your life or with your family? I am a bilingual/bicultural Spanish speaking Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist with many years experience of working with children, adults, adolescents and families who have experienced trauma, abuse, crime victimization, and immigration/acculturation issues. My therapeutic approach is to create together a positive, humanistic relationship and environment that will help you process and resolve those difficulties and striving balance in your life.
(510) 901-4702 View (510) 901-4702
Photo of Marcus Lewis - Approved E M D R Consultant, LMHC, LPC, CCTP-II, Counselor
Marcus Lewis - Approved E M D R Consultant
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33914  (Online Only)
Change is possible for everyone, regardless of your past doings and experiences. Within YOU lies the strength that can help you live your best life. As a therapist, I’ve helped many people who felt hopeless or stuck work through their struggles and access that inner strength. You have what it takes! Whether its anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, or life transitions, I’m confident that we can work one-on-one or in a group setting (family and friends can attend depending on the need).
Change is possible for everyone, regardless of your past doings and experiences. Within YOU lies the strength that can help you live your best life. As a therapist, I’ve helped many people who felt hopeless or stuck work through their struggles and access that inner strength. You have what it takes! Whether its anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, or life transitions, I’m confident that we can work one-on-one or in a group setting (family and friends can attend depending on the need).
(239) 259-9440 View (239) 259-9440
Photo of Lee-Anna Bardun, LCMHC, Counselor
Lee-Anna Bardun
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33904
My name is Lee-Anna Bardun. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 10 years of experience. Whether it is anxiety, depression, trauma, or just everyday life stress, I am here to listen with a nonjudgmental ear and help you to achieve your therapeutic goals. I have seen a large variety of clients. I am very comfortable working with clients who have a history of anxiety, depression, relationship problems, family issues, chronic stress, anger management problems, and PTSD.
My name is Lee-Anna Bardun. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 10 years of experience. Whether it is anxiety, depression, trauma, or just everyday life stress, I am here to listen with a nonjudgmental ear and help you to achieve your therapeutic goals. I have seen a large variety of clients. I am very comfortable working with clients who have a history of anxiety, depression, relationship problems, family issues, chronic stress, anger management problems, and PTSD.
(786) 841-2080 View (786) 841-2080
Photo of Main Office - Elite DNA Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elite DNA Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33904
If you or anyone you know is living with depression, anxiety, anger issues, ADHD, grief, sleep issues, Autism spectrum disorders, parenting issues, behavior problems, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress, stress management issues or mental health issues, we can help.
Our goal is to make therapy services available to everyone in Southwest Florida who needs it, in an affordable and convenient way. We serve adults, children, individuals and families who are facing a variety of mental health issues. We believe everyone deserves care regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, economic situation or anything else. Your care plan will be tailored exactly to your needs. Whether you need talk therapy, medication management, Applied Behavior Analysis, Occupational Therapy or Speech, we are here for you.
If you or anyone you know is living with depression, anxiety, anger issues, ADHD, grief, sleep issues, Autism spectrum disorders, parenting issues, behavior problems, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress, stress management issues or mental health issues, we can help.
Our goal is to make therapy services available to everyone in Southwest Florida who needs it, in an affordable and convenient way. We serve adults, children, individuals and families who are facing a variety of mental health issues. We believe everyone deserves care regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, economic situation or anything else. Your care plan will be tailored exactly to your needs. Whether you need talk therapy, medication management, Applied Behavior Analysis, Occupational Therapy or Speech, we are here for you.
(833) 362-7935 View (833) 362-7935
Photo of Kristin Braun, LMHC, Counselor
Kristin Braun
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33904
You may feel confused, scared, angry, or depressed because you are unsure how to get back on your path to living your best life.
Are you ready for a New Beginning? I’m Kristin, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) since 2017. Since obtaining a Psy.D in Clinical Psychology from NSU in 2019, I have run my private practice in Hollywood, Florida, and am currently working in this capacity via Telehealth. I specialize in the areas of addiction, drug and alcohol abuse, relapse prevention, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. I believe that the foundation of the therapeutic relationship begins with trust, acceptance, and honesty. Once you and I have a strong foundation, we will explore the goals you have and what you want your future to look like.
You may feel confused, scared, angry, or depressed because you are unsure how to get back on your path to living your best life.
Are you ready for a New Beginning? I’m Kristin, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) since 2017. Since obtaining a Psy.D in Clinical Psychology from NSU in 2019, I have run my private practice in Hollywood, Florida, and am currently working in this capacity via Telehealth. I specialize in the areas of addiction, drug and alcohol abuse, relapse prevention, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. I believe that the foundation of the therapeutic relationship begins with trust, acceptance, and honesty. Once you and I have a strong foundation, we will explore the goals you have and what you want your future to look like.
(904) 590-5274 View (904) 590-5274
Photo of Avery May, LMHC, Counselor
Avery May
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33993
My name is Avery May and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I am most experienced working with individuals struggling with symptoms of anxiety, symptoms of depression, family conflict and trauma. I primarily work with young adults and adolescents and implement solution-focused, CBT, DBT and EMDR techniques in my counseling sessions. I recall my own experience going through therapy as an adolescent and how awkward it felt to be expected to reveal all of my feelings to a “stranger”. I decided to become a therapist to help others feel safe in a vulnerable setting and comfortable sharing private aspects of
My name is Avery May and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I am most experienced working with individuals struggling with symptoms of anxiety, symptoms of depression, family conflict and trauma. I primarily work with young adults and adolescents and implement solution-focused, CBT, DBT and EMDR techniques in my counseling sessions. I recall my own experience going through therapy as an adolescent and how awkward it felt to be expected to reveal all of my feelings to a “stranger”. I decided to become a therapist to help others feel safe in a vulnerable setting and comfortable sharing private aspects of
(904) 595-8177 View (904) 595-8177
Photo of Lisa Josephs, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa Josephs
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33914
She has over 14 years of experience connecting to Individuals dealing with symptoms of anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship struggles, trauma, decreased selfesteem/confidence, or just an overall feeling that their life is just not what is once was, or what they want it to be.
Lisa strives to create a therapeutic relationship where individuals feel safe, heard, and respected. She provides a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach in her work with children, adolescents, teens and adults. She helps clients identify their strengths through use of Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Individual Psychotherapy.
She has over 14 years of experience connecting to Individuals dealing with symptoms of anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship struggles, trauma, decreased selfesteem/confidence, or just an overall feeling that their life is just not what is once was, or what they want it to be.
Lisa strives to create a therapeutic relationship where individuals feel safe, heard, and respected. She provides a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach in her work with children, adolescents, teens and adults. She helps clients identify their strengths through use of Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Individual Psychotherapy.
(239) 365-5799 View (239) 365-5799
Photo of Christine Swiersz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Swiersz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33991
I treat adults of all ages who are experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression.
Hi! My name is Christine Swiersz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. I am a warm, supportive therapist who specializes in helping adults of all ages who are experiencing anxiety, stress, or depression. My professional goal is to help others find the peace they want and need in their daily lives. I will support you by helping you to address your feelings while assisting you in gaining the tools and skills to successfully overcome feelings of anxiety or depression. I am driven to do this work daily by the joy that I experience when I assist a client to make progress toward obtaining the peace that they are seeking.
I treat adults of all ages who are experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression.
Hi! My name is Christine Swiersz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. I am a warm, supportive therapist who specializes in helping adults of all ages who are experiencing anxiety, stress, or depression. My professional goal is to help others find the peace they want and need in their daily lives. I will support you by helping you to address your feelings while assisting you in gaining the tools and skills to successfully overcome feelings of anxiety or depression. I am driven to do this work daily by the joy that I experience when I assist a client to make progress toward obtaining the peace that they are seeking.
(786) 410-2991 View (786) 410-2991
Photo of Dr. Cori Calkins, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Cori Calkins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cape Coral, FL 33904
We all struggle at different points in life. There are times when we need support to gain perspective and make changes in order to find peace. I help adults and teens work through a variety of concerns regarding anxiety and depression, life changes, life optimization, intimacy, relationships and past trauma. Together we work collaboratively to identify your own goals and develop skills for managing these challenges. Through a trusting therapeutic relationship, my goal is to help you to find self-understanding and identify the barriers that are standing in the way of your ability to enjoy life.
We all struggle at different points in life. There are times when we need support to gain perspective and make changes in order to find peace. I help adults and teens work through a variety of concerns regarding anxiety and depression, life changes, life optimization, intimacy, relationships and past trauma. Together we work collaboratively to identify your own goals and develop skills for managing these challenges. Through a trusting therapeutic relationship, my goal is to help you to find self-understanding and identify the barriers that are standing in the way of your ability to enjoy life.
(239) 217-4686 View (239) 217-4686
Photo of Wendy Wolf Petzel, PhD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Wolf Petzel
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33904
Begin the journey...be courageous. Struggling with depression, anxiety, fear, loss, trauma, seeking direction & purpose? This is a safe place to heal & grow. Marriage in trouble and help needed understanding differences, communicating effectively, resolving conflict, learning to laugh and "play" and experience greater intimacy, be empowered to make it great again. Navigating the unchartered waters of parenting and need guidance in the developmental stages, "acting out" teenager, setting boundaries, having realistic expectations and learning to stay connected with your children, or teens come receive guidance, and direction. Family sculpting, psychodrama, relaxation techniques, creativity, and arts used to facilitate healing.
Begin the journey...be courageous. Struggling with depression, anxiety, fear, loss, trauma, seeking direction & purpose? This is a safe place to heal & grow. Marriage in trouble and help needed understanding differences, communicating effectively, resolving conflict, learning to laugh and "play" and experience greater intimacy, be empowered to make it great again. Navigating the unchartered waters of parenting and need guidance in the developmental stages, "acting out" teenager, setting boundaries, having realistic expectations and learning to stay connected with your children, or teens come receive guidance, and direction. Family sculpting, psychodrama, relaxation techniques, creativity, and arts used to facilitate healing.
(239) 214-7924 View (239) 214-7924
Photo of Liza J. Vitiello, LMHC, NCC, NBCCH, Counselor
Liza J. Vitiello
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33904  (Online Only)
Many benefits are possible from participating in counseling. Counseling can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Counseling can help you find new ways to cope with stress, better manage anger, depression, and other emotional pressures. Get "unstuck" from past relationships and family issues--break old patterns and develop new ways of dealing with old issues. Heal old psychological wounds---repair damage from the past. Discover creative ways to problem-solve. Improve your self esteem and boost your self confidence. The overall result can be improved health and well being.
Many benefits are possible from participating in counseling. Counseling can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Counseling can help you find new ways to cope with stress, better manage anger, depression, and other emotional pressures. Get "unstuck" from past relationships and family issues--break old patterns and develop new ways of dealing with old issues. Heal old psychological wounds---repair damage from the past. Discover creative ways to problem-solve. Improve your self esteem and boost your self confidence. The overall result can be improved health and well being.
(239) 217-9124 View (239) 217-9124
Photo of Christopher Santini, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Santini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33914  (Online Only)
My specialties include: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bereavement, couples counseling and marital/family conflict, as well as unique training and insight into issues affecting the LGBTQ community.
As a clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience, I have had the privilege of working with culturally, economically and ethnically diverse individuals, families, couples and groups from all walks of life. I have practiced domestically and internationally including, NYC, California and most recently in Dublin, Ireland. (Please note that I am only taking tele-therapy clients and use a HIPPA approved site. I have found using tele-therapy to be very convenient for clients with challenging schedules).
My specialties include: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bereavement, couples counseling and marital/family conflict, as well as unique training and insight into issues affecting the LGBTQ community.
As a clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience, I have had the privilege of working with culturally, economically and ethnically diverse individuals, families, couples and groups from all walks of life. I have practiced domestically and internationally including, NYC, California and most recently in Dublin, Ireland. (Please note that I am only taking tele-therapy clients and use a HIPPA approved site. I have found using tele-therapy to be very convenient for clients with challenging schedules).
(239) 758-0352 View (239) 758-0352
Photo of Dr. Anthony Garcia, PsyD, LMHC, CAP, EMDR, Counselor
Dr. Anthony Garcia
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, CAP, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Coral, FL 33991
I specialize in helping people just like you, release guilt, anxiety, depression and responsibility from their past and live better now.
I understand the pain of anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems and even PTSD. It can affect you and keep you from living your best life. If you have tried to manage your thoughts, feelings or actions to better your life and made little progress, welcome to your solution. I specialize in treating these conditions daily and my effectiveness is evidence by my clients results. The good news is that true and permanent healing is available today! The days of spending months or years in therapy are over.
I specialize in helping people just like you, release guilt, anxiety, depression and responsibility from their past and live better now.
I understand the pain of anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems and even PTSD. It can affect you and keep you from living your best life. If you have tried to manage your thoughts, feelings or actions to better your life and made little progress, welcome to your solution. I specialize in treating these conditions daily and my effectiveness is evidence by my clients results. The good news is that true and permanent healing is available today! The days of spending months or years in therapy are over.
(239) 307-0139 View (239) 307-0139
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.