Depression Therapists in Fort Myers, FL

Photo of Maria Ortiz, RMHCI, MS
Maria Ortiz
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MS
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Maria is currently in the process of attaining her Certified Eating Disorder Specialist credential, & primarily works with individuals struggling with eating disorders and body image concerns. She also has experience working with addictions, OCD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, & sport-related concerns. Maria’s authentic and genuine approach helps her clients to feel as though they can be their truest selves as well. She is caring, invested, & passionate about her work, which provides a unique space of safety and encouragement. Maria uses an integrative approach to therapy, and derives her work from a "Health At Every Size" perspective.
Maria is currently in the process of attaining her Certified Eating Disorder Specialist credential, & primarily works with individuals struggling with eating disorders and body image concerns. She also has experience working with addictions, OCD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, & sport-related concerns. Maria’s authentic and genuine approach helps her clients to feel as though they can be their truest selves as well. She is caring, invested, & passionate about her work, which provides a unique space of safety and encouragement. Maria uses an integrative approach to therapy, and derives her work from a "Health At Every Size" perspective.
(239) 237-3692 View (239) 237-3692
Photo of Dr. Amy Mulholland, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Amy Mulholland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33912
Special interests include anxiety and depression, women's issues, parenting skills and support, pre-teens (age 8 and up), teens and young adults, relationships, coping with health conditions, support for medical professionals, stress management for better life balance, and life transitions.
As a doctoral-level psychologist practicing in Florida for over 20 years, my approach to helping clients make lasting improvements in their lives includes providing hope for change, research-based techniques and practical problem-solving skills. Specific and customized treatment goals are developed collaboratively, beginning in the first session. Why choose a psychologist rather than a counselor or therapist? A psychologist's expertise is more in-depth. Additionally, an important aspect of a great therapeutic relationship is the fit with your provider, feeling safe, hopeful, respected, and motivated to take the steps to grow.
Special interests include anxiety and depression, women's issues, parenting skills and support, pre-teens (age 8 and up), teens and young adults, relationships, coping with health conditions, support for medical professionals, stress management for better life balance, and life transitions.
As a doctoral-level psychologist practicing in Florida for over 20 years, my approach to helping clients make lasting improvements in their lives includes providing hope for change, research-based techniques and practical problem-solving skills. Specific and customized treatment goals are developed collaboratively, beginning in the first session. Why choose a psychologist rather than a counselor or therapist? A psychologist's expertise is more in-depth. Additionally, an important aspect of a great therapeutic relationship is the fit with your provider, feeling safe, hopeful, respected, and motivated to take the steps to grow.
(239) 206-5372 View (239) 206-5372
Photo of Stacey Heidler - Stacey Heidler, LLC, MS, LMHC, QS
Stacey Heidler, LLC
MS, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33919
I help clients work through difficulties such as but not limited to trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, guilt, shame, recovery, and grief.
Have you been feeling stressed or experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety? Would you like to make changes in your life? Maybe you are searching for help but do not know where to look. It is easy to become overwhelmed by life stressors and it can be difficult to navigate through them. I enjoy helping my clients work through these challenges and start on a journey of healing. I create a judgment free space meeting my clients where they are at allowing them to be themselves and explore who they are. I help them gain insight to achieve balance as well as create the life they want.
I help clients work through difficulties such as but not limited to trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, guilt, shame, recovery, and grief.
Have you been feeling stressed or experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety? Would you like to make changes in your life? Maybe you are searching for help but do not know where to look. It is easy to become overwhelmed by life stressors and it can be difficult to navigate through them. I enjoy helping my clients work through these challenges and start on a journey of healing. I create a judgment free space meeting my clients where they are at allowing them to be themselves and explore who they are. I help them gain insight to achieve balance as well as create the life they want.
(239) 449-0862 View (239) 449-0862
Photo of Liza J. Vitiello, LMHC, NCC, NBCCH, Counselor
Liza J. Vitiello
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33901  (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 x1 View (239) 217-9124 x1
Photo of Samantha Denboer - Gulfshore Behavioral Health, Psychologist
Gulfshore Behavioral Health
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33907
, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), ADHD, autism, anxiety/ depression, etc.
Gulfshore Behavioral Health is a contemporary behavioral health practice located in Southwest Florida that specializes in providing psychological care throughout the lifespan, servicing children through older adults via in-person and virtual telemedicine appointments. All of our providers are licensed psychologists that specialize in clinical and school psychology.
, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), ADHD, autism, anxiety/ depression, etc.
Gulfshore Behavioral Health is a contemporary behavioral health practice located in Southwest Florida that specializes in providing psychological care throughout the lifespan, servicing children through older adults via in-person and virtual telemedicine appointments. All of our providers are licensed psychologists that specialize in clinical and school psychology.
(239) 309-1845 View (239) 309-1845
Photo of Lisa Josephs, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa Josephs
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33908
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 Albino Swiersz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Albino Swiersz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33908  (Online Only)
I have over 31 years of experience working with adults and children and have counseled clients of all ages who are experiencing sadness, anxiety and depression.
We have all experienced some rough times recently. Our emotional health has been impacted by the storms of life both literally and figuratively! Maybe you've been impacted by losses related to Hurricane Ian, maybe you have experienced a loss or heartbreak related to a relationship or maybe you are feeling down or anxious due to life's hurts and struggles. I can help you to gain the skills and knowledge that we all need in order to feel the stability and peace that you are searching for today!
I have over 31 years of experience working with adults and children and have counseled clients of all ages who are experiencing sadness, anxiety and depression.
We have all experienced some rough times recently. Our emotional health has been impacted by the storms of life both literally and figuratively! Maybe you've been impacted by losses related to Hurricane Ian, maybe you have experienced a loss or heartbreak related to a relationship or maybe you are feeling down or anxious due to life's hurts and struggles. I can help you to gain the skills and knowledge that we all need in order to feel the stability and peace that you are searching for today!
(239) 291-4293 View (239) 291-4293
Photo of Victoria Blair, LMHC, MA, RYT
Victoria Blair
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Hi there, my name is Victoria. I want to first thank you for taking the time for yourself to seek therapy. Beginning therapy can feel like a tough decision. I want to assure you that no concern is too big or too small. I am a trauma-informed therapist with experience working with PTSD, attachment trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, relationship concerns, and life-coaching. I particularly enjoy working with teens, women and young adults moving through transitional life phases. My role as a therapist is that of a guide in your healing, growth and meaning making.
Hi there, my name is Victoria. I want to first thank you for taking the time for yourself to seek therapy. Beginning therapy can feel like a tough decision. I want to assure you that no concern is too big or too small. I am a trauma-informed therapist with experience working with PTSD, attachment trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, relationship concerns, and life-coaching. I particularly enjoy working with teens, women and young adults moving through transitional life phases. My role as a therapist is that of a guide in your healing, growth and meaning making.
(239) 230-3603 View (239) 230-3603
Photo of Robert D Murphy, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Robert D Murphy
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33908
Making a phone call to see a therapist can be a difficult task. When I speak with you on the phone for the first time my main goal is to put you at ease and to empower you to continue to move forward giving you the support you need. As a Pastor of local congregations for over 38 years, I am able to serve individuals who want their faith integrated into the counseling process. As a licensed therapist, I am experienced in helping you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and develop strategies to resolve these issues. Dealing with marital issues, anxiety / depression are among my specialties.
Making a phone call to see a therapist can be a difficult task. When I speak with you on the phone for the first time my main goal is to put you at ease and to empower you to continue to move forward giving you the support you need. As a Pastor of local congregations for over 38 years, I am able to serve individuals who want their faith integrated into the counseling process. As a licensed therapist, I am experienced in helping you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and develop strategies to resolve these issues. Dealing with marital issues, anxiety / depression are among my specialties.
(239) 260-9080 View (239) 260-9080
Photo of Shannon Wiseley, LMHC, PMH-C, Counselor
Shannon Wiseley
Counselor, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33919
Are you pregnant or postpartum? Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Having scary thoughts? Feeling like you're not a good mother? You are not alone! 1 in 5 women experience depression and anxiety during pregnancy and/or during the first year postpartum. With the right treatment, you can get better.
Are you pregnant or postpartum? Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Having scary thoughts? Feeling like you're not a good mother? You are not alone! 1 in 5 women experience depression and anxiety during pregnancy and/or during the first year postpartum. With the right treatment, you can get better.
(239) 758-8533 View (239) 758-8533
Photo of Heather Elizabeth Mossotti, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Elizabeth Mossotti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Please contact me if you are new to therapy, a veteran or want to give it a try. I believe in a judgement free setting where all emotions are accepted. Someone who is eager to learn coping skills, bring these skills into their life and recognize the areas that can be strengthened. A person who is able to look into themselves, accept change and be open to new ideas. I enjoy working with people who know what there goals are or are willing to create obtainable goals. I enjoy working with clients who have struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, PTSD substance abuse issues, self esteem issues and the persistently mentally ill.
Please contact me if you are new to therapy, a veteran or want to give it a try. I believe in a judgement free setting where all emotions are accepted. Someone who is eager to learn coping skills, bring these skills into their life and recognize the areas that can be strengthened. A person who is able to look into themselves, accept change and be open to new ideas. I enjoy working with people who know what there goals are or are willing to create obtainable goals. I enjoy working with clients who have struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, PTSD substance abuse issues, self esteem issues and the persistently mentally ill.
(239) 326-9670 View (239) 326-9670
Photo of Kate Schulinn, MA, RCMHI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kate Schulinn
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RCMHI
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33907
I specialize in helping people with anxiety, depression, trauma, poor self-image, relationship difficulties, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
I am passionate about helping individuals struggling with anxiety/ depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties which can make it difficult to enjoy your life. Have you been feeling overwhelmed, unhappy, or unfulfilled? Life can be challenging. But working with the right therapist can make a difference in your life. I specialize in helping individuals discover patterns that have led to how you feel so you can improve your future.
I specialize in helping people with anxiety, depression, trauma, poor self-image, relationship difficulties, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
I am passionate about helping individuals struggling with anxiety/ depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties which can make it difficult to enjoy your life. Have you been feeling overwhelmed, unhappy, or unfulfilled? Life can be challenging. But working with the right therapist can make a difference in your life. I specialize in helping individuals discover patterns that have led to how you feel so you can improve your future.
(239) 320-7638 View (239) 320-7638
Photo of Nazma Niles, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nazma Niles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33901  (Online Only)
Booking with me on my website! I'm here to offer personalized support tailored to your needs, whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, ADHD/ADD, or trauma. Using a blend of proven techniques like CBT, solution-focused therapy, psychodynamic approaches, and DBT skills, we'll work together to improve your well-being and enhance your overall quality of life. Remember, you're never alone on this journey – I'll be with you every step of the way.
Booking with me on my website! I'm here to offer personalized support tailored to your needs, whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, ADHD/ADD, or trauma. Using a blend of proven techniques like CBT, solution-focused therapy, psychodynamic approaches, and DBT skills, we'll work together to improve your well-being and enhance your overall quality of life. Remember, you're never alone on this journey – I'll be with you every step of the way.
(239) 990-8527 View (239) 990-8527
Photo of Debra Killackey, MSW , LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Killackey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33901
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, role stress, and grief. I also helped many people who have severe mental health concerns with their outpatient success. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, narrative and client centered counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, role stress, and grief. I also helped many people who have severe mental health concerns with their outpatient success. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, narrative and client centered counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
(239) 456-3283 View (239) 456-3283
Photo of Melanie Fisher, MA, MPH, LMHC
Melanie Fisher
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, MPH, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33905  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and family conflict.
As a therapist, my mission is to create a safe and inclusive space where clients feel empowered to share their stories, explore their experiences, build on their strengths, and cultivate resilience.
I specialize in working with individuals facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and family conflict.
As a therapist, my mission is to create a safe and inclusive space where clients feel empowered to share their stories, explore their experiences, build on their strengths, and cultivate resilience.
(239) 510-8728 View (239) 510-8728
Photo of Chandrea Williams, RMHCI, MS
Chandrea Williams
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907
I help my clients successfully overcome feelings of anxiety and depression.
I am passionate about helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression, PTSD and self-harming behaviors. For years, I have been working with individuals that are struggling to find purpose in their lives. I have dedicated myself to this profession because I personally know the struggles with feeling isolated, alienated and not having a voice and a way to overcome these feelings.
I help my clients successfully overcome feelings of anxiety and depression.
I am passionate about helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression, PTSD and self-harming behaviors. For years, I have been working with individuals that are struggling to find purpose in their lives. I have dedicated myself to this profession because I personally know the struggles with feeling isolated, alienated and not having a voice and a way to overcome these feelings.
(786) 882-9067 View (786) 882-9067
Photo of Irene Veronica Brown, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Irene Veronica Brown
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33901
I have helped clients work through challenges such as depression, anxiety, in addition to relationship concerns,such as physical, emotional, psychological, sexual and domestic abuse.
"At the heart of counseling is listening, the experience of being heard and accepted that enables growth and change" (Toller, 1999).There are times in life when individuals feel stuck, overwhelmed with life's challenges, and perhaps not knowing what the next steps are to make the changes we desire for a balanced and fulfilling life. I believe the individual is complex and unique, as is his or her life story, challenges, and concerns. I work with you to discover your inner strengths, which in turn will help you work through your specific life challenges.
I have helped clients work through challenges such as depression, anxiety, in addition to relationship concerns,such as physical, emotional, psychological, sexual and domestic abuse.
"At the heart of counseling is listening, the experience of being heard and accepted that enables growth and change" (Toller, 1999).There are times in life when individuals feel stuck, overwhelmed with life's challenges, and perhaps not knowing what the next steps are to make the changes we desire for a balanced and fulfilling life. I believe the individual is complex and unique, as is his or her life story, challenges, and concerns. I work with you to discover your inner strengths, which in turn will help you work through your specific life challenges.
(941) 417-8930 View (941) 417-8930
Photo of Alannah Danielle Keisling, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Alannah Danielle Keisling
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907
The main populations I work with are adults (18+) and older adults. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, trauma, LGBTQIA+, and more. I have my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida Gulf Coast University. I also have a triple major in Psychology, Sociology, and Criminal Justice from Thiel College.
The main populations I work with are adults (18+) and older adults. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, trauma, LGBTQIA+, and more. I have my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida Gulf Coast University. I also have a triple major in Psychology, Sociology, and Criminal Justice from Thiel College.
(239) 299-7521 View (239) 299-7521
Photo of Serenity Counseling Center, Counselor
Serenity Counseling Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33901
We offer counseling for anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, grief, general stress and many more hindrances that life throws our way.
Have you been feeling less than your best? Far to often circumstances, relationships, faulty beliefs, negative emotions or a diagnosis dictate our quality of life. At Serenity, we are passionate about providing a non-judgemental and comfortable enviroment to allow our clients to reach their goals and start to enjoy the life that they deserve. We utilize many different approaches and techniques to help our clients feel their best. We meet clients where they're at and walk with them to reach their best potential.
We offer counseling for anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, grief, general stress and many more hindrances that life throws our way.
Have you been feeling less than your best? Far to often circumstances, relationships, faulty beliefs, negative emotions or a diagnosis dictate our quality of life. At Serenity, we are passionate about providing a non-judgemental and comfortable enviroment to allow our clients to reach their goals and start to enjoy the life that they deserve. We utilize many different approaches and techniques to help our clients feel their best. We meet clients where they're at and walk with them to reach their best potential.
(239) 429-0547 View (239) 429-0547
Photo of Courtney A. Faunce, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Courtney A. Faunce
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties: teens + young adults, eating disorder intuitive therapy, depression, anxiety, Neurodiversity, BPD, and resiliency from complex trauma.
Have you been in search of new ways to manage with life? Stressed, isolated, or having difficulty living your life to the fullest? Struggling with how you see yourself, body image, or your relationship with food? Feeling a deep sense of loss after a traumatic experience? It may be difficult to talk about and we get stuck wishing things were just different. We might be looking for happiness through money, relationships, food, addictions only to reach the point of hopelessness. Finding peace, empowerment, and healing does not have to be a struggle experienced alone.
Specialties: teens + young adults, eating disorder intuitive therapy, depression, anxiety, Neurodiversity, BPD, and resiliency from complex trauma.
Have you been in search of new ways to manage with life? Stressed, isolated, or having difficulty living your life to the fullest? Struggling with how you see yourself, body image, or your relationship with food? Feeling a deep sense of loss after a traumatic experience? It may be difficult to talk about and we get stuck wishing things were just different. We might be looking for happiness through money, relationships, food, addictions only to reach the point of hopelessness. Finding peace, empowerment, and healing does not have to be a struggle experienced alone.
(239) 842-7237 View (239) 842-7237
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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.