Depression Therapists in Moore Haven, FL

Photo of Marsha Kerr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marsha Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moore Haven, FL 33471
Hello! My name is Marsha and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in providing mental health services to a diverse population group. I've worked with clients in areas such anxiety, coping skills, depression, life transitions, and stress, amongst others. While my focus will be on you and your needs, versus applying a particular philosophy, I have experience with several modalities including CBT, Motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic.
Hello! My name is Marsha and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in providing mental health services to a diverse population group. I've worked with clients in areas such anxiety, coping skills, depression, life transitions, and stress, amongst others. While my focus will be on you and your needs, versus applying a particular philosophy, I have experience with several modalities including CBT, Motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic.
(904) 664-7612 View (904) 664-7612
Photo of Tiffany Arnold, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moore Haven, FL 33471  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker, and I help clients work toward overcoming the battles of Anxiety, Depression, and related mental health disorders by using evidence-based techniques as management skills that address your specific struggles.
Hello! Do you struggle with those pesky racing thoughts, where it seems your brain will not shut off? Negative thoughts? Feelings of hopelessness? A feeling of not being good enough or unworthy? Do you struggle with relationships, whether it is personal or work-related? Are you unsatisfied with your job, home life, relationship, or yourself in general and want to make changes?
I am a licensed clinical social worker, and I help clients work toward overcoming the battles of Anxiety, Depression, and related mental health disorders by using evidence-based techniques as management skills that address your specific struggles.
Hello! Do you struggle with those pesky racing thoughts, where it seems your brain will not shut off? Negative thoughts? Feelings of hopelessness? A feeling of not being good enough or unworthy? Do you struggle with relationships, whether it is personal or work-related? Are you unsatisfied with your job, home life, relationship, or yourself in general and want to make changes?
(352) 437-1653 View (352) 437-1653
Photo of Annette Howard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annette Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moore Haven, FL 33471
My name is Annette Howard, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida and working remotely with clients in Florida and North Carolina via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in stress, anxiety, and grief/loss, using techniques of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to help my clients confront those negative thoughts and start feeling better. I have found that my approach and skills are a good fit for adults who may be dealing with challenges of life transitions. This often shows up in the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship conflicts.
My name is Annette Howard, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida and working remotely with clients in Florida and North Carolina via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in stress, anxiety, and grief/loss, using techniques of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to help my clients confront those negative thoughts and start feeling better. I have found that my approach and skills are a good fit for adults who may be dealing with challenges of life transitions. This often shows up in the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship conflicts.
(407) 378-0889 View (407) 378-0889
Photo of Ted Clewell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ted Clewell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Moore Haven, FL 33471
Accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and specialize in working with adults, geriatrics and caregivers with a variety of issues like anxiety, depression, pain management, grief and adjusting to medical issues. I have received years of feedback from clients and their families telling me how easy I am to talk with. I love what I do and look to provide a safe, empowering environment in which my clients can heal and find their purpose.
Accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and specialize in working with adults, geriatrics and caregivers with a variety of issues like anxiety, depression, pain management, grief and adjusting to medical issues. I have received years of feedback from clients and their families telling me how easy I am to talk with. I love what I do and look to provide a safe, empowering environment in which my clients can heal and find their purpose.
(863) 431-8854 View (863) 431-8854
Photo of Heidi Jameson - The Mangroves, MS, LMHC
The Mangroves
MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Moore Haven, FL 33471
Hi everyone! I view our time together as a road trip, where you are the driver and I am your GPS. You decide where you want to go (goals), and I show you some options on how to get there. Together, we select a path and work to meet your goal. I also like to incorporate your personal interests and get you using your hands in counseling, whenever feasible. I have worked with sexual abuse and domestic violence victims, teens with behavioral challenges, people with disabilities, veterans, people adjusting to changes in their lives, gifted people, and more.
Hi everyone! I view our time together as a road trip, where you are the driver and I am your GPS. You decide where you want to go (goals), and I show you some options on how to get there. Together, we select a path and work to meet your goal. I also like to incorporate your personal interests and get you using your hands in counseling, whenever feasible. I have worked with sexual abuse and domestic violence victims, teens with behavioral challenges, people with disabilities, veterans, people adjusting to changes in their lives, gifted people, and more.
(863) 400-3019 View (863) 400-3019

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Victoria Bustamante Avellaneda, PsyD, Psychologist
Victoria Bustamante Avellaneda
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Clewiston, FL 33440  (Online Only)
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, panic, psychosis, PTSD, trauma, abuse, relationship issues, personality disorders, and concurrent substance abuse.
After serving as a faculty member for the University of Miami, School of Medicine, and the Jackson Health System for over 20 years, I am happy to announce that I am continuing my professional journey through my private practice, providing bilingual (English / Spanish) psychological services to Florida residents via telehealth. I offer a compassionate approach to help my clients heal their emotional pain and change negative patterns to bring more enjoyment and success into their lives. In addition, I provide evidence-based interventions and holistic mind-body approaches to address the multifactorial aspects of emotional disorders.
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, panic, psychosis, PTSD, trauma, abuse, relationship issues, personality disorders, and concurrent substance abuse.
After serving as a faculty member for the University of Miami, School of Medicine, and the Jackson Health System for over 20 years, I am happy to announce that I am continuing my professional journey through my private practice, providing bilingual (English / Spanish) psychological services to Florida residents via telehealth. I offer a compassionate approach to help my clients heal their emotional pain and change negative patterns to bring more enjoyment and success into their lives. In addition, I provide evidence-based interventions and holistic mind-body approaches to address the multifactorial aspects of emotional disorders.
(305) 439-6014 View (305) 439-6014

Online Therapists

Photo of Chris Siggins, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chris Siggins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33458
For over 20 years, Chris has helped hundreds of individuals and couples understand and restore their most important relationships. He is an expert in the areas of communication, conflict, stress-management, infidelity, anger issues, and men’s issues. He has extensive experience with trauma, depression, grief, anxiety and parenting. Chris works primarily with couples and adult individuals.
For over 20 years, Chris has helped hundreds of individuals and couples understand and restore their most important relationships. He is an expert in the areas of communication, conflict, stress-management, infidelity, anger issues, and men’s issues. He has extensive experience with trauma, depression, grief, anxiety and parenting. Chris works primarily with couples and adult individuals.
(561) 816-4153 View (561) 816-4153
Photo of Kelsie Baggs, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsie Baggs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Struggling with finding relief from low mood or traumatic responses? Have you tried self-help, medications, or even several years of traditional talk therapy without relief? Maybe you are finding difficulty maintaining secure attachments or have relationship issues. I'm glad you're here. This journey to healing is tough, and you shouldn't have to do it alone. My clinical experience and training has focused on treating adult clients with concerns related to depression, anxiety, trauma, emotional abuse, relationship issues, personality disorders, and life-transitions.
Struggling with finding relief from low mood or traumatic responses? Have you tried self-help, medications, or even several years of traditional talk therapy without relief? Maybe you are finding difficulty maintaining secure attachments or have relationship issues. I'm glad you're here. This journey to healing is tough, and you shouldn't have to do it alone. My clinical experience and training has focused on treating adult clients with concerns related to depression, anxiety, trauma, emotional abuse, relationship issues, personality disorders, and life-transitions.
(786) 384-5303 View (786) 384-5303
Photo of Rebecca Austin, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Marco Island, FL 34145
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions or persistent negative thoughts? Maybe you're finding it hard to express your needs to loved ones, or you're feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety and depression. I primarily focus on treating anxiety, depression, & mood disorders while also supporting clients with coping skills development, life transitions, substance use, & relationship issues. My focus is to help you regain control over your emotions, find lasting relief from emotional distress, and achieve a sense of inner peace and happiness.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions or persistent negative thoughts? Maybe you're finding it hard to express your needs to loved ones, or you're feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety and depression. I primarily focus on treating anxiety, depression, & mood disorders while also supporting clients with coping skills development, life transitions, substance use, & relationship issues. My focus is to help you regain control over your emotions, find lasting relief from emotional distress, and achieve a sense of inner peace and happiness.
(239) 382-6579 View (239) 382-6579
Photo of Yafi E Joseph, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yafi E Joseph
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Haven, FL 33884  (Online Only)
I use a mindful based approach to treat anxiety and depression.
I'm currently accepting new clients. My passion is to bring hope and healing to children, adolescents, and adults, particularly those affected by trauma and abuse. Whether you or your child have experienced trauma, grief and loss, situational stress, situational changes, or are just feeling "off," counseling can help. I utilize a variety of therapeutic practice modalities and interventions to best fit the needs and goals of each individual client including CBT, and anger management. I have completed specialized training on trauma-informed treatment. I utilize a collaborative and compassionate approach to counseling in an effort to
I use a mindful based approach to treat anxiety and depression.
I'm currently accepting new clients. My passion is to bring hope and healing to children, adolescents, and adults, particularly those affected by trauma and abuse. Whether you or your child have experienced trauma, grief and loss, situational stress, situational changes, or are just feeling "off," counseling can help. I utilize a variety of therapeutic practice modalities and interventions to best fit the needs and goals of each individual client including CBT, and anger management. I have completed specialized training on trauma-informed treatment. I utilize a collaborative and compassionate approach to counseling in an effort to
(863) 591-5916 View (863) 591-5916
Photo of Brenna Iyampillai, MS, LMHC, EMDR
Brenna Iyampillai
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994  (Online Only)
Are you navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, or traumatic stress? Do you struggle with fears of abandonment, feelings of low self-worth, or relationship difficulties? Recognizing the need for support is a remarkable display of courage and strength, and I commend you for taking this first step. I understand how daunting it can feel to open up to someone new. That's why I am committed to creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for you. Together, we can embark on a journey of discovery and growth, breaking free from recurring patterns and gaining deeper insights into your behaviors.
Are you navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, or traumatic stress? Do you struggle with fears of abandonment, feelings of low self-worth, or relationship difficulties? Recognizing the need for support is a remarkable display of courage and strength, and I commend you for taking this first step. I understand how daunting it can feel to open up to someone new. That's why I am committed to creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for you. Together, we can embark on a journey of discovery and growth, breaking free from recurring patterns and gaining deeper insights into your behaviors.
(561) 556-4937 View (561) 556-4937
Photo of Joel Plattor, PhD, Psychologist
Joel Plattor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Coral Gables, FL 33146
Plattor works with depression, anxiety, relationship issues including couples therapy, career and life direction issues, management of dysfunctional families and relationships and men's issues among others.
Dr. Joel Plattor has been working as a healer in professional psychology for over 40 years. He has experience working with a wide variety of populations and settings. Therefore he is able to bring a significant level of knowledge and experience to all psychotherapeutic endeavors. Dr. Plattor works with all of his clients to establish a mutually agreed on course of action with goals that are realistic yet can lift clients into a level of satisfaction with life that they may not have previously thought possible.
Plattor works with depression, anxiety, relationship issues including couples therapy, career and life direction issues, management of dysfunctional families and relationships and men's issues among others.
Dr. Joel Plattor has been working as a healer in professional psychology for over 40 years. He has experience working with a wide variety of populations and settings. Therefore he is able to bring a significant level of knowledge and experience to all psychotherapeutic endeavors. Dr. Plattor works with all of his clients to establish a mutually agreed on course of action with goals that are realistic yet can lift clients into a level of satisfaction with life that they may not have previously thought possible.
(305) 928-1807 View (305) 928-1807
Photo of Dr. Karla Mueller-Schrader, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Karla Mueller-Schrader
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34242  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in addressing the challenges associated with ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, Behavioral Disorders, Trauma, and Autism.
Welcome! I'm here to help as you take this important first step. As a dedicated clinician with over 20 years of experience, I work with children, adolescents, and young adults. I create a safe and healing environment for all my clients through an approach rooted in acceptance to ensure that each client feels understood and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. I believe people of all ages and identities are capable of personal transformation and view my role as a partner on your journey to wholeness and health.
I have extensive experience in addressing the challenges associated with ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, Behavioral Disorders, Trauma, and Autism.
Welcome! I'm here to help as you take this important first step. As a dedicated clinician with over 20 years of experience, I work with children, adolescents, and young adults. I create a safe and healing environment for all my clients through an approach rooted in acceptance to ensure that each client feels understood and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. I believe people of all ages and identities are capable of personal transformation and view my role as a partner on your journey to wholeness and health.
(623) 288-5356 View (623) 288-5356
Photo of Paula M Harper, MA, RN, LMHC, CSAT, Counselor
Paula M Harper
Counselor, MA, RN, LMHC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Estero, FL 33928
I am a compassionate and caring counselor who utilizes a variety of approaches to assist clients through difficult life transitions, parents struggling with addicted children, depression, complex grief and loss, anxiety, sex addiction, crisis and the impact of pornography and infidelity on partners of addicts. I began my career as an Oncology Nurse over 20 years ago. I received my MA from Argosy University - Sarasota in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have completed my training in sex addiction and I am an CSAT Associate Sex Addiction Therapist. I work with both addicts and partners affected by this behavior & consequences.
I am a compassionate and caring counselor who utilizes a variety of approaches to assist clients through difficult life transitions, parents struggling with addicted children, depression, complex grief and loss, anxiety, sex addiction, crisis and the impact of pornography and infidelity on partners of addicts. I began my career as an Oncology Nurse over 20 years ago. I received my MA from Argosy University - Sarasota in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have completed my training in sex addiction and I am an CSAT Associate Sex Addiction Therapist. I work with both addicts and partners affected by this behavior & consequences.
(239) 307-0914 View (239) 307-0914
Photo of John S Auerbach, PhD, Psychologist
John S Auerbach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33317
In addition to helping people overcome things like anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship problems, I have a particular interest in the treatment of trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
My approach to psychotherapy is highly relational. I believe that most of our distress in life, often in the form of anxiety, depression, or uncontrolled anger, arises from unresolved conflicts in our important relationships, past and present, and that psychotherapy works by providing a new relationship-a supportive, empathic one in a which person can explore these important interpersonal connections, come to understand them in new ways, and change them. I focus the dialogue on a person's significant relationships, past and current, and on the feelings that one has about oneself and the important people in one's life.
In addition to helping people overcome things like anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship problems, I have a particular interest in the treatment of trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
My approach to psychotherapy is highly relational. I believe that most of our distress in life, often in the form of anxiety, depression, or uncontrolled anger, arises from unresolved conflicts in our important relationships, past and present, and that psychotherapy works by providing a new relationship-a supportive, empathic one in a which person can explore these important interpersonal connections, come to understand them in new ways, and change them. I focus the dialogue on a person's significant relationships, past and current, and on the feelings that one has about oneself and the important people in one's life.
(352) 504-3771 View (352) 504-3771
Photo of Emily Davine, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Emily Davine
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33428
She has experience working with a variety of presenting problems such as, trauma, anxiety, depression, family conflict, and low self-worth.
Emily Davine, Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern, is committed to empowering individuals, families, and couples by providing a safe and supportive environment. She specializes in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, and self-esteem with adolescents and adults. Emily employs an integrative approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic, and solution-oriented techniques. By tailoring her methods to the unique needs of her clients, she fosters collaboration and ensures that therapy progresses at a pace that is comfortable for each individual or couple.
She has experience working with a variety of presenting problems such as, trauma, anxiety, depression, family conflict, and low self-worth.
Emily Davine, Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern, is committed to empowering individuals, families, and couples by providing a safe and supportive environment. She specializes in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, and self-esteem with adolescents and adults. Emily employs an integrative approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic, and solution-oriented techniques. By tailoring her methods to the unique needs of her clients, she fosters collaboration and ensures that therapy progresses at a pace that is comfortable for each individual or couple.
(561) 769-2066 View (561) 769-2066
Photo of Carolyn M. Rose - Whole Again Therapy LLC-Carolyn Rose,LMHC, QS, NCC, MS, NCC, LMHC, QS
Whole Again Therapy LLC-Carolyn Rose,LMHC, QS, NCC
MS, NCC, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Greenacres, FL 33463
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who provides help to those suffering with Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Depression, Stress, Couples (Gottman), PTSD and Abuse.
Are you tired of anxiety and depression? Wish you never experienced another panic attack? Do you want to feel whole again? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified LMHC Supervisor, my goal is to provide you with quality therapy that will make you feel whole again. I work with individuals, families, couples and children to help you to do life at your greatest potential. As a CBT, CPT and SFT Therapist, my goal is to provide you with healthy solutions, support, positive feedback and practical ways to get your life back on track. If you are struggling to get back to a place of wholeness, it is truly possible.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who provides help to those suffering with Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Depression, Stress, Couples (Gottman), PTSD and Abuse.
Are you tired of anxiety and depression? Wish you never experienced another panic attack? Do you want to feel whole again? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified LMHC Supervisor, my goal is to provide you with quality therapy that will make you feel whole again. I work with individuals, families, couples and children to help you to do life at your greatest potential. As a CBT, CPT and SFT Therapist, my goal is to provide you with healthy solutions, support, positive feedback and practical ways to get your life back on track. If you are struggling to get back to a place of wholeness, it is truly possible.
(561) 513-4331 View (561) 513-4331
Photo of Judith Molina, MS, LMHC, QS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Judith Molina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Doral, FL 33178  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 15 years of experience providing counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, unresolved trauma, self-esteem, and transitional life challenges. I am trained in evidenced-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, TF-CBT, Emotional Freedom Technique, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 15 years of experience providing counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, unresolved trauma, self-esteem, and transitional life challenges. I am trained in evidenced-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, TF-CBT, Emotional Freedom Technique, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
(786) 629-5772 View (786) 629-5772
Photo of Amanda Kristen Pelaez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Kristen Pelaez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306  (Online Only)
Amanda has extensive experience treating Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Addiction, Grief, and relationship issues.
Amanda Pelaez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Substance Abuse Professional with over seventeen years working for individuals, children, families affected by mental illness and addiction. Amanda's intention is to guide clients as they achieve their full potential in every capacity of their life with ever-expanding self-love. With a supportive therapeutic relationship, clients will know they are powerful to manifest their dreams. With compassion and understanding, she works with each individual to help them build on their strengths and connection to their authentic self to attain personal growth and freedom.
Amanda has extensive experience treating Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Addiction, Grief, and relationship issues.
Amanda Pelaez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Substance Abuse Professional with over seventeen years working for individuals, children, families affected by mental illness and addiction. Amanda's intention is to guide clients as they achieve their full potential in every capacity of their life with ever-expanding self-love. With a supportive therapeutic relationship, clients will know they are powerful to manifest their dreams. With compassion and understanding, she works with each individual to help them build on their strengths and connection to their authentic self to attain personal growth and freedom.
(954) 945-7336 View (954) 945-7336
Photo of Delainey Casey, MS, RMHI
Delainey Casey
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellington, FL 33414
After years of working as a labor and bereavement doula, Delainey brings her passion with working with woman and families experiencing pregnancy, infertility, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, and pregnancy/infant loss into a therapeutic setting. Additionaly, Delainey has spent the 2023/2024 school year working as the co-located mental health counselor at Wellington High School working closely with The School District of Palm Beach County, helping youth who may have behavioral health problems or are struggling with a personal or family issue.
After years of working as a labor and bereavement doula, Delainey brings her passion with working with woman and families experiencing pregnancy, infertility, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, and pregnancy/infant loss into a therapeutic setting. Additionaly, Delainey has spent the 2023/2024 school year working as the co-located mental health counselor at Wellington High School working closely with The School District of Palm Beach County, helping youth who may have behavioral health problems or are struggling with a personal or family issue.
(561) 279-6159 View (561) 279-6159

See more therapy options for Moore Haven

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.