Depression Therapists in Sebastian, FL

Photo of Ganga Mayee J Wasserman - Awareness Counseling Center of the Indian River, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Awareness Counseling Center of the Indian River
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
Break free from your past negative experiences or outdated habits and thoughts. Why suffer with worry, sleep problems, fears, grief, eating problems, feeling worthless, depression, addictions, or embarrassment over your sexual preferences? There is no shame in any feeling or thought. Through therapy you can grow beyond labels that were pinned on you. Reclaim your birthright of happiness as you learn that your core emotions and thoughts are confirmed and that it's healthy to express them. Rewrite your life story starting now.
Break free from your past negative experiences or outdated habits and thoughts. Why suffer with worry, sleep problems, fears, grief, eating problems, feeling worthless, depression, addictions, or embarrassment over your sexual preferences? There is no shame in any feeling or thought. Through therapy you can grow beyond labels that were pinned on you. Reclaim your birthright of happiness as you learn that your core emotions and thoughts are confirmed and that it's healthy to express them. Rewrite your life story starting now.
(772) 245-6919 View (772) 245-6919
Photo of Tunjua Nathaniel, M A, LMHC, MCAP, CCHP, CFMHE, Counselor
Tunjua Nathaniel
Counselor, M A, LMHC, MCAP, CCHP, CFMHE
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with Anxiety, Bipolar, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Depression, Trauma, and Transitional Life phases, Teens, Couples, Anger management, Substance abuse/addiction, Behavioral Issues, impulse control, spiritual problems, forensic issues, Oppositional Defiance.
There is nothing more consistent than change, change has to take place for growth to occur. The majority of my patients consisted not of believers but of those who had lost their faith. I enjoy working with incredible people enriching their lives and relationships. I support the client with focusing on what’s ahead of them, and discover that anything is possible when you put your mind to it.
My experience includes working with Anxiety, Bipolar, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Depression, Trauma, and Transitional Life phases, Teens, Couples, Anger management, Substance abuse/addiction, Behavioral Issues, impulse control, spiritual problems, forensic issues, Oppositional Defiance.
There is nothing more consistent than change, change has to take place for growth to occur. The majority of my patients consisted not of believers but of those who had lost their faith. I enjoy working with incredible people enriching their lives and relationships. I support the client with focusing on what’s ahead of them, and discover that anything is possible when you put your mind to it.
(772) 742-4070 View (772) 742-4070
Photo of J Angella Feurtado, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J Angella Feurtado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
I received my degree from Barry University and I specialize in adolescent and adult behavioral and emotional issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma and ADHD.
My name is Angella Feurtado, an LCSW with over 12 years experience. Originally from England, I have lived in New Mexico and eventually moved to Florida several years ago.
I received my degree from Barry University and I specialize in adolescent and adult behavioral and emotional issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma and ADHD.
My name is Angella Feurtado, an LCSW with over 12 years experience. Originally from England, I have lived in New Mexico and eventually moved to Florida several years ago.
(772) 919-9496 View (772) 919-9496
Photo of Dana Failla Langan - BTC Therapeutic Services , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
BTC Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958  (Online Only)
Jennifer is a passionate and dedicated Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in the state of Florida with over four years of experience helping teens and others change their lives! I am skilled in working with a wide range of concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, physical and emotional trauma, crisis intervention, and everyday life issues!.
BTC Therapeutic Services was founded and is run by Dana who has over 12 years of working in the mental health field and in her last 3 years she has been working directly with first responders among other adult clients. Dana uses the therapeutic framework of CBT, DBT and is certified in Flash Technique for Rapid Trauma Processing. Also, as a mom myself, helping others adjust to the life changes after children join the family!
Jennifer is a passionate and dedicated Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in the state of Florida with over four years of experience helping teens and others change their lives! I am skilled in working with a wide range of concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, physical and emotional trauma, crisis intervention, and everyday life issues!.
BTC Therapeutic Services was founded and is run by Dana who has over 12 years of working in the mental health field and in her last 3 years she has been working directly with first responders among other adult clients. Dana uses the therapeutic framework of CBT, DBT and is certified in Flash Technique for Rapid Trauma Processing. Also, as a mom myself, helping others adjust to the life changes after children join the family!
(772) 252-6519 View (772) 252-6519
Photo of Sandra L Clark, MA, PhD
Sandra L Clark
MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
I love helping adults and twenty (somethings) find their way out of depression or guiding individuals and families through crisis to find their way.
I am a cognitive psychologist who provides you researched approaches such as Solution-based therapy, Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a warm, safe environment. I am client-centered, together we work on skills and strategies to solve issues such as depression and anxiety with adults, child & adolescents and/or crisis intervention. You gain self-empowerment finding solutions to your problems. Working at your pace or that of your child and gain skills & strategies for daily life and you are rewarded by elevated self-esteem and self worth and negative feelings of being overwhelmed fade away.
I love helping adults and twenty (somethings) find their way out of depression or guiding individuals and families through crisis to find their way.
I am a cognitive psychologist who provides you researched approaches such as Solution-based therapy, Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in a warm, safe environment. I am client-centered, together we work on skills and strategies to solve issues such as depression and anxiety with adults, child & adolescents and/or crisis intervention. You gain self-empowerment finding solutions to your problems. Working at your pace or that of your child and gain skills & strategies for daily life and you are rewarded by elevated self-esteem and self worth and negative feelings of being overwhelmed fade away.
(561) 708-4109 View (561) 708-4109
Photo of Connie King, LCMHC, Counselor
Connie King
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
I like that I can provide therapy to those who would generally not seek help. The stigma attached can be a deterrent to good mental wellness as well as cultural conditioning, tradition, and limited access. It is important for the therapist to understand the cultural language being spoken even before a word is uttered. When you feel understood, you feel empowered. I offer a safe space without judgment. Welcome to my place! I am a trauma-focused therapist with extensive training and experience treating persons with PTSD, anxiety, depression, formerly incarcerated persons, women's issues, conflict resolution, and life coaching.
I like that I can provide therapy to those who would generally not seek help. The stigma attached can be a deterrent to good mental wellness as well as cultural conditioning, tradition, and limited access. It is important for the therapist to understand the cultural language being spoken even before a word is uttered. When you feel understood, you feel empowered. I offer a safe space without judgment. Welcome to my place! I am a trauma-focused therapist with extensive training and experience treating persons with PTSD, anxiety, depression, formerly incarcerated persons, women's issues, conflict resolution, and life coaching.
(772) 758-5669 View (772) 758-5669
Photo of Susan Jacobson, LCMHC, Counselor
Susan Jacobson
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
Susan Jacobson, L.M.H.C., N.C.C. Is a Licensed Psychotherapist, with over twenty-five years of experience. Her approach to therapy is to provide a sense of teamwork with her clients, to help meet their goals. Susan's focus of practice is treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, marital counseling, couples counseling, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and more. I typically work with clients who find themselves stuck in an uncomfortable situation and/or mindset and do not know how to navigate to feel better and meet their goals.
Susan Jacobson, L.M.H.C., N.C.C. Is a Licensed Psychotherapist, with over twenty-five years of experience. Her approach to therapy is to provide a sense of teamwork with her clients, to help meet their goals. Susan's focus of practice is treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, marital counseling, couples counseling, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and more. I typically work with clients who find themselves stuck in an uncomfortable situation and/or mindset and do not know how to navigate to feel better and meet their goals.
(813) 710-4360 View (813) 710-4360
Photo of Gabrielle Paige Hackett - Gabrielle P. Hackett, Psy.D., LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Gabrielle P. Hackett, Psy.D., LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
Waitlist for new clients
It can be difficult to come to a psychologist's office to speak about our lives and people often suffer in silence because they believe their problems are too large, too small, unimportant or that nothing can bring about change. It is important to work through the things that cause us depression, anxiety or discomfort. Therefore, I approach every person as a special individual having unique experiences. While providing a safe, relaxing setting, I look for ways we can work together to change even the most tumultuous circumstances into calm, peaceful situations which lead a client to have enjoyable lives.
It can be difficult to come to a psychologist's office to speak about our lives and people often suffer in silence because they believe their problems are too large, too small, unimportant or that nothing can bring about change. It is important to work through the things that cause us depression, anxiety or discomfort. Therefore, I approach every person as a special individual having unique experiences. While providing a safe, relaxing setting, I look for ways we can work together to change even the most tumultuous circumstances into calm, peaceful situations which lead a client to have enjoyable lives.
(954) 654-7549 View (954) 654-7549
Photo of Famous R Erwin, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Famous R Erwin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sebastian, FL 32958
I focus on individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and actions, trauma, relational problems, and men's issues.
Are you finding yourself angry and don't know why? Is life overwhelming? Do you feel discouraged, worried, or hopeless? Are you and your partner finding it hard to agree? Are you co-existing with no real connection? It may seem that no one understands and you are going through this alone. Having a better understanding of yourself motivates you to make positive changes. My goal is to support you through your challenges. Two powerful lessons I've learned in life are: #1. "Never stop hoping" and #2."Your past does not equal your future." Your tomorrow starts today!
I focus on individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and actions, trauma, relational problems, and men's issues.
Are you finding yourself angry and don't know why? Is life overwhelming? Do you feel discouraged, worried, or hopeless? Are you and your partner finding it hard to agree? Are you co-existing with no real connection? It may seem that no one understands and you are going through this alone. Having a better understanding of yourself motivates you to make positive changes. My goal is to support you through your challenges. Two powerful lessons I've learned in life are: #1. "Never stop hoping" and #2."Your past does not equal your future." Your tomorrow starts today!
(772) 413-0144 View (772) 413-0144
Photo of Cathleen Olson, LMFT, PMH-C, CRPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathleen Olson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C, CRPS
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
My passion is to assist individuals, couples, and families with depression, anxiety, and/or family discord.
Do you ever feel like no one understands you? Do you wish you had more support? How would you feel knowing you had a neutral space where you can freely express yourself without judgement, but with compassion and kindness. Well, you have come to the right place. My practice focuses on person-centered treatment allowing you to guide the pace of the treatment that feels right for you. I will offer a private space within a calm and comforting atmosphere where you can address your most challenging needs. With over 11 years of experience in the mental health field, my experience covers many areas. I look forward working with you.
My passion is to assist individuals, couples, and families with depression, anxiety, and/or family discord.
Do you ever feel like no one understands you? Do you wish you had more support? How would you feel knowing you had a neutral space where you can freely express yourself without judgement, but with compassion and kindness. Well, you have come to the right place. My practice focuses on person-centered treatment allowing you to guide the pace of the treatment that feels right for you. I will offer a private space within a calm and comforting atmosphere where you can address your most challenging needs. With over 11 years of experience in the mental health field, my experience covers many areas. I look forward working with you.
(772) 291-5834 View (772) 291-5834
Photo of Aurelio Ayuso, MSW, LCSW, CEI, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aurelio Ayuso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CEI, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sebastian, FL 32958
Do you feel abandoned by those you love? Do you feel overwhelmed by feelings of dread due to past trauma? Are you consumed by shame? Is living for you a never ending feeling of worthlessness? How many times have you felt you don't belong, even within your own family or circle of friends? Once is too much and I can help. Divorce, loneliness doesn't have to be your future. Nor do anger issues, anxiety or depression. You deserve to have self-worth and a positive tomorrow. Feel free to reach out to me. You are not alone.
Do you feel abandoned by those you love? Do you feel overwhelmed by feelings of dread due to past trauma? Are you consumed by shame? Is living for you a never ending feeling of worthlessness? How many times have you felt you don't belong, even within your own family or circle of friends? Once is too much and I can help. Divorce, loneliness doesn't have to be your future. Nor do anger issues, anxiety or depression. You deserve to have self-worth and a positive tomorrow. Feel free to reach out to me. You are not alone.
(772) 261-9973 View (772) 261-9973
Photo of Pablo Gonzalez - Ease Your Mind Counseling, PLLC, MEd, LMHC
Ease Your Mind Counseling, PLLC
Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sebastian, FL 32958
We are here to support you if it has been difficult to find balance in your daily life due to history of trauma, anxiety, depression, or if you struggle to set boundaries in relationships by consistently placing the needs of others above your own. Life's stressors can be overwhelming. Imagen finding a safe place to express yourself and the freedom to work through your inner struggles. Addressing our emotional and mental health needs are healthy components to self care.
We are here to support you if it has been difficult to find balance in your daily life due to history of trauma, anxiety, depression, or if you struggle to set boundaries in relationships by consistently placing the needs of others above your own. Life's stressors can be overwhelming. Imagen finding a safe place to express yourself and the freedom to work through your inner struggles. Addressing our emotional and mental health needs are healthy components to self care.
(772) 362-5131 View (772) 362-5131
Photo of Karen P Mattern, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen P Mattern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
I have been privileged to support those recovering from loss, who suffer with anxiety, somatic issues, depression, and past trauma.
Major life transitions can be very stressful. We often need guidance and support navigating new situations, but who can help? Family and friends may not provide an adequate level of support. You may need help with conflicted relationships, honing communication skills, coping with stress and anxiety, addressing feelings of despondency, or coping with a death or other losses. Perhaps you need to learn how to set healthy boundaries, increase self-esteem, learn strategies to cope with adversity, or you may simply desire to be heard. My areas of specialization are grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and those with a history of trauma.
I have been privileged to support those recovering from loss, who suffer with anxiety, somatic issues, depression, and past trauma.
Major life transitions can be very stressful. We often need guidance and support navigating new situations, but who can help? Family and friends may not provide an adequate level of support. You may need help with conflicted relationships, honing communication skills, coping with stress and anxiety, addressing feelings of despondency, or coping with a death or other losses. Perhaps you need to learn how to set healthy boundaries, increase self-esteem, learn strategies to cope with adversity, or you may simply desire to be heard. My areas of specialization are grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and those with a history of trauma.
(772) 758-7750 View (772) 758-7750
Photo of Melissa Almerez, RMHI, MA
Melissa Almerez
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHI, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sebastian, FL 32958  (Online Only)
If you are feeling depressed, alone, stuck, or broken, I would love to help.
Life got you down? I wanna hear ALL about it! As a therapist, I believe that connection and the therapeutic relationship are most important, and my goal is to create an authentic space in which your healing can begin. Located in South Brevard, providing services for all of Florida via telehealth.
If you are feeling depressed, alone, stuck, or broken, I would love to help.
Life got you down? I wanna hear ALL about it! As a therapist, I believe that connection and the therapeutic relationship are most important, and my goal is to create an authentic space in which your healing can begin. Located in South Brevard, providing services for all of Florida via telehealth.
(321) 386-1604 View (321) 386-1604
Photo of Rebecca Inman, LMHC, NCC, MBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Inman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MBA
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
Accepting New Clients! What if I told you that you were not put on this earth to suffer in silence? You were never created to live depressed, defeated, ashamed, or unworthy. You were created to live a worthy life. I work with couples, individuals and families. I have a passion for working with individuals who struggle with their limiting beliefs, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, and more. I am a Supreme Court Family Mediator and a Parent Coordinator. I also accept general counseling clients who simply need a little guidance. I also work with business executives who struggle to balance the demands of their profession and life.
Accepting New Clients! What if I told you that you were not put on this earth to suffer in silence? You were never created to live depressed, defeated, ashamed, or unworthy. You were created to live a worthy life. I work with couples, individuals and families. I have a passion for working with individuals who struggle with their limiting beliefs, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, and more. I am a Supreme Court Family Mediator and a Parent Coordinator. I also accept general counseling clients who simply need a little guidance. I also work with business executives who struggle to balance the demands of their profession and life.
(772) 763-6636 View (772) 763-6636
Photo of Vonda D Jones-Hudson, PhD, MDiv, Psychologist
Vonda D Jones-Hudson
Psychologist, PhD, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sebastian, FL 32958
I have excellent experience in working with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Bereavement/Grief Counseling, Occupational Issues, Marriage & Family Therapy, Sexual/Physical Abuse, Mood Disorders, and Spiritual Concerns.
Just like seasons, people change. My ideal client is a person working to accept or embrace change while growing through life's seasons. Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall, human beings experience them all. If you're in search of healing and wellness for your mind, body and spirit, let's talk. I believe in a holistic approach to behavioral health. I view people as emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual beings; thus, providing psychotherapy treatment that helps one attend to mind, body, and spirit transformation.
I have excellent experience in working with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Bereavement/Grief Counseling, Occupational Issues, Marriage & Family Therapy, Sexual/Physical Abuse, Mood Disorders, and Spiritual Concerns.
Just like seasons, people change. My ideal client is a person working to accept or embrace change while growing through life's seasons. Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall, human beings experience them all. If you're in search of healing and wellness for your mind, body and spirit, let's talk. I believe in a holistic approach to behavioral health. I view people as emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual beings; thus, providing psychotherapy treatment that helps one attend to mind, body, and spirit transformation.
(772) 663-7873 View (772) 663-7873
Photo of Sharon Paxton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Paxton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958
I work with adults, couples, children, adolescents, and families, to develop a treatment plan uniquely designed for each person. During the initial visit, issues bringing the client to therapy and ways of dealing with them are discussed. Common issues addressed in therapy may include stress, depression, anxiety, relationship and family problems, transition, loss, grief, self-esteem, and unhealthy life choices. I employ many advanced theatment modalities to assist my clients. Therapy is designed to address the core issues, but is also goal-oriented and structured to help clients improve communication and relationship skills, and lead happier, more productive lives.
I work with adults, couples, children, adolescents, and families, to develop a treatment plan uniquely designed for each person. During the initial visit, issues bringing the client to therapy and ways of dealing with them are discussed. Common issues addressed in therapy may include stress, depression, anxiety, relationship and family problems, transition, loss, grief, self-esteem, and unhealthy life choices. I employ many advanced theatment modalities to assist my clients. Therapy is designed to address the core issues, but is also goal-oriented and structured to help clients improve communication and relationship skills, and lead happier, more productive lives.
(772) 321-4575 View (772) 321-4575
Photo of Jessica Singh, PhD, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Singh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sebastian, FL 32958
You feel like the odd one out, even though you try your hardest to fit in with everyone else. You feel depressed or anxious and try to suppress it, pretending everything is fine while you are suffering. No matter how many people you talk to, you just can't seem to make a genuine connection. You may have many friends but still feel emotionally lonely. Despite your best efforts, you cannot form meaningful relationships with other people. You find it impossible to trust others enough to allow yourself to be vulnerable. Maybe you've already had years of therapy, and while some symptoms have subsided, something is still missing.
You feel like the odd one out, even though you try your hardest to fit in with everyone else. You feel depressed or anxious and try to suppress it, pretending everything is fine while you are suffering. No matter how many people you talk to, you just can't seem to make a genuine connection. You may have many friends but still feel emotionally lonely. Despite your best efforts, you cannot form meaningful relationships with other people. You find it impossible to trust others enough to allow yourself to be vulnerable. Maybe you've already had years of therapy, and while some symptoms have subsided, something is still missing.
(407) 890-0262 View (407) 890-0262
Photo of Suzie Sunkel, LMHC, MA, NCC, CTP, Counselor
Suzie Sunkel
Counselor, LMHC, MA, NCC, CTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sebastian, FL 32958
Do you ever feel stuck in a cycle of anxiety, depression, substance use, or reliving past traumas? We will walk together through your counseling journey by applying techniques and strategies which support your goals. Discovering patterns which no longer serve you can clear the way for the release of painful thoughts, memories, and habits. I enjoy collaborating with new and existing clients who seek a better understanding of themselves and the world around them. Let's navigate life's detours together. Our office serves Vero Beach and surrounding areas.
Do you ever feel stuck in a cycle of anxiety, depression, substance use, or reliving past traumas? We will walk together through your counseling journey by applying techniques and strategies which support your goals. Discovering patterns which no longer serve you can clear the way for the release of painful thoughts, memories, and habits. I enjoy collaborating with new and existing clients who seek a better understanding of themselves and the world around them. Let's navigate life's detours together. Our office serves Vero Beach and surrounding areas.
(772) 247-3014 View (772) 247-3014
Photo of Missy Brame, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Missy Brame
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sebastian, FL 32958  (Online Only)
I help individuals, like you, overcome anxiety & depression.
The hamster wheel you’re on seems to be spinning out of control. Your mind races with endless thoughts about all you have to do, and everything that’s wrong in your life. You feel nervous and overwhelmed by these anxious thoughts. You're not sleeping, you've got unhealthy eating habits and you've started drinking more. Nothing you’ve tried seems to work. You’re smart and accomplished…you get things done…you’ve always been the problem solver. And yet, you can’t seem to get a handle on this anxiety, and it’s starting to impact your relationships and your job. You know you need to do something, but you just don't know what that is.
I help individuals, like you, overcome anxiety & depression.
The hamster wheel you’re on seems to be spinning out of control. Your mind races with endless thoughts about all you have to do, and everything that’s wrong in your life. You feel nervous and overwhelmed by these anxious thoughts. You're not sleeping, you've got unhealthy eating habits and you've started drinking more. Nothing you’ve tried seems to work. You’re smart and accomplished…you get things done…you’ve always been the problem solver. And yet, you can’t seem to get a handle on this anxiety, and it’s starting to impact your relationships and your job. You know you need to do something, but you just don't know what that is.
(772) 362-5331 View (772) 362-5331
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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.