Depression Therapists in Cornelia, GA
![Photo of Ena Melton-Myers, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82eecccd-a6d5-44f4-9413-b4eb808d7691/1/320x400.jpeg)
I find myself often drawn to work with people who are, recovering from trauma, managing overwhelm, anxiety, or depression, struggling with a sense of self or redefining their identity, having relationship difficulty or difficulty understanding why they behave as they do in certain situations, and frustrated with feeling as though they don't fit.
My name is Ena (pronounced ee-nah) Melton-Myers. I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. For me, therapy is about growth for you in whatever way is going to have the most positive impact on you at this time. In some phases of our life, growth is in small steps that help break down the things that seem overwhelming. In other phases of our life, we are ready for growth that feels like leaps and bounds. Our time together should focus on what you need at this moment to be better tomorrow. I've been very fortunate to work with a wide array of clients and am comfortable treating most conditions.
I find myself often drawn to work with people who are, recovering from trauma, managing overwhelm, anxiety, or depression, struggling with a sense of self or redefining their identity, having relationship difficulty or difficulty understanding why they behave as they do in certain situations, and frustrated with feeling as though they don't fit.
My name is Ena (pronounced ee-nah) Melton-Myers. I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. For me, therapy is about growth for you in whatever way is going to have the most positive impact on you at this time. In some phases of our life, growth is in small steps that help break down the things that seem overwhelming. In other phases of our life, we are ready for growth that feels like leaps and bounds. Our time together should focus on what you need at this moment to be better tomorrow. I've been very fortunate to work with a wide array of clients and am comfortable treating most conditions.
![Photo of Ruth Hagemann, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17a70090-1130-4030-8ce0-c6862f87b591/1/320x400.png)
Hi there, I'm Ruth Hagemann, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 21 years of clinical experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress reduction, career issues, relationship issues, family conflict, partner conflict, trust issues & poor communication, trauma, self-confidence, self-acceptance, and LGBT issues. I use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Strength-Based, Eclectic, and Supportive. I have learned that no two people are the same and that everyone must be treated individually and holistically.
Hi there, I'm Ruth Hagemann, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 21 years of clinical experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress reduction, career issues, relationship issues, family conflict, partner conflict, trust issues & poor communication, trauma, self-confidence, self-acceptance, and LGBT issues. I use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Strength-Based, Eclectic, and Supportive. I have learned that no two people are the same and that everyone must be treated individually and holistically.
![Photo of Hailey Hoopaugh, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f027165b-231f-4f5d-98bc-5fd1e9c309e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hailey Hoopaugh
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cornelia, GA 30531 (Online Only)
I am passionate about developing meaningful client relationships and helping teenagers and adults recognize their strengths and abilities, while empowering them to make changes that positively impact their lives! I work with individuals from all different walks of life, meeting them where they are using a nonjudgmental and open-minded approach. I tailor my treatment approach specifically to each client's individual needs. I work with a wide variety of disorders, including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD/ADD, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, Substance Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, and Self-Harm.
I am passionate about developing meaningful client relationships and helping teenagers and adults recognize their strengths and abilities, while empowering them to make changes that positively impact their lives! I work with individuals from all different walks of life, meeting them where they are using a nonjudgmental and open-minded approach. I tailor my treatment approach specifically to each client's individual needs. I work with a wide variety of disorders, including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD/ADD, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, Substance Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, and Self-Harm.
![Photo of Kim Page, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53867c42-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My expertise is working with faith filled women and young girls struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addiction, relational conflict and lack of self-acceptance.
Hi! I'm so glad you are here.You have come to this page because you are looking for something to change in your life. It may be within yourself or in a relationship.You are brave for seeking connection and for seeking support. You don't have to do it alone anymore. I'm here to come alongside of you as you navigate fears, anxieties, & unwanted behaviors. I'm passionate about this because I have journeyed through many of these places and am walking in victory! You can get free of unwanted thought patterns, painful emotions, or trauma that is keeping you stuck. We will work together to listen to the needs and desires of your soul.
My expertise is working with faith filled women and young girls struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addiction, relational conflict and lack of self-acceptance.
Hi! I'm so glad you are here.You have come to this page because you are looking for something to change in your life. It may be within yourself or in a relationship.You are brave for seeking connection and for seeking support. You don't have to do it alone anymore. I'm here to come alongside of you as you navigate fears, anxieties, & unwanted behaviors. I'm passionate about this because I have journeyed through many of these places and am walking in victory! You can get free of unwanted thought patterns, painful emotions, or trauma that is keeping you stuck. We will work together to listen to the needs and desires of your soul.
![Photo of Derrick Sykes, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47dce8a9-5872-479a-8fb1-1aa7fc7c910c/1/320x400.png)
Derrick Sykes, Licensed Professional Counselor LGBT African American Male professional that is a part of multiple minority groups that has been through hell and back, ready to encounter others to find their healing. I have learned so much from my personal and professional experience that I am here to help you find the best version of yourself through your therapy journey. Let's get to work and welcome. Self-care and self-esteem issues LGBT Black People who are struggling with gender identity, sexual identity and anxiety depression, among other obstacles.
Derrick Sykes, Licensed Professional Counselor LGBT African American Male professional that is a part of multiple minority groups that has been through hell and back, ready to encounter others to find their healing. I have learned so much from my personal and professional experience that I am here to help you find the best version of yourself through your therapy journey. Let's get to work and welcome. Self-care and self-esteem issues LGBT Black People who are struggling with gender identity, sexual identity and anxiety depression, among other obstacles.
![Photo of Eric C. Thurmond, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de0b5581-2ace-488c-829b-d0c3b5b6084e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eric C. Thurmond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cornelia, GA 30531
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties include: marriage/family therapy, defiant teens, anxiety, depression and anger management.
Eric Thurmond is a Licensed Professional Counselor and native of Rabun County Georgia. He received his B.A. in Psychology from Piedmont College and his M.S. in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Brenau University. He maintains a physical office in Clayton, GA but offers telehealth services as well. He has practiced as an outpatient therapist for over 12 years and works with child, teen, and adult populations alike. It is his goal to provide the highest quality counseling services from a thought-provoking and informed Christian perspective of hope and healing.
Specialties include: marriage/family therapy, defiant teens, anxiety, depression and anger management.
Eric Thurmond is a Licensed Professional Counselor and native of Rabun County Georgia. He received his B.A. in Psychology from Piedmont College and his M.S. in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Brenau University. He maintains a physical office in Clayton, GA but offers telehealth services as well. He has practiced as an outpatient therapist for over 12 years and works with child, teen, and adult populations alike. It is his goal to provide the highest quality counseling services from a thought-provoking and informed Christian perspective of hope and healing.
![Photo of Laurie Elizabeth Gallman - Flourish Child and Family Counseling, LLC, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9939a32d-84df-4d9e-a8b0-bb8b83c7eb8d/1/320x400.png)
Flourish Child and Family Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cornelia, GA 30531
Whether you find yourself or your child struggling with anxiety and/or depression, facing grief and loss, walking through changing family dynamics, or simply in a difficult season, know that you don’t have to struggle alone.
Laurie Gallman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. She works with children, adolescents and young adults and older adults struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, family changes, grief, and executive functioning challenges.
Whether you find yourself or your child struggling with anxiety and/or depression, facing grief and loss, walking through changing family dynamics, or simply in a difficult season, know that you don’t have to struggle alone.
Laurie Gallman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. She works with children, adolescents and young adults and older adults struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, family changes, grief, and executive functioning challenges.
![Photo of L Carina Covarrubias, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2dd876a-1ac8-47bc-af5e-cda9cbbdcd92/2/320x400.jpeg)
L Carina Covarrubias
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelia, GA 30531
My specialties are anxiety, depression, panic attacks, family estrangement, self-esteem, gerontology, grief and loss, women's issues, new mom and parenting challenges, first-generation graduate, changing careers, Latinx issues, and bilingual therapy.
We can begin your therapeutic path in a confidential and safe environment where you feel comfortable. We can work together to help you make the changes in your life that you are struggling with because your emotions and feelings are valid! Your process is tailored to your needs at your own pace, meeting you where you are and taking you where you want to be with a caring approach. I am here to help you navigate any challenging situations, problems, life adjustments, or changes you face. Therapy offers self-discovery and empowers you with options, decisions, and new tools to face your problems.
My specialties are anxiety, depression, panic attacks, family estrangement, self-esteem, gerontology, grief and loss, women's issues, new mom and parenting challenges, first-generation graduate, changing careers, Latinx issues, and bilingual therapy.
We can begin your therapeutic path in a confidential and safe environment where you feel comfortable. We can work together to help you make the changes in your life that you are struggling with because your emotions and feelings are valid! Your process is tailored to your needs at your own pace, meeting you where you are and taking you where you want to be with a caring approach. I am here to help you navigate any challenging situations, problems, life adjustments, or changes you face. Therapy offers self-discovery and empowers you with options, decisions, and new tools to face your problems.
![Photo of Heather Willard, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ca938db-793d-46c8-b534-d37be37498fd/2/320x400.png)
I am a licensed professional counselor with nine years of experience. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. I have specialized training in Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Child Abuse or Neglect, and Spirituality. My communication style includes empathy and openness. I encourage excellent communication skills and will teach you to achieve them. With excellent communication comes outstanding achievements and empowerment towards your mental health.
I am a licensed professional counselor with nine years of experience. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy. I have specialized training in Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Child Abuse or Neglect, and Spirituality. My communication style includes empathy and openness. I encourage excellent communication skills and will teach you to achieve them. With excellent communication comes outstanding achievements and empowerment towards your mental health.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Joshua Johnson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df733f90-b510-42a7-af07-51520965f9d2/2/320x400.png)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia and Washington DC with a decade of professional work experience ranging from adolescents to adults. I work with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I help clients with family conflicts, life transitions, parenting issues, mood disorders, depression, trauma, and anxiety.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia and Washington DC with a decade of professional work experience ranging from adolescents to adults. I work with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I help clients with family conflicts, life transitions, parenting issues, mood disorders, depression, trauma, and anxiety.
![Photo of James Tankersley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a9e82f3-e48f-4bf4-b3a5-8458813422e0/2/320x400.png)
Hello, I’m James! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience. I am particularly interested in supporting clients who struggle with chronic pain issues, anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. My approach is a combination of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Dialectical (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Biofeedback, and Supportive therapy. I believe individuals can stop struggling with complex thoughts and emotions by responding in flexible and life-enhancing ways.
Hello, I’m James! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience. I am particularly interested in supporting clients who struggle with chronic pain issues, anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. My approach is a combination of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Dialectical (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Biofeedback, and Supportive therapy. I believe individuals can stop struggling with complex thoughts and emotions by responding in flexible and life-enhancing ways.
![Photo of Alicia Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c232820-216d-43ae-9d5e-b6ca673da263/1/320x400.png)
She provide services for substance abuse, depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and life challenges.
Alicia has been in the field of social work for 16 years and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for 10. Her Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) certification has allowed her to be a support to those who are battling with substance abuse and alcohol challenges. Alicia strives to be "committed to the process." Being fully invested in the journey toward healing is what she does. She provides services that address substance abuse, depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and life challenges.
She provide services for substance abuse, depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and life challenges.
Alicia has been in the field of social work for 16 years and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for 10. Her Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) certification has allowed her to be a support to those who are battling with substance abuse and alcohol challenges. Alicia strives to be "committed to the process." Being fully invested in the journey toward healing is what she does. She provides services that address substance abuse, depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and life challenges.
![Photo of Michelle Lisa King, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89618d10-2ce6-4139-8c20-f0ea2677ed5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
These survivors may be experiencing shame, guilt, presentence sadness, depression, anxiety, feeling as if they are not enough, or maybe asking "Who Am I.
I am Michelle King. I am a clinical social worker in both states of Georgia and Vermont. I work from a positive psychotherapy framework. Therapy is in pursuit of change and that is an active pursuit and not passive so, we will work together during sessions. My goal is for you to leave the session having an understanding, a clear mind, and a plan. I am a positive psychotherapist that approaches treatment with kindness, compassion, and no judgment. My goal in sessions is for you to be able to trust and speak freely while processing and coming up with a plan. My desire is to help.
These survivors may be experiencing shame, guilt, presentence sadness, depression, anxiety, feeling as if they are not enough, or maybe asking "Who Am I.
I am Michelle King. I am a clinical social worker in both states of Georgia and Vermont. I work from a positive psychotherapy framework. Therapy is in pursuit of change and that is an active pursuit and not passive so, we will work together during sessions. My goal is for you to leave the session having an understanding, a clear mind, and a plan. I am a positive psychotherapist that approaches treatment with kindness, compassion, and no judgment. My goal in sessions is for you to be able to trust and speak freely while processing and coming up with a plan. My desire is to help.
![Photo of Cassandra DeFeo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5029e4ce-1ec8-42fc-8d64-af71c72bcc51/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I'm Cassie! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 14 years of experience in the field. I enjoy working with individuals looking for help managing depression, anxiety, and daily stressors. I also enjoy working with people who struggle with binge eating. As a dietitian and counselor, I offer a unique opportunity to help you work on your overall wellness.
Hi, I'm Cassie! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 14 years of experience in the field. I enjoy working with individuals looking for help managing depression, anxiety, and daily stressors. I also enjoy working with people who struggle with binge eating. As a dietitian and counselor, I offer a unique opportunity to help you work on your overall wellness.
![Photo of Jamie Lewis-Cox, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/110faca3-1d0f-4569-b8d0-3ec62d0a6726/1/320x400.png)
Hi! I’m an LPC in GA and have worked for 10+ years with all age groups in outpatient/inpatient settings struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, & suicidal thoughts. My therapeutic approach is integrative, primarily influenced by Cognitive Behavioral, Interpersonal Process, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapies. I have worked with clients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, attention-deficit hyperactivity, and psychotic disorders, as well as those struggling with behavioral and emotional distress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, insomnia, and more.
Hi! I’m an LPC in GA and have worked for 10+ years with all age groups in outpatient/inpatient settings struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, & suicidal thoughts. My therapeutic approach is integrative, primarily influenced by Cognitive Behavioral, Interpersonal Process, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapies. I have worked with clients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, attention-deficit hyperactivity, and psychotic disorders, as well as those struggling with behavioral and emotional distress, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, insomnia, and more.
![Photo of Felicia Tillman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27be670f-4249-4cc0-9028-2cb0c8008f5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for your inquiry into counseling. I am Dr. Felicia Tillman, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor. My goal is to empower you to experience therapeutic healing in your life by collaborating with you to gain insight and learn new skills. Specializing in trauma/abuse, educational stress, body image issues, abrupt changes/major life transitions, grief/loss, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, parenting styles, substance use disorders, and working with survivors of human trafficking.
Thank you for your inquiry into counseling. I am Dr. Felicia Tillman, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor. My goal is to empower you to experience therapeutic healing in your life by collaborating with you to gain insight and learn new skills. Specializing in trauma/abuse, educational stress, body image issues, abrupt changes/major life transitions, grief/loss, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, parenting styles, substance use disorders, and working with survivors of human trafficking.
![Photo of Mylene Hallaran - LifeWorks Counseling, MS, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/533d0245-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
LifeWorks Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
Clarkesville, GA 30523
We started LifeWorks in 1995 & serve North Georgia with three locations - Gainesville, Dahlonega, and Clarkesville. We each have over thirty years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, groups, and facilitating workshops and retreats. We are also trained hypnotherapists. We work with many issues including anxiety & depression, relationships, substance abuse, anger, self-esteem, stress, & abuse issues. Our approach is to view individuals holistically - mind, body, & spirit.
We started LifeWorks in 1995 & serve North Georgia with three locations - Gainesville, Dahlonega, and Clarkesville. We each have over thirty years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, groups, and facilitating workshops and retreats. We are also trained hypnotherapists. We work with many issues including anxiety & depression, relationships, substance abuse, anger, self-esteem, stress, & abuse issues. Our approach is to view individuals holistically - mind, body, & spirit.
![Photo of Whitney Kleinert, PhD, NCSP, BCBA-D, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e295b64-f55f-42df-9ff3-e99a8804d337/1/320x400.jpeg)
My clients who seek a psychological or psychoeducational evaluation come from all backgrounds with a variety of strengths and challenges. I work with individuals ages 2 through approximately 65. I specialize in Autism, behavior disorders, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and much more.
My clients who seek a psychological or psychoeducational evaluation come from all backgrounds with a variety of strengths and challenges. I work with individuals ages 2 through approximately 65. I specialize in Autism, behavior disorders, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and much more.
![Photo of Sonja Shavers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/979286fe-fdd9-4102-b1ea-fb40fe669668/1/320x400.png)
Welcome, my name is Sonja and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Georgia with over 25 years of experience. I am also certified as a Health Educator and Food Over Medicine Specialist and am a Personal Wellness Strategist who uses a holistic approach while empowering clients toward health and wholeness. My experience includes treating youth and adults in several settings and my specialization includes the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship problems, trauma, life stressors such as school and college experiences, separation, divorce, blended families, grief, and aging-related depression and anxiety.
Welcome, my name is Sonja and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Georgia with over 25 years of experience. I am also certified as a Health Educator and Food Over Medicine Specialist and am a Personal Wellness Strategist who uses a holistic approach while empowering clients toward health and wholeness. My experience includes treating youth and adults in several settings and my specialization includes the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship problems, trauma, life stressors such as school and college experiences, separation, divorce, blended families, grief, and aging-related depression and anxiety.
![Photo of Kevin R. Kurtz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c27a2ae-351f-4a5b-ab87-872c182fe165/1/320x400.jpeg)
He treats adults for addiction, anger management, anxiety, depression grief and stress reduction.
Kevin Kurtz understands that as we go through life, we develop struggles that we often need help with. As we work together you can gain awareness about yourself which will motivate you to progress in establishing the balance in life that you desire. You deserve relief and peace. Treatment can be beneficial to help you reach your goals. Mr. Kurtz takes a holistic approach using evidence-based practices. I believe that each individual has the ability to change and with treatment and work you advance in your mental health status. Online available for individual sessions only. Insurance through Headway site.
He treats adults for addiction, anger management, anxiety, depression grief and stress reduction.
Kevin Kurtz understands that as we go through life, we develop struggles that we often need help with. As we work together you can gain awareness about yourself which will motivate you to progress in establishing the balance in life that you desire. You deserve relief and peace. Treatment can be beneficial to help you reach your goals. Mr. Kurtz takes a holistic approach using evidence-based practices. I believe that each individual has the ability to change and with treatment and work you advance in your mental health status. Online available for individual sessions only. Insurance through Headway site.
See more therapy options for Cornelia
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Cornelia
- Clarkesville
- Clayton
- Cleveland
- Commerce
- Dahlonega
- Eastanollee
- Gainesville
- Jefferson
- Maysville
- Oakwood
- Sautee Nacoochee
- Toccoa
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.