Depression Therapists in Dahlonega, GA

Photo of Kelly Crisson, MA, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Crisson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
) my practice speciality includes trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions just to name a few.
My approach to therapy is meeting clients where they are while helping them to identify specific goals for treatment. Throughout sessions, clients learn to recognize and use their own individual strengths in order to positively transform their lives. This is accomplished by using a variety of counseling modalities in a nonjudgmental approach.
) my practice speciality includes trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions just to name a few.
My approach to therapy is meeting clients where they are while helping them to identify specific goals for treatment. Throughout sessions, clients learn to recognize and use their own individual strengths in order to positively transform their lives. This is accomplished by using a variety of counseling modalities in a nonjudgmental approach.
(706) 786-4552 View (706) 786-4552
Photo of Ashlynn Rivers - SkyeHelps Counseling & Wellness - Ashlynn, MS, APC, NCC, Counselor
SkyeHelps Counseling & Wellness - Ashlynn
Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
One such tool is Accelerated Resolution Therapy which is an evidence-based treatment intervention that's been shown successful in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, and grief.
I believe there is healing in connection and freedom in processing our pain. Having someone sit with you as you untangle your thoughts, experiences, beliefs, and feelings can be powerful. My personal story of childhood trauma and addiction led me to pursue professional counseling for myself personally and eventually as a career. I work with people who are struggling to find steadiness in their lives. Wherever you are in life, I would love to meet with you exactly there: in chaos, in stillness, and anywhere in between. I'll join with you in understanding where you've been, where you are now, and where you’d like to be.
One such tool is Accelerated Resolution Therapy which is an evidence-based treatment intervention that's been shown successful in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, and grief.
I believe there is healing in connection and freedom in processing our pain. Having someone sit with you as you untangle your thoughts, experiences, beliefs, and feelings can be powerful. My personal story of childhood trauma and addiction led me to pursue professional counseling for myself personally and eventually as a career. I work with people who are struggling to find steadiness in their lives. Wherever you are in life, I would love to meet with you exactly there: in chaos, in stillness, and anywhere in between. I'll join with you in understanding where you've been, where you are now, and where you’d like to be.
(706) 707-5242 View (706) 707-5242
Photo of Barbara Phillips, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Hello. My name is Barbara Phillips, and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia. I have 23 years of experience working in the mental health field. My experience includes treating clients who need help with anxiety, depression. stress management, anger management, grief management, and self-esteem. issue. I work with adults 18 years old to 90 years old. The conditions I feel comfortable treating include anxiety, depression, stress management, anger management, grief, and self-esteem issues.
Hello. My name is Barbara Phillips, and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia. I have 23 years of experience working in the mental health field. My experience includes treating clients who need help with anxiety, depression. stress management, anger management, grief management, and self-esteem. issue. I work with adults 18 years old to 90 years old. The conditions I feel comfortable treating include anxiety, depression, stress management, anger management, grief, and self-esteem issues.
(678) 408-7139 View (678) 408-7139
Photo of Christian Waller, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Waller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Hello everyone, my name is Christian Waller and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience. I have provided both individual and group therapeutic services to children, teens, and adults. Although my primary focus is working with processing trauma and reducing the effects of traumatic stress, I have experience working with anxiety, depression, OCD, concerns with discovering/exploring sexuality and/or gender expression, addictions, and other areas that individuals would like to process in our therapeutic relationship.
Hello everyone, my name is Christian Waller and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience. I have provided both individual and group therapeutic services to children, teens, and adults. Although my primary focus is working with processing trauma and reducing the effects of traumatic stress, I have experience working with anxiety, depression, OCD, concerns with discovering/exploring sexuality and/or gender expression, addictions, and other areas that individuals would like to process in our therapeutic relationship.
(770) 525-4384 View (770) 525-4384
Photo of Stacey J Hoffman, PhD, Psychologist
Stacey J Hoffman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
I also work with children, adolescents and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD, relationship issues, grief, anger, sleep problems, and coping with family transitions (divorce, remarriage, blended families).
You have taken an important step to explore the possibility of therapy to help you address your life circumstances. I will provide an atmosphere of safety and comfort for you to explore areas of your life for which you are seeking better outcomes. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families with a variety of concerns. Parenting is one of my passions both personally and professionally. I have trained in Parent Child Interaction Therapy, a proven intervention for children with challenging behaviors that promotes positive parent-child relationships and interactions while teaching parents effective child management skills.
I also work with children, adolescents and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD, relationship issues, grief, anger, sleep problems, and coping with family transitions (divorce, remarriage, blended families).
You have taken an important step to explore the possibility of therapy to help you address your life circumstances. I will provide an atmosphere of safety and comfort for you to explore areas of your life for which you are seeking better outcomes. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families with a variety of concerns. Parenting is one of my passions both personally and professionally. I have trained in Parent Child Interaction Therapy, a proven intervention for children with challenging behaviors that promotes positive parent-child relationships and interactions while teaching parents effective child management skills.
(470) 260-1303 View (470) 260-1303
Photo of Charles L Britt Jr. - Charles L Britt, Jr., MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS, MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles L Britt, Jr., MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Since 1998 my cognitive-behavioral therapy approach has benefited a variety of client issues such as depression, anxiety, substance disorders, anger disorders, and couples work.
Are you or do you know someone who is suffering from problems such as depression, anxiety,anger or addiction? Many of us at times find ourselves or our loved ones trapped and having difficulty finding a way out of the problems life brings. Through the suffering and the pain we are tempted to give up in despair, unable to see a way through the confusion and hopelessness.As a Christian counselor I seek to minister to the mental, emotional and spiritual needs of the individual, couple or families who may be struggling with various problems.
Since 1998 my cognitive-behavioral therapy approach has benefited a variety of client issues such as depression, anxiety, substance disorders, anger disorders, and couples work.
Are you or do you know someone who is suffering from problems such as depression, anxiety,anger or addiction? Many of us at times find ourselves or our loved ones trapped and having difficulty finding a way out of the problems life brings. Through the suffering and the pain we are tempted to give up in despair, unable to see a way through the confusion and hopelessness.As a Christian counselor I seek to minister to the mental, emotional and spiritual needs of the individual, couple or families who may be struggling with various problems.
(678) 824-2142 View (678) 824-2142
Photo of Tina M Wallis, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tina M Wallis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Whether you're struggling with managing depression and anxiety, moving past traumatic experiences, or overcoming addictive compulsions, it is important that you know you don't have to be alone in this journey.
Would you like to improve the quality of your relationships and be more fulfilled both personally and professionally? Therapy can help! Does it feel like you keep repeating the same mistakes and you can't figure out why? Are you struggling to heal from loss or past trauma? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here.
Whether you're struggling with managing depression and anxiety, moving past traumatic experiences, or overcoming addictive compulsions, it is important that you know you don't have to be alone in this journey.
Would you like to improve the quality of your relationships and be more fulfilled both personally and professionally? Therapy can help! Does it feel like you keep repeating the same mistakes and you can't figure out why? Are you struggling to heal from loss or past trauma? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here.
(706) 503-7142 View (706) 503-7142
Photo of Jodi Cofer, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodi Cofer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dahlonega, GA 30533
I have experience assisting clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, addictions, and marriage difficulties.
Finding the right counselor to walk along side you can be difficult! I believe wholeheartedly that healing is possible for anyone who is willing to embrace the journey. I have a varied background which gives me particular insight into individuals struggling with trauma, shame, addiction, depression, anxiety, and family conflict. I am particularly interested in marriage therapy and have equipping through the Gottman Institute. As a part of our partnership I hope to provide a safe place where you find healing and hope because my desire is to help my clients have the best possible experience in all aspects of their lives.
I have experience assisting clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, addictions, and marriage difficulties.
Finding the right counselor to walk along side you can be difficult! I believe wholeheartedly that healing is possible for anyone who is willing to embrace the journey. I have a varied background which gives me particular insight into individuals struggling with trauma, shame, addiction, depression, anxiety, and family conflict. I am particularly interested in marriage therapy and have equipping through the Gottman Institute. As a part of our partnership I hope to provide a safe place where you find healing and hope because my desire is to help my clients have the best possible experience in all aspects of their lives.
(678) 264-3065 View (678) 264-3065
Photo of Hailey Hoopaugh, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Hailey Hoopaugh
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30597  (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.
(404) 975-2608 View (404) 975-2608
Photo of Kimberly Motley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Motley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dahlonega, GA 30533  (Online Only)
This approach employs evidence-based techniques and tools to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, and related issues in an accepting, non-judgemental therapeutic relationship.
Have you been thinking about therapy and struggling with where to begin? Sometimes taking the first step is the most difficult one. I can help you take that first step with a warm and encouraging approach to therapy. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) using a client-centered philosophy.
This approach employs evidence-based techniques and tools to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, and related issues in an accepting, non-judgemental therapeutic relationship.
Have you been thinking about therapy and struggling with where to begin? Sometimes taking the first step is the most difficult one. I can help you take that first step with a warm and encouraging approach to therapy. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) using a client-centered philosophy.
(470) 466-8701 View (470) 466-8701
Photo of Mylene Hallaran - LifeWorks Counseling, MS, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
LifeWorks Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
Dahlonega, GA 30533
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.
(706) 225-7069 View (706) 225-7069
Photo of Ben Barrett - SkyeHelps Counseling & Wellness - Ben, MA, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
SkyeHelps Counseling & Wellness - Ben
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
There are many obstacles our minds get stuck in that keep us from thriving. These obstacles include anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, marital issues and more. I aspire to hear how these barriers are impacting you and assist you in better understanding emotions surrounding these challenges. I want to help you feel what it is like to flourish all the time.
There are many obstacles our minds get stuck in that keep us from thriving. These obstacles include anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, marital issues and more. I aspire to hear how these barriers are impacting you and assist you in better understanding emotions surrounding these challenges. I want to help you feel what it is like to flourish all the time.
(706) 397-5576 View (706) 397-5576
Photo of Giovanni Holguin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Giovanni Holguin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
My areas of special interest and experience are past childhood-trauma, depression, anxiety, men's issues, anger, and conflict/miscommunication among couples.
Hello! I provide psychotherapy services at River Shoals counseling in Dahlonega and Gainesville, and via tele-health. My approach is down to earth, client-centered, and trauma-informed. I work with an eclectic array of evidence-based interventions dependent on the individual client's needs. I have experience working with folks from all walks of life, and consider the client the expert of their truth. I welcome those new to therapy and have questions to ask. Give me a call and schedule a free 15 min consultation!
My areas of special interest and experience are past childhood-trauma, depression, anxiety, men's issues, anger, and conflict/miscommunication among couples.
Hello! I provide psychotherapy services at River Shoals counseling in Dahlonega and Gainesville, and via tele-health. My approach is down to earth, client-centered, and trauma-informed. I work with an eclectic array of evidence-based interventions dependent on the individual client's needs. I have experience working with folks from all walks of life, and consider the client the expert of their truth. I welcome those new to therapy and have questions to ask. Give me a call and schedule a free 15 min consultation!
(706) 707-5749 View (706) 707-5749
Photo of Laurie Costello, MFT, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laurie Costello
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT, LAPC
Verified Verified
Dahlonega, GA 30533
There are times in our lives when we get stuck - in relationships or with feelings of anxiety, fear, depression, anger, low self esteem, stress or loss. These thoughts and feelings get in the way of our happiness and our ability to function optimally. Old coping skills, which once worked for us, we still use because they are familiar and comfortable but are no longer helpful and often become part of the problem. I consider my ability to connect with you, to "be real", to be trustworthy, mindfully present and to provide a safe space by being nonjudgmental & empathetic to be the foundation for your positive change.
There are times in our lives when we get stuck - in relationships or with feelings of anxiety, fear, depression, anger, low self esteem, stress or loss. These thoughts and feelings get in the way of our happiness and our ability to function optimally. Old coping skills, which once worked for us, we still use because they are familiar and comfortable but are no longer helpful and often become part of the problem. I consider my ability to connect with you, to "be real", to be trustworthy, mindfully present and to provide a safe space by being nonjudgmental & empathetic to be the foundation for your positive change.
(678) 252-6944 View (678) 252-6944
Photo of Jennifer Hosea, MEd, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Hosea
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS
Verified Verified
Dahlonega, GA 30533
If you or your loved one are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, and/or grief, it may be time to seek support from a licensed counselor. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore feelings and experiences while promoting personal growth. Since I am extensively trained and experienced in play therapy, I am most known for working with children and teens. However, I do provide counseling for all ages.
If you or your loved one are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, and/or grief, it may be time to seek support from a licensed counselor. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore feelings and experiences while promoting personal growth. Since I am extensively trained and experienced in play therapy, I am most known for working with children and teens. However, I do provide counseling for all ages.
(706) 740-3660 View (706) 740-3660
Photo of Christine M Shaheen-Ball, MS, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine M Shaheen-Ball
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Coming to a therapist is an enlightening experience, it can make a once chaotic and out of control life become peaceful and have meaning. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy as my main methods for therapy; however, I draw from other therapy types to give my clients the best therapeutic experience. I love working with children, adolescents and adults. My experience lies in behavior management, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life changes, adjustment issues and addiction issues as it related to the addict and to the family. I see a lot children from blended and divorced families.
Coming to a therapist is an enlightening experience, it can make a once chaotic and out of control life become peaceful and have meaning. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy as my main methods for therapy; however, I draw from other therapy types to give my clients the best therapeutic experience. I love working with children, adolescents and adults. My experience lies in behavior management, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life changes, adjustment issues and addiction issues as it related to the addict and to the family. I see a lot children from blended and divorced families.
(678) 582-1274 View (678) 582-1274
Photo of Skye McIntyre - SkyeHelps Counseling & Wellness - Skye, MS, NCC, LPC, CPCS, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
SkyeHelps Counseling & Wellness - Skye
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CPCS, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Skye McIntyre is a trauma therapist who focuses on working with adults and couples. She enjoys helping people develop relationships between their True Self and parts that were created in childhood. Skye utilizes Person-Centered Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is Internal Family Systems informed and EMDR certified. Skye has developed her own therapeutic tool: The Tree. Skye is available Monday through Thursday for online and in-person appointments at the SkyeHelps office in Dahlonega, Georgia.
Skye McIntyre is a trauma therapist who focuses on working with adults and couples. She enjoys helping people develop relationships between their True Self and parts that were created in childhood. Skye utilizes Person-Centered Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is Internal Family Systems informed and EMDR certified. Skye has developed her own therapeutic tool: The Tree. Skye is available Monday through Thursday for online and in-person appointments at the SkyeHelps office in Dahlonega, Georgia.
(706) 979-2344 View (706) 979-2344
Photo of Ashley Robinson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Let go of who you think you're supposed to be and embrace who you are - Brene Brown. I understand that finding someone to share in your pain, sorrow, hopelessness and all the feelings you may feel can sometimes be difficult and terrifying. That initial step of acknowledging that you want to speak to someone can be difficult in itself, lets make that next step together. Allow me to meet you where you're at in life, after all it's about you and your journey.
Let go of who you think you're supposed to be and embrace who you are - Brene Brown. I understand that finding someone to share in your pain, sorrow, hopelessness and all the feelings you may feel can sometimes be difficult and terrifying. That initial step of acknowledging that you want to speak to someone can be difficult in itself, lets make that next step together. Allow me to meet you where you're at in life, after all it's about you and your journey.
(706) 932-5765 View (706) 932-5765
Photo of Julie D Matsunaga - SkyeHelps Counseling and Wellness - Julie, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
SkyeHelps Counseling and Wellness - Julie
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Julie Matsunaga is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Counselor Educator and Supervisor, and a Trauma Therapist who focuses on working with teens and adults. Julie’s worldview is through the lens of Humanistic Existential Psychology. Humanistic psychology begins with the assumption that people have free will and are motivated to achieve their highest potential. Julie utilizes Person-Centered Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Existential Therapy. She is Internal Family Systems informed and EMDR certified. Julie is available Monday through Friday evenings, Saturdays, and Sundays for either online or in-person appoin
Julie Matsunaga is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Counselor Educator and Supervisor, and a Trauma Therapist who focuses on working with teens and adults. Julie’s worldview is through the lens of Humanistic Existential Psychology. Humanistic psychology begins with the assumption that people have free will and are motivated to achieve their highest potential. Julie utilizes Person-Centered Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Existential Therapy. She is Internal Family Systems informed and EMDR certified. Julie is available Monday through Friday evenings, Saturdays, and Sundays for either online or in-person appoin
(706) 909-2969 View (706) 909-2969
Photo of Laila L Muhanna, MS, LPC, CPRP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laila L Muhanna
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPRP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
It takes a brave person to admit they need help and are feeling vulnerable. Finding a therapist who recognizes this and provides a safe environment for you is essential in the healing process. I work with a wide variety of psychological and psychiatric disorders, as well as helping clients through difficult life experiences. By focusing on the therapeutic relationship with my clients, I am able to help you work through your problems and meet your therapy goals. I do this by utilizing evidence based treatment modalities in my practice. My primary focus is to help my clients achieve their goals in therapy with respect and compassion.
It takes a brave person to admit they need help and are feeling vulnerable. Finding a therapist who recognizes this and provides a safe environment for you is essential in the healing process. I work with a wide variety of psychological and psychiatric disorders, as well as helping clients through difficult life experiences. By focusing on the therapeutic relationship with my clients, I am able to help you work through your problems and meet your therapy goals. I do this by utilizing evidence based treatment modalities in my practice. My primary focus is to help my clients achieve their goals in therapy with respect and compassion.
(678) 264-3710 View (678) 264-3710
1
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.