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Online Therapists

Photo of Jenay Hicks, MS, LAPC, NCC, Counselor
Jenay Hicks
Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30307
Waitlist for new clients
I will teach you about anxiety, depression, trauma, and how your self-protective strategies keep you safe.
As a client-centered therapist, I believe in the human capacity to "self-actualize." In psychology, self-actualization is achieved when you're able to reach your full potential. I have learned that we are more alike than different in this work. Most people want to feel seen, heard, loved, valued, protected, and connected. Where one is missing, there is usually an amplification in anxiety. I am in the empathy business. I use connection and evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help clients clarify their "why" and navigate a path to deeper fulfillment—professionally and personally.
I will teach you about anxiety, depression, trauma, and how your self-protective strategies keep you safe.
As a client-centered therapist, I believe in the human capacity to "self-actualize." In psychology, self-actualization is achieved when you're able to reach your full potential. I have learned that we are more alike than different in this work. Most people want to feel seen, heard, loved, valued, protected, and connected. Where one is missing, there is usually an amplification in anxiety. I am in the empathy business. I use connection and evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help clients clarify their "why" and navigate a path to deeper fulfillment—professionally and personally.
(678) 928-5081 View (678) 928-5081
Photo of Lukman Adebayo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lukman Adebayo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30044
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience in the field. I specialize in working with clients in areas of anxiety, behavioral issues, coping skills, depression, panic attacks, racial identity, relationship issues, and self-esteem. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as eclectic & multicultural approaches, as I believe that no two situations are exactly the same. I am an active and empathetic communicator and work to better understand clients and find solutions together.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience in the field. I specialize in working with clients in areas of anxiety, behavioral issues, coping skills, depression, panic attacks, racial identity, relationship issues, and self-esteem. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as eclectic & multicultural approaches, as I believe that no two situations are exactly the same. I am an active and empathetic communicator and work to better understand clients and find solutions together.
(470) 408-6896 View (470) 408-6896
Photo of Sun Patron, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sun Patron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339  (Online Only)
I offer a comprehensive range of therapeutic services designed to support individuals & families through various challenges. Providing tailored support for individuals of all ages facing crises. Stress Reduction: Techniques and strategies to manage and reduce stress effectively. Burnout Prevention: Guidance and tools to prevent burnout and promote a healthy work-life balance. Anxiety & Depression Management: utilizing therapeutic approaches to alleviate anxiety and depression. Fostering Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Developing strategies to cope with life’s challenges. Addressing & support with traumatic experiences & overall wellness
I offer a comprehensive range of therapeutic services designed to support individuals & families through various challenges. Providing tailored support for individuals of all ages facing crises. Stress Reduction: Techniques and strategies to manage and reduce stress effectively. Burnout Prevention: Guidance and tools to prevent burnout and promote a healthy work-life balance. Anxiety & Depression Management: utilizing therapeutic approaches to alleviate anxiety and depression. Fostering Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Developing strategies to cope with life’s challenges. Addressing & support with traumatic experiences & overall wellness
(872) 245-0638 View (872) 245-0638
Photo of Ngoneh Bullard - BetterSelf, LLC, LICSW, LCSW, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
BetterSelf, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mableton, GA 30126
Waitlist for new clients
At BetterSelf, LLC, I offer compassionate support for postpartum depression, anxiety, stress, obesity, relationship/divorce adjustment, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, substance use disorders, self-esteem, women's issues, parenting, and veterans' issues.
As an LCSW, I'm dedicated to helping clients navigate life's stressors, including postpartum periods and common mental health issues. My unique perspective as an African American therapist allows me to specialize in serving Aferican American men and women, particularly men, ensuring meaningful therapeutic connections. Through flexible sessions, we set goals and manage symptoms. I believe in therapy's transformative power and help clients tap into inner strength and personal growth. As a self-pay practice, I guarantee utmost privacy and respect.
At BetterSelf, LLC, I offer compassionate support for postpartum depression, anxiety, stress, obesity, relationship/divorce adjustment, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, substance use disorders, self-esteem, women's issues, parenting, and veterans' issues.
As an LCSW, I'm dedicated to helping clients navigate life's stressors, including postpartum periods and common mental health issues. My unique perspective as an African American therapist allows me to specialize in serving Aferican American men and women, particularly men, ensuring meaningful therapeutic connections. Through flexible sessions, we set goals and manage symptoms. I believe in therapy's transformative power and help clients tap into inner strength and personal growth. As a self-pay practice, I guarantee utmost privacy and respect.
(404) 923-8360 View (404) 923-8360
Photo of Elizabeth (Lizz) Toledo, LCSW, CADC, II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth (Lizz) Toledo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, II
Verified Verified
Norcross, GA 30071  (Online Only)
Providing multicultural mental health and addiction treatment. Especializing in trauma, anxiety and depression. Bilingual (Spanish/English).
Providing multicultural mental health and addiction treatment. Especializing in trauma, anxiety and depression. Bilingual (Spanish/English).
(404) 724-5855 View (404) 724-5855
Photo of Samera Sheikh, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samera Sheikh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329  (Online Only)
Over 18 years of experience with various populations including adults, couples, college students and children addressing topics such as communication skills, personal growth, marital concerns, family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bullying, grief and loss, divorce, social skills, self-esteem issues, cultural issues and academic/career concerns.
The focus of my therapy practice is based on the premise that our past, present situations, and future aspirations strongly influence our interactions with our environment. As we evolve and confront challenges, it is crucial to recognize our past, adapt to our present surroundings, and modify our perceptions and behavior so we may reach our full potential. My aim is to assist clients in exploring emotions, promoting self-reflection, developing positive methods of communication, and enhancing the foundations that will support life-long relationships and improve the overall quality of life.
Over 18 years of experience with various populations including adults, couples, college students and children addressing topics such as communication skills, personal growth, marital concerns, family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bullying, grief and loss, divorce, social skills, self-esteem issues, cultural issues and academic/career concerns.
The focus of my therapy practice is based on the premise that our past, present situations, and future aspirations strongly influence our interactions with our environment. As we evolve and confront challenges, it is crucial to recognize our past, adapt to our present surroundings, and modify our perceptions and behavior so we may reach our full potential. My aim is to assist clients in exploring emotions, promoting self-reflection, developing positive methods of communication, and enhancing the foundations that will support life-long relationships and improve the overall quality of life.
(404) 271-9495 View (404) 271-9495
Photo of Hadiya Barlatier-Johnson, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Hadiya Barlatier-Johnson
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30046  (Online Only)
Need someone to explore your thoughts or navigate life woes? We can work on a stigma-free plan to discuss mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, or everyday experiences.
Need someone to explore your thoughts or navigate life woes? We can work on a stigma-free plan to discuss mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, or everyday experiences.
(706) 917-9156 View (706) 917-9156
Photo of Hira Asif Momin, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hira Asif Momin
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Hira (he-rah) and I am looking forward to the opportunity of working with you as your next (and maybe first!) therapist. I am currently licensed and accepting virtual appointments in the states of Georgia and California. As a licensed therapist/counselor, my goal is to work with struggling adults and young adults dealing with depression, anxiety, and trauma in order to help them experience emotions in a more complete and effective way. With my experience as a practicing clinician (as well as a human being), I strive to serve you on your journey through this little thing called "LIFE".
Hi! I'm Hira (he-rah) and I am looking forward to the opportunity of working with you as your next (and maybe first!) therapist. I am currently licensed and accepting virtual appointments in the states of Georgia and California. As a licensed therapist/counselor, my goal is to work with struggling adults and young adults dealing with depression, anxiety, and trauma in order to help them experience emotions in a more complete and effective way. With my experience as a practicing clinician (as well as a human being), I strive to serve you on your journey through this little thing called "LIFE".
(470) 681-9816 View (470) 681-9816
Photo of Marielle Stair - Athens Counseling & Psychotherapy, LLC, LCSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Athens Counseling & Psychotherapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606  (Online Only)
Welcome! We are a collaborative of mental health practitioners who specialize in working with the interconnected impact of Trauma in a person’s life, and supporting them to heal. Most of our clients are navigating symptoms of PTSD/C-PTSD (including military sexual trauma, moral injury, combat and Veteran trauma), depression, anxiety, gender, sexuality, substance use, or the Schizophrenia spectrum. We also work with perinatal mental health, including the complexities and trauma that can occur for individuals/families navigating pregnancy and fertility. We work with a wide range of mental health crises, mood, and behavioral symptoms.
Welcome! We are a collaborative of mental health practitioners who specialize in working with the interconnected impact of Trauma in a person’s life, and supporting them to heal. Most of our clients are navigating symptoms of PTSD/C-PTSD (including military sexual trauma, moral injury, combat and Veteran trauma), depression, anxiety, gender, sexuality, substance use, or the Schizophrenia spectrum. We also work with perinatal mental health, including the complexities and trauma that can occur for individuals/families navigating pregnancy and fertility. We work with a wide range of mental health crises, mood, and behavioral symptoms.
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Photo of Lukman Adebayo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lukman Adebayo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience in the field. I specialize in working with clients in areas of anxiety, behavioral issues, coping skills, depression, panic attacks, racial identity, relationship issues, and self-esteem. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as eclectic & multicultural approaches, as I believe that no two situations are exactly the same. I am an active and empathetic communicator and work to better understand clients and find solutions together.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience in the field. I specialize in working with clients in areas of anxiety, behavioral issues, coping skills, depression, panic attacks, racial identity, relationship issues, and self-esteem. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as eclectic & multicultural approaches, as I believe that no two situations are exactly the same. I am an active and empathetic communicator and work to better understand clients and find solutions together.
(470) 613-3031 View (470) 613-3031
Photo of Nishma Barron, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nishma Barron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005  (Online Only)
Because it can be difficult to know when to reach out to a therapist, especially when seeking help is discouraged, many of us struggle for a long time on our own. Our painful emotions restrict us, stealing our enjoyment of life, interfering with our work, and disrupting our ability to have genuine, satisfying relationships. Reaching out is a sign of your strength and a demonstration of your hope that, with some help, change is possible. Over the years, I've helped individuals from many backgrounds with challenges such as depression, anxiety, work and relationship problems, grief and loss, immigration, and life transitions.
Because it can be difficult to know when to reach out to a therapist, especially when seeking help is discouraged, many of us struggle for a long time on our own. Our painful emotions restrict us, stealing our enjoyment of life, interfering with our work, and disrupting our ability to have genuine, satisfying relationships. Reaching out is a sign of your strength and a demonstration of your hope that, with some help, change is possible. Over the years, I've helped individuals from many backgrounds with challenges such as depression, anxiety, work and relationship problems, grief and loss, immigration, and life transitions.
(470) 684-4793 View (470) 684-4793
Photo of Shama Panjwani, PhD, LPC, ACS, NCC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shama Panjwani
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30346  (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, stress, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and issues related to various cultural factors and life transitions, LGBTQ+, couples, racially diverse teens and adults, immigrants, and health care professionals.
Do you want to live a balanced life and feel happy? Perhaps you are constantly facing obstacles and challenges in your life that are impacting your holistic wellness and authentic relationships. The anxiety and depression can be detrimental. I can help you, guide you, and support you as you process various issues related to your cultural/sexual identity, anxiety related to transitions and relationships, grief, trauma, depression, etc. I can help you gain a deeper insight and self-awareness that will allow you to get closer to your goals, make better decisions, and have a better quality of life in a holistic manner using mindfulness.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, stress, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and issues related to various cultural factors and life transitions, LGBTQ+, couples, racially diverse teens and adults, immigrants, and health care professionals.
Do you want to live a balanced life and feel happy? Perhaps you are constantly facing obstacles and challenges in your life that are impacting your holistic wellness and authentic relationships. The anxiety and depression can be detrimental. I can help you, guide you, and support you as you process various issues related to your cultural/sexual identity, anxiety related to transitions and relationships, grief, trauma, depression, etc. I can help you gain a deeper insight and self-awareness that will allow you to get closer to your goals, make better decisions, and have a better quality of life in a holistic manner using mindfulness.
(678) 922-5080 View (678) 922-5080
Photo of Fawaz H Syed, Pre-Licensed Professional
Fawaz H Syed
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30144
It takes a lot of courage to take the first, second, or fiftieth step towards progress in mental health. My name is Fawaz Syed, and I am a therapist at Refined Beginnings Counseling dedicated to improving the lives and mental health of my clients. I work with individuals, couples, and families, and with clients of all ages. I use a culturally informed, strengths-based and narrative approach to therapy sessions, and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, grief and loss, emotional processing and understanding, and premarital counseling.
It takes a lot of courage to take the first, second, or fiftieth step towards progress in mental health. My name is Fawaz Syed, and I am a therapist at Refined Beginnings Counseling dedicated to improving the lives and mental health of my clients. I work with individuals, couples, and families, and with clients of all ages. I use a culturally informed, strengths-based and narrative approach to therapy sessions, and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, grief and loss, emotional processing and understanding, and premarital counseling.
(678) 952-1850 View (678) 952-1850
Photo of Dr. Nour Al Ghriwati, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Nour Al Ghriwati
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328  (Online Only)
My ideal client is a motivated teen, young adult, or parent who is struggling with anxiety, depression, and the pressures of daily life but is deeply committed to making positive changes. They need a compassionate, skilled therapist who understands the unique challenges they face and can provide a safe space to explore their emotions. They want to feel empowered, understood, and gain the tools to manage their emotions and stressors effectively, so they can live a more authentic and joyful life.
My ideal client is a motivated teen, young adult, or parent who is struggling with anxiety, depression, and the pressures of daily life but is deeply committed to making positive changes. They need a compassionate, skilled therapist who understands the unique challenges they face and can provide a safe space to explore their emotions. They want to feel empowered, understood, and gain the tools to manage their emotions and stressors effectively, so they can live a more authentic and joyful life.
(678) 750-4435 View (678) 750-4435
Photo of Aisha Choudhry - Ihsan Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ihsan Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johns Creek, GA 30097  (Online Only)
I have over a decade of experience working with women and children. My specialties include working with clients that are dealing with: childhood abuse, domestic violence and sexual violence trauma, perinatal mental health, divorce and parenting issues as well as depression and anxiety.
I have over a decade of experience working with women and children. My specialties include working with clients that are dealing with: childhood abuse, domestic violence and sexual violence trauma, perinatal mental health, divorce and parenting issues as well as depression and anxiety.
(470) 570-7107 View (470) 570-7107
Photo of Yasmeen Baajour, MS, APC, NCC, Counselor
Yasmeen Baajour
Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096  (Online Only)
I specialize in emotion regulation, stress management, self-esteem building, relationship coaching, and coping with anxiety and depression.
It can be easy to feel lost and out of control. Sometimes, your go-to coping skills and self-care strategies do not seem to be doing the trick. It is imperative that you feel confident in what you have to offer and strong enough to manage adverse situations and emotions that you experience.
I specialize in emotion regulation, stress management, self-esteem building, relationship coaching, and coping with anxiety and depression.
It can be easy to feel lost and out of control. Sometimes, your go-to coping skills and self-care strategies do not seem to be doing the trick. It is imperative that you feel confident in what you have to offer and strong enough to manage adverse situations and emotions that you experience.
(470) 619-6220 View (470) 619-6220
Photo of Angela Eaglin, LPC, NCC, BSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Eaglin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30309  (Online Only)
As an integrative therapist; I specialize in treating transgenerational trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, PTSS, racial injustices, matriarchal conflicts, motherhood, relationship issues, CFBC issues, adoption-traumas,cultural/multicultural/spiritual conflicts, anger issues, mood disorders, narcissistic abuse, occupational stress and IPV/DV.
Accepting new clients. I am licensed in Texas and in Georgia.Humankind has always been impacted directly and indirectly by events external to oneself. If you are experiencing transgenerational trauma(my niche area) an activation, metaphysical conflict, an awakening, or would like to simply explore your self-transcendence; allow me to hold a safe therapeutic space for you to examine this process. Inherently, healing comes in all forms and as an integrative therapist, I am open to traditional and non-traditional therapeutic methods that foster productivity in the lives of those that I serve.
As an integrative therapist; I specialize in treating transgenerational trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, PTSS, racial injustices, matriarchal conflicts, motherhood, relationship issues, CFBC issues, adoption-traumas,cultural/multicultural/spiritual conflicts, anger issues, mood disorders, narcissistic abuse, occupational stress and IPV/DV.
Accepting new clients. I am licensed in Texas and in Georgia.Humankind has always been impacted directly and indirectly by events external to oneself. If you are experiencing transgenerational trauma(my niche area) an activation, metaphysical conflict, an awakening, or would like to simply explore your self-transcendence; allow me to hold a safe therapeutic space for you to examine this process. Inherently, healing comes in all forms and as an integrative therapist, I am open to traditional and non-traditional therapeutic methods that foster productivity in the lives of those that I serve.
(469) 966-0311 View (469) 966-0311
Photo of Tiy-E Muhammad - OneLove Counseling Services, LLC., EdD, LPC, CPCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
OneLove Counseling Services, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: Psychosexual Therapy, Marriage and Relationship Counseling, Sex and Intimacy Counseling, Spiritual Counseling, Sports Psychology, Compatibility Therapy, Infidelity, Self-Esteem, Parenting, Divorce, Stress management, Suicide, Depression, Couple-Dance Therapy, Grief Counseling, and Wedding Officiant.
Empathy, sympathy, active listening, and genuine concern are vital to helping individuals overcome the challenges they face. When a person feels unfulfilled, frustrated or blocked by their current situation, seeking help is where change begins. Our Holistic/Person-Centered approach to healing from the inside out is designed to assess the root of an issue, and then help support individuals, families and couples on the path to thinking differently and therefore creating different, more positive outcomes. Privacy and confidentiality is the cornerstone of OneLove Counseling Services.
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: Psychosexual Therapy, Marriage and Relationship Counseling, Sex and Intimacy Counseling, Spiritual Counseling, Sports Psychology, Compatibility Therapy, Infidelity, Self-Esteem, Parenting, Divorce, Stress management, Suicide, Depression, Couple-Dance Therapy, Grief Counseling, and Wedding Officiant.
Empathy, sympathy, active listening, and genuine concern are vital to helping individuals overcome the challenges they face. When a person feels unfulfilled, frustrated or blocked by their current situation, seeking help is where change begins. Our Holistic/Person-Centered approach to healing from the inside out is designed to assess the root of an issue, and then help support individuals, families and couples on the path to thinking differently and therefore creating different, more positive outcomes. Privacy and confidentiality is the cornerstone of OneLove Counseling Services.
(678) 218-4992 View (678) 218-4992
Photo of Gwen Warner, MS, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gwen Warner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Park, GA 30297
Feelings of being, “stuck in mud or standing in quicksand”, in the sense of helplessness, feelings of being lost, unheard, unseen, or hopelessness? Masking your sadness with a smile while in the company of others or letting your extrovert behaviors come out, but in reality, it’s just a mask that covers your true thoughts and feelings. We often are unable to see just how much power we hold over our own lives that affects change in our day-to-day living. Our very own internal thoughts can sink us so far in depression that we forget how to live our lives to the fullest, There is nothing wrong with seeking help.
Feelings of being, “stuck in mud or standing in quicksand”, in the sense of helplessness, feelings of being lost, unheard, unseen, or hopelessness? Masking your sadness with a smile while in the company of others or letting your extrovert behaviors come out, but in reality, it’s just a mask that covers your true thoughts and feelings. We often are unable to see just how much power we hold over our own lives that affects change in our day-to-day living. Our very own internal thoughts can sink us so far in depression that we forget how to live our lives to the fullest, There is nothing wrong with seeking help.
(678) 578-8927 View (678) 578-8927
Photo of Raushanah Hud-Aleem, MD
Raushanah Hud-Aleem
MD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30316  (Online Only)
My expertise includes treating a variety of mental health issues, with a particular focus on depression and anxiety.
I’m Dr. Raushanah Hud-Aleem. I’m a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in general psychiatry, as well as child and adolescent psychiatry. Mental health is my passion, and I’ve dedicated my life to raising awareness and promoting wellness in this field. Through my best-selling book, speaking engagements, and direct patient care, my goal is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. I am a strong advocate for therapy and often integrate supportive and cognitive behavioral approaches alongside medication management.
My expertise includes treating a variety of mental health issues, with a particular focus on depression and anxiety.
I’m Dr. Raushanah Hud-Aleem. I’m a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in general psychiatry, as well as child and adolescent psychiatry. Mental health is my passion, and I’ve dedicated my life to raising awareness and promoting wellness in this field. Through my best-selling book, speaking engagements, and direct patient care, my goal is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. I am a strong advocate for therapy and often integrate supportive and cognitive behavioral approaches alongside medication management.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569

See more therapy options for Danielsville

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.