Depression Therapists in Forsyth, GA

Photo of Nikki Messer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nikki Messer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forsyth, GA 31029
Hi there! My name is Nikki Messer, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. At the heart of my practice, my goal is to help you experience healing and growth as you regain a life worth living. I support adults and teens living with the challenges of anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, past trauma, and life transitions. My approach is person-centered; therefore, your individual needs and goals are used to determine my therapeutic interventions. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Hi there! My name is Nikki Messer, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. At the heart of my practice, my goal is to help you experience healing and growth as you regain a life worth living. I support adults and teens living with the challenges of anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, past trauma, and life transitions. My approach is person-centered; therefore, your individual needs and goals are used to determine my therapeutic interventions. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(912) 491-4507 View (912) 491-4507
Photo of Corey Wetzel, MA, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Corey Wetzel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Forsyth, GA 31029  (Online Only)
I am a firm believer that the greatest experiences and our most difficult moments include other people. Relationships with others are not always easy to navigate. Experiences we have with other people can have a huge impact on how we feel about ourselves and the world around us. I love to support people exploring their relationship with themselves and how that can have a positive impact on our relationship with others. I have knowledge and experience working with individuals and couples who have experienced trauma, loss, anxiety, depression, parenting, postpartum and identity issues.
I am a firm believer that the greatest experiences and our most difficult moments include other people. Relationships with others are not always easy to navigate. Experiences we have with other people can have a huge impact on how we feel about ourselves and the world around us. I love to support people exploring their relationship with themselves and how that can have a positive impact on our relationship with others. I have knowledge and experience working with individuals and couples who have experienced trauma, loss, anxiety, depression, parenting, postpartum and identity issues.
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Photo of Jacqueline Jackson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forsyth, GA 31029
All of the above challenges increase our feelings of depression, anxiety and inadequacy which can be overwhelming and requires an experienced professional to assist in finding our strengths to overcome these challenges.
Our Greatest Fear —Marianne Williamson “It is our light not our darkness that most frightens us. Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light not our darkness that most frightens us.” It is when we are faced with our greatest fears when we are in need of someone who we can trust to hear those fears and assist us with equipping ourselves with life skills/tools to overcome and conquer them. I have over 28 years of clinical experience assisting others on how to achieve their best life. It is my belief solutions to our problems are within us.
All of the above challenges increase our feelings of depression, anxiety and inadequacy which can be overwhelming and requires an experienced professional to assist in finding our strengths to overcome these challenges.
Our Greatest Fear —Marianne Williamson “It is our light not our darkness that most frightens us. Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light not our darkness that most frightens us.” It is when we are faced with our greatest fears when we are in need of someone who we can trust to hear those fears and assist us with equipping ourselves with life skills/tools to overcome and conquer them. I have over 28 years of clinical experience assisting others on how to achieve their best life. It is my belief solutions to our problems are within us.
(478) 796-9157 View (478) 796-9157
Photo of Annie Biers, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annie Biers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Forsyth, GA 31029
Since 2003, I have been working with children, teens and adults who are courageous and vulnerable enough to ask for help managing life-upsets related to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, body image, pregnancy/postpartum issues, addiction and drug abuse, disconnects in spirituality, intrusive thoughts, compulsive behaviors and relational conflict.
One of my favorite authors, Glennon Doyle, describes life as being both beautiful and brutal: 'brutiful.' While it is incredible on the one hand that us humans have the capacity to endure the many complexities of life, we can experience seasons in this brutiful life that feel more brutal than not. Whether you're reeling from a recent loss or life event that has you experiencing feelings that are completely new and upsetting to you or you are finally ready after much time and ambivalence to trust a counselor with long-held resentments towards self or others, I would be incredibly honored if you chose to invite me into the process.
Since 2003, I have been working with children, teens and adults who are courageous and vulnerable enough to ask for help managing life-upsets related to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, body image, pregnancy/postpartum issues, addiction and drug abuse, disconnects in spirituality, intrusive thoughts, compulsive behaviors and relational conflict.
One of my favorite authors, Glennon Doyle, describes life as being both beautiful and brutal: 'brutiful.' While it is incredible on the one hand that us humans have the capacity to endure the many complexities of life, we can experience seasons in this brutiful life that feel more brutal than not. Whether you're reeling from a recent loss or life event that has you experiencing feelings that are completely new and upsetting to you or you are finally ready after much time and ambivalence to trust a counselor with long-held resentments towards self or others, I would be incredibly honored if you chose to invite me into the process.
(478) 205-6210 View (478) 205-6210
Photo of Jamie Thames, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Thames
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Forsyth, GA 31029  (Online Only)
The focus of my practice is to help women to recover from depression, anxiety, emotional eating, body image problems, poor self-esteem, and move through various life transitions.
Counseling is a place we can explore the many facets of being a woman and the many roles that we fill. This is a confidential space to confront challenges and general life issues that may crop up in life including but not limited to emotional eating, negative body image, stress and anxiety, poor self-esteem, depressed mood, and neglected self-care. We all face difficulties during our lives. And because of the many roles we, as women, are expected to fulfill, we often do not show our suffering to the outside world. But that's how we feel on the inside. I want you to know that there is nothing wrong with asking for help!
The focus of my practice is to help women to recover from depression, anxiety, emotional eating, body image problems, poor self-esteem, and move through various life transitions.
Counseling is a place we can explore the many facets of being a woman and the many roles that we fill. This is a confidential space to confront challenges and general life issues that may crop up in life including but not limited to emotional eating, negative body image, stress and anxiety, poor self-esteem, depressed mood, and neglected self-care. We all face difficulties during our lives. And because of the many roles we, as women, are expected to fulfill, we often do not show our suffering to the outside world. But that's how we feel on the inside. I want you to know that there is nothing wrong with asking for help!
(478) 215-2305 View (478) 215-2305
Photo of Barbara Ann Newton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Ann Newton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Forsyth, GA 31029  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals and families dealing with anxiety and depression, panic, ADHD behaviors, grief and trauma.
Are you facing more life stressors than usual? For many of us, Yes we are. Do you need additional support and care? Yes, many of us do. These days everyone needs someone. Anxiety and depression symptoms can worsen when all areas of our lives are changing rapidly. Time to feel better? Ready to make that first move and text? I have 20+ years experience working with Middle Georgia families.
I work with individuals and families dealing with anxiety and depression, panic, ADHD behaviors, grief and trauma.
Are you facing more life stressors than usual? For many of us, Yes we are. Do you need additional support and care? Yes, many of us do. These days everyone needs someone. Anxiety and depression symptoms can worsen when all areas of our lives are changing rapidly. Time to feel better? Ready to make that first move and text? I have 20+ years experience working with Middle Georgia families.
(478) 249-4404 View (478) 249-4404
Photo of Dr. Judah Greenberg - Ketamine Center of Central Georgia, MD
Ketamine Center of Central Georgia
MD
Verified Verified
Forsyth, GA 31029
Ketamine Center of Central Georgia in Macon, GA, provides innovative ketamine infusion therapy, offering new hope to those battling chronic pain, fibromyalgia, migraines, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Our compassionate and experienced team is dedicated to helping patients find relief when traditional treatments have failed. With a focus on personalized care, we ensure each patient receives the attention and treatment they deserve in a safe and supportive environment. Discover a new path to healing and reclaim your quality of life. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.
Ketamine Center of Central Georgia in Macon, GA, provides innovative ketamine infusion therapy, offering new hope to those battling chronic pain, fibromyalgia, migraines, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Our compassionate and experienced team is dedicated to helping patients find relief when traditional treatments have failed. With a focus on personalized care, we ensure each patient receives the attention and treatment they deserve in a safe and supportive environment. Discover a new path to healing and reclaim your quality of life. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.
(478) 316-2749 View (478) 316-2749
Photo of Shakaelah Fisher, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shakaelah Fisher
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Forsyth, GA 31029  (Online Only)
We offer group counseling for anxiety, depression and self esteem.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, stressed? I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome daily life stressors. I work with individuals that experience anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship concerns, trauma, and a variety of other mental health concerns.
We offer group counseling for anxiety, depression and self esteem.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, stressed? I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome daily life stressors. I work with individuals that experience anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship concerns, trauma, and a variety of other mental health concerns.
(470) 436-8680 View (470) 436-8680
Photo of Autumn Hutto, MS, APC, NCC, Counselor
Autumn Hutto
Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
Forsyth, GA 31029
I am enthusiastic about working with those motivated to begin their counseling journey. In my previous career as a teacher, I developed effective skills for working with children, adolescents, and adults. I typically work with teens and adults who struggle to adjust after experiencing trauma, particularly sexual trauma and interpersonal violence. I am deeply passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community through coming out, life transitions, and marital and couples issues. Additionally, I enjoy working through issues of interpersonal relationships, depression, anxiety, and with adults with ADHD and/or Autism.
I am enthusiastic about working with those motivated to begin their counseling journey. In my previous career as a teacher, I developed effective skills for working with children, adolescents, and adults. I typically work with teens and adults who struggle to adjust after experiencing trauma, particularly sexual trauma and interpersonal violence. I am deeply passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community through coming out, life transitions, and marital and couples issues. Additionally, I enjoy working through issues of interpersonal relationships, depression, anxiety, and with adults with ADHD and/or Autism.
(470) 412-9480 View (470) 412-9480
Photo of Misty Scott Bert, EdS, LPC, CAMS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Misty Scott Bert
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, CAMS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forsyth, GA 31029
Health and Wellness is my ideal client and I work actively with individuals and families to help create a "space" of peace and emotional stability. I think it is important to work collaboratively with clients because I believe they are their "OWN" best expert. My therapeutic orientation is mostly Rogerian and I utilize a non-directive and motivational interviewing approach to assist people in realizing their personal reasons for change. I implement various strategies that are solution focused and techniques associated with Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral therapy to address mood disorders, behavior problems, and thinking distortions.
Health and Wellness is my ideal client and I work actively with individuals and families to help create a "space" of peace and emotional stability. I think it is important to work collaboratively with clients because I believe they are their "OWN" best expert. My therapeutic orientation is mostly Rogerian and I utilize a non-directive and motivational interviewing approach to assist people in realizing their personal reasons for change. I implement various strategies that are solution focused and techniques associated with Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral therapy to address mood disorders, behavior problems, and thinking distortions.
(470) 238-2899 View (470) 238-2899
Photo of Dr. Courtney B Caldwell, LCSW, CJSOC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Courtney B Caldwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CJSOC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forsyth, GA 31029
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy helps work through your thoughts, emotions, perceptions, interactions and relationships in a safe supportive atmosphere. A good therapist will support and guide you to gain increased perspective and insight while also empowering you to self-assess and identify solutions/needed changes, not impress their beliefs on you. The active change agent in your journey to increased happiness and fulfillment is YOU; a good therapist just guides the way. I am happy to help whether you are adjusting to change and transition, wanting to improve or change relationships, or hoping to learn better ways to manage/cope with stress/emotions.
Therapy helps work through your thoughts, emotions, perceptions, interactions and relationships in a safe supportive atmosphere. A good therapist will support and guide you to gain increased perspective and insight while also empowering you to self-assess and identify solutions/needed changes, not impress their beliefs on you. The active change agent in your journey to increased happiness and fulfillment is YOU; a good therapist just guides the way. I am happy to help whether you are adjusting to change and transition, wanting to improve or change relationships, or hoping to learn better ways to manage/cope with stress/emotions.
(478) 292-2591 View (478) 292-2591
Photo of Tara Dawn Milton, PsyD, Psychologist
Tara Dawn Milton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Forsyth, GA 31029  (Online Only)
Have you found yourself at a place where you are wondering what path to take? A place where either your child or yourself are struggling and yet you are not quite sure what to do next? Taking the first step toward identifying the underlying problem is often a difficult, confusing, and stressful process. From the very first contact, I am committed to helping ease those difficulties as much as possible and guide you along the path most suited for you or your child's needs.
Have you found yourself at a place where you are wondering what path to take? A place where either your child or yourself are struggling and yet you are not quite sure what to do next? Taking the first step toward identifying the underlying problem is often a difficult, confusing, and stressful process. From the very first contact, I am committed to helping ease those difficulties as much as possible and guide you along the path most suited for you or your child's needs.
(912) 623-4210 View (912) 623-4210
Photo of Gena Connally, PhD, Psychologist
Gena Connally
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Forsyth, GA 31029
I am a licensed psychologist accepting teletherapy patients from all areas of Georgia. In-office patients will be seen at St Simons Psychiatry. I work with all ages incorporating mental, physical and spiritual factors. Therapy with children and teens typically involves better communication with parents and parenting help. Areas of expertise are mood, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, behavior problems, autism, chronic pain, stress and anger management.
I am a licensed psychologist accepting teletherapy patients from all areas of Georgia. In-office patients will be seen at St Simons Psychiatry. I work with all ages incorporating mental, physical and spiritual factors. Therapy with children and teens typically involves better communication with parents and parenting help. Areas of expertise are mood, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, behavior problems, autism, chronic pain, stress and anger management.
(478) 569-2513 View (478) 569-2513
Photo of Adrian Howard, MS, LMFT, CAMSII, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adrian Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CAMSII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forsyth, GA 31029  (Online Only)
Did you grow up without a consistent and healthy relationship with your parents due to their substance abuse, mental health issues, or verbal and/or physical abuse? Do you struggle with feelings of abandonment, rejection, worthlessness, inadequacy, and low self-esteem? I want to work with you to develop a positive sense of self and to heal from the past traumas associated with your parental and family unit. Life does not warn you about the adverse effects of having a parent that struggles with substance abuse or mental illness which can leave you to sort out the byproducts of your trauma. I have experienced this exact pain.
Did you grow up without a consistent and healthy relationship with your parents due to their substance abuse, mental health issues, or verbal and/or physical abuse? Do you struggle with feelings of abandonment, rejection, worthlessness, inadequacy, and low self-esteem? I want to work with you to develop a positive sense of self and to heal from the past traumas associated with your parental and family unit. Life does not warn you about the adverse effects of having a parent that struggles with substance abuse or mental illness which can leave you to sort out the byproducts of your trauma. I have experienced this exact pain.
(478) 993-0533 View (478) 993-0533
Photo of Myrana Craig - Enhance Behavioral Health, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Enhance Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Forsyth, GA 31029
Our mission is to provide effortlessly accessible behavioral health services to the community in an environment that is safe, warm, inviting, and secure. To remove the fear, shame, inadequacy, and hopelessness that prevents individuals from seeking help while addressing the client’s lack of insight and providing mental health awareness.
Our mission is to provide effortlessly accessible behavioral health services to the community in an environment that is safe, warm, inviting, and secure. To remove the fear, shame, inadequacy, and hopelessness that prevents individuals from seeking help while addressing the client’s lack of insight and providing mental health awareness.
(478) 779-1994 View (478) 779-1994

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christine Pound, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Pound
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Juliette, GA 31046
Although I have many years of experience working with children and adults of all ages, I am currently focusing my practice on working with adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression and/or burn out, with a special focus on women’s issues, mindfulness-based self-care, and those experiencing stress related to life stage transitions, relationships, loss.
My name is Christine Pound. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Ellijay, Georgia and currently working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am a compassionate and supportive therapist who is currently working with adults in all phases of life experiencing anxiety and depression, as well as those experiencing stress from current or past life challenges. I combine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidenced based practices in a holistic, solution focused approach to help clients strengthen their sense of self–worth and their unique set of healthy coping strategies.
Although I have many years of experience working with children and adults of all ages, I am currently focusing my practice on working with adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression and/or burn out, with a special focus on women’s issues, mindfulness-based self-care, and those experiencing stress related to life stage transitions, relationships, loss.
My name is Christine Pound. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Ellijay, Georgia and currently working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am a compassionate and supportive therapist who is currently working with adults in all phases of life experiencing anxiety and depression, as well as those experiencing stress from current or past life challenges. I combine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidenced based practices in a holistic, solution focused approach to help clients strengthen their sense of self–worth and their unique set of healthy coping strategies.
(770) 980-7939 View (770) 980-7939
Photo of Wanda Burns-Jackson, MS, LPC , CAMSII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wanda Burns-Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC , CAMSII
Verified Verified
Juliette, GA 31046
I’ve worked with diverse ages and populations, with experience in Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Parenting, Grief, Marital and Family conflict.
Life is a journey that will bring on many challenges and changes that can often put you in a dark place. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel, that will transition you to a better place. As a Licensed, caring professional, I would be honored to offer assistance to you in discovering that light, so you can be empowered, equipped and successful on your journey.
I’ve worked with diverse ages and populations, with experience in Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Parenting, Grief, Marital and Family conflict.
Life is a journey that will bring on many challenges and changes that can often put you in a dark place. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel, that will transition you to a better place. As a Licensed, caring professional, I would be honored to offer assistance to you in discovering that light, so you can be empowered, equipped and successful on your journey.
(478) 250-0162 View (478) 250-0162

Online Therapists

Photo of Mia Edwards, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mia Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331
When it comes to helping my clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, college challenges, behavioral problems, and other concerns, I have a high success rate!.
Accepting new clients. As a committed Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA, your well-being and mental strength is my number one priority. I’m happy to guide you through all of life’s challenges with the attention and care you deserve. My primary population ages are 3 and up, and older adults confronting life's changes; with extensive training in working with adults. The area of tough life challenges, and healing has always been a focus of mine; and with training in individual therapy, group therapy, and sound healing, I have been able to help a variety of individuals that I have crossed paths with, young and older.
When it comes to helping my clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, college challenges, behavioral problems, and other concerns, I have a high success rate!.
Accepting new clients. As a committed Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA, your well-being and mental strength is my number one priority. I’m happy to guide you through all of life’s challenges with the attention and care you deserve. My primary population ages are 3 and up, and older adults confronting life's changes; with extensive training in working with adults. The area of tough life challenges, and healing has always been a focus of mine; and with training in individual therapy, group therapy, and sound healing, I have been able to help a variety of individuals that I have crossed paths with, young and older.
(404) 341-0368 View (404) 341-0368
Photo of Deborah Pender, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Pender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, GA 30188
Anxiety and depression will turn to encouragement and hope, and the atmosphere projects the transforming power to produce lasting change.
Are you struggling with depression, and you feel lost with no hope? Are your thoughts racing, or does your mind go blank, and you feel frozen in time? Do you often feel panic and want to run and hide? Is it your wish for a future filled with hope and promise but struggle to get through each day? There is hope, and you can heal. Years ago, I was like you. I was stuck in a cycle of depression and anxiety where I was afraid to live and unable to find the way out. My challenges were significant, and I was sinking. When I finally decided to seek help, I was blessed. It was work but today I am here to say you can receive help too.
Anxiety and depression will turn to encouragement and hope, and the atmosphere projects the transforming power to produce lasting change.
Are you struggling with depression, and you feel lost with no hope? Are your thoughts racing, or does your mind go blank, and you feel frozen in time? Do you often feel panic and want to run and hide? Is it your wish for a future filled with hope and promise but struggle to get through each day? There is hope, and you can heal. Years ago, I was like you. I was stuck in a cycle of depression and anxiety where I was afraid to live and unable to find the way out. My challenges were significant, and I was sinking. When I finally decided to seek help, I was blessed. It was work but today I am here to say you can receive help too.
(770) 270-3862 View (770) 270-3862
Photo of Tanya Zeiliger, MS, LPC, CHT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tanya Zeiliger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CHT, NCC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20+ years of experience in counseling for individuals (children, teenagers and adults), couples, and families. I have worked with diverse ethnic populations providing therapy for variety of psychological symptoms, illnesses and conditions such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, stress management and other issues. As a Counselor, my goal is to fully understand the client’s experience and provide specific interventions to help in overcoming concerning life challenges.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20+ years of experience in counseling for individuals (children, teenagers and adults), couples, and families. I have worked with diverse ethnic populations providing therapy for variety of psychological symptoms, illnesses and conditions such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, stress management and other issues. As a Counselor, my goal is to fully understand the client’s experience and provide specific interventions to help in overcoming concerning life challenges.
(678) 635-9596 View (678) 635-9596

See more therapy options for Forsyth

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.