Photo of Joseph Wilkins - West Georgia Counseling & Assessment Services, LLC, LPC
West Georgia Counseling & Assessment Services, LLC
LPC
Verified Verified
Hogansville, GA 30230
Our staff are highly trained in trauma therapy, EMDR, addictions, depression, anxiety, grief, phobias, and crisis, and ADHD to name a few.
West Georgia Counseling & Assessment Services has been servicing families through the DFCS since 2000. As of 2021, our practice also services individuals and families with private insurance, as a self pay client, individual, marital & family therapy sessions. We proudly serve our military veterans and their families as well as all members of our community. Our agency is composed of male and female, highly credentialed, diverse, and experienced staff of LPC's, APC's, Master level counselors, parent aids, and other staff.
Our staff are highly trained in trauma therapy, EMDR, addictions, depression, anxiety, grief, phobias, and crisis, and ADHD to name a few.
West Georgia Counseling & Assessment Services has been servicing families through the DFCS since 2000. As of 2021, our practice also services individuals and families with private insurance, as a self pay client, individual, marital & family therapy sessions. We proudly serve our military veterans and their families as well as all members of our community. Our agency is composed of male and female, highly credentialed, diverse, and experienced staff of LPC's, APC's, Master level counselors, parent aids, and other staff.
(762) 225-9520 View (762) 225-9520

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shannon Keith Dunlap, PhD, CAADC, CCS, Psychologist
Shannon Keith Dunlap
Psychologist, PhD, CAADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Lagrange, GA 30240
Through an objective and supportive relationship, which is often called the therapy alliance, I specialize in helping clients reach their short-term and/or long-term personal goals. I have a broad range of experience treating conditions, solving problems, and coping with circumstances that influence the emotional and cognitive functioning of adults of all ages and gender. I am a primarily a person-centered therapist with advanced training and expertise in treating conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression with evidence-based interventions such as cognitive processing therapy (CPT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and eye-movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR).
Through an objective and supportive relationship, which is often called the therapy alliance, I specialize in helping clients reach their short-term and/or long-term personal goals. I have a broad range of experience treating conditions, solving problems, and coping with circumstances that influence the emotional and cognitive functioning of adults of all ages and gender. I am a primarily a person-centered therapist with advanced training and expertise in treating conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression with evidence-based interventions such as cognitive processing therapy (CPT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and eye-movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR).
(706) 550-9794 View (706) 550-9794
Photo of Kelly J Veal, PhD, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly J Veal
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lagrange, GA 30240
At my core I am a person-centered therapist who sees the relationship between the client and myself as one of the most important aspects of the therapeutic process. I am not only a person-centered therapist, but I am trained in evidenced-based interventions that I employ based on your particular needs. The main modality used in therapy is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which addresses trauma as well as stressful life events such as divorce, job loss and early childhood issues. I am the CEO/Owner of The Veal Group, LLC and a professor which gives me a very unique counseling perspective.
At my core I am a person-centered therapist who sees the relationship between the client and myself as one of the most important aspects of the therapeutic process. I am not only a person-centered therapist, but I am trained in evidenced-based interventions that I employ based on your particular needs. The main modality used in therapy is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which addresses trauma as well as stressful life events such as divorce, job loss and early childhood issues. I am the CEO/Owner of The Veal Group, LLC and a professor which gives me a very unique counseling perspective.
(706) 522-7057 View (706) 522-7057

Online Therapists

Photo of Tiffany L Way, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany L Way
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Dr. Tiffany Way. With over 18 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, I've dedicated my life to guiding individuals towards healing and empowerment through psychotherapy. My passion lies in helping people navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace. Specializing in trauma services, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Whether you're facing a mood disorder, substance abuse, trauma, depression, or anxiety, I'm here to provide compassionate support and evidence-based interventions tailored to your unique needs.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Tiffany Way. With over 18 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, I've dedicated my life to guiding individuals towards healing and empowerment through psychotherapy. My passion lies in helping people navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace. Specializing in trauma services, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Whether you're facing a mood disorder, substance abuse, trauma, depression, or anxiety, I'm here to provide compassionate support and evidence-based interventions tailored to your unique needs.
(470) 664-5872 View (470) 664-5872
Photo of Hadiya Barlatier-Johnson, APC, NCC, Counselor
Hadiya Barlatier-Johnson
Counselor, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
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 Angel Schieber, MAed, MAPC, RYT200, AACC
Angel Schieber
MAed, MAPC, RYT200, AACC
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30041
With over 33 years of personal recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, I specialize in recovery from substance use disorders, pornography addiction, sexual/intimacy issues, self-image/gender, anxiety, and depression. Individual or relationship counseling available.
With over 33 years of personal recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, I specialize in recovery from substance use disorders, pornography addiction, sexual/intimacy issues, self-image/gender, anxiety, and depression. Individual or relationship counseling available.
(678) 723-1728 View (678) 723-1728
Photo of Lakeicha Birdsong-Taylor, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lakeicha Birdsong-Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lilburn, GA 30047
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of therapeutic experience, beginning in 1999, working in an inpatient facility with children and adolescents. My expertise includes working with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, addiction, trauma, grief, and relationship issues. I use a mix of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Adlerian, Cognitive Processing (CPT), Compassion Focused, Complicated Grief Therapy, Eclectic, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and many more. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move towards where you want to be in life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of therapeutic experience, beginning in 1999, working in an inpatient facility with children and adolescents. My expertise includes working with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, addiction, trauma, grief, and relationship issues. I use a mix of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Adlerian, Cognitive Processing (CPT), Compassion Focused, Complicated Grief Therapy, Eclectic, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and many more. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move towards where you want to be in life.
(678) 824-7907 View (678) 824-7907
Photo of Brittany Silva, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Silva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
My experience covers anxiety, depression, substance use, co-parenting challenges, trauma, and the LGBTIQA+ community.
I am a licensed clinical social worker to Jeanes Mental Health Services (JMHS). I am known for my compassionate nature, exceptional clinical skills, and unwavering dedication to guiding clients towards their goals. With a genuine passion for mental health,I offer a unique perspective and a warm-hearted approach to my practice. I have advanced training in various evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
My experience covers anxiety, depression, substance use, co-parenting challenges, trauma, and the LGBTIQA+ community.
I am a licensed clinical social worker to Jeanes Mental Health Services (JMHS). I am known for my compassionate nature, exceptional clinical skills, and unwavering dedication to guiding clients towards their goals. With a genuine passion for mental health,I offer a unique perspective and a warm-hearted approach to my practice. I have advanced training in various evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
(470) 536-4090 View (470) 536-4090
Photo of LaDonna Stallworth, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaDonna Stallworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Powder Springs, GA 30127  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm LaDonna and I’m a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia. As a Black woman, I’ve experienced firsthand the anxiety that comes with living in a society not built for us to succeed. Black women are frequently overlooked, dismissed, and even silenced which evokes anxiety, depression, and oftentimes trauma. Allow me to create a safe space for you as you delve into everyday challenges and past hurts. In hopes of assisting in achieving your goals, I'll validate your experiences, listen to you, and walk with you on your journey. Your voice matters, you deserve this healing!
Hi there, I'm LaDonna and I’m a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia. As a Black woman, I’ve experienced firsthand the anxiety that comes with living in a society not built for us to succeed. Black women are frequently overlooked, dismissed, and even silenced which evokes anxiety, depression, and oftentimes trauma. Allow me to create a safe space for you as you delve into everyday challenges and past hurts. In hopes of assisting in achieving your goals, I'll validate your experiences, listen to you, and walk with you on your journey. Your voice matters, you deserve this healing!
(470) 516-1377 View (470) 516-1377
Photo of Sarah Postich, EdS, NCC, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Postich
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324  (Online Only)
Sarah provides counseling services to survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, adults diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders and individuals in recovery from addiction.
I see counseling as a collaborative process between individuals. I consider it a privilege to walk with you on your journey, whether it consists of management of symptoms, self-discovery, healing, or growth. My vision is to empower you to make decisions that best accommodate your life style and current situation, and with which you are comfortable. I believe that you know yourself best and therefore, we create a personalized approach to your counseling that includes the goals you have for yourself. I seek to provide you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment where you can be who you are and accepted completely.
Sarah provides counseling services to survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, adults diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders and individuals in recovery from addiction.
I see counseling as a collaborative process between individuals. I consider it a privilege to walk with you on your journey, whether it consists of management of symptoms, self-discovery, healing, or growth. My vision is to empower you to make decisions that best accommodate your life style and current situation, and with which you are comfortable. I believe that you know yourself best and therefore, we create a personalized approach to your counseling that includes the goals you have for yourself. I seek to provide you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment where you can be who you are and accepted completely.
(678) 498-1377 View (678) 498-1377
Photo of Brigitta Arnold Respress - The Conscious Spot, LPC, CPCS, MHC, CMFT, CDBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Conscious Spot
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, MHC, CMFT, CDBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, GA 30132  (Online Only)
The art of Mindfulness is a way of giving you your life back as you work through anxiety/depression, PTSD, trauma, grief, domestic violence & substance abuse as you shift & raise your level of consciousness.
Hello and welcome to The Conscious Spot! Thank you in advance for making the choice to begin your journey of self-discovery. Being vulnerable takes courage and is where healing begins. My goal is to develop a collaborative and trusting partnership by using the art of Mindfulness. Mindfulness is awareness, cultivated by paying attention in a sustained and invested way, on purpose and in the moment. Any change that comes in your life, will be of your own effort, how liberating is that!! Your confidentiality/privacy are always honored. I am committed to help you with continual growth in your daily living to positive daily functioning!
The art of Mindfulness is a way of giving you your life back as you work through anxiety/depression, PTSD, trauma, grief, domestic violence & substance abuse as you shift & raise your level of consciousness.
Hello and welcome to The Conscious Spot! Thank you in advance for making the choice to begin your journey of self-discovery. Being vulnerable takes courage and is where healing begins. My goal is to develop a collaborative and trusting partnership by using the art of Mindfulness. Mindfulness is awareness, cultivated by paying attention in a sustained and invested way, on purpose and in the moment. Any change that comes in your life, will be of your own effort, how liberating is that!! Your confidentiality/privacy are always honored. I am committed to help you with continual growth in your daily living to positive daily functioning!
(678) 658-2451 View (678) 658-2451
Photo of Terell Irwin Tepper, LPC, NCC, CAMS II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terell Irwin Tepper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAMS II
Verified Verified
Powder Springs, GA 30127
The Populations I have had Experience working with include but are not limited to: Adolescents and Teens: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, ODD, Anger Challenges, Challenges with Compliance to Rules, Probation/Legal Involvement, Trauma 2. Athletes: Performance Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Communication Challenges, mood swings, Trauma 3. Adults: Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, Trauma, Grief, Addiction, Impulse Control, Couples, Families, LGBTQ+
The Populations I have had Experience working with include but are not limited to: Adolescents and Teens: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, ODD, Anger Challenges, Challenges with Compliance to Rules, Probation/Legal Involvement, Trauma 2. Athletes: Performance Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Communication Challenges, mood swings, Trauma 3. Adults: Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, Trauma, Grief, Addiction, Impulse Control, Couples, Families, LGBTQ+
(678) 400-0546 View (678) 400-0546
Photo of Jasmin Felton, LCSW, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmin Felton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
Conyers, GA 30094
Sometimes individuals struggle with managing daily life challenges, stress, depression, parenting woes, difficult relationships, self-esteem, mental health, family problems and many other issues that come with life. When you're suffering, it's natural to want to talk to someone about your problems.
Sometimes individuals struggle with managing daily life challenges, stress, depression, parenting woes, difficult relationships, self-esteem, mental health, family problems and many other issues that come with life. When you're suffering, it's natural to want to talk to someone about your problems.
(678) 580-4480 View (678) 580-4480
Photo of Kovita Bhasin, MS, APC, NCC, Counselor
Kovita Bhasin
Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I have professional experience in treating complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic suicidal ideation, chronic interpersonal violence, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, acculturative stress, substance use disorders, eating disorders, codependency, relationship distress, career and lifestyle counseling, and identity development.
Sometimes we find ourselves in a dark place where we feel alone, helpless, and hopeless about ourselves and our future. In times like these it is easy to think that you are worthless and no one can understand what you are going through or fathom the heaviness inside of you. As a counselor, I take great pride in being able to sit down in your hole with you and slowly work our way back out together. I know that seeking help when we feel so vulnerable and hurt is not easy, sometimes you may even think that no one really cares so why bother reaching out anyway. I want you to know that you are not alone and I assure you I care about you.
I have professional experience in treating complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic suicidal ideation, chronic interpersonal violence, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, acculturative stress, substance use disorders, eating disorders, codependency, relationship distress, career and lifestyle counseling, and identity development.
Sometimes we find ourselves in a dark place where we feel alone, helpless, and hopeless about ourselves and our future. In times like these it is easy to think that you are worthless and no one can understand what you are going through or fathom the heaviness inside of you. As a counselor, I take great pride in being able to sit down in your hole with you and slowly work our way back out together. I know that seeking help when we feel so vulnerable and hurt is not easy, sometimes you may even think that no one really cares so why bother reaching out anyway. I want you to know that you are not alone and I assure you I care about you.
(678) 562-7856 View (678) 562-7856
Photo of Anna Mistretta - Attento Counseling, MS, NCC, LPC, CPCS , CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Mistretta - Attento Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CPCS , CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30144
Are you feeling anxious, angry, depressed, grieving, controlled by addictions, or trauma? Are you struggling with quality of life, bad relationships or feel that somethings isn’t quite right? Maybe you are not even sure what I can help you with.
A part of you wants to reach out for support and a part of you doesn’t. This is totally understandable because finding the “right fit” with a therapist in this day and age seems like more work then you have time for, and can also be anxiety provoking. Often times making a human connection can be challenging especially with a therapist. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone to any therapy work. I promise you that I am committed to work hard at establishing that relationship. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where I come alongside where you are.
Are you feeling anxious, angry, depressed, grieving, controlled by addictions, or trauma? Are you struggling with quality of life, bad relationships or feel that somethings isn’t quite right? Maybe you are not even sure what I can help you with.
A part of you wants to reach out for support and a part of you doesn’t. This is totally understandable because finding the “right fit” with a therapist in this day and age seems like more work then you have time for, and can also be anxiety provoking. Often times making a human connection can be challenging especially with a therapist. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone to any therapy work. I promise you that I am committed to work hard at establishing that relationship. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where I come alongside where you are.
(404) 341-4811 View (404) 341-4811
Photo of Bailey Sessions, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bailey Sessions
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30040
My practice aims to build a safe, non-judgmental environment, wherein the client is seen as a whole person, rather than a collection of symptoms. My approach includes looking at the ways in which our thoughts can influence the ways we think and behave, and exploring ways to restructure beliefs about ourselves and the world that lead to suffering. Individual and couples counseling sessions are structured to holistically target presenting behavioral concerns and encourage insight. My areas of specialty include substance use disorder, anxiety, depression, and couples counseling. I welcome members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
My practice aims to build a safe, non-judgmental environment, wherein the client is seen as a whole person, rather than a collection of symptoms. My approach includes looking at the ways in which our thoughts can influence the ways we think and behave, and exploring ways to restructure beliefs about ourselves and the world that lead to suffering. Individual and couples counseling sessions are structured to holistically target presenting behavioral concerns and encourage insight. My areas of specialty include substance use disorder, anxiety, depression, and couples counseling. I welcome members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(678) 922-4254 View (678) 922-4254
Photo of Donnette Grant, LCSW, ACM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donnette Grant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30345  (Online Only)
Are you unhappy, struggling with life, feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck or unfulfilled? Are you coping with chronic illness/pain, a new diagnosis or having a difficult time after a traumatic event or loss? I’m glad you’re here. The decision to seek and engage in therapy, though difficult, will equip you with tools and support to overcome challenges , reduce distress, reach personal goals and improve your quality of life. I have over 20 years of experience with adults facing a myriad of issues including depression , anxiety, chronic pain/ illness, trauma/PTSD, grief, workplace stress , relationship issues and life transitions.
Are you unhappy, struggling with life, feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck or unfulfilled? Are you coping with chronic illness/pain, a new diagnosis or having a difficult time after a traumatic event or loss? I’m glad you’re here. The decision to seek and engage in therapy, though difficult, will equip you with tools and support to overcome challenges , reduce distress, reach personal goals and improve your quality of life. I have over 20 years of experience with adults facing a myriad of issues including depression , anxiety, chronic pain/ illness, trauma/PTSD, grief, workplace stress , relationship issues and life transitions.
(678) 252-6771 View (678) 252-6771
Photo of Kristi Vanderpool, MS, LPC, NCC, MCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristi Vanderpool
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, MCC
Verified Verified
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you worried about your relationship with your spouse or teen? Our counseling sessions offer a safe, confidential space where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and concerns without judgment. It's an opportunity to gain insight into yourself and your relationships, develop coping strategies, and make positive changes in your life. Kristi Vanderpool can help you identify your strengths, overcome obstacles, and achieve your personal goals.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you worried about your relationship with your spouse or teen? Our counseling sessions offer a safe, confidential space where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and concerns without judgment. It's an opportunity to gain insight into yourself and your relationships, develop coping strategies, and make positive changes in your life. Kristi Vanderpool can help you identify your strengths, overcome obstacles, and achieve your personal goals.
(770) 766-7792 View (770) 766-7792
Photo of Lara Albanese, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lara Albanese
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30066
I am a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience. I work with adult individuals experiencing anxiety and depression due to past or current traumas. I became certified in EMDR Therapy in 2016, but also use different modalities such as Cognitive Behavorial, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I am a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience. I work with adult individuals experiencing anxiety and depression due to past or current traumas. I became certified in EMDR Therapy in 2016, but also use different modalities such as Cognitive Behavorial, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
(678) 246-5666 View (678) 246-5666
Photo of Caroline Henderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Atlanta, GA who works with adult individuals. I enjoy working with people of many different life experiences and am particularly passionate about supporting those who have been impacted by criminal legal systems. I frequently see clients for the following concerns: anxiety, depression & mood concerns, relationship & communication challenges, processing & coping with major transitions, support for those in helping professions, grief & loss, self-esteem & body image concerns, addiction recovery & support, gender dysphoria & gender transition support, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Atlanta, GA who works with adult individuals. I enjoy working with people of many different life experiences and am particularly passionate about supporting those who have been impacted by criminal legal systems. I frequently see clients for the following concerns: anxiety, depression & mood concerns, relationship & communication challenges, processing & coping with major transitions, support for those in helping professions, grief & loss, self-esteem & body image concerns, addiction recovery & support, gender dysphoria & gender transition support, and trauma.
(470) 660-4306 View (470) 660-4306
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.