Depression Therapists in Jonesboro, GA

Photo of Dr. Terry Samuels, PhD, MS, CDBT, CPCS, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Terry Samuels
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, CDBT, CPCS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, GA 30236
He has experience dealing with domestic violence, relationship problems, anxiety, grief, and depression.
Terry Samuels earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in December 1994 from Armstrong Atlantic University. Terry obtained his Master of Public Administration degree in December 1996 from Georgia State University. Terry obtained his Master of Professional Counseling degree in December 2015 from Grand Canyon University. Terry completed a 10-month internship at Intown Psychological Associates and completed the hours required for his associate license. Terry is a fully licensed therapist in the state of Georgia (LPC011391). Terry obtained his doctorate in psychology from Grand Canyon University in November of 2023.
He has experience dealing with domestic violence, relationship problems, anxiety, grief, and depression.
Terry Samuels earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in December 1994 from Armstrong Atlantic University. Terry obtained his Master of Public Administration degree in December 1996 from Georgia State University. Terry obtained his Master of Professional Counseling degree in December 2015 from Grand Canyon University. Terry completed a 10-month internship at Intown Psychological Associates and completed the hours required for his associate license. Terry is a fully licensed therapist in the state of Georgia (LPC011391). Terry obtained his doctorate in psychology from Grand Canyon University in November of 2023.
(678) 944-8120 View (678) 944-8120
Photo of Katrina Dumas, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katrina Dumas
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional and National Certified Counselor with over 19 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. My range of experiences within the educational, mental health, and private settings have allowed me to develop a diverse array of strategies for treating behavior issues, depression, anxiety, anger, aggression, and impulsivity to name a few. I have several years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families who are encountering life stressors and challenges. My passion is fueled by the unwavering belief in each person’s ability to address and heal from adverse life experien
I am a Licensed Professional and National Certified Counselor with over 19 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. My range of experiences within the educational, mental health, and private settings have allowed me to develop a diverse array of strategies for treating behavior issues, depression, anxiety, anger, aggression, and impulsivity to name a few. I have several years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families who are encountering life stressors and challenges. My passion is fueled by the unwavering belief in each person’s ability to address and heal from adverse life experien
(470) 570-1508 View (470) 570-1508
Photo of Donya Franklin, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donya Franklin
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
I have worked with adolescents, adults, and groups of all ages on issues ranging from addictions, anger management, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, grief/loss, personal challenges, relationship issues, stress, trauma and many more.
My goal is to inspire hope, and assist clients to heal, change and be the best version of themselves while having healthy relationships. I can help guide you through your mental health journey when life throws you curve balls and/or you are in crisis and feel overwhelmed. Sometimes it can seem difficult and almost impossible to manage and control emotions when you are hit with life stressors. But together we can navigate and learn how to manage the challenges life will throw at you. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
I have worked with adolescents, adults, and groups of all ages on issues ranging from addictions, anger management, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, grief/loss, personal challenges, relationship issues, stress, trauma and many more.
My goal is to inspire hope, and assist clients to heal, change and be the best version of themselves while having healthy relationships. I can help guide you through your mental health journey when life throws you curve balls and/or you are in crisis and feel overwhelmed. Sometimes it can seem difficult and almost impossible to manage and control emotions when you are hit with life stressors. But together we can navigate and learn how to manage the challenges life will throw at you. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
(470) 523-0655 View (470) 523-0655
Photo of Shanna Jefferson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shanna Jefferson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
Hey there! My belief is that we all can transcend adversity and achieve greatness. I utilize a holistic, strengths-based approach focusing on multiple life domains including mental health, physical health, financial health, and spiritual health. I help men and women experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, life stressors, or just feeling stuck. You can transcend adversity and achieve Greatness! If you are ready to get unstuck, gain clarity and move forward in your purpose schedule your appointment with us today.
Hey there! My belief is that we all can transcend adversity and achieve greatness. I utilize a holistic, strengths-based approach focusing on multiple life domains including mental health, physical health, financial health, and spiritual health. I help men and women experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, life stressors, or just feeling stuck. You can transcend adversity and achieve Greatness! If you are ready to get unstuck, gain clarity and move forward in your purpose schedule your appointment with us today.
(678) 270-2145 View (678) 270-2145
Photo of Dr. Stephanie E Williams, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Stephanie E Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, GA 30236
Welcome to Life Source Counseling & Consulting, where we prioritize Emotional and Mental Wellness (Mind, Body, Spirit). I am Dr. Stephanie. My goal is to journey with you from "stuck to UNstoppable." I provide supportive therapy and social supports to address anxiety, stress and depression. Challenges in life are normal, however, there are times when the ability to cope with stressors require peeling back layers and guided introspection. I work with adults, couples and adolescents (15yrs and up). Let me guide you through your journey to overall wellness.
Welcome to Life Source Counseling & Consulting, where we prioritize Emotional and Mental Wellness (Mind, Body, Spirit). I am Dr. Stephanie. My goal is to journey with you from "stuck to UNstoppable." I provide supportive therapy and social supports to address anxiety, stress and depression. Challenges in life are normal, however, there are times when the ability to cope with stressors require peeling back layers and guided introspection. I work with adults, couples and adolescents (15yrs and up). Let me guide you through your journey to overall wellness.
(404) 882-5472 View (404) 882-5472
Photo of Jamila Hankins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamila Hankins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
My clients have had a wide range of concerns including: Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia, Texas and California focused on providing services to individuals and families. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work, and a PhD. in Social Work: Policy, Planning and Administration and have over 10 years of experience providing clinical services to children, teens and adults and families. The onset of my career began with helping children and families within a community mental health setting as well as those involved in the child welfare system.
My clients have had a wide range of concerns including: Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia, Texas and California focused on providing services to individuals and families. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work, and a PhD. in Social Work: Policy, Planning and Administration and have over 10 years of experience providing clinical services to children, teens and adults and families. The onset of my career began with helping children and families within a community mental health setting as well as those involved in the child welfare system.
(470) 466-6705 View (470) 466-6705
Photo of Khaliliah Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor
Khaliliah Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, self esteem, confidence, and depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in this process.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, self esteem, confidence, and depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in this process.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Mary McGukin, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary McGukin
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
Anxious…Desperate…Torn…Grieved…Confused…Broken…Angry…Disposable… Depressed. Do you find yourself within these words? If we’re honest, most of us have at some point, because life happens – right? I specialize in working with adolescents and adults, both male and female, who want to move from feeling stuck to being free. Through modalities such as Trauma Resolution Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, as well as, basic skill-building for healthier emotional management, I want to help my clients systematically address current stressors and/or historical trauma.
Anxious…Desperate…Torn…Grieved…Confused…Broken…Angry…Disposable… Depressed. Do you find yourself within these words? If we’re honest, most of us have at some point, because life happens – right? I specialize in working with adolescents and adults, both male and female, who want to move from feeling stuck to being free. Through modalities such as Trauma Resolution Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, as well as, basic skill-building for healthier emotional management, I want to help my clients systematically address current stressors and/or historical trauma.
(470) 887-3267 View (470) 887-3267
Photo of Laura Elizabeth Shelton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Elizabeth Shelton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236
I am L. Elizabeth Shelton, GA LPC 008242 and have been fully licensed since 2012, originally in Virginia and since 2015 in Georgia. My theoretical orientation to therapy is CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) as I believe it is critical to understand how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact and drive most of the problems people struggle to overcome. I have experience working with a wide range of areas/conditions, though most often focus on helping individuals with depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and trauma.
I am L. Elizabeth Shelton, GA LPC 008242 and have been fully licensed since 2012, originally in Virginia and since 2015 in Georgia. My theoretical orientation to therapy is CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) as I believe it is critical to understand how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact and drive most of the problems people struggle to overcome. I have experience working with a wide range of areas/conditions, though most often focus on helping individuals with depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and trauma.
(470) 660-3894 View (470) 660-3894
Photo of Lei-Ann Bridges, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lei-Ann Bridges
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I empower individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma to embark on a transformative journey toward healing.
I integrate different modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused CBT, transpersonal therapy, and expressive arts, to support clients in their healing process. I am passionate about the transformative power of therapeutic intervention; I am eager to contribute my compassion, skills, empathy, and dedication to supporting individuals on their journey toward mental and emotional well-being. My approach as a mental health therapist is shaped by a combination of personal experiences and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I empower individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma to embark on a transformative journey toward healing.
I integrate different modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused CBT, transpersonal therapy, and expressive arts, to support clients in their healing process. I am passionate about the transformative power of therapeutic intervention; I am eager to contribute my compassion, skills, empathy, and dedication to supporting individuals on their journey toward mental and emotional well-being. My approach as a mental health therapist is shaped by a combination of personal experiences and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
(770) 293-7925 View (770) 293-7925
Photo of Monica Russell, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica Russell
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
I am a 49 yo single Caucasian female who believes in the value and uniqueness of every human being. I am a mother of 2 children, one son, one daughter. I have previously worked with drug court, a teenage group home, contract counseling for all ages, telehealth counseling for all ages as well as substance abuse populations and indigent care population to include diagnoses of major depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, ADD, Autism, Oppositional Defiant Disorder as well as a small population of clients who were diagnosed with schizophrenia.
I am a 49 yo single Caucasian female who believes in the value and uniqueness of every human being. I am a mother of 2 children, one son, one daughter. I have previously worked with drug court, a teenage group home, contract counseling for all ages, telehealth counseling for all ages as well as substance abuse populations and indigent care population to include diagnoses of major depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, ADD, Autism, Oppositional Defiant Disorder as well as a small population of clients who were diagnosed with schizophrenia.
(470) 740-7158 View (470) 740-7158
Photo of Rodney Larson, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rodney Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
He has extensive experience in working with adults and adolescents. Areas of specialization include personal growth, developmental transitions, trauma (including Complex PTSD), anxiety, attention deficits, depression, behavioral challenges, relationship and communication issues, spiritual exploration, and reactions to stress including panic. His theoretical approach is eclectic and is designed to best serve the individualized needs of his clients as unique bio-psycho-social beings.
He has extensive experience in working with adults and adolescents. Areas of specialization include personal growth, developmental transitions, trauma (including Complex PTSD), anxiety, attention deficits, depression, behavioral challenges, relationship and communication issues, spiritual exploration, and reactions to stress including panic. His theoretical approach is eclectic and is designed to best serve the individualized needs of his clients as unique bio-psycho-social beings.
(470) 649-1837 View (470) 649-1837
Photo of Kristal Davidson, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristal Davidson
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
keep clam and THINK positive As your therapist, I want to help you realize that you have the tools to do just that! I offer a comfortable, safe environment for you to address the issues and concerns that may be preventing you from living your best life. My goal is to encourage, empower and inspire you to discover your strength and begin the journey toward whole health and happiness. I specialize in working with adults and families who struggle with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, OCD and PTSD.
keep clam and THINK positive As your therapist, I want to help you realize that you have the tools to do just that! I offer a comfortable, safe environment for you to address the issues and concerns that may be preventing you from living your best life. My goal is to encourage, empower and inspire you to discover your strength and begin the journey toward whole health and happiness. I specialize in working with adults and families who struggle with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, OCD and PTSD.
(470) 436-8617 View (470) 436-8617
Photo of Mireille Etienne, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mireille Etienne
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
Mireille (Mimi) Etienne received her under-graduate degree in psychology at Clark Atlanta University, and obtained her Masters of Arts in Psychology from Georgia School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. She holds a current license in the State of Georgia as a Professional Counselor, in the State of New York as a License Mental Health Counselor and is a Nationally Certified Counselor. Mimi has several years of experience working in forensic settings as well as working with adolescents, adults and families providing brief and long term therapeutic services addressing bereavement , depression and adjustment disorders.
Mireille (Mimi) Etienne received her under-graduate degree in psychology at Clark Atlanta University, and obtained her Masters of Arts in Psychology from Georgia School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. She holds a current license in the State of Georgia as a Professional Counselor, in the State of New York as a License Mental Health Counselor and is a Nationally Certified Counselor. Mimi has several years of experience working in forensic settings as well as working with adolescents, adults and families providing brief and long term therapeutic services addressing bereavement , depression and adjustment disorders.
(470) 536-8577 View (470) 536-8577
Photo of Faye Cook, Licensed Professional Counselor
Faye Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
My expertise is working with clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence.
I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Georgia with more than 15 years of professional work experience. I am also a certified master addiction therapist. I have experience working with multidisciplinary teams in both the community and private sector. I have helped individuals and couples in coping with life's challenges and helping them to develop coping skills to successfully man
My expertise is working with clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence.
I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Georgia with more than 15 years of professional work experience. I am also a certified master addiction therapist. I have experience working with multidisciplinary teams in both the community and private sector. I have helped individuals and couples in coping with life's challenges and helping them to develop coping skills to successfully man
(470) 684-2860 View (470) 684-2860
Photo of Donna Lisiecki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Lisiecki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
I am a practicing LPC- Licensed Professional Counselor since 2006. A Reality Therapist who has observed amazing and life changing outcomes when people accept personal accountability/responsibility. This single act propels people toward living the life they had only previously dreamed of. I work primarily with Individuals who are experiencing, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Grief/Loss, Marital Issues. I work with people aged 18-65 giving them tools, direction, a clear path forward and motivation to live their lives to the fullest without fear, shame, regret. People KNOW the truth when they hear it.
I am a practicing LPC- Licensed Professional Counselor since 2006. A Reality Therapist who has observed amazing and life changing outcomes when people accept personal accountability/responsibility. This single act propels people toward living the life they had only previously dreamed of. I work primarily with Individuals who are experiencing, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Grief/Loss, Marital Issues. I work with people aged 18-65 giving them tools, direction, a clear path forward and motivation to live their lives to the fullest without fear, shame, regret. People KNOW the truth when they hear it.
(470) 516-7716 View (470) 516-7716
Photo of Barbara Beam, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara Beam
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
I also utilize Mindfulness to help manage anxiety and depression as well as positive psychology and solution-focused therapy.
Each human being is wonderfully unique and amazing with their own set of individual strengths. Life often offers challenges that can take us away from enjoying our fully authentic selves; bringing on negative and anxious feelings that severely affect our mental health and quality of life. We can grow through such challenges by learning skills, strategies, and being open to new ways of thinking that can empower us to live our best life. I support people as they grow and heal through challenges by helping them build tools, listening with respect and compassion, and honoring their unique Self. I am a licensed professional counselor (LP
I also utilize Mindfulness to help manage anxiety and depression as well as positive psychology and solution-focused therapy.
Each human being is wonderfully unique and amazing with their own set of individual strengths. Life often offers challenges that can take us away from enjoying our fully authentic selves; bringing on negative and anxious feelings that severely affect our mental health and quality of life. We can grow through such challenges by learning skills, strategies, and being open to new ways of thinking that can empower us to live our best life. I support people as they grow and heal through challenges by helping them build tools, listening with respect and compassion, and honoring their unique Self. I am a licensed professional counselor (LP
(470) 745-7798 View (470) 745-7798
Photo of Dwayne Colson, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dwayne Colson
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with various concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, trauma, abuse, and spirituality.
My therapy style is an integrated approach. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I believe you treat a person, not a condition. My method integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy, rational-emotive therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused models. I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I hope to sow freedom from mental illness and/or addictions for those I serve. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia with over 15 years of experience working in the Mental Health field.
I have worked with clients with various concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, trauma, abuse, and spirituality.
My therapy style is an integrated approach. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I believe you treat a person, not a condition. My method integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy, rational-emotive therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused models. I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I hope to sow freedom from mental illness and/or addictions for those I serve. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia with over 15 years of experience working in the Mental Health field.
(470) 888-8647 View (470) 888-8647
Photo of James Son, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Son
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236
Hello. I am a 2nd generation immigrant to the USA who has diverse experience living in major metropolitan as well as rural areas. I utilize my education and experience in therapy. I have worked with populations who are 5 years old and older in my professional career. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicidal/homicidal ideation, and many others. I primarily utilize CBT in my therapy sessions both individual and group therapy. I am bilingual in English and Korean. I hope to work with you to help you to bring out the best that you have for yourself.
Hello. I am a 2nd generation immigrant to the USA who has diverse experience living in major metropolitan as well as rural areas. I utilize my education and experience in therapy. I have worked with populations who are 5 years old and older in my professional career. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicidal/homicidal ideation, and many others. I primarily utilize CBT in my therapy sessions both individual and group therapy. I am bilingual in English and Korean. I hope to work with you to help you to bring out the best that you have for yourself.
(470) 567-6207 View (470) 567-6207
Photo of Angela Crosson-Poole, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Crosson-Poole
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236  (Online Only)
I look forward to working with you! specialties Stress, Anxiety Parenting issues Self esteem Depression Coping with life changes Also experienced in: Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Grief , Anger management , Compassion fatigue , ADHD , Abandonment, Attachment Issues , Body Image , Caregiver Issues and Stress , Commitment Issues.
Hello! My name is Angela, and I am delighted that you are reaching out for help! Having healthy mental health is vital to living your best life. I am a Licensed therapist with 20+ years of experience providing individual, couples and family counseling. I received my graduate school education from California School of Professional Psychology. I have worked with clients with a wide range of issues and symptoms including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, relationship issues and bullying in school & workplace. We will address everything at a pace that is comfortable for you.
I look forward to working with you! specialties Stress, Anxiety Parenting issues Self esteem Depression Coping with life changes Also experienced in: Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Grief , Anger management , Compassion fatigue , ADHD , Abandonment, Attachment Issues , Body Image , Caregiver Issues and Stress , Commitment Issues.
Hello! My name is Angela, and I am delighted that you are reaching out for help! Having healthy mental health is vital to living your best life. I am a Licensed therapist with 20+ years of experience providing individual, couples and family counseling. I received my graduate school education from California School of Professional Psychology. I have worked with clients with a wide range of issues and symptoms including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, relationship issues and bullying in school & workplace. We will address everything at a pace that is comfortable for you.
(470) 777-6317 View (470) 777-6317
1
Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.