Depression Therapists in Sharpsburg, GA

Photo of Kolby Sanchez, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kolby Sanchez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Kolby and I have a passion for working with those suffering from PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Ready to learn to adjust your own sails and ride the waves of your emotions? I’m ready to be there to cheer you on and guide you through the journey! Facing your past, deep emotions, or sudden change can be difficult, but learning the right coping tools will help give you confidence you need to face whatever challenges come your way.
Hello! I am Kolby and I have a passion for working with those suffering from PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Ready to learn to adjust your own sails and ride the waves of your emotions? I’m ready to be there to cheer you on and guide you through the journey! Facing your past, deep emotions, or sudden change can be difficult, but learning the right coping tools will help give you confidence you need to face whatever challenges come your way.
(770) 562-7103 View (770) 562-7103
Photo of Kristian Perkins May, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristian Perkins May
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Kristian May is a fully licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving clients at Discovery Counseling. Kristian graduated from LaGrange College with a BA in Psychology and then pursued Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville. In her career, Kristian provides individual therapy to teens, and adults, as well as family and couples therapy. Kristian specializes in the treatment of: Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Couple Conflicts, Marriage Enrichment, Premarital Counseling, and PTSD. Kristian utilizes client centered, solution focused models of therapy.
Kristian May is a fully licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving clients at Discovery Counseling. Kristian graduated from LaGrange College with a BA in Psychology and then pursued Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville. In her career, Kristian provides individual therapy to teens, and adults, as well as family and couples therapy. Kristian specializes in the treatment of: Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Couple Conflicts, Marriage Enrichment, Premarital Counseling, and PTSD. Kristian utilizes client centered, solution focused models of therapy.
(678) 675-1202 View (678) 675-1202
Photo of Janice Calzolari - Janice Calzolari, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janice Calzolari
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
I have experience helping people with mood problems, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, coping with grief and loss including death and divorce, as well as spiritual struggles and faith based issues.
Do you find yourself beginning a life transition or at a crossroads, uncertain about which direction to take or feeling lost, isolated and exhausted. Are you bothered by patterns of relationship or emotional distress? I can help to encourage change or acceptance of deeply held coping patterns, supporting your unique pathway and inner wisdom. Together we will create safe space in which to understand symptoms and clarify your therapy goals and the steps needed to obtain them.
I have experience helping people with mood problems, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, coping with grief and loss including death and divorce, as well as spiritual struggles and faith based issues.
Do you find yourself beginning a life transition or at a crossroads, uncertain about which direction to take or feeling lost, isolated and exhausted. Are you bothered by patterns of relationship or emotional distress? I can help to encourage change or acceptance of deeply held coping patterns, supporting your unique pathway and inner wisdom. Together we will create safe space in which to understand symptoms and clarify your therapy goals and the steps needed to obtain them.
(770) 450-5237 View (770) 450-5237
Photo of Lekisha Glenn, LAPC, Counselor
Lekisha Glenn
Counselor, LAPC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Lekisha Glenn is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) and Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). Mrs. Glenn has a genuine passion for working with people that dates back to her teen years when she volunteered to work with children in foster care. She has worked with children, young adults, adults, and families. Mrs. Glenn specializes in treating ADHD, anger management, anxiety, autism, depression, domestic violence, DMDD, grief, and adjustment disorders.
Lekisha Glenn is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) and Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). Mrs. Glenn has a genuine passion for working with people that dates back to her teen years when she volunteered to work with children in foster care. She has worked with children, young adults, adults, and families. Mrs. Glenn specializes in treating ADHD, anger management, anxiety, autism, depression, domestic violence, DMDD, grief, and adjustment disorders.
(470) 266-3193 View (470) 266-3193
Photo of Melissa Graves, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Graves
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277  (Online Only)
marital issues, parent/child conflict, co-parenting and family relationships, family transitions, life transitions, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, "adulting" and women's issues.
Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed by life? Are painful events or fear holding you back? Are you having difficulty forgiving yourself or finding peace after a loss? Are you ready to change your life, but don't know how? My name is Melissa Robinson Graves and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 22 years of experience serving culturally diverse men, women, couples and families move towards healing. I have worked with a variety of issues including abuse and trauma survivors, grief/loss, divorce,
marital issues, parent/child conflict, co-parenting and family relationships, family transitions, life transitions, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, "adulting" and women's issues.
Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed by life? Are painful events or fear holding you back? Are you having difficulty forgiving yourself or finding peace after a loss? Are you ready to change your life, but don't know how? My name is Melissa Robinson Graves and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 22 years of experience serving culturally diverse men, women, couples and families move towards healing. I have worked with a variety of issues including abuse and trauma survivors, grief/loss, divorce,
(470) 691-8647 View (470) 691-8647
Photo of Andrea Toney, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Toney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Whether you're grappling with depression, racial trauma, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed by life, Andrea invites you to schedule a session with her.
Andrea Toney is an Associate Professional Counselor with 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with adolescents, teens, and adults to address their challenges in a safe and comfortable space. Andrea specializes in anxiety depression, trauma, anger management, relationship issues, and life transitions. She sees individuals, couples, and families, and sometimes works with groups. Her ideal client is someone who is motivated for change and committed to the therapeutic process, exploring their thoughts and emotions, gaining insight into their patterns of behavior, and developing coping skills.
Whether you're grappling with depression, racial trauma, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed by life, Andrea invites you to schedule a session with her.
Andrea Toney is an Associate Professional Counselor with 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with adolescents, teens, and adults to address their challenges in a safe and comfortable space. Andrea specializes in anxiety depression, trauma, anger management, relationship issues, and life transitions. She sees individuals, couples, and families, and sometimes works with groups. Her ideal client is someone who is motivated for change and committed to the therapeutic process, exploring their thoughts and emotions, gaining insight into their patterns of behavior, and developing coping skills.
(470) 625-1552 View (470) 625-1552
Photo of Joseph Etheredge, MC, LPC, Counselor
Joseph Etheredge
Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Joe has experience working with individuals and families from eight years old to octogenarians in both hospital and community services settings. Joe specializes in LGBTQIA+, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance abuse treatment. Joe utilizes a person-centered approach with influences from Internal Family Systems and Mind/Body Work.
Joe has experience working with individuals and families from eight years old to octogenarians in both hospital and community services settings. Joe specializes in LGBTQIA+, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance abuse treatment. Joe utilizes a person-centered approach with influences from Internal Family Systems and Mind/Body Work.
(678) 990-0549 View (678) 990-0549
Photo of Adrian Sago, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adrian Sago
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Sago has a solid background in treating symptoms related to depression, anxiety, mood disorders, low self-esteem and lack of concentration.
Ms. Sago is a licensed professional counselor in the State of Georgia. Ms. Sago services both adults and children in individual and family therapy. Ms. Sago attended Paine College in Augusta, GA where she received her Bachelor's of Art Degree in Psychology. She then continued her collegiate career and attended Alabama A & M University in Normal, AL, where she earned her Masters of Science in Counseling Psychology. Throughout Ms. Sago's academic articulation of education, she had the opportunity to travel abroad and participate in a variety of group setting counseling areas related to AAA meetings, DBT classes and DUI classes.
Sago has a solid background in treating symptoms related to depression, anxiety, mood disorders, low self-esteem and lack of concentration.
Ms. Sago is a licensed professional counselor in the State of Georgia. Ms. Sago services both adults and children in individual and family therapy. Ms. Sago attended Paine College in Augusta, GA where she received her Bachelor's of Art Degree in Psychology. She then continued her collegiate career and attended Alabama A & M University in Normal, AL, where she earned her Masters of Science in Counseling Psychology. Throughout Ms. Sago's academic articulation of education, she had the opportunity to travel abroad and participate in a variety of group setting counseling areas related to AAA meetings, DBT classes and DUI classes.
(770) 525-4884 View (770) 525-4884
Photo of Bruce N Grant, PsyD, Psychologist
Bruce N Grant
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
In addition to my specializations, I have a general practice and have experience working with a variety of other issues including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, and stress/anger management.
Welcome! I am a licensed psychologist who provides psychotherapy for individual adults, couples, and adolescents. I have found that one of the most powerful ways to grow is the relationship between the psychotherapist and client. This connection can give way to discovering greater yearnings, self authenticity, capabilities, and dreams, while providing warmth and care for addressing one's obstacles such as fears, disappointments, and limits. I would help you to deal with conflicts that block your motivation and passion and help you open to new ways of engaging with your inner resources and with the significant people in your life.
In addition to my specializations, I have a general practice and have experience working with a variety of other issues including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, and stress/anger management.
Welcome! I am a licensed psychologist who provides psychotherapy for individual adults, couples, and adolescents. I have found that one of the most powerful ways to grow is the relationship between the psychotherapist and client. This connection can give way to discovering greater yearnings, self authenticity, capabilities, and dreams, while providing warmth and care for addressing one's obstacles such as fears, disappointments, and limits. I would help you to deal with conflicts that block your motivation and passion and help you open to new ways of engaging with your inner resources and with the significant people in your life.
(404) 334-5317 View (404) 334-5317
Photo of Keisha Johnson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keisha Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
I am Keisha Johnson, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 18 years of clinical experience working with adults, adolescents, and children providing individual, group, and families that face Adolescents/Teens, Anger Management, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Family Conflict, and Grief. I utilize CBT, Family Systems Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy concepts to help clients in the change process. I believe that counseling is here to help my clients discover their strengths, identify and cancel out their dysfunctional thought processes, and replace them with positive and realistic thinking.
I am Keisha Johnson, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 18 years of clinical experience working with adults, adolescents, and children providing individual, group, and families that face Adolescents/Teens, Anger Management, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Family Conflict, and Grief. I utilize CBT, Family Systems Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy concepts to help clients in the change process. I believe that counseling is here to help my clients discover their strengths, identify and cancel out their dysfunctional thought processes, and replace them with positive and realistic thinking.
(470) 822-8824 View (470) 822-8824
Photo of Justin M Boccuti, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Justin M Boccuti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and conflict avoidance.
I am passionate about working with people that are either hesitant to start therapy, or who have had a negative experience working with a therapist in the past. Together, we can build a strong foundation for you to build from so that you can continue your self work throughout your life, both in and out of therapy. My typical clients are looking for a safe space to talk genuinely about themselves and explore the factors that are either aiding or preventing them from improving their self worth, relationships, and perspective.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and conflict avoidance.
I am passionate about working with people that are either hesitant to start therapy, or who have had a negative experience working with a therapist in the past. Together, we can build a strong foundation for you to build from so that you can continue your self work throughout your life, both in and out of therapy. My typical clients are looking for a safe space to talk genuinely about themselves and explore the factors that are either aiding or preventing them from improving their self worth, relationships, and perspective.
(770) 766-9223 View (770) 766-9223
Photo of Kathy Darnell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Darnell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Katherine Darnell is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, parenting issues, relationship issues, anger management, crisis and stabilization, substance issues, and life transitions issues in children, adolescents, and adults. Kathy has 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Kathy completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Piedmont College and her Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Argosy University. She is a Certified Master Addiction Counselor (MAC).
Katherine Darnell is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, parenting issues, relationship issues, anger management, crisis and stabilization, substance issues, and life transitions issues in children, adolescents, and adults. Kathy has 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Kathy completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Piedmont College and her Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Argosy University. She is a Certified Master Addiction Counselor (MAC).
(678) 257-3634 View (678) 257-3634
Photo of Rebecca Stevens, LAPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LAPC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277  (Online Only)
Rebecca Stevens is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia who has 3 years of experience partnering with children, adolescents, adults, and couples seeking help with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, women’s issues, and relationship issues. Rebecca completed her Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Montevallo in 2015 and received her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University in 2019.
Rebecca Stevens is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia who has 3 years of experience partnering with children, adolescents, adults, and couples seeking help with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, women’s issues, and relationship issues. Rebecca completed her Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Montevallo in 2015 and received her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University in 2019.
(678) 403-6928 View (678) 403-6928
Photo of Deborah Nantz, Pre-Licensed Professional
Deborah Nantz
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Deborah Nantz is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) and nationally-Certified Counselor (NCC)with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She works with children, teens, adults, and seniors who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, autism, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ issues, bipolar disorder, and women's issues. Deborah has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of West Georgia where she served as the president of Chi Sigma Iota, a counseling honor society. She also taught college students about suicide prevention and intervention as a member of PREVENTatUWG.
Deborah Nantz is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) and nationally-Certified Counselor (NCC)with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She works with children, teens, adults, and seniors who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, autism, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ issues, bipolar disorder, and women's issues. Deborah has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of West Georgia where she served as the president of Chi Sigma Iota, a counseling honor society. She also taught college students about suicide prevention and intervention as a member of PREVENTatUWG.
(678) 929-2008 View (678) 929-2008
Photo of Tivia Woods, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tivia Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Tivia (Tah-via) Woods is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) with more than 10 years of experience in both the medical and mental health fields. She has experience working with various disorders such as mood disorders, depression, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, eating disorders, autism spectrum disorder, anger, anxiety, and trauma. Tivia specializes in working with clients of all ages, cultural backgrounds, and walks of life. Tivia completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at Spelman College and she completed her Master's degree in Professional Counseling at the University of W. GA.
Tivia (Tah-via) Woods is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) with more than 10 years of experience in both the medical and mental health fields. She has experience working with various disorders such as mood disorders, depression, substance use disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, eating disorders, autism spectrum disorder, anger, anxiety, and trauma. Tivia specializes in working with clients of all ages, cultural backgrounds, and walks of life. Tivia completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at Spelman College and she completed her Master's degree in Professional Counseling at the University of W. GA.
(678) 892-6875 View (678) 892-6875
Photo of Jay Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jay Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Since the pandemic, we have seen an increase in anxiety, depression, and stress.
Harold “Jay” Williams is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Jay is passionate about helping adolescents and adults address everyday stress, anxiety, and depression. He enjoys helping them learn to cope with these obstacles and walk alongside as clients overcome challenges. Jay has worked with a range of clients who have both mental and physical disabilities, he understands that everyone is unique with their own unique challenges and strengths.
Since the pandemic, we have seen an increase in anxiety, depression, and stress.
Harold “Jay” Williams is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Jay is passionate about helping adolescents and adults address everyday stress, anxiety, and depression. He enjoys helping them learn to cope with these obstacles and walk alongside as clients overcome challenges. Jay has worked with a range of clients who have both mental and physical disabilities, he understands that everyone is unique with their own unique challenges and strengths.
(678) 506-7656 View (678) 506-7656
Photo of Chelse Pike, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chelse Pike
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Chelse Pike is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience working in inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient programs. She enjoys assisting children and their families with aggressive/oppositional behaviors, difficulties with concentration and attention, and challenges with expressing and identifying emotions. Chelse specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, poor body image, self-esteem, eating disorders, and substance abuse. Chelse completed her Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of West Georgia.
Chelse Pike is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience working in inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient programs. She enjoys assisting children and their families with aggressive/oppositional behaviors, difficulties with concentration and attention, and challenges with expressing and identifying emotions. Chelse specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, poor body image, self-esteem, eating disorders, and substance abuse. Chelse completed her Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of West Georgia.
(678) 719-0651 View (678) 719-0651
Photo of Lei Rhyne, LPC, NCC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lei Rhyne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Whether you are dealing with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, or an existential crisis, I aim to provide a secure and nurturing space for you to express your concerns and fears.
If you're between the ages of 15 and 85 and are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or going through a life change, I’m here to help. You might feel overwhelmed by emotions, stressed out, or find it hard to connect with others, and you're looking to get to the root of what’s really going on and heal on a deeper level. Together, we’ll work on understanding your emotions, finding ways to manage them, and helping you reconnect with yourself and those around you. I use a mix of approaches such as ACT, narrative therapy, CBT, creative arts, and body-focused therapies to support your long-term healing and growth.
Whether you are dealing with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, or an existential crisis, I aim to provide a secure and nurturing space for you to express your concerns and fears.
If you're between the ages of 15 and 85 and are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or going through a life change, I’m here to help. You might feel overwhelmed by emotions, stressed out, or find it hard to connect with others, and you're looking to get to the root of what’s really going on and heal on a deeper level. Together, we’ll work on understanding your emotions, finding ways to manage them, and helping you reconnect with yourself and those around you. I use a mix of approaches such as ACT, narrative therapy, CBT, creative arts, and body-focused therapies to support your long-term healing and growth.
(678) 904-8373 View (678) 904-8373
Photo of Linsey Koda, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linsey Koda
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
I have a passion for helping teenagers and adults who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD;) as well as families whom have been affected by substance use. I will help guide you to your best self and how I will accomplish that will be different everyone because you are one of a kind. My office is a safe, judgement-free zone where we will journey through a range of emotions together so expect to laugh too!
I have a passion for helping teenagers and adults who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD;) as well as families whom have been affected by substance use. I will help guide you to your best self and how I will accomplish that will be different everyone because you are one of a kind. My office is a safe, judgement-free zone where we will journey through a range of emotions together so expect to laugh too!
(678) 552-4189 View (678) 552-4189
Photo of Malissa Collins, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Malissa Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Hi! I am Dr. Malissa Collins, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Georgia specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I have experience working with individuals from various backgrounds, families, and couples. My Ph.D. is in Marriage and Family Therapy. My approach is warm and compassionate. My focus is to meet clients where they are and teach them ways to successfully navigate through life to meet goals. My clients appreciate my warmth, nonjudgmental style. It helps to make them feel relaxed and confident.
Hi! I am Dr. Malissa Collins, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Georgia specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I have experience working with individuals from various backgrounds, families, and couples. My Ph.D. is in Marriage and Family Therapy. My approach is warm and compassionate. My focus is to meet clients where they are and teach them ways to successfully navigate through life to meet goals. My clients appreciate my warmth, nonjudgmental style. It helps to make them feel relaxed and confident.
(470) 865-5960 View (470) 865-5960
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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.