Depression Therapists in Ames, IA

Photo of Martha Norton, MS, LMHC, IAADC, Counselor
Martha Norton
Counselor, MS, LMHC, IAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Many symptoms of survivors include Depression, Anxiety, feelings of Depersonalization, sleep disorders, chronic pain, disordered eating and substance abuse.
I work with clients through a lens of compassion and acceptance. Using EMDR and Sensorimotor psychotherapy, I do my best to develop a warm, safe environment for you to explore and grow. I work with all ages to expand internal resources, heal from past negative experiences and explore new directions. I feel it is an honor to work with clients, connecting the pieces of each person's unique experiential puzzle and exploring ways to have more freedom to form the future.
Many symptoms of survivors include Depression, Anxiety, feelings of Depersonalization, sleep disorders, chronic pain, disordered eating and substance abuse.
I work with clients through a lens of compassion and acceptance. Using EMDR and Sensorimotor psychotherapy, I do my best to develop a warm, safe environment for you to explore and grow. I work with all ages to expand internal resources, heal from past negative experiences and explore new directions. I feel it is an honor to work with clients, connecting the pieces of each person's unique experiential puzzle and exploring ways to have more freedom to form the future.
(515) 462-0950 View (515) 462-0950
Photo of Tricia Simmons, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Tricia Simmons
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50014
I believe that therapy is a partnership and I seek to gain a trusting and caring relationship with all my clients. I received my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I have experience working in private practice, community mental health, and with at-risk populations and in a residential setting. I enjoy working with adolescents, adult individuals, and families with issues such as: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, substance use, and family of origin issues.
I believe that therapy is a partnership and I seek to gain a trusting and caring relationship with all my clients. I received my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I have experience working in private practice, community mental health, and with at-risk populations and in a residential setting. I enjoy working with adolescents, adult individuals, and families with issues such as: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, substance use, and family of origin issues.
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Photo of Morgan Fielder, MS, NCC, tLMHC, Counselor
Morgan Fielder
Counselor, MS, NCC, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50014
My areas of practice include anxiety, depression, anger/stress management, and relationship concerns.
Making the decision to reach out to a counselor for the first time is a challenging step to take. I provide a safe environment for my clients to explore their reasoning for seeking mental health counseling services by actively listening to their concerns and needs in order to assist them in the process of sorting through various life challenges. I enjoy listening to each individual's story and encourage them to use their strengths as a tool for overcoming these life challenges and building a safe environment for client's to meet their goals and to make a treatment plan tailored specifically to them.
My areas of practice include anxiety, depression, anger/stress management, and relationship concerns.
Making the decision to reach out to a counselor for the first time is a challenging step to take. I provide a safe environment for my clients to explore their reasoning for seeking mental health counseling services by actively listening to their concerns and needs in order to assist them in the process of sorting through various life challenges. I enjoy listening to each individual's story and encourage them to use their strengths as a tool for overcoming these life challenges and building a safe environment for client's to meet their goals and to make a treatment plan tailored specifically to them.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Monique Jeanette Maldonado, MACP, IADC, LMHC, Counselor
Monique Jeanette Maldonado
Counselor, MACP, IADC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Searching for help is a courageous first step to change. You may be feeling anxious or depressed. Are you looking for support in changing addictive behaviors from a non-judgmental approach? Perhaps you have experienced traumatic events that have left you feeling "stuck." Or maybe you have relationship issues and aren't sure where to go from here. Many of my clients have experienced grief and loss and simply need support working through the stages of grief. I have also served children and families. Whatever your needs, there IS hope.
Searching for help is a courageous first step to change. You may be feeling anxious or depressed. Are you looking for support in changing addictive behaviors from a non-judgmental approach? Perhaps you have experienced traumatic events that have left you feeling "stuck." Or maybe you have relationship issues and aren't sure where to go from here. Many of my clients have experienced grief and loss and simply need support working through the stages of grief. I have also served children and families. Whatever your needs, there IS hope.
(515) 500-2103 View (515) 500-2103
Photo of Courtney Clippert-Treadwell, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Courtney Clippert-Treadwell
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50014
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, relational and familial concerns, and identity-related concerns (e.
It's an honor and privilege to work with clients during, what might be, some of their most difficult moments in life. I find it rewarding to hear each client's story, help clients embrace their strengths, recognize personal resiliency factors, and feel more empowered. My approach is collaborative and integrative. I strive to create an affirming environment and atmosphere of safety, trust, and acceptance. Also, it's essential for me to understand client's worldview and cultural identities. I believe that a safe, supportive, and caring therapeutic relationship is an integral part of the change process.
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, relational and familial concerns, and identity-related concerns (e.
It's an honor and privilege to work with clients during, what might be, some of their most difficult moments in life. I find it rewarding to hear each client's story, help clients embrace their strengths, recognize personal resiliency factors, and feel more empowered. My approach is collaborative and integrative. I strive to create an affirming environment and atmosphere of safety, trust, and acceptance. Also, it's essential for me to understand client's worldview and cultural identities. I believe that a safe, supportive, and caring therapeutic relationship is an integral part of the change process.
(515) 575-9482 View (515) 575-9482
Photo of Thomas Earl Loney, LMHC, Counselor
Thomas Earl Loney
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
We will work on how thoughts and emotions interact, and how a person can combat negative thoughts to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Does life feel like a struggle everyday, filled with with low motivation, fear, or sadness. The good news is that life does not have to be this way! We will work on disputing negative beliefs, and learning techniques that help create a positive energy and mindset that makes it possible to live a fulfilling life. I utilize an integration of cognitive behavioral (CBT), person-centered, and solution focused therapy to help you identify the thoughts, emotions and behaviors interfering with your ability to be successful and achieve the balance and self-esteem to successfully meet the challenges in life, work, and relationships.
We will work on how thoughts and emotions interact, and how a person can combat negative thoughts to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Does life feel like a struggle everyday, filled with with low motivation, fear, or sadness. The good news is that life does not have to be this way! We will work on disputing negative beliefs, and learning techniques that help create a positive energy and mindset that makes it possible to live a fulfilling life. I utilize an integration of cognitive behavioral (CBT), person-centered, and solution focused therapy to help you identify the thoughts, emotions and behaviors interfering with your ability to be successful and achieve the balance and self-esteem to successfully meet the challenges in life, work, and relationships.
(515) 361-7372 View (515) 361-7372
Photo of Sue Stidwell - Sue Stidwell, LMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Sue Stidwell, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
I have enjoyed working with all ages throughout my professional career as a licensed mental health counselor. I’ve taught parenting classes, taught and counseled Cole students, anger management classes, done mediation services for divorcing parents as well as focusing on trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, ADHD. what’s most important is that I meet the client where he needs help, offering skill building, compassion, empathy.
I have enjoyed working with all ages throughout my professional career as a licensed mental health counselor. I’ve taught parenting classes, taught and counseled Cole students, anger management classes, done mediation services for divorcing parents as well as focusing on trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, ADHD. what’s most important is that I meet the client where he needs help, offering skill building, compassion, empathy.
(515) 599-3168 View (515) 599-3168
Photo of Alexandria Harmening - Vine Christian Counseling Services, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vine Christian Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50014
Searching for help is a courageous first step to change. You may be feeling anxious or depressed. Are you looking for support in changing addictive behaviors from a non-judgmental approach? Perhaps you have experienced traumatic events that have left you feeling "stuck." Or maybe you have relationship issues and aren't sure where to go from here. Whatever your needs, there IS hope.
Searching for help is a courageous first step to change. You may be feeling anxious or depressed. Are you looking for support in changing addictive behaviors from a non-judgmental approach? Perhaps you have experienced traumatic events that have left you feeling "stuck." Or maybe you have relationship issues and aren't sure where to go from here. Whatever your needs, there IS hope.
(515) 489-4922 View (515) 489-4922
Photo of Anna Perry - Brightside Health, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brightside Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(515) 686-5941 View (515) 686-5941
Photo of Sarah J Fleming - Sarah Fleming Creativity & Healing, LLC, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Fleming Creativity & Healing, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50014
I offer support and services for: depression, trauma, grief, highly sensitive people (HSP's), plant-based eating, disordered eating, loss, anxiety, transitions, and Christian/spiritual growth counseling.
Sarah Fleming Creativity & Healing, LLC offers ONLINE therapy and creative lifestyle coaching. I see clients located in Iowa, Virginia, and Florida for therapy and I can provide coaching to clients globally. I look at the mind, body, and spirit as parts of self that profoundly affect one another. I believe in change, and that people can create the life they want. My goal is to help people connect the dots as they explore dysfunctional ways of thinking, eating, relating, and behaving, and to support them in incorporating new ways of existing that lead to fulfillment and congruence.
I offer support and services for: depression, trauma, grief, highly sensitive people (HSP's), plant-based eating, disordered eating, loss, anxiety, transitions, and Christian/spiritual growth counseling.
Sarah Fleming Creativity & Healing, LLC offers ONLINE therapy and creative lifestyle coaching. I see clients located in Iowa, Virginia, and Florida for therapy and I can provide coaching to clients globally. I look at the mind, body, and spirit as parts of self that profoundly affect one another. I believe in change, and that people can create the life they want. My goal is to help people connect the dots as they explore dysfunctional ways of thinking, eating, relating, and behaving, and to support them in incorporating new ways of existing that lead to fulfillment and congruence.
(515) 726-6430 View (515) 726-6430
Photo of Jake Pierce-Walsh, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jake Pierce-Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
I provide confidential, professional therapy for a variety of issues and concerns. From resolving depression or anxiety to healing past trauma, improving relationships to ending addiction; therapy with me is about no longer managing or coping, but instead getting to the source of your issues and discovering what helps you heal. Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you're feeling ready to return, I help people from all walks of life find solutions and feel better.
I provide confidential, professional therapy for a variety of issues and concerns. From resolving depression or anxiety to healing past trauma, improving relationships to ending addiction; therapy with me is about no longer managing or coping, but instead getting to the source of your issues and discovering what helps you heal. Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you're feeling ready to return, I help people from all walks of life find solutions and feel better.
(218) 343-3406 View (218) 343-3406
Photo of Nicole Scherle Scheidel, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Nicole Scherle Scheidel
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years experience in the practice of psychotherapy. I received my Bachelor and Master degrees from Loyola University Chicago. I provide counseling to older adolescents and adult individuals. My specialties include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and OCD. I work to provide my clients with a compassionate & supportive therapeutic alliance to help them address their current concerns and help them live a happier, healthier life.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years experience in the practice of psychotherapy. I received my Bachelor and Master degrees from Loyola University Chicago. I provide counseling to older adolescents and adult individuals. My specialties include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and OCD. I work to provide my clients with a compassionate & supportive therapeutic alliance to help them address their current concerns and help them live a happier, healthier life.
(515) 368-8284 View (515) 368-8284
Photo of Leanna Brady - Red Couch Counseling LLC., MEd, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Red Couch Counseling LLC.
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
I am accustomed to dealing with a variety of issues: Anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief, chronic pain, adjustment, phase of life issues, career burn out, overthinkers, overachievers, identity work, marital counseling, eating disorders.
Currently accepting new clients. I have been a practicing licensed therapist for over 27 years. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, families, and children. I possess a comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My Goal is to work WITH you to create a therapeutic space that is supportive and safe. I am knowledgeable about the biological, emotional, and relational aspects of mental health and have both respect and compassion for the complexity of these factors in your life.
I am accustomed to dealing with a variety of issues: Anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief, chronic pain, adjustment, phase of life issues, career burn out, overthinkers, overachievers, identity work, marital counseling, eating disorders.
Currently accepting new clients. I have been a practicing licensed therapist for over 27 years. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, families, and children. I possess a comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My Goal is to work WITH you to create a therapeutic space that is supportive and safe. I am knowledgeable about the biological, emotional, and relational aspects of mental health and have both respect and compassion for the complexity of these factors in your life.
(515) 705-0288 View (515) 705-0288
Photo of Amy N Mooney - Des Moines Therapy and Consulting, PC, PhD, Counselor
Des Moines Therapy and Consulting, PC
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Depression; Stress Management; Chronic Pain ; Long Term Illness; Cancer; Adjustment Disorders; Anxiety Disorders: Panic Disorder/ Generalized Anxiety/ Test Anxiety; Post Concussive Syndrome/Mild TBI; PTSD: Marriage Counseling, EMDR.
Ames | Des Moines Therapy clinical team provides therapy approaches and techniques which are evidence-based. Dr. Amy Mooney, PhD, LMHC, NCC, ACS, 22 yrs experience, founder and owner. Dr. Terry Augspurger, MD, DLFAPA has over 40 yrs experience in psychiatry. Dr. Richard Stapleton, EdD, NCC, LMHC (IA), LPCC (MN), ACS, BC-TMH, CCTP, Dr. Charles D. Mooney, MD, MPH, Dr. Beth Augspurger, PhD, tLMHC, Brooke Sanders MS, TLMHC, Kelsi York, MS, tLMHC, Grace Macmillan, MSW, LISW, Dr. Robert Wade, DDS, MS, LMHC
Depression; Stress Management; Chronic Pain ; Long Term Illness; Cancer; Adjustment Disorders; Anxiety Disorders: Panic Disorder/ Generalized Anxiety/ Test Anxiety; Post Concussive Syndrome/Mild TBI; PTSD: Marriage Counseling, EMDR.
Ames | Des Moines Therapy clinical team provides therapy approaches and techniques which are evidence-based. Dr. Amy Mooney, PhD, LMHC, NCC, ACS, 22 yrs experience, founder and owner. Dr. Terry Augspurger, MD, DLFAPA has over 40 yrs experience in psychiatry. Dr. Richard Stapleton, EdD, NCC, LMHC (IA), LPCC (MN), ACS, BC-TMH, CCTP, Dr. Charles D. Mooney, MD, MPH, Dr. Beth Augspurger, PhD, tLMHC, Brooke Sanders MS, TLMHC, Kelsi York, MS, tLMHC, Grace Macmillan, MSW, LISW, Dr. Robert Wade, DDS, MS, LMHC
(515) 519-3645 View (515) 519-3645
Photo of April Mahler - Wild Blossom Counseling, LLC, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Wild Blossom Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
My skill set is versatile, suitable for addressing a wide range of issues including trauma, grief/loss, relationship challenges, perfectionism, people-pleasing behavior, self-esteem struggles, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. This list is not exhaustive, and I invite you to reach out if you're unsure whether we'd be a good fit. Above all, I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and encourage you to connect if you seek the same. In therapy, I adopt a relaxed, client-centered, and adaptable approach tailored to your individual needs. Your well-being is paramount, and I'm here to support you through your journey.
My skill set is versatile, suitable for addressing a wide range of issues including trauma, grief/loss, relationship challenges, perfectionism, people-pleasing behavior, self-esteem struggles, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. This list is not exhaustive, and I invite you to reach out if you're unsure whether we'd be a good fit. Above all, I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and encourage you to connect if you seek the same. In therapy, I adopt a relaxed, client-centered, and adaptable approach tailored to your individual needs. Your well-being is paramount, and I'm here to support you through your journey.
(515) 305-2823 View (515) 305-2823
Photo of Brandon Akes, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon Akes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
I have experience working with a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, intrusive thoughts, depression, grief and loss, and addiction.
It's a normal, human experience to need support with mental health. We can all feel stuck sometimes, experience difficult life events, struggle to feel good about who we are, or experience challenging mental health symptoms. No matter what brings you to therapy, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to identify and work on your goals. I believe we all have the ability to heal, grow, and find meaning in our experiences. My role as a therapist is to walk with my client as they process their experiences and increase their confidence in their ability to live their desired lives.
I have experience working with a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, intrusive thoughts, depression, grief and loss, and addiction.
It's a normal, human experience to need support with mental health. We can all feel stuck sometimes, experience difficult life events, struggle to feel good about who we are, or experience challenging mental health symptoms. No matter what brings you to therapy, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to identify and work on your goals. I believe we all have the ability to heal, grow, and find meaning in our experiences. My role as a therapist is to walk with my client as they process their experiences and increase their confidence in their ability to live their desired lives.
(515) 373-7097 View (515) 373-7097
Photo of Paul James Jacobson - Coordinates for Connection Psychotherapy, MA, tLMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Coordinates for Connection Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, tLMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Together, we'll tackle stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
My ideal clients range from individuals of all ages, couples, and families. They face challenges like parenting struggles, relationship issues, existential crises, and mental health concerns. They seek growth, connection, and courage to make life changes. Their goals are to flourish in relationships, overcome fears, and find meaning. They desire unconditional acceptance and support to become their best selves. My practice, Coordinates for Connection Psychotherapy, provides compassionate, trusting, and transformative care, helping clients leave feeling better and more empowered.
Together, we'll tackle stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
My ideal clients range from individuals of all ages, couples, and families. They face challenges like parenting struggles, relationship issues, existential crises, and mental health concerns. They seek growth, connection, and courage to make life changes. Their goals are to flourish in relationships, overcome fears, and find meaning. They desire unconditional acceptance and support to become their best selves. My practice, Coordinates for Connection Psychotherapy, provides compassionate, trusting, and transformative care, helping clients leave feeling better and more empowered.
(515) 316-5547 View (515) 316-5547
Photo of Leah Demarest - Flourishing Engagements, MS, LMHC, CADC, Counselor
Flourishing Engagements
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CADC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50014
PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, families, couples, kids/teens, domestic violence, veterans, emergency workers (law enforcement, fire dept, hospital, etc).
I enjoy mending families and relationships. I enjoy working with children, helping them to overcome difficult situations, communicate their emotions and needs, healing from trauma, and developing their goals. I enjoy helping those struggling with mental illness fight through their symptoms, realize their worth, and push them over that mountain to what they want to accomplish. I enjoy working with people like you. We all have problems, we all go through tough times. Let me help you get through your current struggle.
PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, families, couples, kids/teens, domestic violence, veterans, emergency workers (law enforcement, fire dept, hospital, etc).
I enjoy mending families and relationships. I enjoy working with children, helping them to overcome difficult situations, communicate their emotions and needs, healing from trauma, and developing their goals. I enjoy helping those struggling with mental illness fight through their symptoms, realize their worth, and push them over that mountain to what they want to accomplish. I enjoy working with people like you. We all have problems, we all go through tough times. Let me help you get through your current struggle.
(515) 474-7293 View (515) 474-7293
Photo of Susan Letsch, LMSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Letsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50014
Susan is committed to developing therapeutic relationships and assisting others. She believes in using a collaborative approach to help others reach their goals through individual and couples therapy. Focuses include general mental health, depression, anxiety, individual therapy, couples therapy, communication, personality disorders, trauma, and LGBTQIA+. My availability changes frequently. If I am unavailable, you may start services with a different provider or join my waiting list.
Susan is committed to developing therapeutic relationships and assisting others. She believes in using a collaborative approach to help others reach their goals through individual and couples therapy. Focuses include general mental health, depression, anxiety, individual therapy, couples therapy, communication, personality disorders, trauma, and LGBTQIA+. My availability changes frequently. If I am unavailable, you may start services with a different provider or join my waiting list.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Emilie Sommers, LMHC, Counselor
Emilie Sommers
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
I have experience working with late teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, life transitions, stress, eating disorders, trauma and more.
It can take incredible courage to acknowledge when we are in need of support, and making that first appointment can be a profound step towards positive change. Together we can create a space where you feel supported, valued, and seen as we collaboratively work towards goals that feel meaningful to you. I strive to bring an authentic, non-judgmental, and compassionate presence to sessions that empowers clients as the experts on their own lives. I often use CBT, ACT, exposure and response prevention (ERP), and mindfulness-based techniques in my work with clients.
I have experience working with late teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, life transitions, stress, eating disorders, trauma and more.
It can take incredible courage to acknowledge when we are in need of support, and making that first appointment can be a profound step towards positive change. Together we can create a space where you feel supported, valued, and seen as we collaboratively work towards goals that feel meaningful to you. I strive to bring an authentic, non-judgmental, and compassionate presence to sessions that empowers clients as the experts on their own lives. I often use CBT, ACT, exposure and response prevention (ERP), and mindfulness-based techniques in my work with clients.
(319) 254-5012 View (319) 254-5012
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.