Depression Therapists in Ankeny, IA
![Photo of Mary Kate Leister, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afd651b3-aa51-43f6-821b-5fc977a969a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Kate Leister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
My social work practice has been centered around working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and crisis.
“The willingness to show up changes us. It makes us a little braver each time.” –Brené Brown Hi! I’m Mary Kate. I am a Master’s level social worker in central Iowa. I have 8 years of experience working with children, teens, and young adults. On my journey as a social worker, I have gained a deep understanding of Iowa’s mental health system, community resources in the DSM Metro and surrounding areas, and special education services. In addition to providing therapy, I currently work as a school social worker.
My social work practice has been centered around working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and crisis.
“The willingness to show up changes us. It makes us a little braver each time.” –Brené Brown Hi! I’m Mary Kate. I am a Master’s level social worker in central Iowa. I have 8 years of experience working with children, teens, and young adults. On my journey as a social worker, I have gained a deep understanding of Iowa’s mental health system, community resources in the DSM Metro and surrounding areas, and special education services. In addition to providing therapy, I currently work as a school social worker.
![Photo of Paul Aaron Guerdet, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52c8fe2c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Paul Aaron Guerdet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
*Telehealth and in person available* I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker who works with teens and adults struggling with anxiety and/or depression. I help those grappling with irritability, feelings of isolation, sleep disturbances, feeling overwhelmed, and struggles with motivation. If you're feeling on edge, alone, like no one understands what you're going through, or if you need a new perspective, I will work to help you make sense of your experiences and get you to a place you want to be. I match well with teens finding their place as adults, and adults who grew up in toxic environments, wanting to process.
*Telehealth and in person available* I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker who works with teens and adults struggling with anxiety and/or depression. I help those grappling with irritability, feelings of isolation, sleep disturbances, feeling overwhelmed, and struggles with motivation. If you're feeling on edge, alone, like no one understands what you're going through, or if you need a new perspective, I will work to help you make sense of your experiences and get you to a place you want to be. I match well with teens finding their place as adults, and adults who grew up in toxic environments, wanting to process.
![Photo of Leanna Brady - Red Couch Counseling LLC., MEd, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fa7b9c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I actively use interventions specific to your specific needs which includes specialty training in Family Systems, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Attachment, Somatic Therapy, Expressive Therapy and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
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 actively use interventions specific to your specific needs which includes specialty training in Family Systems, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Attachment, Somatic Therapy, Expressive Therapy and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
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.
![Photo of Brandon Akes, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25a2d3f4-7b8b-4618-927d-e89f6a049c2e/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jill R Sudak-Allison, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8bd2896-9f9f-467d-993a-0ebb25494b29/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes life presents us with painful changes and challenges that leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed and alone.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jill Sudak-Allison. I have been a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist for over 30 years. I have worked in outpatient medical clinics, private practice, and university settings. My therapeutic style is supportive, holistic and transparent. It is my goal to offer a safe, empathetic, caring, non-judgmental, and open environment for you to explore issues that cause you distress. My passion is to help you find your way back to being yourself, resolving your problems, experiencing peace of mind and joy in your life again.
Sometimes life presents us with painful changes and challenges that leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed and alone.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jill Sudak-Allison. I have been a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist for over 30 years. I have worked in outpatient medical clinics, private practice, and university settings. My therapeutic style is supportive, holistic and transparent. It is my goal to offer a safe, empathetic, caring, non-judgmental, and open environment for you to explore issues that cause you distress. My passion is to help you find your way back to being yourself, resolving your problems, experiencing peace of mind and joy in your life again.
![Photo of Tricia R. Yavitz, LMHC, IADC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/144c447d-639f-42e2-9bdf-783a2b815494/4/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes life can be difficult, and we need a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space to work through our struggles. I provide therapy services to individuals and couples who are struggling with a variety of life challenges. Some of the issues that I focus on with clients are addiction, grief and loss, trauma, sexuality, anxiety and depression. I believe in meeting clients where they are at in their journey and take a collaborative approach with folks to obtain their desired growth and change.
Sometimes life can be difficult, and we need a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space to work through our struggles. I provide therapy services to individuals and couples who are struggling with a variety of life challenges. Some of the issues that I focus on with clients are addiction, grief and loss, trauma, sexuality, anxiety and depression. I believe in meeting clients where they are at in their journey and take a collaborative approach with folks to obtain their desired growth and change.
![Photo of Christine D Addison, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46beeb57-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist with 30 + years of experience. I specialize in working with adolescents (ages 15-18) and adults and couples/marriage. Life is too short to allow loss of connection with intimate partners, let anxiety manage you instead of you manage anxiety, or let depression or trauma interfere with your life.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist with 30 + years of experience. I specialize in working with adolescents (ages 15-18) and adults and couples/marriage. Life is too short to allow loss of connection with intimate partners, let anxiety manage you instead of you manage anxiety, or let depression or trauma interfere with your life.
![Photo of Riley Rodemaker, tLMHC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06195b2f-350b-463b-bb79-f2c6cfe9bfcd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! My name is Riley Rodemaker (He/Him) and I am a tLMHC at LifeWorks - Ankeny. I know that reaching out for help can be very difficult and I have a lot of respect for the bravery that it takes. My hope is that we can work together to help you feel better. I believe that empathy and compassion serve as the foundation for any helping relationship. I am a generalist counselor (meaning I have some experience with a variety of issues); however, I especially enjoy working with clients on issues related to anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and suicide/self-harm.
Welcome! My name is Riley Rodemaker (He/Him) and I am a tLMHC at LifeWorks - Ankeny. I know that reaching out for help can be very difficult and I have a lot of respect for the bravery that it takes. My hope is that we can work together to help you feel better. I believe that empathy and compassion serve as the foundation for any helping relationship. I am a generalist counselor (meaning I have some experience with a variety of issues); however, I especially enjoy working with clients on issues related to anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and suicide/self-harm.
![Photo of Shannon Beelner, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d7861aa-6245-464e-b7c4-de16b07663c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Currently accepting new clients! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I strive to form a collaborative therapeutic relationship with clients to improve their overall quality of life. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral interventions, strengths-based model, and solution focused therapy. No one size fits all and each client deserves a unique treatment plan and goals. Together we can work to treat anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, addictions, insecurities, and other life challenges.
Currently accepting new clients! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I strive to form a collaborative therapeutic relationship with clients to improve their overall quality of life. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral interventions, strengths-based model, and solution focused therapy. No one size fits all and each client deserves a unique treatment plan and goals. Together we can work to treat anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, addictions, insecurities, and other life challenges.
![Photo of Amber Jointer, LISW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e63f2b81-c4f9-4d1f-acf4-900b30a829d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the treatment and management of anxiety, depression and PTSD as well as personality and other mood disorders.
I believe that the therapeutic process begins with building a trusting relationship while providing a safe and non judgmental space to share life challenges and stressors. I provide services with a high degree of empathy in a manner that is very down to earth and authentic. I utilize an individualized, holistic, client centered approach that is tailored to meet your unique needs.
I specialize in the treatment and management of anxiety, depression and PTSD as well as personality and other mood disorders.
I believe that the therapeutic process begins with building a trusting relationship while providing a safe and non judgmental space to share life challenges and stressors. I provide services with a high degree of empathy in a manner that is very down to earth and authentic. I utilize an individualized, holistic, client centered approach that is tailored to meet your unique needs.
![Photo of April Mahler - Wild Blossom Counseling, LLC, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/073cf1e4-32aa-4c38-a072-07cc0e7e54c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wild Blossom Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023 (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.
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![Photo of Darla Krom, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/285c016e-9891-4607-8283-93dc81700a8d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dar is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (MSW, LISW) who graduated from the University of North Dakota. Dar has over 30 years experience working in social services, with 10+ years providing psychotherapy. They have experience working with adolescents, and adults struggling with serious mental illness, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma. They are experienced in treating mood disorders, complex relational issues, coping with chronic medical diagnosis’ such as HIV, and concerns specific to the LGBTQ+ community.
Dar is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (MSW, LISW) who graduated from the University of North Dakota. Dar has over 30 years experience working in social services, with 10+ years providing psychotherapy. They have experience working with adolescents, and adults struggling with serious mental illness, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma. They are experienced in treating mood disorders, complex relational issues, coping with chronic medical diagnosis’ such as HIV, and concerns specific to the LGBTQ+ community.
![Photo of Courtney Clippert-Treadwell, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/438fc232-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Donald M. Kaesser, PC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bfa1035-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Donald M. Kaesser
Psychologist, PC, PhD
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50021 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use 35+ years of DIRECT clinical experience to help in addressing issues that have become obstacles in your life and help you meet your goals in the context of an honest, caring, and direct professional relationship. Individuals, couples/relationships, addictions/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, sexuality, and sexual 'orientation' issues, as well as family matters are among the range of aspects of people's lives with which I effectively work. Counseling may be brief/problem-oriented, or extended/depth psychotherapy depending on your needs. I enjoy individuals, couples, and seniors. Psychotherapy is my calling!
I use 35+ years of DIRECT clinical experience to help in addressing issues that have become obstacles in your life and help you meet your goals in the context of an honest, caring, and direct professional relationship. Individuals, couples/relationships, addictions/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, sexuality, and sexual 'orientation' issues, as well as family matters are among the range of aspects of people's lives with which I effectively work. Counseling may be brief/problem-oriented, or extended/depth psychotherapy depending on your needs. I enjoy individuals, couples, and seniors. Psychotherapy is my calling!
![Photo of Johanna R Guerdet, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43a1bc0f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Johanna R Guerdet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
My specialties include trauma work, family and relationship therapy, depression, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome to the beginning of your therapy journey! As a client centered therapist, my focus is on you and your needs as a client. No problem is too big or too small for therapy, and it's never too early or too late to seek help. We will work together to make your life goals and changes.
My specialties include trauma work, family and relationship therapy, depression, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome to the beginning of your therapy journey! As a client centered therapist, my focus is on you and your needs as a client. No problem is too big or too small for therapy, and it's never too early or too late to seek help. We will work together to make your life goals and changes.
![Photo of William F Walker, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53d9814c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
William F Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50021
Are you looking for support to achieve the kind of life you envision? Maybe you are struggling to succeed in one of life's domains, including social, work, school, or family relationships. We would be honored to have an opportunity to work with you or your family member. The warm and supportive environment in our office helps clients feel comfortable working through personal challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, ADHD (adult and children), job stress, and other life stressors.
Are you looking for support to achieve the kind of life you envision? Maybe you are struggling to succeed in one of life's domains, including social, work, school, or family relationships. We would be honored to have an opportunity to work with you or your family member. The warm and supportive environment in our office helps clients feel comfortable working through personal challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, ADHD (adult and children), job stress, and other life stressors.
![Photo of Ali Simpson, LMHC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e37726b7-66b8-41b7-9531-7c834a03c87e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive history working with teens (ages 13+) and adults with symptoms and concerns of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, family conflict, gender and sexuality (LGBTQIA+), Black-Indigenous-People of Color (BlPOC), racial trauma, and relationship concerns.
Starting counseling can be overwhelming and can leave you feeling vulnerable. My name is Ali Simpson and I strive to provide a comfortable, nonjudgmental, supportive environment to help you reach your goals. I use a collaborative approach which helps individuals feel comfortable openly sharing their thoughts and feelings. There are no concerns that can be viewed as too big or too small. Counseling is a place for all individuals seeking a more fulfilling life.
I have extensive history working with teens (ages 13+) and adults with symptoms and concerns of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, family conflict, gender and sexuality (LGBTQIA+), Black-Indigenous-People of Color (BlPOC), racial trauma, and relationship concerns.
Starting counseling can be overwhelming and can leave you feeling vulnerable. My name is Ali Simpson and I strive to provide a comfortable, nonjudgmental, supportive environment to help you reach your goals. I use a collaborative approach which helps individuals feel comfortable openly sharing their thoughts and feelings. There are no concerns that can be viewed as too big or too small. Counseling is a place for all individuals seeking a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Anna Perry - Brightside Health, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64b0179f-eb50-4764-bf56-d1ddcc421c47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023 (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.
![Photo of Joanna Esker, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a771d025-0324-48f1-b8d3-d00321d3da82/2/320x400.jpeg)
I currently specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, and working with veterans. It can be incredibly challenging dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, military service, abuse, or other significant events. Perhaps you’re managing these issues while still working, dealing with issues in your relationship, and attending to daily responsibilities. Finding the right support can make all the difference.
I currently specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, and working with veterans. It can be incredibly challenging dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, military service, abuse, or other significant events. Perhaps you’re managing these issues while still working, dealing with issues in your relationship, and attending to daily responsibilities. Finding the right support can make all the difference.
![Photo of Amy N Mooney - Des Moines Therapy and Consulting, PC, PhD, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f35b2b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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
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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.