Depression Therapists in Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN
![Photo of Jeremy Downs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58f92a8a-80e3-40cb-9280-d48e25d95273/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy Downs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260 (Online Only)
Your therapist, Jeremy, LCSW, offers enhanced engagements for an empowered well-being! Digital engagements may include Minecraft, Roblox, or Virtual Reality and more. The engagements are integrated into evidence-based therapies which are lead by an experienced clinician! If clients prefer traditional telehealth sessions, that is welcomed too. Clients are diverse in culture, identity, and age. What clients may share is the need to be heard, to discover directionality, and to find a better sense of well-being. The most common symptoms I treat are anxiety, depression, identity challenges, and frustration intolerance. Email questions!
Your therapist, Jeremy, LCSW, offers enhanced engagements for an empowered well-being! Digital engagements may include Minecraft, Roblox, or Virtual Reality and more. The engagements are integrated into evidence-based therapies which are lead by an experienced clinician! If clients prefer traditional telehealth sessions, that is welcomed too. Clients are diverse in culture, identity, and age. What clients may share is the need to be heard, to discover directionality, and to find a better sense of well-being. The most common symptoms I treat are anxiety, depression, identity challenges, and frustration intolerance. Email questions!
![Photo of Denise Mullenhour, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dc45d8a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Mullenhour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself unable to shut your mind off? Replaying past events or chronically worrying? Is your inner critic keeping you from finding confidence in yourself and security with your place in the world? Have you experienced emotional pain and confusion that keeps your past in the present? Are you struggling to build self-esteem or find self-worth? Has the stress from daily responsibilities compounded existing problems with depression, anxiety, or loss?
Do you find yourself unable to shut your mind off? Replaying past events or chronically worrying? Is your inner critic keeping you from finding confidence in yourself and security with your place in the world? Have you experienced emotional pain and confusion that keeps your past in the present? Are you struggling to build self-esteem or find self-worth? Has the stress from daily responsibilities compounded existing problems with depression, anxiety, or loss?
![Photo of Jan Taylor-Schultz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13ab89c6-e606-49d1-9b89-dab2b01dabe3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jan Taylor-Schultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260
I have been an eating disorders specialist since 1995, treating people with Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge eating. I welcome clients into a supportive, confidential, and safe environment, as I understand how difficult it can be to to take the first step toward treatment. Having recovered from an eating disorder long ago, my treatment style is compassionate, individualized, and client focused. I know how hard it can be to get well. I see clients with varying emotional issues, because these issues also underly eating disorders. People who meet with me have concerns to address in therapy such as anxiety, depression and OCD.
I have been an eating disorders specialist since 1995, treating people with Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge eating. I welcome clients into a supportive, confidential, and safe environment, as I understand how difficult it can be to to take the first step toward treatment. Having recovered from an eating disorder long ago, my treatment style is compassionate, individualized, and client focused. I know how hard it can be to get well. I see clients with varying emotional issues, because these issues also underly eating disorders. People who meet with me have concerns to address in therapy such as anxiety, depression and OCD.
![Photo of Tami Krichiver, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4282cf8f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide therapy for concerns such as depression, anxiety, stage-of-life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
Winnicott wrote, "Feeling real is more than existing; it is finding a way to exist as oneself." It is my hope that through the process of therapy, you'll come to know and develop yourself in ways that are life affirming. I am a clinical psychologist, providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and groups. My approach is collaborative, and together we'll uncover new perspectives for understanding and managing difficulties that hold you back. We'll look for patterns from your past that inform your current circumstances, and nurture the character strengths that help you live more fully.
I provide therapy for concerns such as depression, anxiety, stage-of-life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
Winnicott wrote, "Feeling real is more than existing; it is finding a way to exist as oneself." It is my hope that through the process of therapy, you'll come to know and develop yourself in ways that are life affirming. I am a clinical psychologist, providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and groups. My approach is collaborative, and together we'll uncover new perspectives for understanding and managing difficulties that hold you back. We'll look for patterns from your past that inform your current circumstances, and nurture the character strengths that help you live more fully.
![Photo of Zachary Litherland, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80742da3-96a9-4818-a115-8c11ff902f57/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zachary Litherland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260
If you have run into an obstacle in your life, especially one related to frustrating emotions like depression and anxiety, and you don’t know where to start, I am the therapist for you. My goal is to make therapy as simple as possible so we can work together to create the change in your life you want, whether that is to recover from a bout of mental illness or to have a space solely devoted to being heard.
If you have run into an obstacle in your life, especially one related to frustrating emotions like depression and anxiety, and you don’t know where to start, I am the therapist for you. My goal is to make therapy as simple as possible so we can work together to create the change in your life you want, whether that is to recover from a bout of mental illness or to have a space solely devoted to being heard.
![Photo of Katheryn Shelton, LMHC, ATR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e2e0968-6277-41e0-8672-a777c47c9521/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katheryn Shelton
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260
I have clinical experience working with individuals toward self improvement, through difficult life circumstances, and instilling hope when hope seems lost. I have experience and specialize in grief and loss, depression, trauma, and anxiety. I can include art therapy in sessions, to help process thoughts and emotions non-verbally, and can provide further insight into expression that words cannot do alone. I work with teens and adults. I also can include Brainspotting in sessions as well as traditional talk therapy techniques.
I have clinical experience working with individuals toward self improvement, through difficult life circumstances, and instilling hope when hope seems lost. I have experience and specialize in grief and loss, depression, trauma, and anxiety. I can include art therapy in sessions, to help process thoughts and emotions non-verbally, and can provide further insight into expression that words cannot do alone. I work with teens and adults. I also can include Brainspotting in sessions as well as traditional talk therapy techniques.
![Photo of Kelly McAlister Spiegel, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/020cd86b-f56f-4cf1-b296-05ee5f131563/2/320x400.jpeg)
I can also help you overcome family of origin issues, ADHD issues, trauma, work-related stress, PTSI, addictions, anxiety, and depression.
I help clients imagine and create their best lives by exploring how past influences and patterns may be holding them back or blocking their paths. Together we’ll explore how your thoughts determine your feelings and behavior (cognitive behavioral therapy). We’ll also talk about the influential forces behind your long-term relationships (attachment theory), and how early relationships and decisions made as a child may be impacting your personality today. As a wife of 30+ years with adult children, I come to you from a place of genuine compassion and understanding for the complexities of life.
I can also help you overcome family of origin issues, ADHD issues, trauma, work-related stress, PTSI, addictions, anxiety, and depression.
I help clients imagine and create their best lives by exploring how past influences and patterns may be holding them back or blocking their paths. Together we’ll explore how your thoughts determine your feelings and behavior (cognitive behavioral therapy). We’ll also talk about the influential forces behind your long-term relationships (attachment theory), and how early relationships and decisions made as a child may be impacting your personality today. As a wife of 30+ years with adult children, I come to you from a place of genuine compassion and understanding for the complexities of life.
![Photo of Darla Payne, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ceb4690-0a6b-4fcb-a79b-9ba346efe975/1/320x400.jpeg)
Darla Payne
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260 (Online Only)
I would consider it a privilege for you to entrust me with your life journey of twists and turns. Each of our lives have their own individual challenges that can serve as opportunities for positive growth and change. I have a passion for helping clients through emotional challenges and guiding them towards hope and a stronger sense of self. I believe in building healthy coping skills with a focus on self-acceptance and self-compassion. There are many things that surface in life which, at times, can cause anxiety, depression or just confusion. As a result, this can impact our outlook as well as how we relate to others.
I would consider it a privilege for you to entrust me with your life journey of twists and turns. Each of our lives have their own individual challenges that can serve as opportunities for positive growth and change. I have a passion for helping clients through emotional challenges and guiding them towards hope and a stronger sense of self. I believe in building healthy coping skills with a focus on self-acceptance and self-compassion. There are many things that surface in life which, at times, can cause anxiety, depression or just confusion. As a result, this can impact our outlook as well as how we relate to others.
![Photo of Kalyn King, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1e50065-a37b-400d-aacb-ad17b5086828/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in helping individuals with disordered eating/eating disorders, body image, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life stressors, and relationships.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in private practice at Indy Therapy and Counseling. I am here to help with navigating challenges that are bringing you to therapy by providing a safe, compassionate, and welcoming space.
I specialize in helping individuals with disordered eating/eating disorders, body image, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life stressors, and relationships.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in private practice at Indy Therapy and Counseling. I am here to help with navigating challenges that are bringing you to therapy by providing a safe, compassionate, and welcoming space.
![Photo of Neva E Hagedorn, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5b4d50c-a290-4b72-af4a-b6c79d041f88/3/320x400.jpeg)
Neva E Hagedorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46205
My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and relationship problems.
Life can be so hard. Has stress, sadness, and worry been present for so long you can’t remember what good feels like? Does it seem like between Covid, politics, and life in general that it is hard to make it through the day sometimes? Has your sadness and anxiety escalated to feel almost unbearable? You are not alone. And help is present! My role with Lotus is to help you live your best life. Your values, lifestyle, and expectations are important to you and therefore important to our work together. Please join me on the path to healing, peace, and self-acceptance.
My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and relationship problems.
Life can be so hard. Has stress, sadness, and worry been present for so long you can’t remember what good feels like? Does it seem like between Covid, politics, and life in general that it is hard to make it through the day sometimes? Has your sadness and anxiety escalated to feel almost unbearable? You are not alone. And help is present! My role with Lotus is to help you live your best life. Your values, lifestyle, and expectations are important to you and therefore important to our work together. Please join me on the path to healing, peace, and self-acceptance.
![Photo of Marcia Boring, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c90ed35-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marcia Boring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260
More recently I have specialized in the treatment of women who are experiencing postpartum depression and anxiety.
In over 30 years of clinical practice, I have had a wide range of experiences providing services to a clients who struggle with both long term and acute mental health needs. My experience includes treating individuals, families and groups with mood disorders (bipolar), depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss,ADHD, Asperger's, etc. My goal is to create an environment where a client feels comfortable, safe and heard. I make every effort to meet the client where they are in the treatment process always focusing on what best meets the current needs.
More recently I have specialized in the treatment of women who are experiencing postpartum depression and anxiety.
In over 30 years of clinical practice, I have had a wide range of experiences providing services to a clients who struggle with both long term and acute mental health needs. My experience includes treating individuals, families and groups with mood disorders (bipolar), depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss,ADHD, Asperger's, etc. My goal is to create an environment where a client feels comfortable, safe and heard. I make every effort to meet the client where they are in the treatment process always focusing on what best meets the current needs.
15 Second Videos
Elect Star
Enlighten Healing
Hayley Spangler
Megan Neitling
Patty L Moore
Ashley A Gray
![Photo of Elect Star, DMin, LMHC, CCFP, CATP, CCATP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b7ca12f-e158-46cf-8496-8ee97ee6243d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elect Star
Counselor, DMin, LMHC, CCFP, CATP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260 (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients who struggle with spiritual issues, anger management, depression, anxiety, grief, parenting, low self-esteem, and childhood abuse.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and the owner of Unlimited Possibilities, LLC, Counseling Services. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe and caring space for clients as they work to overcome the obstacles in their lives. I strive to empower them with self-care strategies and helpful resources that bring understanding to their situation. Also I help clients to identify their strengths in order to achieve your dreams, goals and aspirations.
I have experience working with clients who struggle with spiritual issues, anger management, depression, anxiety, grief, parenting, low self-esteem, and childhood abuse.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and the owner of Unlimited Possibilities, LLC, Counseling Services. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe and caring space for clients as they work to overcome the obstacles in their lives. I strive to empower them with self-care strategies and helpful resources that bring understanding to their situation. Also I help clients to identify their strengths in order to achieve your dreams, goals and aspirations.
![Photo of Shannon Loehr, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb02a60-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Loehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260
Some issues may include: depression, divorce, grief, infidelity, transition to parenthood, childhood/adult trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, LGBTQ+ and relationship conflict.
I often hear people ask, "why did I wait so long to seek counseling?" Although making the decision to begin counseling FEELS intimidating, the truth is that it can be a very helpful step in managing some of the difficulties of life. Are you experiencing thoughts, emotions or behaviors that are impacting your daily life or affecting your relationships with others? I can help you work through these challenges and I am available to listen, support and guide you in developing a plan to move forward.
Some issues may include: depression, divorce, grief, infidelity, transition to parenthood, childhood/adult trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, LGBTQ+ and relationship conflict.
I often hear people ask, "why did I wait so long to seek counseling?" Although making the decision to begin counseling FEELS intimidating, the truth is that it can be a very helpful step in managing some of the difficulties of life. Are you experiencing thoughts, emotions or behaviors that are impacting your daily life or affecting your relationships with others? I can help you work through these challenges and I am available to listen, support and guide you in developing a plan to move forward.
![Photo of Becca Wilmoth, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a41950e-4b5e-4053-b669-24d92024960f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Experience includes: acute psychiatric care, trauma-informed care, mood disorders (depression/anxiety), family and couple counseling, and severe mental health.
Howdy! First of all, I'm proud of you for pursuing this journey. It requires bravery and it is not easy. The most important factor in the change process is simply your relationship with your therapist. That can make the search for a therapist difficult, so allow me to introduce myself. I'm Becca.
Experience includes: acute psychiatric care, trauma-informed care, mood disorders (depression/anxiety), family and couple counseling, and severe mental health.
Howdy! First of all, I'm proud of you for pursuing this journey. It requires bravery and it is not easy. The most important factor in the change process is simply your relationship with your therapist. That can make the search for a therapist difficult, so allow me to introduce myself. I'm Becca.
![Photo of Jill Weldum, MA, LMFT, CCPT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/462bfa75-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Weldum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260
Are the stressors of day to day life taking their toll on you? Is a chronic state of anxiety or depression affecting your life satisfaction? Do you want to be better understood and better understand your partner, but don't know how? Are intimacy issues creating distance and conflict? Everyone needs help sometimes. When we are feeling isolated or unseen, our day to day life feels emptier and our mental and physical health pay the price.
Are the stressors of day to day life taking their toll on you? Is a chronic state of anxiety or depression affecting your life satisfaction? Do you want to be better understood and better understand your partner, but don't know how? Are intimacy issues creating distance and conflict? Everyone needs help sometimes. When we are feeling isolated or unseen, our day to day life feels emptier and our mental and physical health pay the price.
![Photo of Annita Coburn - Enlighten Healing , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/928b6989-77c7-4dac-931d-a33d408399af/3/320x400.jpeg)
Enlighten Healing
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260
Don’t continue to struggle with your uncheck depression, anxiety, fear, and exhaustion.
Seeking transformation and support? My name is Annita Coburn, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Enlighten Healing. With 6+ years of experience, my holistic approach blends ACT, CBT, mindfulness, and positive psychology. As a minority, veteran, and woman, I celebrate diversity. Let's work together to overcome challenges, foster relationships, and lead a purposeful life. Contact me to start your journey.
Don’t continue to struggle with your uncheck depression, anxiety, fear, and exhaustion.
Seeking transformation and support? My name is Annita Coburn, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Enlighten Healing. With 6+ years of experience, my holistic approach blends ACT, CBT, mindfulness, and positive psychology. As a minority, veteran, and woman, I celebrate diversity. Let's work together to overcome challenges, foster relationships, and lead a purposeful life. Contact me to start your journey.
![Photo of Kate M Lopshire, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dd8a342-e4b8-4bde-8c35-a2b4b76c09e7/7/320x400.jpeg)
Kate M Lopshire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260
Do you feel as though no one understands you? Do you struggle with sleep problems and anxiety? Are you tired of feeling sad and depressed? My approach is to meet my clients where they are and work collaboratively with you to develop skills one needs to successfully navigate through life’s challenges, difficult relationships, parenting issues, grief and loss, as well as the emotional processing of trauma, anxiety and depression. I take the time to understand your concerns and issues without judgment. I provide a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment online and in person.
Do you feel as though no one understands you? Do you struggle with sleep problems and anxiety? Are you tired of feeling sad and depressed? My approach is to meet my clients where they are and work collaboratively with you to develop skills one needs to successfully navigate through life’s challenges, difficult relationships, parenting issues, grief and loss, as well as the emotional processing of trauma, anxiety and depression. I take the time to understand your concerns and issues without judgment. I provide a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment online and in person.
![Photo of Lisa L Coston - Lisa L. Coston, M.S., LMHC, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57951549-4fe1-4bc7-96ae-8bebbf4d1cd1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa L. Coston, M.S., LMHC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260
As a practicing therapist for over 20s years, I pride myself on helping those who need guidance and a listening ear in times of difficulty. Acknowledging that it takes courage to reach for help and begin therapy, I hope to lessen the intimidating and overwhelming process as an experienced therapist. I work primarily with adolescents and adults on issues ranging from depression and anxiety to more specific trauma related concerns. I will work also to hear your needs as we walk alongside each other through the counseling process.
As a practicing therapist for over 20s years, I pride myself on helping those who need guidance and a listening ear in times of difficulty. Acknowledging that it takes courage to reach for help and begin therapy, I hope to lessen the intimidating and overwhelming process as an experienced therapist. I work primarily with adolescents and adults on issues ranging from depression and anxiety to more specific trauma related concerns. I will work also to hear your needs as we walk alongside each other through the counseling process.
![Photo of Jamilah Scott-Crowe, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22866cad-57f3-4181-9c5f-57ec3bfd2d91/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jamilah Scott-Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46260 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children and young adults with disruptive behaviors, anxiety, depression, and life adjustments. I have over ten years of clinical experience as a therapist in schools, residential treatment, foster care, and community based settings. This has given me a wide range of skills to help children and young adults navigate through problems and stressors in multiple environments. I am sensitive to faith/spirituality, and at your request I am willing to incorporate this into treatment.
I specialize in working with children and young adults with disruptive behaviors, anxiety, depression, and life adjustments. I have over ten years of clinical experience as a therapist in schools, residential treatment, foster care, and community based settings. This has given me a wide range of skills to help children and young adults navigate through problems and stressors in multiple environments. I am sensitive to faith/spirituality, and at your request I am willing to incorporate this into treatment.
![Photo of Hayley Spangler, LMHC, NCC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dbd4a8f-cb95-4268-bc63-e1cfd3946f90/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hayley Spangler
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Bridgefield, Indianapolis, IN 46227 (Online Only)
Life is hard. You have so many different things pulling and vying for your attention that sometimes you get lost along the way. Life has become mundane, relationships have become conflictual, your past keeps creeping up on you, and your old ways of coping just aren't working anymore. It feels like there is no way out, no light at the end of tunnel, and it feels like you are stuck in a place you don't want to be; and yet you don't know how to change it.
Life is hard. You have so many different things pulling and vying for your attention that sometimes you get lost along the way. Life has become mundane, relationships have become conflictual, your past keeps creeping up on you, and your old ways of coping just aren't working anymore. It feels like there is no way out, no light at the end of tunnel, and it feels like you are stuck in a place you don't want to be; and yet you don't know how to change it.
See more therapy options for Bridgefield, Indianapolis
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Bridgefield, Indianapolis
- Canterbury
- Chapel Hill Village
- Devington
- Greenbriar
- Mapleton
- Midtown
- Near North
- Old Northside
- Scarborough Village
- Sherwood Forest
- Traders Pointe
- Williams Creek
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.