Depression Therapists in Portage, IN
![Photo of Susan Lloyd-Merrick, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6da10f4a-709a-4e57-8c1e-9222cdc5a527/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist and I earned my Psy.D. from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2008. My graduate training focused on the treatment of health and trauma, and to this day, I remain passionate about helping others work through the emotional and interpersonal effects of psychological trauma, depression, anxiety and loss. It takes strength and courage to come to therapy and I respect and supprort each client, never forgetting how difficult that first step can often be.
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist and I earned my Psy.D. from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2008. My graduate training focused on the treatment of health and trauma, and to this day, I remain passionate about helping others work through the emotional and interpersonal effects of psychological trauma, depression, anxiety and loss. It takes strength and courage to come to therapy and I respect and supprort each client, never forgetting how difficult that first step can often be.
![Photo of Kathleen Goldbranson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57a04dee-9085-4e01-813a-6a84dcb6e494/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Goldbranson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
I am passionate about empowering children, adolescents and adults to overcome the many struggles of life that may be impeding their personal success. My goal is to create a safe and accepting environment using a client-centered approach so that all clients are given the opportunity to explore, understand, and cope with life’s challenges, events, and relationships. I especially love working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and I have worked extensively with adolescents in an educational setting as well as individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and significant stress.
I am passionate about empowering children, adolescents and adults to overcome the many struggles of life that may be impeding their personal success. My goal is to create a safe and accepting environment using a client-centered approach so that all clients are given the opportunity to explore, understand, and cope with life’s challenges, events, and relationships. I especially love working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and I have worked extensively with adolescents in an educational setting as well as individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and significant stress.
![Photo of Lawrence A Viers, PhD, FAGPA, HSPP, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d02fef4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive experience with eating disorders and mood disorders, both depressed and anxious.
I am known for my direct manner and skill building emphasis. I believe in human potential and orient myself toward teaching people how to manage their lives rather than assuming the role of managing their life for them. My principal professional affiliation is with the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA) of which I am a Fellow. I have found that group psychotherapy provides an effective avenue for personal change and skills consolidation, especially for people who struggle with relationships. I enjoy working with adolescents, marital cases and individuals with long term mood disorders.
I have extensive experience with eating disorders and mood disorders, both depressed and anxious.
I am known for my direct manner and skill building emphasis. I believe in human potential and orient myself toward teaching people how to manage their lives rather than assuming the role of managing their life for them. My principal professional affiliation is with the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA) of which I am a Fellow. I have found that group psychotherapy provides an effective avenue for personal change and skills consolidation, especially for people who struggle with relationships. I enjoy working with adolescents, marital cases and individuals with long term mood disorders.
![Photo of Nicole Krueger, MSW, LSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/428715b7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Krueger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
My passion is to help guide children, adolescents and adults during times of hopelessness and fear. I believe that your past does not determine your future. My practice emphasizes providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions proven to be effective and is facilitated in a safe, caring, confidential and non-judgmental environment. Over a decade of experience in mental health has embraced my passion in helping adolescents and adults heal. I have extensive training treating clients who experience a variety of distressing symptoms related to; PTSD/Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bi-Polar Disorder, Grief and Loss, Divorce-Related Issues, Stress and Anger Management, Codependency and many more.
My passion is to help guide children, adolescents and adults during times of hopelessness and fear. I believe that your past does not determine your future. My practice emphasizes providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions proven to be effective and is facilitated in a safe, caring, confidential and non-judgmental environment. Over a decade of experience in mental health has embraced my passion in helping adolescents and adults heal. I have extensive training treating clients who experience a variety of distressing symptoms related to; PTSD/Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bi-Polar Disorder, Grief and Loss, Divorce-Related Issues, Stress and Anger Management, Codependency and many more.
![Photo of Karen V Sutherland, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c6d88cc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 20 years of practice with clients experiencing problems with blended families, LGBTQ+ relationships, intergenerational issues, self-esteem and personal growth, conflict management, couples communication and intimacy concerns, divorce, parental coaching, addiction and recovery, and the management of grief and loss. I have a special focus on working with LGBTQ+ clients. I work with clients who have been experiencing emotional issues (depression, anxiety, compulsion) and trouble coping with life transitions.
I have over 20 years of practice with clients experiencing problems with blended families, LGBTQ+ relationships, intergenerational issues, self-esteem and personal growth, conflict management, couples communication and intimacy concerns, divorce, parental coaching, addiction and recovery, and the management of grief and loss. I have a special focus on working with LGBTQ+ clients. I work with clients who have been experiencing emotional issues (depression, anxiety, compulsion) and trouble coping with life transitions.
![Photo of Chelsea M Winder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bee6a66-d289-4112-8f34-c40be1c2ff08/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea M Winder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Chelsea and I specialize in clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues but work with clients with numerous mental health and life struggles including parenting issues, bipolar, self-harm, grief/loss, and much more. I know starting therapy can feel scary and overwhelming so I strive to provide a warm, welcoming therapeutic environment. A strong relationship is the most important thing to me during the therapeutic process. Once that is established then we can focus on the work that needs to be done.
Welcome! I'm Chelsea and I specialize in clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues but work with clients with numerous mental health and life struggles including parenting issues, bipolar, self-harm, grief/loss, and much more. I know starting therapy can feel scary and overwhelming so I strive to provide a warm, welcoming therapeutic environment. A strong relationship is the most important thing to me during the therapeutic process. Once that is established then we can focus on the work that needs to be done.
![Photo of Daniel Braman, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460fadc9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you struggle with the racing thoughts, and scary physical sensations of panic attacks and anxiety, or the sadness, emptiness and fatigue common with depression, you feel unable to live your life the way things are now. No longer able to 'push through' your feelings, you feel drained, and unsure what to do. Your family may not always understand therapy, but you recognize that you would be helped by talking with someone who gets it, who has the training, empathy, and insight to help you through this time in your life. You're not looking for a quick fix, but long-lasting change and insight. Accepting new clients (8/11/2021)
Whether you struggle with the racing thoughts, and scary physical sensations of panic attacks and anxiety, or the sadness, emptiness and fatigue common with depression, you feel unable to live your life the way things are now. No longer able to 'push through' your feelings, you feel drained, and unsure what to do. Your family may not always understand therapy, but you recognize that you would be helped by talking with someone who gets it, who has the training, empathy, and insight to help you through this time in your life. You're not looking for a quick fix, but long-lasting change and insight. Accepting new clients (8/11/2021)
![Photo of Donna P Peters, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/973e58ff-e02a-4179-913b-bff0ed3ac8ec/3/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression or any other issue, I will help you recognize underlying problems, fully realize your strengths and adjust certain behaviors and thoughts to see things a different, healthier way.
Do you feel that people in your life do not listen or hear you when you speak? Being understood is the foundation and the most important starting point on any journey towards healing. Once you feel safe and understood, we can begin trying new more effective approaches to address these problems. I have a vast breadth of experience in the mental health field, working with diverse populations from Hospital settings to Community Mental Health. I use an eclectic blend therapeutic approach that includes mindfulness, cognitive behavior, and strengths-based approach. My counseling style is supportive, caring, and compassionate.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression or any other issue, I will help you recognize underlying problems, fully realize your strengths and adjust certain behaviors and thoughts to see things a different, healthier way.
Do you feel that people in your life do not listen or hear you when you speak? Being understood is the foundation and the most important starting point on any journey towards healing. Once you feel safe and understood, we can begin trying new more effective approaches to address these problems. I have a vast breadth of experience in the mental health field, working with diverse populations from Hospital settings to Community Mental Health. I use an eclectic blend therapeutic approach that includes mindfulness, cognitive behavior, and strengths-based approach. My counseling style is supportive, caring, and compassionate.
![Photo of Jackie Heemstra, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/737b532b-ad5c-4c5c-a04d-7b422f6b427d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients consisting of a wide range of ages including adults, adolescents and children. My experience includes treating clients who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, ODD, OCD, trauma and many more. I provide techniques that are Evidence-Based and utilize CBT and Motivational Interviewing, to help serve clients to achieve their needs while working with their strengths. I have extensive experience; including leadership roles, providing services within the community treating individuals that have been involved with the Department of Child Services and have high complex needs.
I work with clients consisting of a wide range of ages including adults, adolescents and children. My experience includes treating clients who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, ODD, OCD, trauma and many more. I provide techniques that are Evidence-Based and utilize CBT and Motivational Interviewing, to help serve clients to achieve their needs while working with their strengths. I have extensive experience; including leadership roles, providing services within the community treating individuals that have been involved with the Department of Child Services and have high complex needs.
![Photo of Amy Masters, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c97b48a-78fd-45cf-a789-ac5381883bc4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Have you suffered a significant loss in your life? Are you surrounded by people, but still feel completely alone? Are you tired of pretending that you are just "fine", when truthfully you feel like you are barely hanging on each day? Are you looking for a safe place where you can be heard and understood, even if you aren't sure exactly how to express what you're feeling? Are you looking for a place where you can learn how to fully heal from your grief? You don't have to suffer your loss alone. I will help you work through depression, anxiety, pain, guilt, anger, accepting change and other stages of healing.
Have you suffered a significant loss in your life? Are you surrounded by people, but still feel completely alone? Are you tired of pretending that you are just "fine", when truthfully you feel like you are barely hanging on each day? Are you looking for a safe place where you can be heard and understood, even if you aren't sure exactly how to express what you're feeling? Are you looking for a place where you can learn how to fully heal from your grief? You don't have to suffer your loss alone. I will help you work through depression, anxiety, pain, guilt, anger, accepting change and other stages of healing.
![Photo of Kira L. Ricks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51b14e74-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy helping those who struggle with depression or anxiety, those lacking a sense of purpose or self-worth, the over-stressed, and couples.
I strive to join with my client where they are, hear their story or process of thinking, and then offer support while they embrace their current struggle or situation. Then I help empower them to find answers from their own strengths that align with their beliefs and existing skills. I teach and help clients practice new skills when needed. My focus throughout our work together is to assure my client they are not alone in their struggle and they can heal and feel whole once again.
I enjoy helping those who struggle with depression or anxiety, those lacking a sense of purpose or self-worth, the over-stressed, and couples.
I strive to join with my client where they are, hear their story or process of thinking, and then offer support while they embrace their current struggle or situation. Then I help empower them to find answers from their own strengths that align with their beliefs and existing skills. I teach and help clients practice new skills when needed. My focus throughout our work together is to assure my client they are not alone in their struggle and they can heal and feel whole once again.
![Photo of Carl Hufford, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/628f0cae-78c1-4f16-ac9f-7ad7c367bd01/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carl Hufford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368 (Online Only)
I am experienced in helping individuals who are struggling with ADHD/ADD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, anger, gender dysphoria, autism spectrum, addiction, and trauma.
As your therapist I will help you reach your goals by building and empowering you to overcome obstacles while gaining the confidence and knowledge to build on for a stronger future. My hope is to encourage and support you as you work toward your goals and assist you in building skills along the way that are supportive of your individualized needs. I offer a safe and comfortable environment free from judgment and welcoming for all individuals.
I am experienced in helping individuals who are struggling with ADHD/ADD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, anger, gender dysphoria, autism spectrum, addiction, and trauma.
As your therapist I will help you reach your goals by building and empowering you to overcome obstacles while gaining the confidence and knowledge to build on for a stronger future. My hope is to encourage and support you as you work toward your goals and assist you in building skills along the way that are supportive of your individualized needs. I offer a safe and comfortable environment free from judgment and welcoming for all individuals.
![Photo of Tiffany L Green-Mikell, MSW, LCSW, CIMHP, RYT-250, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b14b099-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany L Green-Mikell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CIMHP, RYT-250
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
Imagine that tonight as you sleep a miracle occurs in your life. A magical thing happed that completing solved every problem or barrier you are currently experiencing. What is the first thing you will notice? So, Instead of focusing exclusively on how insoluble your problems are, and how difficult life is because of it ,lets switch attention to what will happen after the problem is dealt with. Lets focus on your desired outcome. Let me help you process what feeling symptom free from anxiety, depression, and stinking thinking feelings like. Lets shift energy towards what we can create and control.
Imagine that tonight as you sleep a miracle occurs in your life. A magical thing happed that completing solved every problem or barrier you are currently experiencing. What is the first thing you will notice? So, Instead of focusing exclusively on how insoluble your problems are, and how difficult life is because of it ,lets switch attention to what will happen after the problem is dealt with. Lets focus on your desired outcome. Let me help you process what feeling symptom free from anxiety, depression, and stinking thinking feelings like. Lets shift energy towards what we can create and control.
![Photo of Thania Hernandez, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e32c2cb0-da81-4dd2-ab7e-5b21e17013ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thania Hernandez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368 (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety, daily stressors, military life adjustments, anger management, grief, traumatic experiences, and suicidal ideation.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck due to painful emotions and life stressors? It is easy to become lost in pain, but I assure you there is a way out! With therapy, it is possible to find the peace, love, and joy you long for. I can support you through this challenging time by providing a comfortable and accepting space for you to process challenging emotions and hurtful situations, while I teach techniques that can help to improve management of stressors while decreasing feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger.
I have experience working with individuals struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety, daily stressors, military life adjustments, anger management, grief, traumatic experiences, and suicidal ideation.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck due to painful emotions and life stressors? It is easy to become lost in pain, but I assure you there is a way out! With therapy, it is possible to find the peace, love, and joy you long for. I can support you through this challenging time by providing a comfortable and accepting space for you to process challenging emotions and hurtful situations, while I teach techniques that can help to improve management of stressors while decreasing feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger.
![Photo of Blair A'hearn, MDiv, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5074aa33-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My strengths are particularly suited to relationship and marriage issues, pre-marriage, sex and other addictions, trauma, adult survivors of childhood abuse, PTSD, depression, anxiety, divorce recovery, career discernment, spirituality, men's issues and more.
I am now accepting new clients. You are here because you need help. You want a counselor who will listen to you with concern, engage with you, help you uncover your deep wounds and express the pain they have left in you. I will be that counselor for you. I will help you find your inner goodness and strength, challenge you when necessary, and always encourage and support you. I will help you recover the healthy, happy you, your true self. I will give you tools and guide you in using them. I will dedicate every bit of wisdom, knowledge and experience I have toward your healing and wholeness.
My strengths are particularly suited to relationship and marriage issues, pre-marriage, sex and other addictions, trauma, adult survivors of childhood abuse, PTSD, depression, anxiety, divorce recovery, career discernment, spirituality, men's issues and more.
I am now accepting new clients. You are here because you need help. You want a counselor who will listen to you with concern, engage with you, help you uncover your deep wounds and express the pain they have left in you. I will be that counselor for you. I will help you find your inner goodness and strength, challenge you when necessary, and always encourage and support you. I will help you recover the healthy, happy you, your true self. I will give you tools and guide you in using them. I will dedicate every bit of wisdom, knowledge and experience I have toward your healing and wholeness.
![Photo of Amanda Jennings, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73e94877-0907-48c7-a17e-196b64f94c9e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating adults dealing with anxiety, trauma, life adjustment issues such as divorce and grief, substance use disorders, and depression. I am very passionate about helping people and empowering individuals and families to make positive changes in their lives. I value the importance of a safe, trusting, and strong therapeutic relationship and environment. I have experience treating a variety of mental and behavioral health issues in addition to what I specialize in.
I specialize in treating adults dealing with anxiety, trauma, life adjustment issues such as divorce and grief, substance use disorders, and depression. I am very passionate about helping people and empowering individuals and families to make positive changes in their lives. I value the importance of a safe, trusting, and strong therapeutic relationship and environment. I have experience treating a variety of mental and behavioral health issues in addition to what I specialize in.
![Photo of S. Paige Maddex, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43be6cdb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Areas of additional training and experience include depression, addiction, anxiety, sexual abuse, divorce support, domestic violence, postpartum depression and eating disorders.
Stephanie "Paige" Maddex is a licensed clinical social worker and mother of 4 who lives Chesterton, IN. Paige began her career in the public school system as a school social worker and began her own practice in 2017. As a therapist, Paige is passionate about helping people understand themselves and identify their goals. She understands that trauma can keep people "stuck" and that working through pain can be freeing. In therapy, Paige helps clients work towards work/life balance, wellness goals and to develop healthy relationships.
Areas of additional training and experience include depression, addiction, anxiety, sexual abuse, divorce support, domestic violence, postpartum depression and eating disorders.
Stephanie "Paige" Maddex is a licensed clinical social worker and mother of 4 who lives Chesterton, IN. Paige began her career in the public school system as a school social worker and began her own practice in 2017. As a therapist, Paige is passionate about helping people understand themselves and identify their goals. She understands that trauma can keep people "stuck" and that working through pain can be freeing. In therapy, Paige helps clients work towards work/life balance, wellness goals and to develop healthy relationships.
![Photo of Emily Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459c778d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are struggling to find some peace and happiness, I am here to help. If you are frustrated by injustice in the world, I feel your pain. Combining neuroscience, social awareness, and evidence-based theory allows me to offer treatment methods that are unique to each person's needs. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or simply feeling lost and need some guidance, I hope to be that support for you. Let's work together to find you some relief.
If you are struggling to find some peace and happiness, I am here to help. If you are frustrated by injustice in the world, I feel your pain. Combining neuroscience, social awareness, and evidence-based theory allows me to offer treatment methods that are unique to each person's needs. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or simply feeling lost and need some guidance, I hope to be that support for you. Let's work together to find you some relief.
![Photo of Jason Kniola, LMHC, LCAC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f1b8abe-ad9b-4f1d-8792-d48581feb8a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jason has worked alongside his clients as they deal with the complexities of life’s challenges, including attention and emotional or behavior issues in children, the struggles of identity and maturity of adolescence, and the myriad of issues facing adults, such as relationship and communication issues, addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Jason has worked alongside his clients as they deal with the complexities of life’s challenges, including attention and emotional or behavior issues in children, the struggles of identity and maturity of adolescence, and the myriad of issues facing adults, such as relationship and communication issues, addiction, anxiety, and depression.
![Photo of Tiffany Green, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b92ec9bd-1ba6-4f21-84dc-7587d805532d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
I have over 15 years of social service and clinical experience. I have had the honor of serving at risk children and their families in Chicago and Northwest Indiana in a variety of capacities. Every clinical intervention I utilize is evidence based, and tailor made to fit each consumer. Some interventions included play and art inspired therapy, Trauma Informed CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I also offer Wellness options including Holistic Psychotherapy,Mindfulness and Meditation practice, Restorative, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
I have over 15 years of social service and clinical experience. I have had the honor of serving at risk children and their families in Chicago and Northwest Indiana in a variety of capacities. Every clinical intervention I utilize is evidence based, and tailor made to fit each consumer. Some interventions included play and art inspired therapy, Trauma Informed CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I also offer Wellness options including Holistic Psychotherapy,Mindfulness and Meditation practice, Restorative, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
See more therapy options for Portage
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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.