Depression Therapists in Westwood, KS
![Photo of Michael Sieger, LCPC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c55b5e0-a0d7-448d-bffa-561af9908d45/3/320x400.jpeg)
The fact that you're here searching for a counselor is a good sign. It means you are starting to realize it's okay to ask for help. I have experience working with adults possessing a variety of perspectives, personalities, and life situations. As a result, I have developed a great appreciation for the human experience. I enjoy working with individuals who experience anxiety, depression, and the lingering effects of trauma. I have special interest in teaching assertive communication and in helping people with social anxiety.
The fact that you're here searching for a counselor is a good sign. It means you are starting to realize it's okay to ask for help. I have experience working with adults possessing a variety of perspectives, personalities, and life situations. As a result, I have developed a great appreciation for the human experience. I enjoy working with individuals who experience anxiety, depression, and the lingering effects of trauma. I have special interest in teaching assertive communication and in helping people with social anxiety.
![Photo of Melissa Anne McManamy, MS, LPC, ACC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6f8a82d-a5fc-48f9-9d79-22d3a1689cb8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Anne McManamy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westwood, KS 66205
Hello, let’s be honest, this thing called ‘life’ can be challenging and sometimes its ok to ask for help. If you are here, you have taken the first step and I welcome the opportunity to help you. Whether you are embarking on a new career, transitioning in or out of a relationship, seeking increased interpersonal effectiveness through better integration of work, life & parenting, trying to build healthier thoughts, habits, and emotion regulation, building your self-esteem, working on self-compassion, trying to manage anxiety/depression, or simply setting a life vision – I welcome the opportunity be your accountability partner.
Hello, let’s be honest, this thing called ‘life’ can be challenging and sometimes its ok to ask for help. If you are here, you have taken the first step and I welcome the opportunity to help you. Whether you are embarking on a new career, transitioning in or out of a relationship, seeking increased interpersonal effectiveness through better integration of work, life & parenting, trying to build healthier thoughts, habits, and emotion regulation, building your self-esteem, working on self-compassion, trying to manage anxiety/depression, or simply setting a life vision – I welcome the opportunity be your accountability partner.
![Photo of Cynthia Sykes - Inspire Behavioral Health Services , LSCSW, LMSW, LMCFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/439aed90-f951-4b36-8045-129d2ab43ceb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Inspire Behavioral Health Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LMSW, LMCFT
Verified Verified
Westwood, KS 66205
Inspire Behavioral Health Services is a mental health organization that services the KS Medicaid and private pay population. We offer individual, family, and group therapy with in-home, in person, and telemedicine options. Our referral process is simple and our admin team is ready for any and all questions!
Inspire Behavioral Health Services is a mental health organization that services the KS Medicaid and private pay population. We offer individual, family, and group therapy with in-home, in person, and telemedicine options. Our referral process is simple and our admin team is ready for any and all questions!
![Photo of Chris Lanterman, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/787e450b-0963-4193-8bfc-78c98ec01f1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I understand every person’s story and situation is unique and valid. I'm intentional about developing trust and creating a judgment free space. I view counseling as a collaborative process where my primary goal is to meet you at whatever point in your journey you are today. I’m a life-long learner - I stay up to date with the most effective relationship & trauma therapy techniques as a CEU consumer and an adjunct instructor. I teach master’s level couple & family therapy courses. I practice Gottman Method Couples Therapy, which integrates empirical evidence on what makes love last.
I understand every person’s story and situation is unique and valid. I'm intentional about developing trust and creating a judgment free space. I view counseling as a collaborative process where my primary goal is to meet you at whatever point in your journey you are today. I’m a life-long learner - I stay up to date with the most effective relationship & trauma therapy techniques as a CEU consumer and an adjunct instructor. I teach master’s level couple & family therapy courses. I practice Gottman Method Couples Therapy, which integrates empirical evidence on what makes love last.
![Photo of Jeneb Coleman, LCMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0319f001-fb58-41f8-a8d2-589c6ff28119/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeneb Coleman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westwood, KS 66205 (Online Only)
My heart and passion has always been with helping others. I have knowledge in working with individuals, couples, and families facing life's challenges. I am skilled at assisting people with work stress, post-traumatic stress disorder, and traumatic loss through accident or violence. Many types of stress can move silently but painfully through our lives, I have the knowledge to introduce healthy coping skills, reduction of anxiety, and conflict resolution. During these times knowing who we are, caring for ourselves and others is more important than ever. I'm here for those living the daily effects of trauma.
My heart and passion has always been with helping others. I have knowledge in working with individuals, couples, and families facing life's challenges. I am skilled at assisting people with work stress, post-traumatic stress disorder, and traumatic loss through accident or violence. Many types of stress can move silently but painfully through our lives, I have the knowledge to introduce healthy coping skills, reduction of anxiety, and conflict resolution. During these times knowing who we are, caring for ourselves and others is more important than ever. I'm here for those living the daily effects of trauma.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Ivette M Arango, LSCSW, LCSW, CRAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7303ce1c-92e2-4423-b43b-c2982bfee05b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ivette M Arango
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, CRAADC
Verified Verified
Prairie Village, KS 66208
Specialty areas include addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic violence & couple's therapy.
I am accepting new clients. I have weekday appointments available, with the last appointment beginning at 4:00 pm at this time. I help clients heal their wounds and transform their lives for the better. After 27 years of experience, I can say with great confidence that you are not alone in your challenges, and that you don't have to carry your burden by yourself. With patience and persistence, my clients cultivate greater confidence and self-esteem, richer relationships with their significant others and children, more emotional balance and health. I have a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Houston.
Specialty areas include addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic violence & couple's therapy.
I am accepting new clients. I have weekday appointments available, with the last appointment beginning at 4:00 pm at this time. I help clients heal their wounds and transform their lives for the better. After 27 years of experience, I can say with great confidence that you are not alone in your challenges, and that you don't have to carry your burden by yourself. With patience and persistence, my clients cultivate greater confidence and self-esteem, richer relationships with their significant others and children, more emotional balance and health. I have a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Houston.
![Photo of Maureen Francois, LSCSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50cc79cd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maureen Francois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66208
I have had extensive experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions as well as maternal mental health and child mental health.
My approach to therapy is grounded in the belief that you know yourself best. In therapy, I am not the expert on your life; you are. I will serve as a guide as you work through the messy, raw, and unfiltered areas of your life. Together, we will discuss and implement strategies to make your burdens feel lighter. My wild hope for you is that you go forward with the skills and confidence to thrive. I am also trained in EMDR. This is a modality that provides people the opportunity to heal from challenging and traumatic experiences.
I have had extensive experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions as well as maternal mental health and child mental health.
My approach to therapy is grounded in the belief that you know yourself best. In therapy, I am not the expert on your life; you are. I will serve as a guide as you work through the messy, raw, and unfiltered areas of your life. Together, we will discuss and implement strategies to make your burdens feel lighter. My wild hope for you is that you go forward with the skills and confidence to thrive. I am also trained in EMDR. This is a modality that provides people the opportunity to heal from challenging and traumatic experiences.
![Photo of Carron Ellspermann Montgomery, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36eaea74-7a0f-4201-be74-17910f8474df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carron Ellspermann Montgomery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prairie Village, KS 66208
I have extensive training in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Do you feel confused, worried or lost about your child's behavior? I can help by providing your child or teen with the skills and confidence needed to transform their behavior. I want your child to feel confident and proud of who they are at school and at home.
I have extensive training in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Do you feel confused, worried or lost about your child's behavior? I can help by providing your child or teen with the skills and confidence needed to transform their behavior. I want your child to feel confident and proud of who they are at school and at home.
![Photo of Kali Miller, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bff398d4-3d85-4d21-8010-d8f34b3a26a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kali Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shawnee Mission, KS 66201
In the midst of life’s chaos, you’re grappling with uncertainty, anxiety, and the weight of your emotions. Anxiety and depression wage war within, hindering your ability to express and seek help. It's tough to open up to others, fearing judgment and misunderstanding. But you're amazing, having navigated through the storm so far, let’s keep going. You're not alone - I've supported many through similar storms. Let's journey together, overcoming obstacles and finding peace, strength, and clarity amidst the chaos.
In the midst of life’s chaos, you’re grappling with uncertainty, anxiety, and the weight of your emotions. Anxiety and depression wage war within, hindering your ability to express and seek help. It's tough to open up to others, fearing judgment and misunderstanding. But you're amazing, having navigated through the storm so far, let’s keep going. You're not alone - I've supported many through similar storms. Let's journey together, overcoming obstacles and finding peace, strength, and clarity amidst the chaos.
![Photo of Tyler Sharpe, LCPC, MA, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78f72e0f-4f49-4f02-8d18-08d24b036e92/5/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with depression & anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, life transitions, sexual health/issues, men's issues, and addiction.
Did you know that it’s ok, not to be ok? Before you can heal, change and transform yourself, you must accept where you are and what you feel right now. Being confronted with obstacles and stressors in life can be confusing and challenging, but you do not have to tackle them alone. If you’re reading this, you’ve already taken the first, and hardest step; reaching out for help. No matter what struggles you may be facing, always remember, the comeback is stronger than the setback. As a Licensed Psychotherapist, with an educational background in Behavioral Neuroscience & Clinical Psychology; I will help you better understand - YOU!
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with depression & anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, life transitions, sexual health/issues, men's issues, and addiction.
Did you know that it’s ok, not to be ok? Before you can heal, change and transform yourself, you must accept where you are and what you feel right now. Being confronted with obstacles and stressors in life can be confusing and challenging, but you do not have to tackle them alone. If you’re reading this, you’ve already taken the first, and hardest step; reaching out for help. No matter what struggles you may be facing, always remember, the comeback is stronger than the setback. As a Licensed Psychotherapist, with an educational background in Behavioral Neuroscience & Clinical Psychology; I will help you better understand - YOU!
![Photo of Meghan West, LSCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/760326cc-712f-4059-b358-690d459442d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meghan West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66201 (Online Only)
Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, PTSD, Depression, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, Addictions, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Cancer, Caregiver Issues, Divorce and Separation, Fertility and loss.
Meghan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport. Once that foundation is laid, Meghan will use one of several therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue at hand. These modalities may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and General Psychotherapy. Many people benefit from the use of different modalities. Meghan is known for being a good listener, caring, sensitive, and enthusiastic.
Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, PTSD, Depression, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, Addictions, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Cancer, Caregiver Issues, Divorce and Separation, Fertility and loss.
Meghan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport. Once that foundation is laid, Meghan will use one of several therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue at hand. These modalities may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and General Psychotherapy. Many people benefit from the use of different modalities. Meghan is known for being a good listener, caring, sensitive, and enthusiastic.
![Photo of Emily J Towner, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c659d7b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health is part of your physical health. You cannot have one without the other. No one is exempt from facing mental health struggles at one time or another in their life. It is not uncommon during times of mental health struggles, either it be an isolated incident of panic, short-term and long-term anxiety, tragedy, situational depression, or circumstances that were out of your control that caused you to have a "new normal." Therapy will alleviate these stressors through a process of personal insight, change, and opening your eyes to a new way of seeing your life and how you react to it.
Mental health is part of your physical health. You cannot have one without the other. No one is exempt from facing mental health struggles at one time or another in their life. It is not uncommon during times of mental health struggles, either it be an isolated incident of panic, short-term and long-term anxiety, tragedy, situational depression, or circumstances that were out of your control that caused you to have a "new normal." Therapy will alleviate these stressors through a process of personal insight, change, and opening your eyes to a new way of seeing your life and how you react to it.
![Photo of Cynthia Kohler, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9c53085-098a-4a3d-baf8-aadda4e461db/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cynthia Kohler is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri who has 10 years of experience providing therapy to adolescents and adults who struggle with the day to day life stressors. Cynthia completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and received her Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University. She believes that building a strong therapeutic relationship to help you work through issues like stress management, depression, anxiety, relationships, and many more will optimize how to get your life on the track you desire.
Cynthia Kohler is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri who has 10 years of experience providing therapy to adolescents and adults who struggle with the day to day life stressors. Cynthia completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and received her Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University. She believes that building a strong therapeutic relationship to help you work through issues like stress management, depression, anxiety, relationships, and many more will optimize how to get your life on the track you desire.
![Photo of Phillip Klever, MSW, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b8fed42-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
I work with people dealing with relationship problems and with stress, depression, addictions, or loss of self direction.
All people have strengths and challenges. Therapy is a process of using those strengths and resources to address problems people face. I'm interested in understanding you and helping you develop a plan to work with your problems and to build on your strengths.
I work with people dealing with relationship problems and with stress, depression, addictions, or loss of self direction.
All people have strengths and challenges. Therapy is a process of using those strengths and resources to address problems people face. I'm interested in understanding you and helping you develop a plan to work with your problems and to build on your strengths.
![Photo of Sara Joyce Ratliff, MA, , PLPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4df30572-d051-443c-9fea-5e705ca690cf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Joyce Ratliff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, , PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Overland Park, KS 66251
Has anxiety, depression, relational struggles, and loneliness been plaguing you or perhaps your child or adolescent? These struggles are everywhere, but where are the solutions found? I believe that I can help you take steps toward the solution through learning about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how each is interconnected and impacting your mental health! I have a passion to work with teens and children who are struggling to find a voice to express what is going on inside. My services are not limited to children, as I am also passionate about helping adults give a voice to their inner struggle.
Has anxiety, depression, relational struggles, and loneliness been plaguing you or perhaps your child or adolescent? These struggles are everywhere, but where are the solutions found? I believe that I can help you take steps toward the solution through learning about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how each is interconnected and impacting your mental health! I have a passion to work with teens and children who are struggling to find a voice to express what is going on inside. My services are not limited to children, as I am also passionate about helping adults give a voice to their inner struggle.
![Photo of Tamicka Monson, MA, MS, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5947c103-81f4-46e9-a879-34986f5c768e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tamicka Monson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mission, KS 66202
I am glad you are here and taking time to invest in yourself. I specialize in working with people with a background of trauma, including sexual trauma and religious trauma. I have experience in working in areas of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and executive functioning, anxiety, depression, grief, posttraumatic stress disorder, racial and ethnic identity, women’s issues, and youth mental health. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming. As a Black woman, I enjoy helping other people of color heal from racialized trauma and realize they are enough.
I am glad you are here and taking time to invest in yourself. I specialize in working with people with a background of trauma, including sexual trauma and religious trauma. I have experience in working in areas of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and executive functioning, anxiety, depression, grief, posttraumatic stress disorder, racial and ethnic identity, women’s issues, and youth mental health. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming. As a Black woman, I enjoy helping other people of color heal from racialized trauma and realize they are enough.
![Photo of Marie Lausten, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6276b007-519c-4499-ae85-5ba8c6752cdb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I welcome all individuals that are in need of help. I strive to be as multiculturally aware as possible. I am an LGBTQIA+ ally and welcome everyone. I have experience helping individuals struggling with mood disorders, depression and anxiety, substance abuse, body positive and bariatric clients. Please don't hesitate to call if you have any questions. I believe mental health care is important to everyone.
I welcome all individuals that are in need of help. I strive to be as multiculturally aware as possible. I am an LGBTQIA+ ally and welcome everyone. I have experience helping individuals struggling with mood disorders, depression and anxiety, substance abuse, body positive and bariatric clients. Please don't hesitate to call if you have any questions. I believe mental health care is important to everyone.
![Photo of Jack Sampson, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b41e849-828c-4795-92cd-655b6da0d47c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have 10 years of behavioral health experience with a focus of treating addiction, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders.
50% off initial session with nights and weekends available. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life? Are relationship challenges weighing you down? Do you have concerns that you might be using "a little too much" alcohol or other drugs to cope with it all? Using a warm, individually tailored approach, I offer you a space to process what's on your mind. We'll work together to help you find ways to cope with life, improve your relationships and restore your sense of joy in activities. I formerly served as the clinical supervisor at a substance use treatment center in Kansas City, but I'm now solely providing private individual counseling.
I have 10 years of behavioral health experience with a focus of treating addiction, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders.
50% off initial session with nights and weekends available. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life? Are relationship challenges weighing you down? Do you have concerns that you might be using "a little too much" alcohol or other drugs to cope with it all? Using a warm, individually tailored approach, I offer you a space to process what's on your mind. We'll work together to help you find ways to cope with life, improve your relationships and restore your sense of joy in activities. I formerly served as the clinical supervisor at a substance use treatment center in Kansas City, but I'm now solely providing private individual counseling.
![Photo of James (Jamie) Copaken, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4506b73a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
James (Jamie) Copaken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Mission Hills, KS 66208
Since earning degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and Columbia University, I have helped people work through difficulties, including peer and family conflict, addiction, depression, anxiety, divorce, and grief.
We're all faced with challenges, big and small. Sometimes these grow to overpower and overwhelm us. The adults, children, and families I work with say that I help them feel heard, valued, comfortable, and that I provide a safe place to explore options and pick the right solutions.
Since earning degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and Columbia University, I have helped people work through difficulties, including peer and family conflict, addiction, depression, anxiety, divorce, and grief.
We're all faced with challenges, big and small. Sometimes these grow to overpower and overwhelm us. The adults, children, and families I work with say that I help them feel heard, valued, comfortable, and that I provide a safe place to explore options and pick the right solutions.
![Photo of Shannon Conover, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/832cae90-89cb-4af2-8237-c7280bac32d2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Conover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission, KS 66201
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the areas of Grief and Loss, Depression/Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Life Cycle Transitions, Aging and Aging Relatives, and Personal Growth.
There is no problem too big or too small to address. My main goal as a therapist is to meet the client where they are at and create a safe environment for growing, feeling heard, and learning. Coming from a non judgmental and supportive stance I serve individuals of all backgrounds.
I specialize in the areas of Grief and Loss, Depression/Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Life Cycle Transitions, Aging and Aging Relatives, and Personal Growth.
There is no problem too big or too small to address. My main goal as a therapist is to meet the client where they are at and create a safe environment for growing, feeling heard, and learning. Coming from a non judgmental and supportive stance I serve individuals of all backgrounds.
See more therapy options for Westwood
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Westwood
- Fairway
- Kansas City
- Leawood
- Lenexa
- Merriam
- Mission
- Mission Hills
- Overland Park
- Prairie Village
- Roeland Park
- Shawnee
- Shawnee Mission
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.