Depression Therapists in Middletown, KY

Photo of Laura Duke, MBA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Duke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
Experienced in severe and persistent mental illness, depression and anxiety, relational and esteem issues, gender identity concerns, blended family, and phase of life struggles, to name a few.
Laura Duke, MSC, LMFT, graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and a minor in religion and philosophy. She completed her Master of counseling degree at Campbellsville University in Louisville, Kentucky. Ms. Duke has provided counseling services and/or training and supervision for over 10 years in a variety of settings including therapeutic foster care, community counseling, substance abuse treatment and homelessness facilities, EAP, and private practice settings serving children, adults, groups, and individuals, and families for a myriad of problems.
Experienced in severe and persistent mental illness, depression and anxiety, relational and esteem issues, gender identity concerns, blended family, and phase of life struggles, to name a few.
Laura Duke, MSC, LMFT, graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and a minor in religion and philosophy. She completed her Master of counseling degree at Campbellsville University in Louisville, Kentucky. Ms. Duke has provided counseling services and/or training and supervision for over 10 years in a variety of settings including therapeutic foster care, community counseling, substance abuse treatment and homelessness facilities, EAP, and private practice settings serving children, adults, groups, and individuals, and families for a myriad of problems.
(502) 747-1114 View (502) 747-1114
Photo of Lisa Shapiro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
My clients generally feel hopeful almost as soon as making contact with me. It's reassuring to know that your therapist has 30 yrs' experience and can help! I am warm yet direct, creative yet informative, engaged yet objective. My expertise includes: family therapy, individual therapy, couples therapy and group therapy. I am very skilled in counseling adolescents and adults. Through psychotherapy, my clients have enjoyed success in replacing destructive communication patterns in the family with effective skills, overcoming anxiety and depression, connecting with others-intimately or otherwise, and increasing self-esteem.
My clients generally feel hopeful almost as soon as making contact with me. It's reassuring to know that your therapist has 30 yrs' experience and can help! I am warm yet direct, creative yet informative, engaged yet objective. My expertise includes: family therapy, individual therapy, couples therapy and group therapy. I am very skilled in counseling adolescents and adults. Through psychotherapy, my clients have enjoyed success in replacing destructive communication patterns in the family with effective skills, overcoming anxiety and depression, connecting with others-intimately or otherwise, and increasing self-esteem.
(502) 225-3835 View (502) 225-3835
Photo of Terry Hagan - Psychotherapy at Hagan Health, LCSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Psychotherapy at Hagan Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
Welcome to Empowering Encounters—the psychotherapy department at Hagan Health! We have a team of excellent mental health providers who see a wide variety of diagnoses and issues. Our therapists, Colleen, Vern, Suzy, Sheana, & Ervina are trained in a variety of backgrounds including social worker & marriage & family therapy. They are experienced in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, among other diagnosis. We offer individual, couple and family sessions.
Welcome to Empowering Encounters—the psychotherapy department at Hagan Health! We have a team of excellent mental health providers who see a wide variety of diagnoses and issues. Our therapists, Colleen, Vern, Suzy, Sheana, & Ervina are trained in a variety of backgrounds including social worker & marriage & family therapy. They are experienced in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, among other diagnosis. We offer individual, couple and family sessions.
(502) 547-9656 View (502) 547-9656
Photo of Brenda Arellano Bruckner, MS, LPCC, Psychologist
Brenda Arellano Bruckner
Psychologist, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
In addition to treating OCD and eating disorders, I work with individuals who suffer from depression and anxiety, and ADHD-related difficulties, such as inattention, impulsivity, frustration-management and oppositional behaviors.
Do you worry or obsess? Are you tired of your struggle with anxiety? I specialize in providing treatment to children and adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), phobias, and other OCD-related disorders such as trichotillomania and excoriation disorder. As a fluent, native Spanish-speaker, I provide evidence-based treatments in both Spanish and English. I utilize Exposure with Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), the gold standard treatment for OCD. I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness and acceptance-based interventions in the treatment of the above-mentioned disorders.
In addition to treating OCD and eating disorders, I work with individuals who suffer from depression and anxiety, and ADHD-related difficulties, such as inattention, impulsivity, frustration-management and oppositional behaviors.
Do you worry or obsess? Are you tired of your struggle with anxiety? I specialize in providing treatment to children and adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), phobias, and other OCD-related disorders such as trichotillomania and excoriation disorder. As a fluent, native Spanish-speaker, I provide evidence-based treatments in both Spanish and English. I utilize Exposure with Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), the gold standard treatment for OCD. I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness and acceptance-based interventions in the treatment of the above-mentioned disorders.
(502) 947-6008 View (502) 947-6008
Photo of Street Russell, PsyD, HSSP, Psychologist
Street Russell
Psychologist, PsyD, HSSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, KY 40243
Are you tired of your struggle with anxiety? Do you worry or obsess excessively? I specialize in providing treatment for anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety, and phobias to children, teens, and adults. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, tic-related disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and skin-picking disorder (excoriation). I specialize in using the gold standard treatment for OCD: exposure with response prevention (ERP). I specialize in using Acceptance & Commitment Therapy to treat OCD & the above-mentioned conditions.
Are you tired of your struggle with anxiety? Do you worry or obsess excessively? I specialize in providing treatment for anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety, and phobias to children, teens, and adults. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, tic-related disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and skin-picking disorder (excoriation). I specialize in using the gold standard treatment for OCD: exposure with response prevention (ERP). I specialize in using Acceptance & Commitment Therapy to treat OCD & the above-mentioned conditions.
(502) 443-1196 View (502) 443-1196
Photo of Ann D Minch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann D Minch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middletown, KY 40243  (Online Only)
Now offering Ketamine assisted therapy & integration. Referral to local ketamine clinic, I provide the psychotherapy. With 25+ years of counseling experience I can help you create a new chapter to your life story. Do you feel "stuck", repeating patterns that get in the way of you having the life you want? Do you battle with depression, anxiety or low self-worth or are unresolved issues interfering with you achieving your goals? Do you struggle with family relationships or getting over childhood events? Are you an adult with ADHD & need help developing strategies to be successful? Do you have unresolved trauma?
Now offering Ketamine assisted therapy & integration. Referral to local ketamine clinic, I provide the psychotherapy. With 25+ years of counseling experience I can help you create a new chapter to your life story. Do you feel "stuck", repeating patterns that get in the way of you having the life you want? Do you battle with depression, anxiety or low self-worth or are unresolved issues interfering with you achieving your goals? Do you struggle with family relationships or getting over childhood events? Are you an adult with ADHD & need help developing strategies to be successful? Do you have unresolved trauma?
(502) 858-8694 View (502) 858-8694
Photo of Stacy Seitz Conley, MA, LPP
Stacy Seitz Conley
MA, LPP
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
I have hosted a Monday Mindfulness and CBT for anxiety and depression group as well, currently on hold.
If you have been struggling with emotional difficulties, or if your family has had difficulties adjusting, I have over 20 years of experience helping adults, children, teens, and families who struggle with a variety of emotional and relational problems. In therapy I integrate CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and expressive activities with a client-centered nature infused interpersonal approach. I give regular homework and coach clients to practice skills learned and encourage family involvement to accelerate their therapeutic progress. I assess each individual's biopsychosocialspiritual needs and develop goals addressing their entire being.
I have hosted a Monday Mindfulness and CBT for anxiety and depression group as well, currently on hold.
If you have been struggling with emotional difficulties, or if your family has had difficulties adjusting, I have over 20 years of experience helping adults, children, teens, and families who struggle with a variety of emotional and relational problems. In therapy I integrate CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and expressive activities with a client-centered nature infused interpersonal approach. I give regular homework and coach clients to practice skills learned and encourage family involvement to accelerate their therapeutic progress. I assess each individual's biopsychosocialspiritual needs and develop goals addressing their entire being.
(502) 610-0157 View (502) 610-0157
Photo of Chelsey Gorham - Innovative Family Therapy, MSc, LMFT, GC-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Innovative Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT, GC-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Middletown, KY 40243
All of our therapists are trained in many types of therapy, and each have their own specialties such as grief counseling, anxiety, marital/couple's issues, depression, behavioral issues, parenting, trauma, play therapy, addiction and many more.
Immediate openings for daytime, evening, & weekends for in person and teletherapy sessions! We understand that life is full of ups and downs that sometimes lead us to feeling overwhelmed and unsure what steps to take. Our goal at IFT is to provide that space where you can find the support needed to navigate the challenges you are facing, and to not feel alone in your journey. We are that unbiased someone you can put your trust in to help improve your mental health and quality of life. We have an amazing team of therapists ready to provide the support and guidance you need!
All of our therapists are trained in many types of therapy, and each have their own specialties such as grief counseling, anxiety, marital/couple's issues, depression, behavioral issues, parenting, trauma, play therapy, addiction and many more.
Immediate openings for daytime, evening, & weekends for in person and teletherapy sessions! We understand that life is full of ups and downs that sometimes lead us to feeling overwhelmed and unsure what steps to take. Our goal at IFT is to provide that space where you can find the support needed to navigate the challenges you are facing, and to not feel alone in your journey. We are that unbiased someone you can put your trust in to help improve your mental health and quality of life. We have an amazing team of therapists ready to provide the support and guidance you need!
(502) 612-9129 View (502) 612-9129
Photo of Colgan Tyler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colgan Tyler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, KY 40243
My treatment long specialized in work with young males, adult men and families in crisis, but has now broadened to working with all genders and stages of development. Using an eclectic approach, I give the client the support to tell their own story, help them in self-discovery and collaborate to change behaviors and thoughts within their realm of control. I believe all people need to be recognized and valued as creative, sovereign, powerful and emotional human beings. Please note: I co-own and operate a group practice, Mandala House, when you call the number in my profile, your call will be directed there. Thank you.
My treatment long specialized in work with young males, adult men and families in crisis, but has now broadened to working with all genders and stages of development. Using an eclectic approach, I give the client the support to tell their own story, help them in self-discovery and collaborate to change behaviors and thoughts within their realm of control. I believe all people need to be recognized and valued as creative, sovereign, powerful and emotional human beings. Please note: I co-own and operate a group practice, Mandala House, when you call the number in my profile, your call will be directed there. Thank you.
(502) 498-8610 View (502) 498-8610
Photo of Jay Close, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jay Close
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middletown, KY 40243
Are you struggling to manage life or yourself? Are your relationships less than the good they could be in your life? Are you getting in your own way? You may be stressed or stuck. I have worked through, and walked others through struggles. I don't have magic but I have experience in life, counseling, and faith. We can sit together and I will care for you and help you build a better life plan.
Are you struggling to manage life or yourself? Are your relationships less than the good they could be in your life? Are you getting in your own way? You may be stressed or stuck. I have worked through, and walked others through struggles. I don't have magic but I have experience in life, counseling, and faith. We can sit together and I will care for you and help you build a better life plan.
(502) 413-2528 View (502) 413-2528
Photo of Cheri A Levinson - Be Well Kentucky, PhD, Psychologist
Be Well Kentucky
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243  (Online Only)
Our Mission: To offer the highest quality of accessible, evidence-based clinical and professional care that positively impacts our clients and community through active engagement in training, team-based treatment, and research. At our facilities we offer two separate offices: Louisville OCD Clinic and Louisville Center for Eating Disorders.
Our Mission: To offer the highest quality of accessible, evidence-based clinical and professional care that positively impacts our clients and community through active engagement in training, team-based treatment, and research. At our facilities we offer two separate offices: Louisville OCD Clinic and Louisville Center for Eating Disorders.
(502) 443-8688 View (502) 443-8688
Photo of Melanie Hettinger, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Hettinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
I have been practicing in the Louisville area since 2002. My experience ranges from acute inpatient care to out-patient therapy; working with children, adolescents and adults, as well as families and couples. Through my experience I am hoping to further apply my skills working with those who may be dealing with the following issues: anxiety, depressive/mood disorders, grief/death/dying issues, self esteem issues, peer conflicts, ADHD/ADD, social skills, parent/child relationships, and parenting skills. I want to work together to develop a therapeutic relationship that addresses your area of needs combined with empathetic understanding and validation of feelings.
I have been practicing in the Louisville area since 2002. My experience ranges from acute inpatient care to out-patient therapy; working with children, adolescents and adults, as well as families and couples. Through my experience I am hoping to further apply my skills working with those who may be dealing with the following issues: anxiety, depressive/mood disorders, grief/death/dying issues, self esteem issues, peer conflicts, ADHD/ADD, social skills, parent/child relationships, and parenting skills. I want to work together to develop a therapeutic relationship that addresses your area of needs combined with empathetic understanding and validation of feelings.
(502) 265-3930 View (502) 265-3930
Photo of Jessica Flores - Mindive, MSSW, LMFT, LPAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Mindive
Art Therapist, MSSW, LMFT, LPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
Our ideal clients include children, families, individuals, and couples seeking support through life’s challenges. They may face issues like anxiety, relationship struggles, trauma, or personal growth barriers. They seek a safe space to explore emotions, develop coping skills, and achieve meaningful change. Whether they aim to improve relationships, build self-esteem, or enhance mental wellness, they want compassionate guidance to help them understand themselves better and achieve their goals. Our team is here to provide personalized, effective support tailored to each client's unique needs.
Our ideal clients include children, families, individuals, and couples seeking support through life’s challenges. They may face issues like anxiety, relationship struggles, trauma, or personal growth barriers. They seek a safe space to explore emotions, develop coping skills, and achieve meaningful change. Whether they aim to improve relationships, build self-esteem, or enhance mental wellness, they want compassionate guidance to help them understand themselves better and achieve their goals. Our team is here to provide personalized, effective support tailored to each client's unique needs.
(502) 306-3456 View (502) 306-3456
Photo of Emily Bray O'Brien, MEd, LPCC-S, Counselor
Emily Bray O'Brien
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Middletown, KY 40243
Not accepting new clients
Emily has experience in treating mental health diagnoses including Anxiety, Bi-Polar, Depression, and PTSD.
Emily is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which facilitates the accessing and processing of traumatic memories and other negative life experiences to bring these to a more adaptive conclusion. Emily is also informed in Internal Family Systems (IFS), and utilizes CBT, Interpersonal, Motivational Interviewing techniques, Person-Centered, REBT, Solution-Focused, and Trauma-Focused therapy.
Emily has experience in treating mental health diagnoses including Anxiety, Bi-Polar, Depression, and PTSD.
Emily is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which facilitates the accessing and processing of traumatic memories and other negative life experiences to bring these to a more adaptive conclusion. Emily is also informed in Internal Family Systems (IFS), and utilizes CBT, Interpersonal, Motivational Interviewing techniques, Person-Centered, REBT, Solution-Focused, and Trauma-Focused therapy.
(502) 804-2674 View (502) 804-2674

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Adam Thompson Berry, LPCC
Adam Thompson Berry
LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, treating a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, dysfunctional relationships, disordered eating, PTSD, personality disorders, panic attacks, and others.
People are often held captive by their emotions and thoughts, which prevents them from reaching their full potential. My practice is informed by blending mindfulness with other modalities to alleviate this state of distraction and fully experience the present moment. To best treat my clients, I use an integrative approach that draws from many different modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, humanistic, and existential modalities. I am also trained and experienced in EMDR.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, treating a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, dysfunctional relationships, disordered eating, PTSD, personality disorders, panic attacks, and others.
People are often held captive by their emotions and thoughts, which prevents them from reaching their full potential. My practice is informed by blending mindfulness with other modalities to alleviate this state of distraction and fully experience the present moment. To best treat my clients, I use an integrative approach that draws from many different modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, humanistic, and existential modalities. I am also trained and experienced in EMDR.
(502) 747-9149 View (502) 747-9149
Photo of Joseph Mull, LPCC, LCADC, NCC
Joseph Mull
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LCADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
My areas of experience include Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Substance Abuse, Acquired Brain Injury, as well as other behavior and mood disorders. I help individuals overcome personal or interpersonal difficulties affecting mental health.
My areas of experience include Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Substance Abuse, Acquired Brain Injury, as well as other behavior and mood disorders. I help individuals overcome personal or interpersonal difficulties affecting mental health.
(502) 200-1934 View (502) 200-1934
Photo of Patricia Byers, LPCC, Counselor
Patricia Byers
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243  (Online Only)
I have experience assisting with many issues including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, communication, relationship issues, trauma, and grief.
Hi! My name is Misha Byers. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I love engaging with people and have a "helper" personality. Before becoming a therapist I worked in the emergency medical field. My clinical work focuses on helping clients with communication, self-esteem issues, boundary development, anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other life difficulties. My therapy approach is eclectic. I want to gather information from my client and use the therapy techniques that will provide the best outcome for the client.
I have experience assisting with many issues including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, communication, relationship issues, trauma, and grief.
Hi! My name is Misha Byers. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I love engaging with people and have a "helper" personality. Before becoming a therapist I worked in the emergency medical field. My clinical work focuses on helping clients with communication, self-esteem issues, boundary development, anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other life difficulties. My therapy approach is eclectic. I want to gather information from my client and use the therapy techniques that will provide the best outcome for the client.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Heidi Bellile, LPCC, Counselor
Heidi Bellile
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Heidi Bellile. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I have treated many other types of mental health conditions. I also have experience helping people with developmental disabilities and substance abuse issues. I liked to empower you to be all that you can be. I am good springboard for your thoughts and concerns. We can process any traumas from the past or present in sessions. I love the arts and encourage people to utilize expressive means like writing, art, music, movement, or creating things to work through their feelings.
Hi! My name is Heidi Bellile. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I have treated many other types of mental health conditions. I also have experience helping people with developmental disabilities and substance abuse issues. I liked to empower you to be all that you can be. I am good springboard for your thoughts and concerns. We can process any traumas from the past or present in sessions. I love the arts and encourage people to utilize expressive means like writing, art, music, movement, or creating things to work through their feelings.
(859) 659-7935 View (859) 659-7935
Photo of Ashley Royles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Royles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243  (Online Only)
I also see adults and am comfortable in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health disorders.
Hello, I’m Ashley Royles, LCSW. As a licensed clinical social worker, I specialize in supporting individuals through trauma and grief. My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassion and understanding, focusing on creating a safe space for healing. I believe in the power of connection and aim to empower my clients to navigate their emotions and experience, fostering resilience and personal growth. Together, we will work through the complexities of your journey, allowing you to find peace and purpose. My approach to providing therapy is based in trauma-informed care.
I also see adults and am comfortable in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health disorders.
Hello, I’m Ashley Royles, LCSW. As a licensed clinical social worker, I specialize in supporting individuals through trauma and grief. My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassion and understanding, focusing on creating a safe space for healing. I believe in the power of connection and aim to empower my clients to navigate their emotions and experience, fostering resilience and personal growth. Together, we will work through the complexities of your journey, allowing you to find peace and purpose. My approach to providing therapy is based in trauma-informed care.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Quinn Lambert, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Quinn Lambert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223  (Online Only)
My name is Quinn Lambert, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Paducah, KY, working with clients across the state of Kentucky through telehealth. I work with individuals of all ages and specialize in the areas of grief, loss, and bereavement; religious/spiritual trauma or “church hurt;” and anxiety and depression. I use a combination of Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Prolonged Grief Disorder Therapy to help my clients start feeling better and work towards their wellness goals.
My name is Quinn Lambert, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Paducah, KY, working with clients across the state of Kentucky through telehealth. I work with individuals of all ages and specialize in the areas of grief, loss, and bereavement; religious/spiritual trauma or “church hurt;” and anxiety and depression. I use a combination of Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Prolonged Grief Disorder Therapy to help my clients start feeling better and work towards their wellness goals.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569

See more therapy options for Middletown

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.