Depression Therapists in Lancaster, MA

Photo of Amanda Casto, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amanda Casto
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Lancaster, MA 01523
Amanda Casto is working towards licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 2 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate in helping young adults, adults, and couples face any challenges they may be experiencing. Amanda specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions. Amanda completed her Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling at Eastern Illinois University. She has experience with navigating stressors of student life and major life changes.
Amanda Casto is working towards licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 2 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate in helping young adults, adults, and couples face any challenges they may be experiencing. Amanda specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions. Amanda completed her Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling at Eastern Illinois University. She has experience with navigating stressors of student life and major life changes.
(978) 440-6883 View (978) 440-6883
Photo of Sunny Huang, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sunny Huang
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Lancaster, MA 01523  (Online Only)
Sunny Huang is working towards licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 2 years of experience. She has worked with adolescents and adults in both individual & group settings, addressing a diverse range of issues including depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, & family conflicts. Sunny's approach is deeply client-centered, focusing on identifying the underlying causes of their psychological distress while providing a supportive environment for exploring their innermost thoughts & emotions. Through this process, she empowers her clients to embark on their unique journeys of growth & healing
Sunny Huang is working towards licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 2 years of experience. She has worked with adolescents and adults in both individual & group settings, addressing a diverse range of issues including depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, & family conflicts. Sunny's approach is deeply client-centered, focusing on identifying the underlying causes of their psychological distress while providing a supportive environment for exploring their innermost thoughts & emotions. Through this process, she empowers her clients to embark on their unique journeys of growth & healing
(978) 634-6681 View (978) 634-6681
Photo of Ashley Kitchen Sweet, LMHC, Counselor
Ashley Kitchen Sweet
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, MA 01523  (Online Only)
Ashley Kitchen-Sweet is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Massachusetts who has over 5 years of experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adults, families/couples, and children seeking help with depression/anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and family/couples issues. She is very committed to providing an easy transition into therapy for her clients and is passionate about their progress. Ashley completed her Bachelor's degree in Sociology at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and completed her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University.
Ashley Kitchen-Sweet is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Massachusetts who has over 5 years of experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adults, families/couples, and children seeking help with depression/anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and family/couples issues. She is very committed to providing an easy transition into therapy for her clients and is passionate about their progress. Ashley completed her Bachelor's degree in Sociology at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and completed her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University.
(351) 206-0524 View (351) 206-0524
Photo of Randi Braun, LMHC, Counselor
Randi Braun
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, MA 01523  (Online Only)
Randall Paige Braun (Randi) is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who offers counseling services to individuals, children, and families seeking support for mental health needs including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and schizophrenia. Randi has 3 years of experience in the mental health field.
Randall Paige Braun (Randi) is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who offers counseling services to individuals, children, and families seeking support for mental health needs including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and schizophrenia. Randi has 3 years of experience in the mental health field.
(351) 777-6069 View (351) 777-6069
Photo of Meridith Nicholaev, Pre-Licensed Professional
Meridith Nicholaev
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Lancaster, MA 01523  (Online Only)
Meridith Nicholaev is a dedicated Mental Health Counselor seeking her licensure. She has 2 years of experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds and diagnoses at inpatient units and community-based programs. Her passion is to provide therapeutic care to adults seeking relief from anxiety, addiction, adjustment disorders, stress, and communication challenges. She believes building trust and rapport must be the cornerstone of any good therapeutic relationship to foster a supportive and safe environment. Anything can be said freely and without judgment and be met with warmth and empathy.
Meridith Nicholaev is a dedicated Mental Health Counselor seeking her licensure. She has 2 years of experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds and diagnoses at inpatient units and community-based programs. Her passion is to provide therapeutic care to adults seeking relief from anxiety, addiction, adjustment disorders, stress, and communication challenges. She believes building trust and rapport must be the cornerstone of any good therapeutic relationship to foster a supportive and safe environment. Anything can be said freely and without judgment and be met with warmth and empathy.
(978) 574-7998 View (978) 574-7998
Photo of Karen Sullivan, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, MA 01523
Waitlist for new clients
I have been a social worker for over 23 years and have worked in a number of different settings, which allowed me to gain knowledge and experience to address any presenting concerns you may have. In my practice, I will guide, nurture, and work together with you on your concerns. I will work with you using a solution-based approach based upon your own individual situation. I am here to help you transform your life through awareness, support, and insight. You are not in this alone, I am here to help you!
I have been a social worker for over 23 years and have worked in a number of different settings, which allowed me to gain knowledge and experience to address any presenting concerns you may have. In my practice, I will guide, nurture, and work together with you on your concerns. I will work with you using a solution-based approach based upon your own individual situation. I am here to help you transform your life through awareness, support, and insight. You are not in this alone, I am here to help you!
(978) 310-0762 View (978) 310-0762
Photo of Amy Chase - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Leominster, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Leominster
Counselor
Verified Verified
Lancaster, MA 01523
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Natalie Toth, MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Natalie Toth
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, MA 01523
I enjoy working with people of all ages who are interested in finding meaning in and making peace with their lives. My high school English teacher left two indelible ideas in my head, a quote from Socrates "The unexamined life is not worth living" and the Latin question "Quo Vadis?" or "Where are you going?". Since then, I have not only held this sense of curiosity for my own journey but practiced the profession in which I get to be present with other people as they embrace curiosity for their own lives, face their challenges, losses and changes, heal their wounds, and find their directions.
I enjoy working with people of all ages who are interested in finding meaning in and making peace with their lives. My high school English teacher left two indelible ideas in my head, a quote from Socrates "The unexamined life is not worth living" and the Latin question "Quo Vadis?" or "Where are you going?". Since then, I have not only held this sense of curiosity for my own journey but practiced the profession in which I get to be present with other people as they embrace curiosity for their own lives, face their challenges, losses and changes, heal their wounds, and find their directions.
(351) 300-4161 View (351) 300-4161
Photo of Dianne M Walsh - Center for Behavioral Health at RFKCA, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Center for Behavioral Health at RFKCA
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, MA 01523
The Center for Behavioral Health is a community-based outpatient clinic treating the mental and behavioral health needs of children, adolescents, adults, and their families. We seek to help those who are willing to take the next step in getting the support they need to develop new skills to navigate any issues they may be facing. Our licensed, and certified therapists will work collaboratively with you, to develop a plan to help you achieve your goals in therapy. Our model is short term, evidence-based and goal oriented so you are always working towards your treatment goals.
The Center for Behavioral Health is a community-based outpatient clinic treating the mental and behavioral health needs of children, adolescents, adults, and their families. We seek to help those who are willing to take the next step in getting the support they need to develop new skills to navigate any issues they may be facing. Our licensed, and certified therapists will work collaboratively with you, to develop a plan to help you achieve your goals in therapy. Our model is short term, evidence-based and goal oriented so you are always working towards your treatment goals.
(978) 368-6442 View (978) 368-6442
Photo of Melissa Yazir, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Yazir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, MA 01523  (Online Only)
Melissa is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Massachusetts and holds the equivalent titles in both New York and California. She has over 10 plus years of experience serving individuals in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, as well as in correctional settings across the country and in Canada. Melissa earned her Bachelors of Science in Therapeutic Recreation from SUNY Brockport and her Masters of Social Work from SUNY Brockport and Nazareth College’s collaborative program.
Melissa is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Massachusetts and holds the equivalent titles in both New York and California. She has over 10 plus years of experience serving individuals in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, as well as in correctional settings across the country and in Canada. Melissa earned her Bachelors of Science in Therapeutic Recreation from SUNY Brockport and her Masters of Social Work from SUNY Brockport and Nazareth College’s collaborative program.
(978) 620-0508 View (978) 620-0508
Photo of Meghan Kelley, LMHC, Counselor
Meghan Kelley
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, MA 01523  (Online Only)
Meghan Kelley is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Meg has experience working with adults in both individual and group counseling. She treats a variety of issues, including anger management, stress management, reintegration from incarceration to society, anxiety, mood, trauma, personality, and substance use disorders. Meg completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Boston University and her Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Forensic and Correctional Counseling at William James College.
Meghan Kelley is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Meg has experience working with adults in both individual and group counseling. She treats a variety of issues, including anger management, stress management, reintegration from incarceration to society, anxiety, mood, trauma, personality, and substance use disorders. Meg completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Boston University and her Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Forensic and Correctional Counseling at William James College.
(351) 213-7406 View (351) 213-7406
Photo of John Beland - John Beland, LICSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Beland, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, MA 01523
Not accepting new clients
My specialties/areas of interest: depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-defeating behaviors, feeling stuck/unfulfilled, intimacy and relationship difficulties, and effects of trauma.
Looking for a therapist can feel daunting when you already feel sad, hopeless or lost. It takes courage to consider that something in your life is not working, that you could use help. Psychotherapy allows you to get acquainted with yourself and the world you inhabit in a new way. Through this expanded field of view, you are better equipped to make choices that will help you achieve your goals. It is also not uncommon to have difficulty identifying goals, desires and feelings. Together, we can help you to discover, develop, and integrate these many different parts of you.
My specialties/areas of interest: depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-defeating behaviors, feeling stuck/unfulfilled, intimacy and relationship difficulties, and effects of trauma.
Looking for a therapist can feel daunting when you already feel sad, hopeless or lost. It takes courage to consider that something in your life is not working, that you could use help. Psychotherapy allows you to get acquainted with yourself and the world you inhabit in a new way. Through this expanded field of view, you are better equipped to make choices that will help you achieve your goals. It is also not uncommon to have difficulty identifying goals, desires and feelings. Together, we can help you to discover, develop, and integrate these many different parts of you.
(774) 484-1985 View (774) 484-1985
Photo of Tamara Perini, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Perini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, MA 01523
Not accepting new clients
Providing confidential psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families ranging from adolescents to older adults. Specializing in treatment for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, adjustment disorders and stress in both a cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic approach. I am here to help you through difficult times, such as a divorce, loss of a loved one, or just getting through a rough patch in your life. We will focus on empowerment and self-change to help motivate a more positive, stable, and meaningful life.
Providing confidential psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families ranging from adolescents to older adults. Specializing in treatment for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, adjustment disorders and stress in both a cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic approach. I am here to help you through difficult times, such as a divorce, loss of a loved one, or just getting through a rough patch in your life. We will focus on empowerment and self-change to help motivate a more positive, stable, and meaningful life.
(978) 216-5112 View (978) 216-5112

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leslie Benson - Leslie Benson, LICSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Benson, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Clinton, MA 01510
Most of my experience has been in treating adolescents and adults with Mood Disorders such as Depression or Bi-polar Disorder, Anxiety, trauma, relational and social challenges, interpersonal and identity questions, divorce and co-dependency.
With 20 years’ experience, I have learned to meet you where you are in this journey. To assist you in adapting to change, manage symptoms that hinder your progress, and to help you improve your relationship with self and others. As a professional who is also a human being, my approach is warm and empathetic, while treatment is guided by a strong sense of ethics and a wealth of background knowledge and life experience.
Most of my experience has been in treating adolescents and adults with Mood Disorders such as Depression or Bi-polar Disorder, Anxiety, trauma, relational and social challenges, interpersonal and identity questions, divorce and co-dependency.
With 20 years’ experience, I have learned to meet you where you are in this journey. To assist you in adapting to change, manage symptoms that hinder your progress, and to help you improve your relationship with self and others. As a professional who is also a human being, my approach is warm and empathetic, while treatment is guided by a strong sense of ethics and a wealth of background knowledge and life experience.
(351) 444-3866 View (351) 444-3866
Photo of Erin Chetwynd - Erin Chetwynd-LMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Erin Chetwynd-LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clinton, MA 01510  (Online Only)
My goal is to meet you where you are at and help you learn new ways to feel more in control while decreasing anxiety and depression and increasing self-esteem and self-compassion.
Anxiety and depression can be a daily struggle that feels isolating and overwhelming. I work with you to build a positive therapeutic relationship in order to find hope and learn ways to feel better. I work with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and anger management. My goal is to help you feel more empowered and connected while learning to be kinder to yourself. We will work together to help you identify and build on your strengths and learn healthy strategies to manage life when it feels difficult.
My goal is to meet you where you are at and help you learn new ways to feel more in control while decreasing anxiety and depression and increasing self-esteem and self-compassion.
Anxiety and depression can be a daily struggle that feels isolating and overwhelming. I work with you to build a positive therapeutic relationship in order to find hope and learn ways to feel better. I work with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and anger management. My goal is to help you feel more empowered and connected while learning to be kinder to yourself. We will work together to help you identify and build on your strengths and learn healthy strategies to manage life when it feels difficult.
(351) 200-8878 View (351) 200-8878
Photo of Jessica Jolly, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Jolly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, MA 01510
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Having trouble identifying ways to cope? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or feelings of worthlessness? Are you searching for a listening ear, a supportive individual, or a guiding hand on your journey toward emotional well-being and personal transformation? You do not have to face these difficulties alone. I am a dedicated pre-licensed mental health counselor passionate about helping individuals overcome life's challenges and promote change and healing. I understand that everyone’s journey is unique, and I find importance in meeting you where you are in your journey.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Having trouble identifying ways to cope? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or feelings of worthlessness? Are you searching for a listening ear, a supportive individual, or a guiding hand on your journey toward emotional well-being and personal transformation? You do not have to face these difficulties alone. I am a dedicated pre-licensed mental health counselor passionate about helping individuals overcome life's challenges and promote change and healing. I understand that everyone’s journey is unique, and I find importance in meeting you where you are in your journey.
(774) 252-9147 View (774) 252-9147
Photo of Sarah Kilduff, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Kilduff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clinton, MA 01510
I specialize in complex trauma histories, anxiety disorders, depression, and personality disorders.
I work with clients across the lifespan with many different needs. It is important to me that clients of all identities feel safe and respected in therapy. As a professional, I want to continue to work with clients who identify on the LGBTQ+ spectrum, have different cultural backgrounds, have different abilities, and of all body types. I support my clients in reaching their goals by working together and empowering them to take the next step! I strive to help my clients find solace and comfort, build knowledge of coping strategies, and grow to the person they want to be.
I specialize in complex trauma histories, anxiety disorders, depression, and personality disorders.
I work with clients across the lifespan with many different needs. It is important to me that clients of all identities feel safe and respected in therapy. As a professional, I want to continue to work with clients who identify on the LGBTQ+ spectrum, have different cultural backgrounds, have different abilities, and of all body types. I support my clients in reaching their goals by working together and empowering them to take the next step! I strive to help my clients find solace and comfort, build knowledge of coping strategies, and grow to the person they want to be.
(978) 733-9089 View (978) 733-9089
Photo of Kirsten Strainge Immediate Openings, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kirsten Strainge Immediate Openings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, MA 01510  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety or depression, emotion regulation, adjustment to trauma, grief, life transitions, identity exploration, challenges within relationships, postpartum, difficulties within your role as a parent, and other life stressors.
Immediate openings for Telehealth! Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker with years of experience in the field working with children and families. I welcome a therapeutic relationship with children, teens and young adults. It is important to me that I work with a diverse group of people, and I appreciate forming partnerships with individuals of all ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities.
I specialize in anxiety or depression, emotion regulation, adjustment to trauma, grief, life transitions, identity exploration, challenges within relationships, postpartum, difficulties within your role as a parent, and other life stressors.
Immediate openings for Telehealth! Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker with years of experience in the field working with children and families. I welcome a therapeutic relationship with children, teens and young adults. It is important to me that I work with a diverse group of people, and I appreciate forming partnerships with individuals of all ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities.
(978) 541-4296 View (978) 541-4296
Photo of Jennifer Croft, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Croft
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, MA 01510
I have over 15 years of experience with adults in trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
I will work with you to understand the current issues and collaborate with you on a plan of action to create the change you are seeking. My approach is client centered with a focus on proven treatment models. We will build on your strengths and develop the skills you need to cope effectively. I will offer you a non-judgmental caring approach that understands you are not defined by the obstacles you face. Therapy should be a place where you are at ease talking about whatever is important to you.
I have over 15 years of experience with adults in trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
I will work with you to understand the current issues and collaborate with you on a plan of action to create the change you are seeking. My approach is client centered with a focus on proven treatment models. We will build on your strengths and develop the skills you need to cope effectively. I will offer you a non-judgmental caring approach that understands you are not defined by the obstacles you face. Therapy should be a place where you are at ease talking about whatever is important to you.
(978) 310-3346 View (978) 310-3346
Photo of Kathleen Quinn, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Quinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Clinton, MA 01510
Specialties include anxiety, depression, and chronically medically ill children and adults.
Therapy should begin with establishing a trusting and therapeutic relationship in a relaxing environment where clients of all ages feel comfortable, safe & understood (my dog Taffy is my 'co-therapist'!). I believe ALL people have hidden strengths (yes, you too!) that can be used and build upon, while simultaneously learning how past traumas influence thoughts, actions, and self esteem. Therapy is about processing the past while gaining insight and receiving encouragement and support to progress and feel better emotionally.
Specialties include anxiety, depression, and chronically medically ill children and adults.
Therapy should begin with establishing a trusting and therapeutic relationship in a relaxing environment where clients of all ages feel comfortable, safe & understood (my dog Taffy is my 'co-therapist'!). I believe ALL people have hidden strengths (yes, you too!) that can be used and build upon, while simultaneously learning how past traumas influence thoughts, actions, and self esteem. Therapy is about processing the past while gaining insight and receiving encouragement and support to progress and feel better emotionally.
(508) 802-4791 View (508) 802-4791

See more therapy options for Lancaster

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.