Depression Therapists in Rutland, MA

Photo of Diane Spindler, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Diane Spindler
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rutland, MA 01543
I specialized in neutralizing trauma which alleviates depression, PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, anger, nightmares, flashbacks and phobias.
I specialize in helping clients let go of the negative emotions that keep people anchored in the past or afraid of the future. These emotions are usually part of either an acute (one time) or chronic (on-going) traumas that a client has experienced in his or her life. Once the emotions are dissolved, the trauma no longer has power over a client and the client has more energy to enjoy life, both present and future.
I specialized in neutralizing trauma which alleviates depression, PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, anger, nightmares, flashbacks and phobias.
I specialize in helping clients let go of the negative emotions that keep people anchored in the past or afraid of the future. These emotions are usually part of either an acute (one time) or chronic (on-going) traumas that a client has experienced in his or her life. Once the emotions are dissolved, the trauma no longer has power over a client and the client has more energy to enjoy life, both present and future.
(508) 928-5093 View (508) 928-5093
Photo of Paul Harris Sandman, EdD, LMHC, Counselor
Paul Harris Sandman
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rutland, MA 01543
My specialties include: the treatment of emotional disorders (anger, depression, stress, and anxiety), alcohol, cocaine, opiate addiction, amphetamines, marijuana, nicotine addiction, weight loss, trauma, recovering from sexual and physical abuse, raising self-esteem, any child and parenting issues, relationship issues, hypnosis, divorce recovery, sleep issues, and eating disorders.
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
My specialties include: the treatment of emotional disorders (anger, depression, stress, and anxiety), alcohol, cocaine, opiate addiction, amphetamines, marijuana, nicotine addiction, weight loss, trauma, recovering from sexual and physical abuse, raising self-esteem, any child and parenting issues, relationship issues, hypnosis, divorce recovery, sleep issues, and eating disorders.
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
(774) 768-0617 View (774) 768-0617
Photo of Donna O'Brien, PhD, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Donna O'Brien
Counselor, PhD, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rutland, MA 01543  (Online Only)
Not currently accepting new clients. I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years, working with men, women, adolescents, couples and groups. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process between client and therapist. As a therapist I try to see the world through the eyes of my clients and accommodate the therapy to their particular needs. First we try to understand the problems that have brought the client into therapy, and we gradually put into practice ways to alleviate them. Unhappiness may take the form of depression, anxiety, panic, life change adjustment, recovery, guilt, grief, or relationship problems.
Not currently accepting new clients. I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years, working with men, women, adolescents, couples and groups. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process between client and therapist. As a therapist I try to see the world through the eyes of my clients and accommodate the therapy to their particular needs. First we try to understand the problems that have brought the client into therapy, and we gradually put into practice ways to alleviate them. Unhappiness may take the form of depression, anxiety, panic, life change adjustment, recovery, guilt, grief, or relationship problems.
(508) 213-5085 View (508) 213-5085
Photo of Chelsea Walsh, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rutland, MA 01543  (Online Only)
Are you having a hard time figuring it all out? What you want, how to get there, or who you are? If you have big ideas that you’re having a hard time translating into daily life, you’ve come to the right place. I love working with adolescents and young adults who want to create a path towards their goals. I often work with people whose anxiety, depression, trauma, or behavioral struggles have held them back from being able to find the version of themself that they seek. If you know where you want to be but can’t get there or if you don’t even know who you want to be, let’s talk. Find out more here: www.ampersandcounselingma.com.
Are you having a hard time figuring it all out? What you want, how to get there, or who you are? If you have big ideas that you’re having a hard time translating into daily life, you’ve come to the right place. I love working with adolescents and young adults who want to create a path towards their goals. I often work with people whose anxiety, depression, trauma, or behavioral struggles have held them back from being able to find the version of themself that they seek. If you know where you want to be but can’t get there or if you don’t even know who you want to be, let’s talk. Find out more here: www.ampersandcounselingma.com.
(978) 295-2714 View (978) 295-2714
Photo of Nathan Gay, PsyD, Psychologist
Nathan Gay
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Rutland, MA 01543
Waitlist for new clients
I also have experience and training in the assessment and/or treatment of social, emotional or behavioral concerns such as anxiety, depression, oppositional/defiant behavior, or school refusal.
I help children and adolescents to learn skills and strategies to improve their attention, complete homework, worry less, be happier or improve their overall self-esteem. I help parents to feel more comfortable, confident and effective in parenting or advocating for their child. I consult with Primary Care Physicians, other treatment providers, and educational teams to help them better understand and support your child's individual strengths and needs. I use effective, practical treatment approaches to help children, adolescents and families reach their unique treatment goals.
I also have experience and training in the assessment and/or treatment of social, emotional or behavioral concerns such as anxiety, depression, oppositional/defiant behavior, or school refusal.
I help children and adolescents to learn skills and strategies to improve their attention, complete homework, worry less, be happier or improve their overall self-esteem. I help parents to feel more comfortable, confident and effective in parenting or advocating for their child. I consult with Primary Care Physicians, other treatment providers, and educational teams to help them better understand and support your child's individual strengths and needs. I use effective, practical treatment approaches to help children, adolescents and families reach their unique treatment goals.
(774) 541-1532 View (774) 541-1532
Photo of Mia Lise Carbone - Mia L. Carbone & Associates, LLC, MA, LMHC, DAy, Counselor
Mia L. Carbone & Associates, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, DAy
Verified Verified
Rutland, MA 01543
I also specialize in women's issues , depression , anxiety, trauma and GBLT .
With more than 20 yrs. professional experience as a licensed psychotherapist, I have a genuine passion to help others & am committed to each client I serve. I have the willingness & capacity to listen closely to what is & isn't spoken with great empathy & compassion, while recognizing & appreciating the therapeutic pacing & timing of each individuals' process. I meet each client exactly where they are in their emotional, psychological & spiritual development & assist them in navigating through their own life challenges without judgement or criticism. I utilize therapeutic model(s) appropriate & effective that facilitate self awareness, understanding , & healing while inspiring hope.
I also specialize in women's issues , depression , anxiety, trauma and GBLT .
With more than 20 yrs. professional experience as a licensed psychotherapist, I have a genuine passion to help others & am committed to each client I serve. I have the willingness & capacity to listen closely to what is & isn't spoken with great empathy & compassion, while recognizing & appreciating the therapeutic pacing & timing of each individuals' process. I meet each client exactly where they are in their emotional, psychological & spiritual development & assist them in navigating through their own life challenges without judgement or criticism. I utilize therapeutic model(s) appropriate & effective that facilitate self awareness, understanding , & healing while inspiring hope.
(978) 696-9653 View (978) 696-9653
Photo of Laurie Ann Majka, LMHC, CAGS, MA, BA, Counselor
Laurie Ann Majka
Counselor, LMHC, CAGS, MA, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rutland, MA 01543
I have been licensed (LMHC) for 9 years, my speciality is children, but I do work with adults too. I have been working with children for more then 30 years. I am trained in play therapy, CBT, Trauma-focused therapy, grief/loss, children of divorce, OCD, parent-child conflicts, relationship conflicts, anxiety, depression, child adoption, IEP's, school related issues, couples therapy and existential therapy - focuses on free will, self-determination and the search for meaning. I believe blending elements from different approaches and tailor the treatment according to each patient's needs. I believe individuals have strengths.
I have been licensed (LMHC) for 9 years, my speciality is children, but I do work with adults too. I have been working with children for more then 30 years. I am trained in play therapy, CBT, Trauma-focused therapy, grief/loss, children of divorce, OCD, parent-child conflicts, relationship conflicts, anxiety, depression, child adoption, IEP's, school related issues, couples therapy and existential therapy - focuses on free will, self-determination and the search for meaning. I believe blending elements from different approaches and tailor the treatment according to each patient's needs. I believe individuals have strengths.
(351) 666-8113 View (351) 666-8113
Photo of Megan Wilson, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Rutland, MA 01543  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker specializing in person-centered care with a specialty in dual disorders, substance use, anxiety, and depression.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker specializing in person-centered care with a specialty in dual disorders, substance use, anxiety, and depression.
(978) 829-6070 View (978) 829-6070
Photo of Renee Nelson, PsyD, Psychologist
Renee Nelson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rutland, MA 01543
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with focused training in health psychology and a specialty in eating disorder treatment. I believe in providing personalized care that is informed by research-based treatments, and in providing concrete skills while increasing insight. Those who have worked with or alongside me know that humor and play are central to who I am as a person, and is respectfully present in the work that I do with my clients.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with focused training in health psychology and a specialty in eating disorder treatment. I believe in providing personalized care that is informed by research-based treatments, and in providing concrete skills while increasing insight. Those who have worked with or alongside me know that humor and play are central to who I am as a person, and is respectfully present in the work that I do with my clients.
(978) 717-2851 View (978) 717-2851
Photo of Emily Van Ness-Wells, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Van Ness-Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rutland, MA 01543
* No current openings at this time* I am a clinical social worker with 14 years of experience in human services. I work with individuals, children, and families and treat a range of issues or concerns. My main focus is to help you reach your own self-directed goals. My style is eclectic, warm, and authentic. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation to successful treatment. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where you have access to a clinician that fits your needs. I utilize mindfulness, heart centered dialog, and compassion to aide in your journey.
* No current openings at this time* I am a clinical social worker with 14 years of experience in human services. I work with individuals, children, and families and treat a range of issues or concerns. My main focus is to help you reach your own self-directed goals. My style is eclectic, warm, and authentic. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation to successful treatment. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where you have access to a clinician that fits your needs. I utilize mindfulness, heart centered dialog, and compassion to aide in your journey.
(508) 476-6312 View (508) 476-6312
Photo of Anna Sawczuk, LMHC, CADC, MA, Counselor
Anna Sawczuk
Counselor, LMHC, CADC, MA
Verified Verified
Rutland, MA 01543
If you are currently experiencing life transitions, feeling overwhelmed by past or present circumstances, or simply seeking a more fulfilling way of living, I may be the therapist you are looking for.
If you are currently experiencing life transitions, feeling overwhelmed by past or present circumstances, or simply seeking a more fulfilling way of living, I may be the therapist you are looking for.
(774) 450-6104 View (774) 450-6104
Photo of Rachel M Kelly, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Rachel M Kelly
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rutland, MA 01543
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in both the home and office settings. I have worked in state and private agencies, and am familiar with the importance of working closely within the identified team to ensure comprehensive treatment. I focus on the individual needs of the client and family when developing treatment plans and goals. My experience includes working with individuals and families with emotional and behavioral concerns, trauma, family conflict, substance abuse, mood disorders, and stress. I take a strength-based approach to treatment, and encourage open and honest communication to motivate growth and change.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in both the home and office settings. I have worked in state and private agencies, and am familiar with the importance of working closely within the identified team to ensure comprehensive treatment. I focus on the individual needs of the client and family when developing treatment plans and goals. My experience includes working with individuals and families with emotional and behavioral concerns, trauma, family conflict, substance abuse, mood disorders, and stress. I take a strength-based approach to treatment, and encourage open and honest communication to motivate growth and change.
(774) 512-3136 View (774) 512-3136
Photo of Dave Russo - Dave Russo, LMFT, LMHC, LMFT, LMHC, Counselor
Dave Russo, LMFT, LMHC
Counselor, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rutland, MA 01543
Not accepting new clients
Dave is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT); a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC); a Pastoral Counselor; and a Level II EMDR Therapist; and has taught in the pastoral counseling graduate program at Assumption College. Dave's academic work includes dual majors in Religious Studies and Psychology at Assumption College; a Master's degree in Theological Studies and Pastoral Counseling at the Claremont School of Theology (CA); and two years of post-graduate academic work in pastoral counseling at Claremont.
Dave is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT); a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC); a Pastoral Counselor; and a Level II EMDR Therapist; and has taught in the pastoral counseling graduate program at Assumption College. Dave's academic work includes dual majors in Religious Studies and Psychology at Assumption College; a Master's degree in Theological Studies and Pastoral Counseling at the Claremont School of Theology (CA); and two years of post-graduate academic work in pastoral counseling at Claremont.
(508) 455-5114 View (508) 455-5114
Photo of Tracie Goodness, PhD, Psychologist
Tracie Goodness
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rutland, MA 01543  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Have you had something traumatic happen in your past, and you don’t know why it’s all coming up right now? Do you ever feel like everyone else got a manual for life, and everything seems so much harder for you? Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with a serious illness (e.g., cancer), and you’re feeling completely overwhelmed? Have you lost a loved one, and you’re feeling stuck in your grief, like you just can’t move forward? (And maybe a part of you doesn’t want to?) Do you toss and turn at night, and you wake up feeling tired and groggy? Do you have chronic pain that gets in the way of your day-to-day activities?
Have you had something traumatic happen in your past, and you don’t know why it’s all coming up right now? Do you ever feel like everyone else got a manual for life, and everything seems so much harder for you? Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with a serious illness (e.g., cancer), and you’re feeling completely overwhelmed? Have you lost a loved one, and you’re feeling stuck in your grief, like you just can’t move forward? (And maybe a part of you doesn’t want to?) Do you toss and turn at night, and you wake up feeling tired and groggy? Do you have chronic pain that gets in the way of your day-to-day activities?
(508) 501-5743 View (508) 501-5743

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Julianne Chace, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julianne Chace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01606  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience working with trauma, children and adolescent mental health, anxiety, depression, stress management, family conflicts, behavioral concerns, coping strategies, low self-esteem, impulsivity, ADHD, autism, impaired decision making and extensive work with problem sexual behaviors in children and adolescents.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling with life’s challenges? I’m here to help. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. My approach is empathetic, client-centered, and tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, adolescent mental health, trauma, mood instability, emotional and behavioral challenges and youth with problem sexual behaviors. I’m committed to supporting you on your journey toward healing and growth. My hope is to provide you with feelings of empowerment, and ability to live the life you want.
I have many years of experience working with trauma, children and adolescent mental health, anxiety, depression, stress management, family conflicts, behavioral concerns, coping strategies, low self-esteem, impulsivity, ADHD, autism, impaired decision making and extensive work with problem sexual behaviors in children and adolescents.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling with life’s challenges? I’m here to help. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. My approach is empathetic, client-centered, and tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, adolescent mental health, trauma, mood instability, emotional and behavioral challenges and youth with problem sexual behaviors. I’m committed to supporting you on your journey toward healing and growth. My hope is to provide you with feelings of empowerment, and ability to live the life you want.
(978) 547-5668 View (978) 547-5668
Photo of Tanieka Gentles - Gentles Counseling Services LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Gentles Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01606
We treat individuals who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation and behavioral difficulties.
We specialize in treating children, adolescents and couples. Our initial focus is to establish a therapeutic relationship with our patients who we work with as we believe that is the foundation for effective therapy. We currently have evening appointments on a weekday in addition to weekends. We offer empathetic listening and also provide direct but therapeutic feedback and support to the individuals we work with. We strongly believe in meeting our clients where he, she or they are at and facilitating him, her or them in addressing the presenting problems.
We treat individuals who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation and behavioral difficulties.
We specialize in treating children, adolescents and couples. Our initial focus is to establish a therapeutic relationship with our patients who we work with as we believe that is the foundation for effective therapy. We currently have evening appointments on a weekday in addition to weekends. We offer empathetic listening and also provide direct but therapeutic feedback and support to the individuals we work with. We strongly believe in meeting our clients where he, she or they are at and facilitating him, her or them in addressing the presenting problems.
(774) 241-9600 View (774) 241-9600
Photo of Kevin Fenton, LMHC, Counselor
Kevin Fenton
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
Kevin Fenton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 4 years of experience in the mental health field. Kevin is passionate about helping adolescents and adults with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and relationships.
Kevin Fenton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over 4 years of experience in the mental health field. Kevin is passionate about helping adolescents and adults with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and relationships.
(508) 290-7445 View (508) 290-7445
Photo of Laurie Ghiz, MA, LMHC, MAC, Lic, Ac, Counselor
Laurie Ghiz
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MAC, Lic, Ac
Verified Verified
West Boylston, MA 01583
Examples of conditions treated are: Bell's Palsy; TMJ; hypertension; anxiety; depression; insomnia; musculoskeletal problems/injuries; PTSD; smoking cessation; weight loss; migraines/headaches; PMS; menstrual irregularities; infertility; IBS; side effects of chemotherapy.
I have 32 years of experience working in the mental health field. My areas of training and expertise in therapy include eating disorders, various anxiety and affective disorders, and people in recovery from alcohol and drugs. I have worked with many people with a variety of problems and diagnoses not listed. I work with adults only in individual therapy. Before contacting me please be sure to check if your insurance plan is one I am currently credentialed with: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tufts and Aetna. Harvard Pilgrim's behavioral health services are received through Optum and I am not yet credentialed with them.
Examples of conditions treated are: Bell's Palsy; TMJ; hypertension; anxiety; depression; insomnia; musculoskeletal problems/injuries; PTSD; smoking cessation; weight loss; migraines/headaches; PMS; menstrual irregularities; infertility; IBS; side effects of chemotherapy.
I have 32 years of experience working in the mental health field. My areas of training and expertise in therapy include eating disorders, various anxiety and affective disorders, and people in recovery from alcohol and drugs. I have worked with many people with a variety of problems and diagnoses not listed. I work with adults only in individual therapy. Before contacting me please be sure to check if your insurance plan is one I am currently credentialed with: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tufts and Aetna. Harvard Pilgrim's behavioral health services are received through Optum and I am not yet credentialed with them.
(508) 501-6668 View (508) 501-6668
Photo of Catherine Pearce Campbell, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Pearce Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01602
I have specialty working with adolescents in the areas of depression, behavior problems, eating disorders, family problems, anxiety, social and school related isues.
I work together with clients to help them achieve greater fulfillment and satisfaction in their lives. Together we identify strengths and develop the skills needed to navigate and manage life challenges. I work well with all ages and have many years of experience working in the mental health system. I enjoy working with my clients and am very flexible in my approach.
I have specialty working with adolescents in the areas of depression, behavior problems, eating disorders, family problems, anxiety, social and school related isues.
I work together with clients to help them achieve greater fulfillment and satisfaction in their lives. Together we identify strengths and develop the skills needed to navigate and manage life challenges. I work well with all ages and have many years of experience working in the mental health system. I enjoy working with my clients and am very flexible in my approach.
(508) 213-8277 View (508) 213-8277
Photo of Beth Gordon, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01609
"The connection between a therapist and an individual is the basis for exploring difficulties and facilitating change." With over 20 years of experience, my passion as a therapist is working with adults, adolescents, and families who are facing various challenges in their day to day lives. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, relationship difficulties, family conflict, school and career issues, and addictions. Through various therapeutic approaches, I work with individuals and families to make changes and to move them through difficult transitions and emotional states.
"The connection between a therapist and an individual is the basis for exploring difficulties and facilitating change." With over 20 years of experience, my passion as a therapist is working with adults, adolescents, and families who are facing various challenges in their day to day lives. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, relationship difficulties, family conflict, school and career issues, and addictions. Through various therapeutic approaches, I work with individuals and families to make changes and to move them through difficult transitions and emotional states.
(508) 928-3921 View (508) 928-3921

See more therapy options for Rutland

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.