Depression Therapists in Redford, MI

Photo of Jessica Wright, MA , LLPC, Counselor
Jessica Wright
Counselor, MA , LLPC
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48239  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Asking for help can be really hard! Talking to a stranger can be uncomfortable. So, I strive to make this process a little bit easier by creating a safe and comfortable space that puts you at ease. Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Depressed? Anxious? Struggling with self-esteem? Whatever it is that you are going through, my goal is to empower you! I believe that you have what you need within you. My goal is to help you bring that out. I work with you to take your expertise in your life and combine it with my clinical knowledge and skills to tailor techniques and strategies to you and your goals.
Asking for help can be really hard! Talking to a stranger can be uncomfortable. So, I strive to make this process a little bit easier by creating a safe and comfortable space that puts you at ease. Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Depressed? Anxious? Struggling with self-esteem? Whatever it is that you are going through, my goal is to empower you! I believe that you have what you need within you. My goal is to help you bring that out. I work with you to take your expertise in your life and combine it with my clinical knowledge and skills to tailor techniques and strategies to you and your goals.
(734) 280-5979 View (734) 280-5979
Photo of Nina Y Jackson - NY Jackson Consulting Svcs, LLC-4Ur Health Therapy, MA, LPC, SCL, Licensed Professional Counselor
NY Jackson Consulting Svcs, LLC-4Ur Health Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SCL
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48240  (Online Only)
I am Nina Jackson, Owner of NY Jackson Consulting Services. My service to you includes over 20 years of experience in the counseling field as a school counselor, academic advisor, and mental health therapist. The primary population I serve are teens, young adults/adults as well as all types of families. I have worked with clients addressing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger management, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and family/parenting problems. I also specialize in life skills development, goal setting, and career development.
I am Nina Jackson, Owner of NY Jackson Consulting Services. My service to you includes over 20 years of experience in the counseling field as a school counselor, academic advisor, and mental health therapist. The primary population I serve are teens, young adults/adults as well as all types of families. I have worked with clients addressing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger management, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and family/parenting problems. I also specialize in life skills development, goal setting, and career development.
(947) 207-3689 View (947) 207-3689
Photo of Sharie Naylor - Risen Counseling LLC , MA, LPC, Counselor
Risen Counseling LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48239  (Online Only)
My focus of counseling is in the aspect of grief and loss, anxiety, trauma, depression, self esteem, inner child wounds with the final output being restoration.
Are you seeking purpose in your life? Do you feel that your life is out of control and in need of redirection? Have you experienced a loss so devastating that the grief is unbearable? At times it can feel like we are struggling to exist in the world. But I assure you this is not where the story has to end. My passion to become a therapist was a direct result of the loss of my mother. Even in the pain of our experiences, there is still hope. Hope exists within us. It is embedded in our being. We just have to tap into it, and do the work to meet our desired goals.
My focus of counseling is in the aspect of grief and loss, anxiety, trauma, depression, self esteem, inner child wounds with the final output being restoration.
Are you seeking purpose in your life? Do you feel that your life is out of control and in need of redirection? Have you experienced a loss so devastating that the grief is unbearable? At times it can feel like we are struggling to exist in the world. But I assure you this is not where the story has to end. My passion to become a therapist was a direct result of the loss of my mother. Even in the pain of our experiences, there is still hope. Hope exists within us. It is embedded in our being. We just have to tap into it, and do the work to meet our desired goals.
(734) 838-5012 View (734) 838-5012
Photo of Todd Losié - Prodigal Journey, BA, MATL, MS, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Todd Losié - Prodigal Journey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MATL, MS, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redford, MI 48240
I specialize in trauma recovery, anxiety, depression, and can treat most things through the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model.
Accepting new clients for virtual or in-person! Ages 11-Adult Sometimes life gets in the way of our happiness. Sometimes we just don't know how to be happy because we took on a dysfunctional way of communicating. Sometimes, we continue to struggle with challenges from our past (abuse, sexual trauma, etc), no matter how hard we try to fix it or how hard we run from it (physically or with substance). You absolutely can get past the challenges that are keeping you from living your best self. I've been in that tough space. I get it. You don't have to do it alone.
I specialize in trauma recovery, anxiety, depression, and can treat most things through the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model.
Accepting new clients for virtual or in-person! Ages 11-Adult Sometimes life gets in the way of our happiness. Sometimes we just don't know how to be happy because we took on a dysfunctional way of communicating. Sometimes, we continue to struggle with challenges from our past (abuse, sexual trauma, etc), no matter how hard we try to fix it or how hard we run from it (physically or with substance). You absolutely can get past the challenges that are keeping you from living your best self. I've been in that tough space. I get it. You don't have to do it alone.
(248) 985-2247 View (248) 985-2247
Photo of Shantael Harbin, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shantael Harbin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redford, MI 48239  (Online Only)
I have supported clients ages 5 and up who experience trauma, depression, ADHD, anxiety, low self-esteem and emotional difficulties.
Are you someone who is dealing with everyday life stressors? Perhaps struggling with not feeling like yourself, but don’t quite know why? Or, maybe find it difficult to communicate your feelings, wants and needs? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you are not alone. The key to perseverance is to acknowledge your struggles and use coping skills to help overcome life’s obstacles. My passion is promoting positive mental health and helping others improve their emotional well-being. I am Shantael Harbin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who seeks to heIp clients regain a sense of self, promoting resiliency.
I have supported clients ages 5 and up who experience trauma, depression, ADHD, anxiety, low self-esteem and emotional difficulties.
Are you someone who is dealing with everyday life stressors? Perhaps struggling with not feeling like yourself, but don’t quite know why? Or, maybe find it difficult to communicate your feelings, wants and needs? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you are not alone. The key to perseverance is to acknowledge your struggles and use coping skills to help overcome life’s obstacles. My passion is promoting positive mental health and helping others improve their emotional well-being. I am Shantael Harbin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who seeks to heIp clients regain a sense of self, promoting resiliency.
(313) 513-0402 View (313) 513-0402
Photo of Markita J McCutchen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Markita J McCutchen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48239
I specialize in treating Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, managing impulsive behavior, school problems, bullying, self-harm, and family issues.
I received my BA in Psychology from Michigan State University and my MA in Counseling from Oakland University. I’ve spent several years working with children, families, and individuals to help them achieve their goals.
I specialize in treating Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, managing impulsive behavior, school problems, bullying, self-harm, and family issues.
I received my BA in Psychology from Michigan State University and my MA in Counseling from Oakland University. I’ve spent several years working with children, families, and individuals to help them achieve their goals.
(248) 750-8971 View (248) 750-8971
Photo of Yvonne Wilson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yvonne Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Redford, MI 48239  (Online Only)
Yvonne Wilson is Michigan Licensed Professional Counselor. Over the past 14 years Mrs. Wilson has worked in community mental health, home based therapy and private practice, focusing on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, work stress, anger management, relationship issues and much more.
Yvonne Wilson is Michigan Licensed Professional Counselor. Over the past 14 years Mrs. Wilson has worked in community mental health, home based therapy and private practice, focusing on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, work stress, anger management, relationship issues and much more.
(313) 349-1409 View (313) 349-1409
Photo of Tye Baker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tye Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Redford, MI 48239
I aim to delve beyond the surface with you to further explore the complexities of life. I specialize in supporting individuals facing complex trauma, depression, anxiety, daily stressors, relationship challenges, grief, attachment styles, self-esteem, and work/life balance. As your therapist, I will provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space to help you achieve personal growth and goals. I value processing the interconnected nature of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. In the words of Maya Angelou, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”
I aim to delve beyond the surface with you to further explore the complexities of life. I specialize in supporting individuals facing complex trauma, depression, anxiety, daily stressors, relationship challenges, grief, attachment styles, self-esteem, and work/life balance. As your therapist, I will provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space to help you achieve personal growth and goals. I value processing the interconnected nature of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. In the words of Maya Angelou, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”
(734) 215-3862 View (734) 215-3862
Photo of Dionne Wilson, MA, LLPC, MMHCA, Counselor
Dionne Wilson
Counselor, MA, LLPC, MMHCA
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48239
Sometimes in life, you can find yourself in a very dark place. Depression and anxiety can slowly creep in especially in these uncertain times. The struggles and issues that are holding you down can restrict you from functioning at your best level. I am a therapist who cares about what you are going through. My overall goal is to help you heal from the wounds of your past and any current presiding issues that are affecting the conditions of your heart and mind. If you want freedom in how you think, act and feel, then contact me so I can assist you with putting the broken pieces of your life back together.
Sometimes in life, you can find yourself in a very dark place. Depression and anxiety can slowly creep in especially in these uncertain times. The struggles and issues that are holding you down can restrict you from functioning at your best level. I am a therapist who cares about what you are going through. My overall goal is to help you heal from the wounds of your past and any current presiding issues that are affecting the conditions of your heart and mind. If you want freedom in how you think, act and feel, then contact me so I can assist you with putting the broken pieces of your life back together.
(248) 955-2109 View (248) 955-2109
Photo of Catherine D Broadnax, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Catherine D Broadnax
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48239
I have worked in community and state agencies with children, adolescents, and adults and specialized in issues such as behavioral disruptions, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and trauma.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? Do you find yourself struggling with repeating concerns in your relationships? Are you in a relationship but still feel alone? Do you feel taken for granted by your spouse? Have you lost that special connection with your partner and can not find it? Do you have frequent moments of sadness, frustration, or constantly struggling to get through each day? This may impact you personally, professionally, or both. You don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. Counseling can often shed light on what you are experiencing to help you develop coping skills and manage strong emotions.
I have worked in community and state agencies with children, adolescents, and adults and specialized in issues such as behavioral disruptions, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and trauma.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? Do you find yourself struggling with repeating concerns in your relationships? Are you in a relationship but still feel alone? Do you feel taken for granted by your spouse? Have you lost that special connection with your partner and can not find it? Do you have frequent moments of sadness, frustration, or constantly struggling to get through each day? This may impact you personally, professionally, or both. You don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. Counseling can often shed light on what you are experiencing to help you develop coping skills and manage strong emotions.
(248) 218-9592 View (248) 218-9592
Photo of Julius Johnson II, MA, LLMSW, CADAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julius Johnson II
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LLMSW, CADAS
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48239
Seeking help in the form of therapy is not an easy thing to do as many can attest, but by reading this biography, you are taking the first step in getting help for yourself or a loved one. Life at times can be very demanding and can cause us to feel hopeless, stressed, depressed and defeated. This is a safe place where those individuals esp. Men can come to express, explore and process all feelings and behaviors. Taking the step to becoming a better you is never easy, as change can take some time getting used to. I like to consider getting started with this journey a major accomplishment, as you have proceeded to become whole again.
Seeking help in the form of therapy is not an easy thing to do as many can attest, but by reading this biography, you are taking the first step in getting help for yourself or a loved one. Life at times can be very demanding and can cause us to feel hopeless, stressed, depressed and defeated. This is a safe place where those individuals esp. Men can come to express, explore and process all feelings and behaviors. Taking the step to becoming a better you is never easy, as change can take some time getting used to. I like to consider getting started with this journey a major accomplishment, as you have proceeded to become whole again.
(248) 780-6056 View (248) 780-6056
Photo of Tanisha Love, LMSW , IMH-E , PCD (DO, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanisha Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , IMH-E , PCD (DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redford, MI 48239
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns included but not limited to depression/ postpartum depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, attachment disorder, social/emotional, behavioral and developmental
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns included but not limited to depression/ postpartum depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, attachment disorder, social/emotional, behavioral and developmental
(313) 217-9643 View (313) 217-9643
Photo of Jamal Patterson - A New Day Counseling LLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A New Day Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48239
Do you have concerns about your child's academic performance or behavior? Does your child have difficulty getting along with others? Are you concerned that your child may need additional supports to be successful? Do you have issues with depression, anxiety or anger? I have over 10 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. I conduct comprehensive evaluations to diagnose and treat many conditions including ADHD, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, and post- traumatic stress disorder.
Do you have concerns about your child's academic performance or behavior? Does your child have difficulty getting along with others? Are you concerned that your child may need additional supports to be successful? Do you have issues with depression, anxiety or anger? I have over 10 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. I conduct comprehensive evaluations to diagnose and treat many conditions including ADHD, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, and post- traumatic stress disorder.
(248) 722-0096 View (248) 722-0096
Photo of Umang Badhwar, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Umang Badhwar
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48239
If you have been experiencing ongoing stress, anxiety, or depression, then let's get to work on you so you can live a more fulfilling life.
I am a Psychotherapist working with children, adults and couples and have been practicing for over 10 years. I work with individuals on a variety of issues and offer therapy from a holistic and integrative approach; combining neuroscience, psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness practices.I feel that each of us is unique in our own way, this uniqueness which creates individuality. This individual way of thinking explains how you experience the world and perceive your reality and, also, the way you endure suffering. Together, as a shared effort we can work towards understanding your experience of the world thus far.
If you have been experiencing ongoing stress, anxiety, or depression, then let's get to work on you so you can live a more fulfilling life.
I am a Psychotherapist working with children, adults and couples and have been practicing for over 10 years. I work with individuals on a variety of issues and offer therapy from a holistic and integrative approach; combining neuroscience, psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness practices.I feel that each of us is unique in our own way, this uniqueness which creates individuality. This individual way of thinking explains how you experience the world and perceive your reality and, also, the way you endure suffering. Together, as a shared effort we can work towards understanding your experience of the world thus far.
(248) 422-1167 View (248) 422-1167
Photo of Kimberly Alabi - Ch.A.T.S Child Therapists, PsyS, LLP, LLPC, CAADC-D, QMHP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Ch.A.T.S Child Therapists
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyS, LLP, LLPC, CAADC-D, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redford, MI 48240
Hello, here at Children Assessment and Therapy Services LLC , we specialize in Children therapies. Does your child or teen suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, irregulated emotions, or even poor grades ? Your child can learn skills that will help with confidence, affect regulation, and coping strategies. Has your child learned how to do "StarFish" breathing or utilize "Dear Man"? We also encourage and teach Kids Yoga and many other Mindfulness techniques. These are some skills that are practiced daily and are proven helpful in improving grades, social and emotional well being.
Hello, here at Children Assessment and Therapy Services LLC , we specialize in Children therapies. Does your child or teen suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, irregulated emotions, or even poor grades ? Your child can learn skills that will help with confidence, affect regulation, and coping strategies. Has your child learned how to do "StarFish" breathing or utilize "Dear Man"? We also encourage and teach Kids Yoga and many other Mindfulness techniques. These are some skills that are practiced daily and are proven helpful in improving grades, social and emotional well being.
(248) 290-6823 View (248) 290-6823
Photo of Bridie Mae Johnson, LMSW , MFT, LCSW, LAC, ICADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridie Mae Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , MFT, LCSW, LAC, ICADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redford, MI 48240
Hello I am the Indigenous therapist for you. I am a licensed clinical/macro social worker with 20 years experience in the field of adult youth and family services. I specialize in generalized anxiety, major depression, PTSD, trauma, sexualtiy and/or gender exploration. Regardless of your cultural needs and expectations I will offer you the support and safe space needed for seeking treatment. For clinicians in the field working on full clinical lisencure. I also am a Supervisor for LMSW licensure both Group and Individial hours needed and offer a study group for the exam exclusively twice a month on Sundays.
Hello I am the Indigenous therapist for you. I am a licensed clinical/macro social worker with 20 years experience in the field of adult youth and family services. I specialize in generalized anxiety, major depression, PTSD, trauma, sexualtiy and/or gender exploration. Regardless of your cultural needs and expectations I will offer you the support and safe space needed for seeking treatment. For clinicians in the field working on full clinical lisencure. I also am a Supervisor for LMSW licensure both Group and Individial hours needed and offer a study group for the exam exclusively twice a month on Sundays.
(313) 777-8236 View (313) 777-8236
Photo of Becky Brant, LMSW, ACSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becky Brant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48239
My approach to therapy is working alongside a person to improve their emotional well-being while overcoming the barriers and struggles they face in their daily life. Whether the struggle is stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse or other issues, I believe that making change, addressing issues, and navigating the healing journey can be a very difficult process and reaching out to a therapist takes strength and courage. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist who motivates clients to change behaviors, build healthier habits, and improve relationships in a safe, friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
My approach to therapy is working alongside a person to improve their emotional well-being while overcoming the barriers and struggles they face in their daily life. Whether the struggle is stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse or other issues, I believe that making change, addressing issues, and navigating the healing journey can be a very difficult process and reaching out to a therapist takes strength and courage. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist who motivates clients to change behaviors, build healthier habits, and improve relationships in a safe, friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
(734) 666-9899 View (734) 666-9899
Photo of Susan M Spolsky - S.M. Piro-Spolsky PLLC, LMSW, ACSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
S.M. Piro-Spolsky PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48239
• Are you feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed? • Are you depressed and feeling like each day is a struggle? •Are you contemplating a divorce due to an abusive partner? • Do you find yourself indecisive ? • Do you find that you have more trouble concentrating or staying focused than most people? • Have you tried to solve the problems in your life and realized you can’t seem to do it on your own? •
• Are you feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed? • Are you depressed and feeling like each day is a struggle? •Are you contemplating a divorce due to an abusive partner? • Do you find yourself indecisive ? • Do you find that you have more trouble concentrating or staying focused than most people? • Have you tried to solve the problems in your life and realized you can’t seem to do it on your own? •
(734) 228-1682 View (734) 228-1682
Photo of Caprice Ellene Quinn (The Gentle Caress), MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caprice Ellene Quinn (The Gentle Caress)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48239  (Online Only)
We live in a world where life can come at you a million different ways from instant unemployment, death of a loved one, relationship struggles, financial strains, & more which can cause stress, depression, anxiety which can lead to unhealthy ways to cope.
Working out of 6 offices around the Metro Detroit area, We are a Mental & Physical Health service that offers Mental Therapy to exercise the mind and if requested we have Fitness Training to exercise the body. We put an emphasis on pregnant & postpartum mothers by offering monthly mommy fitness classes and monthly mommy discussion circles to help prevent or relieve postpartum depression. We have 3 highly educated Licensed therapists and a personal trainer on staff.
We live in a world where life can come at you a million different ways from instant unemployment, death of a loved one, relationship struggles, financial strains, & more which can cause stress, depression, anxiety which can lead to unhealthy ways to cope.
Working out of 6 offices around the Metro Detroit area, We are a Mental & Physical Health service that offers Mental Therapy to exercise the mind and if requested we have Fitness Training to exercise the body. We put an emphasis on pregnant & postpartum mothers by offering monthly mommy fitness classes and monthly mommy discussion circles to help prevent or relieve postpartum depression. We have 3 highly educated Licensed therapists and a personal trainer on staff.
(248) 218-9965 View (248) 218-9965
Photo of Eleanor L Reynolds - Good Health & Aging Well Counseling Coaching PLLC, MA, LLPC, M-CHC, EMDR, Counselor
Good Health & Aging Well Counseling Coaching PLLC
Counselor, MA, LLPC, M-CHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Redford, MI 48239
I specialize in helping veterans and those with grief, anger, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, issues in family/marriages, post partum moms, teens, those in transition, and much more.
Reclaim your life. You have a destined purpose. You are not without hope or a future and stuck forever. I provide a safe place where you can be understood, pour out your heart, clear your head and find peace and clarity. My passion is to empower and strengthen you with resources for life. Uncontrollable negative emotions can cause hurt, loss, and hold us captive like slaves, causing problems like insomnia, or relationship and health issues, robbing us and stealing precious time. That's not living a best life. Is this you? I help individuals overcome. I did. You can too. Don't try to wait or fix it. Stop the cycle, it's a new day.
I specialize in helping veterans and those with grief, anger, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, issues in family/marriages, post partum moms, teens, those in transition, and much more.
Reclaim your life. You have a destined purpose. You are not without hope or a future and stuck forever. I provide a safe place where you can be understood, pour out your heart, clear your head and find peace and clarity. My passion is to empower and strengthen you with resources for life. Uncontrollable negative emotions can cause hurt, loss, and hold us captive like slaves, causing problems like insomnia, or relationship and health issues, robbing us and stealing precious time. That's not living a best life. Is this you? I help individuals overcome. I did. You can too. Don't try to wait or fix it. Stop the cycle, it's a new day.
(947) 282-9092 View (947) 282-9092
1
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.