Depression Therapists in Royal Oak, MI

Photo of Lynn Lombardo (Body-Based Psychotherapy), MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Lynn Lombardo (Body-Based Psychotherapy)
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Do you feel anxious, depressed, stressed, or overwhelmed? Are you tired of negative self-talk, repetitive thoughts, the same pattern(s) of behavior, or being unhappy in your relationships? Do you want to feel better about yourself and your relationships, experience greater life satisfaction, and have more energy? These things come from having greater self-possession, which is the ability to have a stronger sense of self and be able to fully know and express your truth.
Do you feel anxious, depressed, stressed, or overwhelmed? Are you tired of negative self-talk, repetitive thoughts, the same pattern(s) of behavior, or being unhappy in your relationships? Do you want to feel better about yourself and your relationships, experience greater life satisfaction, and have more energy? These things come from having greater self-possession, which is the ability to have a stronger sense of self and be able to fully know and express your truth.
(248) 453-1545 View (248) 453-1545
Photo of Amelia McGraw, MEd, ATR-BC
Amelia McGraw
MEd, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
My ideal client is someone with an open mind, eager to delve into self-exploration and healing. They may be contending with anxiety, depression, identity struggles, women's issues, or LGBTQ+ challenges—or a combination thereof. They aspire to enhance coping mechanisms, resolve identity dilemmas, nurture relationships, alleviate stress, or simply seek guidance on their path. No prior art experience is required, but a willingness to experiment with diverse mediums is appreciated. Art therapy offers a versatile toolset to accomplish any personal objective.
My ideal client is someone with an open mind, eager to delve into self-exploration and healing. They may be contending with anxiety, depression, identity struggles, women's issues, or LGBTQ+ challenges—or a combination thereof. They aspire to enhance coping mechanisms, resolve identity dilemmas, nurture relationships, alleviate stress, or simply seek guidance on their path. No prior art experience is required, but a willingness to experiment with diverse mediums is appreciated. Art therapy offers a versatile toolset to accomplish any personal objective.
(313) 385-4595 View (313) 385-4595
Photo of Rachael Dobis, LMSW, LCSW, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachael Dobis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, binge eating disorder and emotional eating, trauma, body image, relationship issues, and women’s issues.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck, you don’t have to manage everything alone, I’m here to help. I am a compassionate and non-judgmental therapist who can support you in exploring barriers, behaviors, and thought patterns that are keeping you feeling stuck. I work to create a warm and empathic space that allows you to feel heard and understood. I take a client centered and feminist approach. Together we can work to identify meaningful goals, build awareness of your strengths and capabilities, develop effective coping skills, and cultivate hope.
I specialize in the treatment of adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, binge eating disorder and emotional eating, trauma, body image, relationship issues, and women’s issues.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck, you don’t have to manage everything alone, I’m here to help. I am a compassionate and non-judgmental therapist who can support you in exploring barriers, behaviors, and thought patterns that are keeping you feeling stuck. I work to create a warm and empathic space that allows you to feel heard and understood. I take a client centered and feminist approach. Together we can work to identify meaningful goals, build awareness of your strengths and capabilities, develop effective coping skills, and cultivate hope.
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Photo of Kelly Kellerman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Kellerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Kelly Kellerman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has over 25 years of experience partnering with adolescents and adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma issues, and relationship issues. Kelly completed her Bachelor of Arts in History and Human Services from Albion College and received her Master of Social Work from The University of Chicago.Kelly utilizes a warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative approach while blending evidenced-based interventions such as cognitive-behavioral (CBT), mindfulness, and strength-based approaches to promote healing and wellness.
Kelly Kellerman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has over 25 years of experience partnering with adolescents and adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma issues, and relationship issues. Kelly completed her Bachelor of Arts in History and Human Services from Albion College and received her Master of Social Work from The University of Chicago.Kelly utilizes a warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative approach while blending evidenced-based interventions such as cognitive-behavioral (CBT), mindfulness, and strength-based approaches to promote healing and wellness.
(248) 654-8321 View (248) 654-8321
Photo of Karen LaCourse, PhD, Psychologist
Karen LaCourse
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Dr. LaCourse is a licensed clinical psychologist with 20 years experience as a psychotherapist. She holds additional specializations in health psychology and ecopsychology, and is a registerd nurse. She is a compassionate therapist who strives to create a close and supportive relationship with each client. She has a strong belief in treating the whole person, blending psychotherapy with a focus on wellness, inner peace, and cultivating a closer connection with life. She has expertise in the treatment of a wide range of problems, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, relationship problems, traumatic stress, eating disorders, emotional overeating, and obesity.
Dr. LaCourse is a licensed clinical psychologist with 20 years experience as a psychotherapist. She holds additional specializations in health psychology and ecopsychology, and is a registerd nurse. She is a compassionate therapist who strives to create a close and supportive relationship with each client. She has a strong belief in treating the whole person, blending psychotherapy with a focus on wellness, inner peace, and cultivating a closer connection with life. She has expertise in the treatment of a wide range of problems, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, relationship problems, traumatic stress, eating disorders, emotional overeating, and obesity.
(248) 277-5110 View (248) 277-5110
Photo of Robert Ryan Flewelling, MA, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Robert Ryan Flewelling
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
I believe that the process a perspective client goes through to not only identify the right therapist for them, but also develop a therapeutic relationship, is daunting and difficult. Because of this, I strive to provide a psycho-therapeutic environment that is uniquely collaborative. My approach to psychotherapy reflects the individuality of the client, and also provides an opportunity to identify core difficulties, discover a means of overcoming them, and work towards a deeper self-understanding. I focus on depression, anxiety, trauma resolution, anger, substance abuse, family discord, job stress, and problems of adolescence.
I believe that the process a perspective client goes through to not only identify the right therapist for them, but also develop a therapeutic relationship, is daunting and difficult. Because of this, I strive to provide a psycho-therapeutic environment that is uniquely collaborative. My approach to psychotherapy reflects the individuality of the client, and also provides an opportunity to identify core difficulties, discover a means of overcoming them, and work towards a deeper self-understanding. I focus on depression, anxiety, trauma resolution, anger, substance abuse, family discord, job stress, and problems of adolescence.
(248) 716-6177 View (248) 716-6177
Photo of Sinitra N Applewhite, MA, LPC, Counselor
Sinitra N Applewhite
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Imagine the perfect day, blue skies and the warmth of the sun, cascading across your shoulders. You breathe in the fresh air and feel a weight has been released as you exhale. This is the day you have been waiting for, a day worthy of smiling, a day dedicated just to you. You have identified your triggers and are learning to cope with your: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship concerns or physical pain getting in the way of you leading your best, authentic life. Time seems slower and you feel more present and are mindful of the importance of the present moment.
Imagine the perfect day, blue skies and the warmth of the sun, cascading across your shoulders. You breathe in the fresh air and feel a weight has been released as you exhale. This is the day you have been waiting for, a day worthy of smiling, a day dedicated just to you. You have identified your triggers and are learning to cope with your: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship concerns or physical pain getting in the way of you leading your best, authentic life. Time seems slower and you feel more present and are mindful of the importance of the present moment.
(248) 617-2272 View (248) 617-2272
Photo of Diana M Yurk, PhD, LP, MEd, MFT, QSW, Psychologist
Diana M Yurk
Psychologist, PhD, LP, MEd, MFT, QSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with people of all ages. Although, most of the individuals I work with are 14 years old to 55 years old, I do work with people who are younger and older. The mix of ages is important to my practice for several reasons. My speciality is family psychotherapy and marriage counseling. Since I am addressing the family, I necessarily will deal with individuals of all ages. I work with relationship issues which may include parenting and discipline issues. In addition, I work with adults and children individually and/or within the family regarding abandonment/separation, depression, and anxiety.
I enjoy working with people of all ages. Although, most of the individuals I work with are 14 years old to 55 years old, I do work with people who are younger and older. The mix of ages is important to my practice for several reasons. My speciality is family psychotherapy and marriage counseling. Since I am addressing the family, I necessarily will deal with individuals of all ages. I work with relationship issues which may include parenting and discipline issues. In addition, I work with adults and children individually and/or within the family regarding abandonment/separation, depression, and anxiety.
(313) 806-8137 View (313) 806-8137
Photo of Holly Ann Nabozny, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Ann Nabozny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I do extensive work with people that find themselves feeling "stuck" and are ready live a more fulfilling life. Much of my work is based in the treatment of adults in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, addiction (including food disorders), dissociative disorders, adjustments and transitions, women's issues, relationships and personal growth.
I do extensive work with people that find themselves feeling "stuck" and are ready live a more fulfilling life. Much of my work is based in the treatment of adults in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, addiction (including food disorders), dissociative disorders, adjustments and transitions, women's issues, relationships and personal growth.
(248) 327-0279 View (248) 327-0279
Photo of Marilyn Martin - Talk to Marilyn Counseling & Life Coaching, PLLC, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Talk to Marilyn Counseling & Life Coaching, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or just struggling with day-to-day life, working with an experienced licensed professional as myself can be exceedingly beneficial.
I'm a National Board Certified, Licensed Professional Counselor. I treat clients for depression, anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem and anger issues, post traumatic-stress disorder (PTSD), sexual trauma, career and life coaching. I use an integrated theoretical approach that includes Cognitive Behavior and Existential Therapy. I use an empathic and individualized approach to help my clients. I strive to honor and respect the uniqueness of each individual; beginning therapy by identifying and understanding my client's goals and establishing a treatment plan based on those individualized goals.
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or just struggling with day-to-day life, working with an experienced licensed professional as myself can be exceedingly beneficial.
I'm a National Board Certified, Licensed Professional Counselor. I treat clients for depression, anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem and anger issues, post traumatic-stress disorder (PTSD), sexual trauma, career and life coaching. I use an integrated theoretical approach that includes Cognitive Behavior and Existential Therapy. I use an empathic and individualized approach to help my clients. I strive to honor and respect the uniqueness of each individual; beginning therapy by identifying and understanding my client's goals and establishing a treatment plan based on those individualized goals.
(947) 800-4056 View (947) 800-4056
Photo of Jody Begley, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jody Begley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073  (Online Only)
Stop scrolling through reels for tips and tricks to relieve your persistent symptoms of anxiety and depression—you need more effective help. Therapy provides a path to healing, personal growth, and lasting change. Taking this step is a powerful commitment to prioritize your well-being. I support people struggling with anxiety, panic, OCD, chronic self-doubt, and depression. I am particularly passionate about providing support throughout periods of postpartum adjustment and challenges in relationships and parenting. My straightforward clinical approach is an ideal match for clients seeking practical help to feel better. Finally.
Stop scrolling through reels for tips and tricks to relieve your persistent symptoms of anxiety and depression—you need more effective help. Therapy provides a path to healing, personal growth, and lasting change. Taking this step is a powerful commitment to prioritize your well-being. I support people struggling with anxiety, panic, OCD, chronic self-doubt, and depression. I am particularly passionate about providing support throughout periods of postpartum adjustment and challenges in relationships and parenting. My straightforward clinical approach is an ideal match for clients seeking practical help to feel better. Finally.
(248) 238-8779 View (248) 238-8779
Photo of Megan S Oxley - Michigan Progressive Health- Ketamine Infusions, MD
Michigan Progressive Health- Ketamine Infusions
MD
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
IV KETAMINE INFUSIONS - Michigan Progressive Health is a ketamine infusion clinic under the care of Dr. Megan Oxley in Royal Oak, MI. We treat depression, chronic pain, PTSD, CRPS, OCD, bipolar disorder and fibromyalgia. Ketamine is used in low doses in our office to shut down overactive neurons and help make your brain healthier. Research studies show improvement in 70-80% of patients who are treated with this medication. A series of IV infusions is used to alleviate the symptoms of depression, chronic pain and other mood disorders. Visit our website for more information.
IV KETAMINE INFUSIONS - Michigan Progressive Health is a ketamine infusion clinic under the care of Dr. Megan Oxley in Royal Oak, MI. We treat depression, chronic pain, PTSD, CRPS, OCD, bipolar disorder and fibromyalgia. Ketamine is used in low doses in our office to shut down overactive neurons and help make your brain healthier. Research studies show improvement in 70-80% of patients who are treated with this medication. A series of IV infusions is used to alleviate the symptoms of depression, chronic pain and other mood disorders. Visit our website for more information.
(947) 800-5072 View (947) 800-5072
Photo of Savannah Bennefield, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Savannah Bennefield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
As a social worker, I have experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship concerns, and trauma/PTSD.
“Growth is painful. Change is painful. But nothing is as painful as staying stuck where you do not belong.” (Mandy Hale) Sometimes the path in life looks different from what was imagined or planned. This can cause anxiety, depression, loss of direction, overwhelming sensations, trauma/PTSD, compulsions, and various forms of grief. You do not have to navigate growth and change alone. Together we can create a safe and comfortable place where you can heal from pain and discover a bright path ahead.
As a social worker, I have experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship concerns, and trauma/PTSD.
“Growth is painful. Change is painful. But nothing is as painful as staying stuck where you do not belong.” (Mandy Hale) Sometimes the path in life looks different from what was imagined or planned. This can cause anxiety, depression, loss of direction, overwhelming sensations, trauma/PTSD, compulsions, and various forms of grief. You do not have to navigate growth and change alone. Together we can create a safe and comfortable place where you can heal from pain and discover a bright path ahead.
(248) 453-7169 View (248) 453-7169
Photo of Jeff Gruber, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Jeff Gruber
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I have over 22 years of mental health experience with a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the MiSPP and Master of Arts Degree from the UDM in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in addiction studies. I provide Compassionate and Individualized treatment. My approach to therapy is eclectic utilizing a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, solution focused, insight orientated. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics seeking treatment for anxiety, depression, health issues, divorce, life transitions, stress, LGBT+ issues, parent training, couples counseling, and consultation.
I have over 22 years of mental health experience with a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the MiSPP and Master of Arts Degree from the UDM in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in addiction studies. I provide Compassionate and Individualized treatment. My approach to therapy is eclectic utilizing a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, solution focused, insight orientated. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics seeking treatment for anxiety, depression, health issues, divorce, life transitions, stress, LGBT+ issues, parent training, couples counseling, and consultation.
(248) 809-5454 View (248) 809-5454
Photo of Stephen Pilarcik, PsyD, MS, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Stephen Pilarcik
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Through my training and professional experience, I have worked extensively with issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, and panic disorders and issues related to ADHD, OCD, phobias, intellectual disability, mood disorders, substance abuse, couples, and family interventions.
Do you struggle with sadness, stress, anger, and/or anxiety? Do you struggle within your romantic relationship or have problems within your family relationships? Change is definitely possible and I hope that you want to work together to make this happen! Connection between therapist and patient is key for the therapeutic relationship to work. Beginning therapy can be a very scary and difficult decision. Seeking help is the first step to improve yourself. Over the last 12 years I have provided a genuine and judgment free environment to help work through a variety of behavioral health issues.
Through my training and professional experience, I have worked extensively with issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, and panic disorders and issues related to ADHD, OCD, phobias, intellectual disability, mood disorders, substance abuse, couples, and family interventions.
Do you struggle with sadness, stress, anger, and/or anxiety? Do you struggle within your romantic relationship or have problems within your family relationships? Change is definitely possible and I hope that you want to work together to make this happen! Connection between therapist and patient is key for the therapeutic relationship to work. Beginning therapy can be a very scary and difficult decision. Seeking help is the first step to improve yourself. Over the last 12 years I have provided a genuine and judgment free environment to help work through a variety of behavioral health issues.
(248) 780-1538 View (248) 780-1538
Photo of Matthew Ventimiglia - Matthew Ventimiglia, Ph.D., PhD, LP, Psychologist
Matthew Ventimiglia, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I work with adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, trauma, and relationship difficulties.
I aim to provide a supportive environment in which lasting life changes are made with a greater sense of meaning, purpose, and overall well-being. I specialize in helping individuals overcome behavioral, emotional, and relationship patterns that often result in anxiety, depression, relationship problems, trauma, substance use, low self esteem etc. As a result of therapy, you will have increased self awareness, make better choices for yourself, and develop healthier, more balanced relationships.
I work with adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, trauma, and relationship difficulties.
I aim to provide a supportive environment in which lasting life changes are made with a greater sense of meaning, purpose, and overall well-being. I specialize in helping individuals overcome behavioral, emotional, and relationship patterns that often result in anxiety, depression, relationship problems, trauma, substance use, low self esteem etc. As a result of therapy, you will have increased self awareness, make better choices for yourself, and develop healthier, more balanced relationships.
(586) 501-8360 View (586) 501-8360
Photo of Wendy Croll - Bainbridge Center for Growth & Development , MA, LPC, LLC
Bainbridge Center for Growth & Development
MA, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Bainbridge Center therapists have many years of experience guiding you through the healing process specializing in: working with high achieving woman with perfectionism tendencies who are going through: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship concerns, career and life transitions, ADHD, body distortion, gender identity and substance abuse.
You have been sitting with your thoughts and seem to recycle your memories. You are excellent at suppressing your hurt and stay busy with work and life as a distraction. You no longer connect with others the way you used to and keep friends and family at a distance. The Pandemic may have increased your anxiety and depression and you are uncertain where to begin. Your worry and fear come out as; anger, sadness and controlling behaviors, due to questioning your worth and self esteem. Will I ever feel truly happy? Will I feel truly loved? Will I find my life path and the career that makes my soul soar? Will I learn to forgive?
Bainbridge Center therapists have many years of experience guiding you through the healing process specializing in: working with high achieving woman with perfectionism tendencies who are going through: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship concerns, career and life transitions, ADHD, body distortion, gender identity and substance abuse.
You have been sitting with your thoughts and seem to recycle your memories. You are excellent at suppressing your hurt and stay busy with work and life as a distraction. You no longer connect with others the way you used to and keep friends and family at a distance. The Pandemic may have increased your anxiety and depression and you are uncertain where to begin. Your worry and fear come out as; anger, sadness and controlling behaviors, due to questioning your worth and self esteem. Will I ever feel truly happy? Will I feel truly loved? Will I find my life path and the career that makes my soul soar? Will I learn to forgive?
(248) 265-3095 View (248) 265-3095
Photo of Nick Brooks, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Nick Brooks
Limited Licensed Psychologist, TLLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Immediate Openings! You don’t have to navigate this alone. Let’s explore your thoughts, feelings, and recurring patterns together to uncover what’s holding you back. We’ll discover what’s working well and fine-tune what isn’t. I work with adults of all ages, with a passion for supporting young adults and gay/bi men on their unique journeys. Many of my clients are navigating major life transitions, facing relationship challenges, struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or experiencing feelings of isolation. If that sounds like you, I might be your guy.
Immediate Openings! You don’t have to navigate this alone. Let’s explore your thoughts, feelings, and recurring patterns together to uncover what’s holding you back. We’ll discover what’s working well and fine-tune what isn’t. I work with adults of all ages, with a passion for supporting young adults and gay/bi men on their unique journeys. Many of my clients are navigating major life transitions, facing relationship challenges, struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or experiencing feelings of isolation. If that sounds like you, I might be your guy.
(586) 900-8547 View (586) 900-8547
Photo of Rebecca Wilson-Longlet, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Wilson-Longlet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073  (Online Only)
I am a licensed masters level clinical social worker with over 29 years experience providing mental health treatment to children and adults. I have extensive experience treating a multitude of issues, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, relationship conflicts, family issues and mood disorders. I use a variety of approaches, depending on individual needs, to help my clients achieve their goals.
I am a licensed masters level clinical social worker with over 29 years experience providing mental health treatment to children and adults. I have extensive experience treating a multitude of issues, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, relationship conflicts, family issues and mood disorders. I use a variety of approaches, depending on individual needs, to help my clients achieve their goals.
(989) 283-9047 View (989) 283-9047
Photo of Lacey Trent, LCSW, LMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lacey Trent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I specialize in working with adults in areas including communication, depression, anxiety, stress management, binge eating disorder, grief, self esteem, motivation and adjusting to life transitions. Depending on your unique strengths and challenges, I implement Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness approaches.
I specialize in working with adults in areas including communication, depression, anxiety, stress management, binge eating disorder, grief, self esteem, motivation and adjusting to life transitions. Depending on your unique strengths and challenges, I implement Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness approaches.
(586) 327-5658 View (586) 327-5658
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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.