Depression Therapists in Albert Lea, MN

Photo of Melanie Marie Sanchez, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Marie Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Albert Lea, MN 56007
Feeling down lately? Depression have a grip on you and it’s interfering with your daily activities? Maybe it’s anxiety, other mental health condition, loss of a loved one, a traumatic experience, or maybe it’s life stress compounding and you just can’t seem to catch a break!? As society is adjusting to our “new normal” (lifestyle post-pandemic) struggles and constant change seem to be around every corner. Want a place to vent? Rediscover yourself and your zest for life? I utilize a strength-based approached in a welcoming environment. I also offer mindfulness and somatic therapy options.
Feeling down lately? Depression have a grip on you and it’s interfering with your daily activities? Maybe it’s anxiety, other mental health condition, loss of a loved one, a traumatic experience, or maybe it’s life stress compounding and you just can’t seem to catch a break!? As society is adjusting to our “new normal” (lifestyle post-pandemic) struggles and constant change seem to be around every corner. Want a place to vent? Rediscover yourself and your zest for life? I utilize a strength-based approached in a welcoming environment. I also offer mindfulness and somatic therapy options.
(507) 575-6026 View (507) 575-6026
Photo of Brenda K. Oja, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenda K. Oja
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albert Lea, MN 56007
Brenda has a Bachelors of Science degree in Youth Ministry from the University of Northwestern and a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Brenda is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Minnesota. She works with Adolescents age 16 and up, adults and couples. Special interests: Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders, Self-esteem issues, Spirituality, and Life Adjustment challenges. Brenda desires to see clients empowered to learn, grow, and heal from past hurts while discovering their best self.
Brenda has a Bachelors of Science degree in Youth Ministry from the University of Northwestern and a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Brenda is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Minnesota. She works with Adolescents age 16 and up, adults and couples. Special interests: Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders, Self-esteem issues, Spirituality, and Life Adjustment challenges. Brenda desires to see clients empowered to learn, grow, and heal from past hurts while discovering their best self.
(507) 873-3722 View (507) 873-3722
Photo of Abigail Goskeson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Goskeson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Albert Lea, MN 56007
I believe in building relationships in therapy that free people to find balance in their own lives. As a therapist, I focus on you. I want to understand your thoughts and feelings. I don’t judge; I listen. I don’t pressure; I provide a safe place. We all have important things to hold onto. We all go through times we need to let go. Sometimes it is easy to feel lost. Let me help you find your way.
I believe in building relationships in therapy that free people to find balance in their own lives. As a therapist, I focus on you. I want to understand your thoughts and feelings. I don’t judge; I listen. I don’t pressure; I provide a safe place. We all have important things to hold onto. We all go through times we need to let go. Sometimes it is easy to feel lost. Let me help you find your way.
(507) 431-0494 View (507) 431-0494
Photo of Sara Livingston-Burke, MA, LPCC
Sara Livingston-Burke
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albert Lea, MN 56007
I love working with women of all ages and helping them identify and prosper past their challenges whether it is work, family, relationships, body image, nutrition, infertility, changes of life stages, etc. my ideal client doesn’t mind challenging herself. My client is looking to grow closer and discover new things about herself and how to handle life’s challenges.
I love working with women of all ages and helping them identify and prosper past their challenges whether it is work, family, relationships, body image, nutrition, infertility, changes of life stages, etc. my ideal client doesn’t mind challenging herself. My client is looking to grow closer and discover new things about herself and how to handle life’s challenges.
(507) 416-3714 View (507) 416-3714
Photo of Dr. Brenden Troster, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Brenden Troster
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Albert Lea, MN 56007
Do you feel overwhelmed by constant worries that disrupt your daily activities and peace of mind? Living with anxiety can mean sleepless nights, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms like restlessness or a racing heart. It's exhausting to feel like you're always on edge, and I understand the weight and persistence of these feelings. You're not alone in this, and acknowledging your struggles is the first step towards recovery
Do you feel overwhelmed by constant worries that disrupt your daily activities and peace of mind? Living with anxiety can mean sleepless nights, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms like restlessness or a racing heart. It's exhausting to feel like you're always on edge, and I understand the weight and persistence of these feelings. You're not alone in this, and acknowledging your struggles is the first step towards recovery
(507) 668-7142 View (507) 668-7142
Photo of Terry Whitman, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terry Whitman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Albert Lea, MN 56007
All of us find ourselves in need of support at some point in our lives. Finding someone to sort those life experiences can be difficult. It is my wish to support those experiencing life challenges and provide that confidential listening space. I utilize integrated therapies depending on the individual needs and goals. I have many years of grief and trauma counseling with individuals and groups. Seeking counsel takes courage and a desire to attain a healthier future for yourself. I would enjoy getting to help you with that support.
All of us find ourselves in need of support at some point in our lives. Finding someone to sort those life experiences can be difficult. It is my wish to support those experiencing life challenges and provide that confidential listening space. I utilize integrated therapies depending on the individual needs and goals. I have many years of grief and trauma counseling with individuals and groups. Seeking counsel takes courage and a desire to attain a healthier future for yourself. I would enjoy getting to help you with that support.
(507) 431-1769 View (507) 431-1769
Photo of Holly Raatz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly Raatz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Albert Lea, MN 56007
One of my primary motivations for pursuing a career in this field is my genuine belief in the resilience and strength of individuals and their relationships. I am inspired by the ability of therapy to empower individuals and families to face adversity, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional bonds. I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive space, where clients can feel safe to explore their thoughts, emotions, and relational dynamics.
One of my primary motivations for pursuing a career in this field is my genuine belief in the resilience and strength of individuals and their relationships. I am inspired by the ability of therapy to empower individuals and families to face adversity, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional bonds. I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive space, where clients can feel safe to explore their thoughts, emotions, and relational dynamics.
(507) 533-3864 View (507) 533-3864
Photo of Margaret P Moore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Margaret P Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Albert Lea, MN 56007
I am a seasoned psychotherapist dedicated to assisting folks on their healing journey. As the picture demonstrates, I am casual, approachable, and delighted in walking with others on their journey to health. Educated as a Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Nurse, and Chemical Dependency Counselor, I practice under the License of an MFT. I also supervise several post-graduate Masters Level Therapists, most of whom are in their second careers, meaning they have life experiences under their belt and a newer education. Check out the website for more information about how we can serve you.
I am a seasoned psychotherapist dedicated to assisting folks on their healing journey. As the picture demonstrates, I am casual, approachable, and delighted in walking with others on their journey to health. Educated as a Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Nurse, and Chemical Dependency Counselor, I practice under the License of an MFT. I also supervise several post-graduate Masters Level Therapists, most of whom are in their second careers, meaning they have life experiences under their belt and a newer education. Check out the website for more information about how we can serve you.
(507) 676-6834 View (507) 676-6834
Photo of Stacy Brown, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacy Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Albert Lea, MN 56007
I help women heal from past traumas, develop unshakable self-confidence, and say goodbye to the anxiety and stress that are holding them back. Your past doesn't define you...it's time to HEAL from old wounds and move forward into your beautiful future. During our initial session we will take a look at the issues you'd like to work on and will come up with a good plan to address those issues and provide you some relief. Most clients see an improvement in their symptoms within the first few sessions.
I help women heal from past traumas, develop unshakable self-confidence, and say goodbye to the anxiety and stress that are holding them back. Your past doesn't define you...it's time to HEAL from old wounds and move forward into your beautiful future. During our initial session we will take a look at the issues you'd like to work on and will come up with a good plan to address those issues and provide you some relief. Most clients see an improvement in their symptoms within the first few sessions.
(507) 478-7480 View (507) 478-7480
Photo of Casey Nielsen, LPCC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Casey Nielsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albert Lea, MN 56007  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hi there. You’ve taken the first step by considering mental health therapy and I think that’s pretty rad! Please know that you are deserving of healing, compassion, and a safe space. In our work together, I’m going to listen to you. I’m going to approach you with unconditional positive regard: showing you complete support and acceptance. This directly ties into some of my values like harm reduction and sex positivity. All are welcome here, wherever you are on your journey. I’m trauma-informed and exercise that in my work. I incorporate modalities that promote healing, resilience, and empowerment.
Hi there. You’ve taken the first step by considering mental health therapy and I think that’s pretty rad! Please know that you are deserving of healing, compassion, and a safe space. In our work together, I’m going to listen to you. I’m going to approach you with unconditional positive regard: showing you complete support and acceptance. This directly ties into some of my values like harm reduction and sex positivity. All are welcome here, wherever you are on your journey. I’m trauma-informed and exercise that in my work. I incorporate modalities that promote healing, resilience, and empowerment.
(651) 372-1860 View (651) 372-1860

Online Therapists

Photo of Bailey Loso, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bailey Loso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MN 55441
Complex trauma, single event trauma, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression are just a few among the many DSM-5-TR disorders that I have experience treating.
Learning about ourselves is a lifelong process. We tend to think that we are steadfast beings, stuck in our ways. I believe that we are all capable of connecting deeper with ourselves and the world around us through curiosity, creativity, and relationship-building. Therapy hopefully becomes a place where you learn to care for and integrate each part of yourself as you navigate the complex dialectics of life: fear and courage, acceptance and change, beauty and pain. Contradictions are uncomfortable, but must co-exist. “I still don’t understand the play…” “It doesn’t matter, just keep telling the story” - Wes Anderson, Asteroid City
Complex trauma, single event trauma, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression are just a few among the many DSM-5-TR disorders that I have experience treating.
Learning about ourselves is a lifelong process. We tend to think that we are steadfast beings, stuck in our ways. I believe that we are all capable of connecting deeper with ourselves and the world around us through curiosity, creativity, and relationship-building. Therapy hopefully becomes a place where you learn to care for and integrate each part of yourself as you navigate the complex dialectics of life: fear and courage, acceptance and change, beauty and pain. Contradictions are uncomfortable, but must co-exist. “I still don’t understand the play…” “It doesn’t matter, just keep telling the story” - Wes Anderson, Asteroid City
(763) 272-7654 View (763) 272-7654
Photo of Emily Manaen, LICSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Manaen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55419
I have experience helping with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, and religious trauma.
"What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" -Mary Oliver. Life and relationships can feel stressful and confusing. I believe that each individual wants to live their best life. In my practice, I strive to create a space where people can actively work towards feeling better and pursuing their goals. I bring a sense of nonjudgment, curiosity and empathy to each meeting. I truly believe in each person's capacity to grow and thrive!
I have experience helping with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, and religious trauma.
"What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" -Mary Oliver. Life and relationships can feel stressful and confusing. I believe that each individual wants to live their best life. In my practice, I strive to create a space where people can actively work towards feeling better and pursuing their goals. I bring a sense of nonjudgment, curiosity and empathy to each meeting. I truly believe in each person's capacity to grow and thrive!
(952) 522-4819 View (952) 522-4819
Photo of Jodi Leirness, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Jodi Leirness
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include managing stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self worth injuries, grief and loss issues, trauma, loneliness, existential issues, identity exploration, women's health, pregnancy, postpartum, and maternal mental health with a specific focus on well-being, balance, self-care, compassion, and self-acceptance.
Welcome to my practice. I am currently accepting new clients. My name is Dr. Jodi Leirness (she/her) and I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Minnesota. My true passion is providing therapy services and walking alongside my clients as they search for and discover growth and healing in their lives. While life can bring joy, it can also brings stress, anxiety, depression, grief, pain and suffering. My goal is to create a safe and healing space where you can speak your truth alongside someone who truly cares about you, your wellness, your wholeness, and your authentic happiness.
My areas of specialty include managing stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self worth injuries, grief and loss issues, trauma, loneliness, existential issues, identity exploration, women's health, pregnancy, postpartum, and maternal mental health with a specific focus on well-being, balance, self-care, compassion, and self-acceptance.
Welcome to my practice. I am currently accepting new clients. My name is Dr. Jodi Leirness (she/her) and I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Minnesota. My true passion is providing therapy services and walking alongside my clients as they search for and discover growth and healing in their lives. While life can bring joy, it can also brings stress, anxiety, depression, grief, pain and suffering. My goal is to create a safe and healing space where you can speak your truth alongside someone who truly cares about you, your wellness, your wholeness, and your authentic happiness.
(651) 478-2321 View (651) 478-2321
Photo of Todd Monger, MA, LPCC, NCC, Counselor
Todd Monger
Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wayzata, MN 55391
Specialty areas include behavioral disorders, self injury, depression, crisis management, suicidal ideation, anxiety, and Christian spiritual guidance.
My experience is working in the area of mood disorders, depression, anxiety, self-harm, PTSD, adoption support, family dynamics and communication, & college issues offering solution focused techniques to bring about positive change and healing. As an attachment theorist I value practical, experiential discovery of the things that hold people back from optimal functioning in life. I seek to join with people by being creative in the work we do together to meet clients where they are at using the talents and strengths he or she has to create successful steps forward.
Specialty areas include behavioral disorders, self injury, depression, crisis management, suicidal ideation, anxiety, and Christian spiritual guidance.
My experience is working in the area of mood disorders, depression, anxiety, self-harm, PTSD, adoption support, family dynamics and communication, & college issues offering solution focused techniques to bring about positive change and healing. As an attachment theorist I value practical, experiential discovery of the things that hold people back from optimal functioning in life. I seek to join with people by being creative in the work we do together to meet clients where they are at using the talents and strengths he or she has to create successful steps forward.
(952) 373-0575 View (952) 373-0575
Photo of Bernie J Menge - Bernie Menge licensed for MFT & LPC supervision., MA, LMFT, ADHD-, CCSP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bernie Menge licensed for MFT & LPC supervision.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
Hastings, MN 55033
CEUs in, Depression, Anxiety, and more.
I have a vast amount of professional and personal experience working with: Children, Teens, Young Adults, Single Parents, and Blended Families. Struggling with: Feeling Lost, Abused, Depression, Anxiety, Attention Issues, Conflicts, Moodiness, Relationships, Anger, Isolating, Argumentative, Communication, Defiance, Connecting, Anger Issues, Family Unity, Shame, Guilt, Loss, Repeated Behaviors, and Low Self Esteem. Their goals surround: (Peace) (Unity) (Balance) (Contentment) (Happiness) (Being Understood) (Trauma Healing) and (Managed lives). Looking for answers and resolution bringing healing that promotes purpose and meaning.
CEUs in, Depression, Anxiety, and more.
I have a vast amount of professional and personal experience working with: Children, Teens, Young Adults, Single Parents, and Blended Families. Struggling with: Feeling Lost, Abused, Depression, Anxiety, Attention Issues, Conflicts, Moodiness, Relationships, Anger, Isolating, Argumentative, Communication, Defiance, Connecting, Anger Issues, Family Unity, Shame, Guilt, Loss, Repeated Behaviors, and Low Self Esteem. Their goals surround: (Peace) (Unity) (Balance) (Contentment) (Happiness) (Being Understood) (Trauma Healing) and (Managed lives). Looking for answers and resolution bringing healing that promotes purpose and meaning.
(651) 504-0095 x1 View (651) 504-0095 x1
Photo of Tanya Sommerfeld, MA,  LP, Psychologist
Tanya Sommerfeld
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
I work with adolescents and adults with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, panic, PTSD and trauma, including traumatic grief.
You are strong and courageous to not only acknowledge that change is needed but to take the steps to achieve it. Change is hard, especially when you are uncertain of who to trust to walk with you through the process. I believe that everyone has the ability to make changes if only they are provided with a nurturing and empowering environment that fosters strengths, passions and builds hope for the future. You deserve to be heard, understood and acknowledged while expecting a therapist who is honest, genuine, comfortable sharing observations and insights and challenges exploration and growth with compassion and without judgement.
I work with adolescents and adults with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, panic, PTSD and trauma, including traumatic grief.
You are strong and courageous to not only acknowledge that change is needed but to take the steps to achieve it. Change is hard, especially when you are uncertain of who to trust to walk with you through the process. I believe that everyone has the ability to make changes if only they are provided with a nurturing and empowering environment that fosters strengths, passions and builds hope for the future. You deserve to be heard, understood and acknowledged while expecting a therapist who is honest, genuine, comfortable sharing observations and insights and challenges exploration and growth with compassion and without judgement.
(763) 317-0772 View (763) 317-0772
Photo of Molly L Nicholson, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Molly L Nicholson
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I have the honor of working with people experiencing a wide variety of concerns including: depression; anxiety; grief/loss; life transitions; chronic illness; postpartum depression; sexual abuse; relationship problems; low self-esteem; family of origin; stress and more. My relational approach is based on the belief that within the framework of a trusting relationship with a therapist, clients can explore patterns of behavior and emotions which may relate back to earlier relationships. Once a better understanding of the origins of these patterns is developed, people often find lasting freedom from their hold over their lives.
I have the honor of working with people experiencing a wide variety of concerns including: depression; anxiety; grief/loss; life transitions; chronic illness; postpartum depression; sexual abuse; relationship problems; low self-esteem; family of origin; stress and more. My relational approach is based on the belief that within the framework of a trusting relationship with a therapist, clients can explore patterns of behavior and emotions which may relate back to earlier relationships. Once a better understanding of the origins of these patterns is developed, people often find lasting freedom from their hold over their lives.
(612) 204-2823 View (612) 204-2823
Photo of Julie De Wilde, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Julie De Wilde
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself discouraged with the demands of life or with not finding healthy relationships? Do you feel alone with the circumstances in your life? I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, chronic health, chronic pain, grief, abuse, trauma, autism, ADHD, mental illness, marriage issues, and parenting.
Do you find yourself discouraged with the demands of life or with not finding healthy relationships? Do you feel alone with the circumstances in your life? I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, chronic health, chronic pain, grief, abuse, trauma, autism, ADHD, mental illness, marriage issues, and parenting.
(651) 439-2059 x1 View (651) 439-2059 x1
Photo of Donald Boyer, Pre-Licensed Professional
Donald Boyer
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mendota Heights, MN 55120
I specialize in working with individuals facing a wide range of mental health disorders, including trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD, childhood disorders, severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI), poverty-related stress, LGBTQ+ issues, and life-altering events such as grief/loss. My experience also includes helping clients manage self-harm behaviors, suicidal thoughts, chronic stress, and low self-esteem. We will develop effective coping and adaptive skills to handle life's difficulties, resolve conflicts and heal from traumatic experiences, and overcome feelings of being stuck.
I specialize in working with individuals facing a wide range of mental health disorders, including trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD, childhood disorders, severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI), poverty-related stress, LGBTQ+ issues, and life-altering events such as grief/loss. My experience also includes helping clients manage self-harm behaviors, suicidal thoughts, chronic stress, and low self-esteem. We will develop effective coping and adaptive skills to handle life's difficulties, resolve conflicts and heal from traumatic experiences, and overcome feelings of being stuck.
(651) 313-8080 View (651) 313-8080
Photo of Shannon Himango, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon Himango
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
My areas of interest/training include couples & individual therapy with a focus on relational trauma & infidelity; premarital counseling, eldercare; sexuality; anxiety; depression; grief & loss; assertiveness, mindfulness, healthy self-care practices.
Taking the step to reach out for therapy, on our own or with a partner/family member, is a brave move. Relationships and life in general can offer great sources of joy as well as frustrations, and when talking with our family and friends, we may edit or limit what we say for fear of judgment, or burdening them. Reflecting and expressing ourselves freely with a neutral, non-judgmental helping professional is an excellent way to increase self awareness and insight about the challenges we encounter, even if we aren’t quite certain what to say.
My areas of interest/training include couples & individual therapy with a focus on relational trauma & infidelity; premarital counseling, eldercare; sexuality; anxiety; depression; grief & loss; assertiveness, mindfulness, healthy self-care practices.
Taking the step to reach out for therapy, on our own or with a partner/family member, is a brave move. Relationships and life in general can offer great sources of joy as well as frustrations, and when talking with our family and friends, we may edit or limit what we say for fear of judgment, or burdening them. Reflecting and expressing ourselves freely with a neutral, non-judgmental helping professional is an excellent way to increase self awareness and insight about the challenges we encounter, even if we aren’t quite certain what to say.
(651) 571-9588 View (651) 571-9588

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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.