Depression Therapists in Eagan, MN

Photo of Amelia (Mia) Paquin, PhD, LP, E-Psprt, Psychologist
Amelia (Mia) Paquin
Psychologist, PhD, LP, E-Psprt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
Routinely, I help clients with adjustment/stress, depression/bipolar, anxiety, OCD/hoarding, parenting, relationship problems, trauma, and health psychology (addiction, TBI, women's health).
I believe life's challenges are opportunities for us to grow as human beings. Whether you or a family member are struggling with an old problem that keeps coming back or facing an entirely new problem, there is hope. I use research based assessments and treatments to help you or your family member overcome these concerns and thrive in your life.
Routinely, I help clients with adjustment/stress, depression/bipolar, anxiety, OCD/hoarding, parenting, relationship problems, trauma, and health psychology (addiction, TBI, women's health).
I believe life's challenges are opportunities for us to grow as human beings. Whether you or a family member are struggling with an old problem that keeps coming back or facing an entirely new problem, there is hope. I use research based assessments and treatments to help you or your family member overcome these concerns and thrive in your life.
(651) 358-2699 View (651) 358-2699
Photo of Tina D. Shah, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Tina D. Shah
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
Not accepting new clients
Life is difficult right now. I would be honored in being able to support you in promoting psychological wellness, including experiencing more joy, gratitude, fulfillment, and authenticity. I have substantial experience and expertise in working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and their families. I work well with those experiencing difficulties with anxiety, depression, mood, stressful and traumatic experiences, interpersonal relationships, and with parenting. I have particular interest in development, maternal mental health, working with other mental health professionals, as well as those with diverse backgrounds.
Life is difficult right now. I would be honored in being able to support you in promoting psychological wellness, including experiencing more joy, gratitude, fulfillment, and authenticity. I have substantial experience and expertise in working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and their families. I work well with those experiencing difficulties with anxiety, depression, mood, stressful and traumatic experiences, interpersonal relationships, and with parenting. I have particular interest in development, maternal mental health, working with other mental health professionals, as well as those with diverse backgrounds.
(612) 662-2214 View (612) 662-2214
Photo of Bridget Couderc, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Bridget Couderc
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
My areas of interest include: depression, anxiety, personal growth, ADHD, adjustments/life transitions, PTSD, impulsive behaviors, difficulties in relationships, issues with self-esteem/confidence, unwanted thinking patterns, Autism, borderline personality disorder, self-harm and attachment.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and DBT-Prolonged Exposure for PTSD. DBT is a mindfulness-based therapy model designed to teach people how to cope with stress, live in the moment, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others. At times, I utilize additional modalities including CBT (cognitive behavior therapy), motivational interviewing and Art Therapy.
My areas of interest include: depression, anxiety, personal growth, ADHD, adjustments/life transitions, PTSD, impulsive behaviors, difficulties in relationships, issues with self-esteem/confidence, unwanted thinking patterns, Autism, borderline personality disorder, self-harm and attachment.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and DBT-Prolonged Exposure for PTSD. DBT is a mindfulness-based therapy model designed to teach people how to cope with stress, live in the moment, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others. At times, I utilize additional modalities including CBT (cognitive behavior therapy), motivational interviewing and Art Therapy.
(651) 364-3326 x101 View (651) 364-3326 x101
Photo of Sierra Paup, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sierra Paup
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
I hold a PhD in clinical psychology from Washington State University, and I completed my pre-doctoral internship at the University of Minnesota Student Counseling Center. My main focus is to build a collaborative and safe relationship with my clients, where we can openly explore their feelings and challenges. I specialize in helping people dealing with anxiety, depression, life changes, trauma, and questions about their identity, and I customize my approach to suit each client's unique needs.
I hold a PhD in clinical psychology from Washington State University, and I completed my pre-doctoral internship at the University of Minnesota Student Counseling Center. My main focus is to build a collaborative and safe relationship with my clients, where we can openly explore their feelings and challenges. I specialize in helping people dealing with anxiety, depression, life changes, trauma, and questions about their identity, and I customize my approach to suit each client's unique needs.
(952) 800-7373 View (952) 800-7373
Photo of Beth McDonald, MA, LPCC
Beth McDonald
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with clients who have experienced narcissistic abuse. As an adult child of a narcissist myself, I know all too well how difficult it is to get help and to heal. Narcissism isn't necessarily overt abuse, especially for children, and it is often hard to figure out why you feel depressed, anxious, struggle with perfectionism, or keep finding yourself in codependent relationships as adults. Narcissistic abuse is trauma and it can keep you in survival mode for a very long time. As trauma therapist, I would love to help you learn to thrive, to find joy, to be free, and really live your own life. We do heal!
I specialize in working with clients who have experienced narcissistic abuse. As an adult child of a narcissist myself, I know all too well how difficult it is to get help and to heal. Narcissism isn't necessarily overt abuse, especially for children, and it is often hard to figure out why you feel depressed, anxious, struggle with perfectionism, or keep finding yourself in codependent relationships as adults. Narcissistic abuse is trauma and it can keep you in survival mode for a very long time. As trauma therapist, I would love to help you learn to thrive, to find joy, to be free, and really live your own life. We do heal!
(952) 314-6783 View (952) 314-6783
Photo of William S. Mills, MA, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
William S. Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
Are you feeling stuck and/or overwhelmed? The challenge is learning how to deal with the present circumstances and, at the same time, continue to move forward in your life. We all encounter what I call, emotional pain. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or relationship issues that are causing you to worry and suffer, I can help. As we work together, we will focus on developing the kind of psychological flexibility that will help you deal with mental health and other issues that you may be experiencing that are causing you pain and suffering.
Are you feeling stuck and/or overwhelmed? The challenge is learning how to deal with the present circumstances and, at the same time, continue to move forward in your life. We all encounter what I call, emotional pain. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or relationship issues that are causing you to worry and suffer, I can help. As we work together, we will focus on developing the kind of psychological flexibility that will help you deal with mental health and other issues that you may be experiencing that are causing you pain and suffering.
(651) 376-3302 View (651) 376-3302
Photo of Jean Eich, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Jean Eich
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
I have a specialty in perinatal mental health and help people cope with depression and anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum, assist in adjusting to parenthood and help with pregnancy and infant loss.
I am an experienced psychologist and provide quality mental health help. I have a lot of experience treating a wide variety of mental health concerns- from longstanding patterns of depression and anxiety to difficulty coping with a life change. I believe growth and change begin when you feel safe and know you have a therapist you can trust. I listen actively and will not judge you. I can help you learn more about yourself and find a path forward. My clients tell me that in our work together, they feel unconditionally accepted while also feeling challenged to grow. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and enjoying working with all people.
I have a specialty in perinatal mental health and help people cope with depression and anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum, assist in adjusting to parenthood and help with pregnancy and infant loss.
I am an experienced psychologist and provide quality mental health help. I have a lot of experience treating a wide variety of mental health concerns- from longstanding patterns of depression and anxiety to difficulty coping with a life change. I believe growth and change begin when you feel safe and know you have a therapist you can trust. I listen actively and will not judge you. I can help you learn more about yourself and find a path forward. My clients tell me that in our work together, they feel unconditionally accepted while also feeling challenged to grow. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and enjoying working with all people.
(952) 260-4255 View (952) 260-4255
Photo of Jennifer Miller, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55123
My areas of focus include: anxiety, stress management, depression, trauma, interpersonal issues, self-esteem and transitional life issues.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) that has experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I take a person-centered relational approach enhancing client strengths and empowering them through collaboration.
My areas of focus include: anxiety, stress management, depression, trauma, interpersonal issues, self-esteem and transitional life issues.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) that has experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I take a person-centered relational approach enhancing client strengths and empowering them through collaboration.
(952) 522-7253 View (952) 522-7253
Photo of Dr. Eloise Erasmus - Eloise Erasmus PHD LLC at Aslan Institute, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Eloise Erasmus PHD LLC at Aslan Institute
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
I am a licensed psychologist at Aslan Institute, a holistic mental health clinic, and offer psychotherapy to adults (18+) and clinical supervision to LPCs, LPCCs and LPs. I am a certified clinical supervisor with the Minnesota BBHT. Promoting self-awareness, compassion and self-empowerment is central to my approach. I teach courses on Human Consciousness - to promote "waking up" and "growing up" for people at different stages of development. Areas of speciality: anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, poor body image/eating struggles, history of abuse/neglect, complex trauma and adjustment disorders.
I am a licensed psychologist at Aslan Institute, a holistic mental health clinic, and offer psychotherapy to adults (18+) and clinical supervision to LPCs, LPCCs and LPs. I am a certified clinical supervisor with the Minnesota BBHT. Promoting self-awareness, compassion and self-empowerment is central to my approach. I teach courses on Human Consciousness - to promote "waking up" and "growing up" for people at different stages of development. Areas of speciality: anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, poor body image/eating struggles, history of abuse/neglect, complex trauma and adjustment disorders.
(952) 234-7008 View (952) 234-7008
Photo of Philip Lee Burton, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Philip Lee Burton
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
My experience as a therapist for over two decades has shown me that we have been programed through the hormones of stress and traumas to repeat the same thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Without changing and deprogramming from the inside out our lives and our relationships become dysfunctional and problematic. If you ever asked yourself if you may be narcissistic or someone might suggest that you are it's possible that your thoughts and behaviors become harmful to yourself and others. If you've ever thought that depression and anxiety have taken a real life than you have been programmed through the hormones of stress.
My experience as a therapist for over two decades has shown me that we have been programed through the hormones of stress and traumas to repeat the same thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Without changing and deprogramming from the inside out our lives and our relationships become dysfunctional and problematic. If you ever asked yourself if you may be narcissistic or someone might suggest that you are it's possible that your thoughts and behaviors become harmful to yourself and others. If you've ever thought that depression and anxiety have taken a real life than you have been programmed through the hormones of stress.
(952) 230-0468 View (952) 230-0468
Photo of Leah B Ghali, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah B Ghali
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
I work with adults struggling to sort through their emotional experience and make changes to feel more fulfilled and at peace. My practice is rooted in cultural humility and sensitivity to dynamics of power and privilege. I serve clients of all cultural, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I believe in approaching life and therapy with a sense of humor. I specialize in working with matters related to: perinatal mental health, grief & loss, addictive/self-medicating behaviors, depression & anxiety, and deconstruction/ reconstruction of spirituality & religious experiences.
I work with adults struggling to sort through their emotional experience and make changes to feel more fulfilled and at peace. My practice is rooted in cultural humility and sensitivity to dynamics of power and privilege. I serve clients of all cultural, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I believe in approaching life and therapy with a sense of humor. I specialize in working with matters related to: perinatal mental health, grief & loss, addictive/self-medicating behaviors, depression & anxiety, and deconstruction/ reconstruction of spirituality & religious experiences.
(952) 260-2036 View (952) 260-2036
Photo of Dr. Kristy Brecke - Dr Brecke Counseling Group, DMFT, LPCC, Counselor
Dr Brecke Counseling Group
Counselor, DMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55123
Treatment is offered around issues with, Parenting, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Marriage, Attachment, Sleep, Defiance, Trauma, Life transition, OCD, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and Addiction.
Welcome to Dr Brecke Counseling Group! Please check out the most detailed info on our website at www.breckecounseling.com. We are all fully licensed clinicians with a variety of specialties to meet most mental health needs. We treat adolescents, adults, couples and families. The clinic is offering tele-therapy and in-office visits with afternoon and evenings available. We are a unique as we are owner operated and offer a personal, attentive experience from the first click on our "apppointment request" botton. The phone is not answered due to high number of unsolicited sales calls. Please click on our website link to get started.
Treatment is offered around issues with, Parenting, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Marriage, Attachment, Sleep, Defiance, Trauma, Life transition, OCD, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and Addiction.
Welcome to Dr Brecke Counseling Group! Please check out the most detailed info on our website at www.breckecounseling.com. We are all fully licensed clinicians with a variety of specialties to meet most mental health needs. We treat adolescents, adults, couples and families. The clinic is offering tele-therapy and in-office visits with afternoon and evenings available. We are a unique as we are owner operated and offer a personal, attentive experience from the first click on our "apppointment request" botton. The phone is not answered due to high number of unsolicited sales calls. Please click on our website link to get started.
(651) 409-9887 View (651) 409-9887
Photo of Dr. Brecke Counseling Group, DMFT, LPCC
Dr. Brecke Counseling Group
DMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55123
We can treat Mood D/O, BPD, Cluster B personality, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Sleep, Defiance, Perfectionism, Trauma, Life transition, Eating Disorders, OCD, Substance Abuse and Addiction.
Is this your first time looking for a counselor or maybe you can't find a good fit? We welcome you to check us out! Please visit our webpage for the best details about our clinic. www.breckecounseling.com. We are a small locally operated clinic and we only have fully licensed clinicians w/ yrs of experience and insight to help you reach your goals. For this reason alone, you will likely not have to therapy, 'shop'. Clients tell us all the time how thankful they are that they found us because we make them feel comfortable, but also do a good job of challenging them to meet their goals. We see clients with most mental health concerns.
We can treat Mood D/O, BPD, Cluster B personality, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Sleep, Defiance, Perfectionism, Trauma, Life transition, Eating Disorders, OCD, Substance Abuse and Addiction.
Is this your first time looking for a counselor or maybe you can't find a good fit? We welcome you to check us out! Please visit our webpage for the best details about our clinic. www.breckecounseling.com. We are a small locally operated clinic and we only have fully licensed clinicians w/ yrs of experience and insight to help you reach your goals. For this reason alone, you will likely not have to therapy, 'shop'. Clients tell us all the time how thankful they are that they found us because we make them feel comfortable, but also do a good job of challenging them to meet their goals. We see clients with most mental health concerns.
(651) 371-9533 View (651) 371-9533
Photo of Caitlin Reikowski Moore, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Caitlin Reikowski Moore
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Processional Clinical Counselor who is trained in DBT, CBT, and DBT Prolonged Exposure. I also draw from humanistic, feminist, and interpersonal strategies. DBT utilizes mindfulness as the center and builds skills to increase effectiveness in communication, regulating emotions, and gaining skills to tolerate current emotions and experiences. My clinical interests include: depression, anxiety, school stress, parenting, self esteem, relationship concerns, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Processional Clinical Counselor who is trained in DBT, CBT, and DBT Prolonged Exposure. I also draw from humanistic, feminist, and interpersonal strategies. DBT utilizes mindfulness as the center and builds skills to increase effectiveness in communication, regulating emotions, and gaining skills to tolerate current emotions and experiences. My clinical interests include: depression, anxiety, school stress, parenting, self esteem, relationship concerns, and trauma.
(952) 522-6143 View (952) 522-6143
Photo of Tina D Shah - Collaboration for Psychological Wellness, LLC, PsyD, LP
Collaboration for Psychological Wellness, LLC
PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
Our skilled team works with clients of all ages, who are experiencing mild to moderate difficulties with anxiety, depression, life adjustment, stress, grief, and trauma.
We have immediate availability for services for adolescents & adults! Thank you so much for taking the time to review our profile and taking steps on this journey to promote your psychological wellness. Taking these steps in your journey is so courageous and you do not have to do it alone! We would be an honored to work with you and support you in feeling more happiness, gratitude, peace, fulfillment, self-compassion, acceptance, and empowerment in your life. We are dedicated to providing inclusive assessment, as well as individual and family therapy services to children, adolescents, young adults, and adults of all backgrounds.
Our skilled team works with clients of all ages, who are experiencing mild to moderate difficulties with anxiety, depression, life adjustment, stress, grief, and trauma.
We have immediate availability for services for adolescents & adults! Thank you so much for taking the time to review our profile and taking steps on this journey to promote your psychological wellness. Taking these steps in your journey is so courageous and you do not have to do it alone! We would be an honored to work with you and support you in feeling more happiness, gratitude, peace, fulfillment, self-compassion, acceptance, and empowerment in your life. We are dedicated to providing inclusive assessment, as well as individual and family therapy services to children, adolescents, young adults, and adults of all backgrounds.
(952) 592-2254 View (952) 592-2254
Photo of Emerald Yeshidagne, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emerald Yeshidagne
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) that has been very effective with childhood trauma, adult-onset trauma, anxiety, depression, panic, attachment concerns, and more.
I have found a passion working with people 17+ on an individual basis and developing a therapeutic relationship to support change and growth. I enjoy helping to identify and create goals you would like to achieve, as well as provide you with the skills, knowledge, and hope needed to cope with emotions and challenging situations. I feel allowing an open space to process past experiences, beliefs, and barriers, that may interfere with long-term success, is an important aspect of therapy. I use skills from a variety of therapeutic techniques to fit your sessions to your needs, plus a bit of humor.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) that has been very effective with childhood trauma, adult-onset trauma, anxiety, depression, panic, attachment concerns, and more.
I have found a passion working with people 17+ on an individual basis and developing a therapeutic relationship to support change and growth. I enjoy helping to identify and create goals you would like to achieve, as well as provide you with the skills, knowledge, and hope needed to cope with emotions and challenging situations. I feel allowing an open space to process past experiences, beliefs, and barriers, that may interfere with long-term success, is an important aspect of therapy. I use skills from a variety of therapeutic techniques to fit your sessions to your needs, plus a bit of humor.
(952) 243-2133 View (952) 243-2133
Photo of Dr. Krista Yucuis, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Krista Yucuis
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals (16+) who experience life transitions, depression, anxiety, emotion management, low self-esteem, and ASD.
Whether you're new to therapy or have seen several therapists, diving into it can be a bit much. But therapy's this awesome chance to grow, heal, and change things up for the better. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can openly share and explore any challenges you're facing in life. My areas of expertise include various psychological challenges, including Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Life Transitions.
I specialize in working with individuals (16+) who experience life transitions, depression, anxiety, emotion management, low self-esteem, and ASD.
Whether you're new to therapy or have seen several therapists, diving into it can be a bit much. But therapy's this awesome chance to grow, heal, and change things up for the better. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can openly share and explore any challenges you're facing in life. My areas of expertise include various psychological challenges, including Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Life Transitions.
(651) 505-8445 View (651) 505-8445
Photo of Bruce Nelson, PhD, Psychologist
Bruce Nelson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55123
Areas of expertise include anxiety-based problems, depression, underachievement, low motivation, and ADHD assessment/treatment.
Over the course of over twenty years as a practicing psychologist, my compassion for the challenges and complexities of life has deepened, and I appreciate the fears associated with change. My approach to therapy emphasizes meeting people where they are at and creating a collaborative treatment plan. Alongside an orientation of optimism and resilience, I stress new-skill development and the incorporation of personal strengths.
Areas of expertise include anxiety-based problems, depression, underachievement, low motivation, and ADHD assessment/treatment.
Over the course of over twenty years as a practicing psychologist, my compassion for the challenges and complexities of life has deepened, and I appreciate the fears associated with change. My approach to therapy emphasizes meeting people where they are at and creating a collaborative treatment plan. Alongside an orientation of optimism and resilience, I stress new-skill development and the incorporation of personal strengths.
(952) 373-0505 View (952) 373-0505
Photo of Alison Mellin, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Alison Mellin
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55123
Not accepting new clients
These issues include life transitions, identity, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, fears, relationship issues, anger, grief and loss, parenting young children, and women's issues such as prenatal and postnatal depression.
Therapy provides the time and space to reflect and gain insight into past and present experiences, thoughts, and feelings. In my practice I create a warm and accepting environment where people feel safe and supported expressing and exploring their emotions, telling their stories, and growing personally and emotionally. Using an integrated approach based on the specific needs of each person, the focus is building upon existing strengths and adding new coping skills while reducing distress.
These issues include life transitions, identity, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, fears, relationship issues, anger, grief and loss, parenting young children, and women's issues such as prenatal and postnatal depression.
Therapy provides the time and space to reflect and gain insight into past and present experiences, thoughts, and feelings. In my practice I create a warm and accepting environment where people feel safe and supported expressing and exploring their emotions, telling their stories, and growing personally and emotionally. Using an integrated approach based on the specific needs of each person, the focus is building upon existing strengths and adding new coping skills while reducing distress.
(651) 321-2896 View (651) 321-2896
Photo of Julie Ann Hull, MA
Julie Ann Hull
MA
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55120
I specialize in helping clients who are experiencing grief/loss, depression and anxiety to create sustainable self-care practices. I believe the integration of emotional, physical and spiritual health must be addressed in order to move toward healing.
I specialize in helping clients who are experiencing grief/loss, depression and anxiety to create sustainable self-care practices. I believe the integration of emotional, physical and spiritual health must be addressed in order to move toward healing.
(651) 243-9338 View (651) 243-9338
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.