Depression Therapists in Inver Grove Heights, MN

Photo of Tina McDonough, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina McDonough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
I have expertise in the areas of parenting, divorce, step family dynamics, depression, anxiety, stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger's), ADHD, and alcohol/drug dependence.
I provide a warm, safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment for people to explore interpersonal concerns and relationships with others. Clients find me to be very personable, humorous, and direct - yet gentle. Whether you are struggling with a significant other, parent, child, friend, boss, or colleague - I can help you identify thoughts, feelings, and needs which will allow you to understand yourself better and enhance communication with your world. This new self awareness will greatly improve your relationships, increase your self esteem, and allow you to enjoy your life to its fullest.
I have expertise in the areas of parenting, divorce, step family dynamics, depression, anxiety, stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger's), ADHD, and alcohol/drug dependence.
I provide a warm, safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment for people to explore interpersonal concerns and relationships with others. Clients find me to be very personable, humorous, and direct - yet gentle. Whether you are struggling with a significant other, parent, child, friend, boss, or colleague - I can help you identify thoughts, feelings, and needs which will allow you to understand yourself better and enhance communication with your world. This new self awareness will greatly improve your relationships, increase your self esteem, and allow you to enjoy your life to its fullest.
(612) 284-0462 View (612) 284-0462
Photo of Lisa LeMay, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa LeMay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
If you are struggling with overthinking, feeling overwhelmed or depressed, relationship issues, parenting, hurt from the past or stuck in the present, I'd encourage you to give me a call or shoot me an email.
What I offer is genuine concern, empathy, kindness, and the kind of listening that lets you know you've really been heard and understood. I can help you identify what is causing your pain and will offer practical suggestions and specific tools you can try right away to try to improve your situation. Together we can look at your difficulty, find a way through, and make meaning out of your experience, which will lead you to a more grounded sense of self, healthier relationships, and a more satisfying life.
If you are struggling with overthinking, feeling overwhelmed or depressed, relationship issues, parenting, hurt from the past or stuck in the present, I'd encourage you to give me a call or shoot me an email.
What I offer is genuine concern, empathy, kindness, and the kind of listening that lets you know you've really been heard and understood. I can help you identify what is causing your pain and will offer practical suggestions and specific tools you can try right away to try to improve your situation. Together we can look at your difficulty, find a way through, and make meaning out of your experience, which will lead you to a more grounded sense of self, healthier relationships, and a more satisfying life.
(612) 979-1345 View (612) 979-1345
Photo of Laurie Lynn Murray, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Laurie Lynn Murray
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
We have one chance at life so lets make the most of it. I believe many of our issues stem from a variety of factors such as our health, our thoughts, our past, our relationships, and society at large - just to name a few. We will work together to explore what holds you back, break the chains, and empower you to live the life you deserve as the valuable human being you are. My specialties include depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues ,and self esteem. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I provide Telemental Health and am licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Oregon.
We have one chance at life so lets make the most of it. I believe many of our issues stem from a variety of factors such as our health, our thoughts, our past, our relationships, and society at large - just to name a few. We will work together to explore what holds you back, break the chains, and empower you to live the life you deserve as the valuable human being you are. My specialties include depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues ,and self esteem. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I provide Telemental Health and am licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Oregon.
(651) 376-2445 View (651) 376-2445
Photo of Beth Saunders, MA, LPCC, LPC, Counselor
Beth Saunders
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Beth Saunders experience includes working with individuals and families dealing with a variety of issues including life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, self-esteem issues and loss/grief of all kinds.
Healing can take many forms in our lives and therapy is one of those places that can facilitate that process. Finding a therapist, you can trust to process some of the difficult moments in your life is foundational. As your counseling partner, I will create a safe place for you as you navigate the challenges you are facing and help you figure out what you want and need moving forward. I believe in healing and the resiliency of the human heart and soul. Out of our difficulties, something beautiful can emerge. Come as you are and we can go from there. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and stages in life.
Beth Saunders experience includes working with individuals and families dealing with a variety of issues including life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, self-esteem issues and loss/grief of all kinds.
Healing can take many forms in our lives and therapy is one of those places that can facilitate that process. Finding a therapist, you can trust to process some of the difficult moments in your life is foundational. As your counseling partner, I will create a safe place for you as you navigate the challenges you are facing and help you figure out what you want and need moving forward. I believe in healing and the resiliency of the human heart and soul. Out of our difficulties, something beautiful can emerge. Come as you are and we can go from there. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and stages in life.
(952) 522-5704 View (952) 522-5704
Photo of Morgan Phillips, LCSW, CSAC, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
I have experience working with individuals who are having issues related to trauma, substance use, depression/anxiety, relationships and life changes.
Thanks for visiting my profile. Are you struggling to feel connected to yourself and those around you? Feeling depressed, anxious, or lost? I would love to hold space with you while you explore the inner workings of all things related to you. I believe that as human beings, everything we do is relational, therefore, I believe therapy offers the opportunity to heal with another person being present. I have been working as a clinical social worker for the past 12 years. I currently offer telehealth and in person services in Minnesota to individuals 25 and older.
I have experience working with individuals who are having issues related to trauma, substance use, depression/anxiety, relationships and life changes.
Thanks for visiting my profile. Are you struggling to feel connected to yourself and those around you? Feeling depressed, anxious, or lost? I would love to hold space with you while you explore the inner workings of all things related to you. I believe that as human beings, everything we do is relational, therefore, I believe therapy offers the opportunity to heal with another person being present. I have been working as a clinical social worker for the past 12 years. I currently offer telehealth and in person services in Minnesota to individuals 25 and older.
(651) 615-9099 View (651) 615-9099
Photo of Amanda Ripley-Kayala, MA, LPCC, LADC, EMDR, Counselor
Amanda Ripley-Kayala
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Specialties: Adults (18+), Individual therapy, Trauma, EMDR, LGBTQIA+, Gender identity, Sexual identity, Sexual health, Queer, Poly, Kink Community, Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, PTSD, Addiction, Stress, Co-occurring Disorders, Life transitions, Coping skills.
Amanda Ripley-Kayala is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Amanda is trained in EMDR and has completed UW-Stout’s Sex Therapy Certificate Program. Amanda is a highly skilled, trauma-informed, holistic, client centered therapist whose goal is to create a trusting and compassionate therapeutic atmosphere which encourages self-exploration, self-awareness, empowerment and and movement to achieve goals in therapy and life.
Specialties: Adults (18+), Individual therapy, Trauma, EMDR, LGBTQIA+, Gender identity, Sexual identity, Sexual health, Queer, Poly, Kink Community, Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, PTSD, Addiction, Stress, Co-occurring Disorders, Life transitions, Coping skills.
Amanda Ripley-Kayala is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Amanda is trained in EMDR and has completed UW-Stout’s Sex Therapy Certificate Program. Amanda is a highly skilled, trauma-informed, holistic, client centered therapist whose goal is to create a trusting and compassionate therapeutic atmosphere which encourages self-exploration, self-awareness, empowerment and and movement to achieve goals in therapy and life.
(952) 649-5978 View (952) 649-5978
Photo of Haven Hafar, MSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Haven Hafar
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
You are constantly putting others first, and you feel alone & never good enough. It's hard for you to figure out what your own feelings and needs are & asking for help from others or setting boundaries feels nearly impossible. Early adulthood is full of life transitions, uncertainty, new experiences, big decisions, and figuring out who we are. It's overwhelming! I have a niche for working with individuals in this stage of life, especially those also dealing with things like anxiety, depression, or complex family systems on top of it all. I work with couples too, understanding relationships impact mental health and vice versa.
You are constantly putting others first, and you feel alone & never good enough. It's hard for you to figure out what your own feelings and needs are & asking for help from others or setting boundaries feels nearly impossible. Early adulthood is full of life transitions, uncertainty, new experiences, big decisions, and figuring out who we are. It's overwhelming! I have a niche for working with individuals in this stage of life, especially those also dealing with things like anxiety, depression, or complex family systems on top of it all. I work with couples too, understanding relationships impact mental health and vice versa.
(651) 337-9218 View (651) 337-9218
Photo of Cathy L Chavez, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy L Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
A few of the areas I specialize in are marital and couple's counseling including stepfamilies and issues unique to military families, depression and anxiety disorders, weight loss and emotional eating, obsessive-compulsive disorders, body focused repetitive disorders such as skin picking, hair pulling, nail biting.
I believe your situation is unique and deserves an individualized plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. You can be assured I will always remember your unique "story" every time we meet. My approach to counseling is straight forward, yet caring and compassionate.
A few of the areas I specialize in are marital and couple's counseling including stepfamilies and issues unique to military families, depression and anxiety disorders, weight loss and emotional eating, obsessive-compulsive disorders, body focused repetitive disorders such as skin picking, hair pulling, nail biting.
I believe your situation is unique and deserves an individualized plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. You can be assured I will always remember your unique "story" every time we meet. My approach to counseling is straight forward, yet caring and compassionate.
(651) 314-7570 View (651) 314-7570
Photo of Bethani Goodrum, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bethani Goodrum
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
I may be a good fit if you are looking to strengthen your self-worth, cultivate secure relationships, learn or gain better insight into your identity, develop skills for anxiety or depression, or simply have a space to talk.
If you are facing challenges with your sense of self, relationship, or feeling overwhelmed with the difficulties of anxiety and depression, know that you are not alone. Our past can impact how we view the world and ourselves and I aim to create a cozy, safe space that feels comfortable for you to gain clarity and insight into how your life has created your experiences. For me, it's important to build a trusting relationship which inspires self-exploration and desire to better understand the complexities of what makes you, you. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, adults, LGBTQIA+ folks, and queer couples.
I may be a good fit if you are looking to strengthen your self-worth, cultivate secure relationships, learn or gain better insight into your identity, develop skills for anxiety or depression, or simply have a space to talk.
If you are facing challenges with your sense of self, relationship, or feeling overwhelmed with the difficulties of anxiety and depression, know that you are not alone. Our past can impact how we view the world and ourselves and I aim to create a cozy, safe space that feels comfortable for you to gain clarity and insight into how your life has created your experiences. For me, it's important to build a trusting relationship which inspires self-exploration and desire to better understand the complexities of what makes you, you. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, adults, LGBTQIA+ folks, and queer couples.
(651) 615-9317 View (651) 615-9317
Photo of Liz Campbell, MA, LMFT, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liz Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
I have experience supporting folks struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity concerns, self-worth, and more. I’m deeply passionate about supporting folks in developing healthy relationships with themselves and with one another. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a systemic perspective, recognizing the impact of societal and historical contexts on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being. I adopt a neurodiversity-affirming framework and work from a trauma-informed lens with the hope of creating a safe, welcoming space for clients of all backgrounds and identities.
I have experience supporting folks struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity concerns, self-worth, and more. I’m deeply passionate about supporting folks in developing healthy relationships with themselves and with one another. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a systemic perspective, recognizing the impact of societal and historical contexts on mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being. I adopt a neurodiversity-affirming framework and work from a trauma-informed lens with the hope of creating a safe, welcoming space for clients of all backgrounds and identities.
(651) 381-5470 View (651) 381-5470
Photo of Taylor Leslie, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Leslie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
I am passionate about helping individuals who struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, finding purpose/meaning in life, connecting to the body, and so much more.
Do you ever feel like talking isn't enough? I’m trained in clinical hypnosis, ego state therapy (a parts work modality), accelerated resolution therapy (ART), somatic healing, and breathwork. All of these are somatic approaches that allow you to get in touch with your innate wisdom, and to heal from a bottom-up approach. I offer a holistic approach to help you move beyond traditional talk therapy.
I am passionate about helping individuals who struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, finding purpose/meaning in life, connecting to the body, and so much more.
Do you ever feel like talking isn't enough? I’m trained in clinical hypnosis, ego state therapy (a parts work modality), accelerated resolution therapy (ART), somatic healing, and breathwork. All of these are somatic approaches that allow you to get in touch with your innate wisdom, and to heal from a bottom-up approach. I offer a holistic approach to help you move beyond traditional talk therapy.
(763) 373-4499 View (763) 373-4499
Photo of Paula Sadee, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula Sadee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
I specialize in treating Trauma, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Dissociation & addiction.
For the past 22 years I have helped traumatized, depressed or anxious clients feel safe, heard, understood and empowered. Trauma can make people feel hopeless, numb, empty and like they have lost themselves. They often resort to coping that helps them avoid or escape their emotional pain but doesn’t help them to heal or effectively manage their symptoms but they don’t know any other way. There is another way. In my gentle, compassionate, non-judgmental approach I help clients feel unconditional acceptance, support, understanding & safety.
I specialize in treating Trauma, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Dissociation & addiction.
For the past 22 years I have helped traumatized, depressed or anxious clients feel safe, heard, understood and empowered. Trauma can make people feel hopeless, numb, empty and like they have lost themselves. They often resort to coping that helps them avoid or escape their emotional pain but doesn’t help them to heal or effectively manage their symptoms but they don’t know any other way. There is another way. In my gentle, compassionate, non-judgmental approach I help clients feel unconditional acceptance, support, understanding & safety.
(651) 413-9918 View (651) 413-9918
Photo of Rebekah Morse, MSW, LICSW, CCW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebekah Morse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CCW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077
Waitlist for new clients
Healing comes from seeking understanding of the whole self. I provide a calm and compassionate space to work through intense anxiety, depression, grief, difficult relationships, parenting concerns or that feeling that things just aren’t right. Together we can explore patterns you may feel caught in, look at things in new ways, and reclaim parts of yourself that have been closed off or are waiting for the opportunity to grow. I enjoy helpIng adults, couples, and teens heal emotional wounds, work through intense trauma or abuse, work through the trauma of the everyday, and deepen awareness of needs, greatest hopes, and complete self.
Healing comes from seeking understanding of the whole self. I provide a calm and compassionate space to work through intense anxiety, depression, grief, difficult relationships, parenting concerns or that feeling that things just aren’t right. Together we can explore patterns you may feel caught in, look at things in new ways, and reclaim parts of yourself that have been closed off or are waiting for the opportunity to grow. I enjoy helpIng adults, couples, and teens heal emotional wounds, work through intense trauma or abuse, work through the trauma of the everyday, and deepen awareness of needs, greatest hopes, and complete self.
(651) 318-4719 View (651) 318-4719
Photo of Kyle Warner, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kyle Warner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Life can be a lot and talking with someone can help. Sometimes it’s a matter of having an unbiased ear to listen, someone assuring you that you have value, or someone to help get your thoughts in order. We all have different experiences and needs, and finding a therapist can be helpful. I am passionate about mental health and working to make tackling our own mental health issues approachable. I have a compassionate and realistic approach to mental health and view it as a necessary part of anyone’s life. I believe therapy is most effective by providing a non-judgmental space for people to be heard, appreciated, and validated.
Life can be a lot and talking with someone can help. Sometimes it’s a matter of having an unbiased ear to listen, someone assuring you that you have value, or someone to help get your thoughts in order. We all have different experiences and needs, and finding a therapist can be helpful. I am passionate about mental health and working to make tackling our own mental health issues approachable. I have a compassionate and realistic approach to mental health and view it as a necessary part of anyone’s life. I believe therapy is most effective by providing a non-judgmental space for people to be heard, appreciated, and validated.
(651) 504-8303 View (651) 504-8303
Photo of Katie Engh, MA, LPCC, DBTC, Counselor
Katie Engh
Counselor, MA, LPCC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Starting out with a new therapist or beginning therapy for the first time can feel scary, maybe even downright terrifying. I offer a laid-back place to show up as you are without judgement, talk about the hard stuff that we inevitably experience through life, and maybe have a laugh or two in the process. I approach therapy as a collaboration. We are a team. You set the destination you want to get to, and I’m here to help you navigate.
Starting out with a new therapist or beginning therapy for the first time can feel scary, maybe even downright terrifying. I offer a laid-back place to show up as you are without judgement, talk about the hard stuff that we inevitably experience through life, and maybe have a laugh or two in the process. I approach therapy as a collaboration. We are a team. You set the destination you want to get to, and I’m here to help you navigate.
(651) 390-1908 View (651) 390-1908
Photo of Crystal Lee Nelson - Integrative Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist
Integrative Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Life is wild & precious. Crystal collaborates with you on the fullness of who you are & how you live your life in alignment with your values and purpose. Her direct EMDR approach guides you through an 8 phase treatment with BLS. After determining which memories to target, you hold different aspects of that event, internal associations arise and you process the memory & disturbing feelings. The meaning of painful event(s) transform on an emotional, cognitive & spiritual level. Crystal is gifted in couples work (EFCT), helping understand love systemically, emotions & attachment needs, control negative patterns & shape positive bonds.
Life is wild & precious. Crystal collaborates with you on the fullness of who you are & how you live your life in alignment with your values and purpose. Her direct EMDR approach guides you through an 8 phase treatment with BLS. After determining which memories to target, you hold different aspects of that event, internal associations arise and you process the memory & disturbing feelings. The meaning of painful event(s) transform on an emotional, cognitive & spiritual level. Crystal is gifted in couples work (EFCT), helping understand love systemically, emotions & attachment needs, control negative patterns & shape positive bonds.
(612) 712-7756 View (612) 712-7756
Photo of Peg Truax, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Peg Truax
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
People find themselves struggling with something that is making life more difficult than it needs to be. Maybe friends and family aren't there for you anymore, or they just can't understand what is happening with you. You need to talk to someone who can help you sort it out-someone who can listen and reflect with you, but won't tell you what to do. Someone who can help you find the answers that come from within. You want a good counselor. So, now that you know that, how do you choose one?
People find themselves struggling with something that is making life more difficult than it needs to be. Maybe friends and family aren't there for you anymore, or they just can't understand what is happening with you. You need to talk to someone who can help you sort it out-someone who can listen and reflect with you, but won't tell you what to do. Someone who can help you find the answers that come from within. You want a good counselor. So, now that you know that, how do you choose one?
(651) 538-6592 View (651) 538-6592
Photo of Madeline Sandeen, MA, LPCC
Madeline Sandeen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Does your trauma or mental health leaves you feeling uncertain, anxious, and confused? Are you fed up with the way symptoms impact your relationships, view of the world, and confidence in oneself? You might not even remember a time things did not feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for a change. You’re ready to feel certain of yourself. You’re ready to experience a regulated nervous system. Most of all, you’re ready to be able to confidently express your wants, needs, and desires.
Does your trauma or mental health leaves you feeling uncertain, anxious, and confused? Are you fed up with the way symptoms impact your relationships, view of the world, and confidence in oneself? You might not even remember a time things did not feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for a change. You’re ready to feel certain of yourself. You’re ready to experience a regulated nervous system. Most of all, you’re ready to be able to confidently express your wants, needs, and desires.
(651) 409-1446 View (651) 409-1446
Photo of Sheilah Dudley, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sheilah Dudley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Do you find yourself feeling lonely, even when you're surrounded by others? Perhaps you're struggling with a deep fear of abandonment that makes it difficult to trust and connect with people. These feelings may have roots in childhood experiences that shaped your beliefs about relationships and left you with wounds that continue to impact your life.
Do you find yourself feeling lonely, even when you're surrounded by others? Perhaps you're struggling with a deep fear of abandonment that makes it difficult to trust and connect with people. These feelings may have roots in childhood experiences that shaped your beliefs about relationships and left you with wounds that continue to impact your life.
(651) 301-7974 View (651) 301-7974
Photo of Rebecca Mitchell, MA, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Mitchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Do you find yourself struggling with daily tasks due to your trauma, anxiety, or substance use? If so I am here to help! Clients come to me looking for a therapist who can provide a safe, supportive, and light setting, while exploring symptoms or experiences. Therapy should be a place where you feel heard and validated in session. Sessions with me are focused on your current needs while challenge thought patterns, beliefs, and better understanding your symptoms. Together, we achieve the growth and healing you need to improve your daily routine, we always go at your pace, never pushing to a place you don’t feel ready to be.
Do you find yourself struggling with daily tasks due to your trauma, anxiety, or substance use? If so I am here to help! Clients come to me looking for a therapist who can provide a safe, supportive, and light setting, while exploring symptoms or experiences. Therapy should be a place where you feel heard and validated in session. Sessions with me are focused on your current needs while challenge thought patterns, beliefs, and better understanding your symptoms. Together, we achieve the growth and healing you need to improve your daily routine, we always go at your pace, never pushing to a place you don’t feel ready to be.
(651) 758-5491 View (651) 758-5491
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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.