Depression Therapists in Cedar-Riverside, Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Deb Goggins, MA, ATR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Deb Goggins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar-Riverside, Minneapolis, MN 55454  (Online Only)
Do you need help managing stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, toxic behavior, focus/cognitive function, emotions, goal setting, motivation, achievement, career, grief, trauma, self-identity, work-life balance, or finding calm and happiness? I provide encouragement and guidance toward joy and hope with a focus on mind, body, and spirit to achieve wellness. I collaborate with you, and help you focus on yourself, so you find solutions that work for you. You will learn how to enrich yourself with positivity and purpose, and learn how to empower yourself to live authentically in peace.
Do you need help managing stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, toxic behavior, focus/cognitive function, emotions, goal setting, motivation, achievement, career, grief, trauma, self-identity, work-life balance, or finding calm and happiness? I provide encouragement and guidance toward joy and hope with a focus on mind, body, and spirit to achieve wellness. I collaborate with you, and help you focus on yourself, so you find solutions that work for you. You will learn how to enrich yourself with positivity and purpose, and learn how to empower yourself to live authentically in peace.
(763) 292-3539 View (763) 292-3539
Photo of Moniek Garside, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Moniek Garside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar-Riverside, Minneapolis, MN 55454  (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. It can be difficult to navigate life's challenges. You don't have to do it alone. I am here to guide and support you along the way. My goal is to empower you to reach your full potential in all areas of your life. I incorporate wellness practices in my therapeutic approach. Every client is different, so your goals in therapy will be catered to fit your specific needs. Some of my specialties include depression, anxiety, and grief. I provide virtual therapy in Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota, South Carolina, and Vermont. Thank you for choosing me to be a part of your journey.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. It can be difficult to navigate life's challenges. You don't have to do it alone. I am here to guide and support you along the way. My goal is to empower you to reach your full potential in all areas of your life. I incorporate wellness practices in my therapeutic approach. Every client is different, so your goals in therapy will be catered to fit your specific needs. Some of my specialties include depression, anxiety, and grief. I provide virtual therapy in Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota, South Carolina, and Vermont. Thank you for choosing me to be a part of your journey.
(678) 506-2140 View (678) 506-2140
Photo of Lul Abdirahman Haji-Mohamed - Bridging The Gap Behavioral Health PLLC, LICSW, CCTP-II, CCATP, C-DBT, CIATC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridging The Gap Behavioral Health PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP-II, CCATP, C-DBT, CIATC
Verified Verified
Cedar-Riverside, Minneapolis, MN 55454  (Online Only)
My area of expertise are: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief & Self esteem, Attachment Issue, interpersonal conflicts, Stress management, anxiety and depression.
My Name is Lul Haji-Mohamed. I have 13+ years of experience in the behavioral Health field. My philosophy is to meet people where they are at and work in partnership. I recognizes that an open and honest relationship between client and therapist can produce a positive effect in the therapeutic process and the level of acceptance demonstrated. I strives to reduce anxiety in order to increase engagement and connection, create a safe environment for discussion, and impart knowledge and facts about the various options and their implications. I enjoy to see people reach their full potential and thrive.
My area of expertise are: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief & Self esteem, Attachment Issue, interpersonal conflicts, Stress management, anxiety and depression.
My Name is Lul Haji-Mohamed. I have 13+ years of experience in the behavioral Health field. My philosophy is to meet people where they are at and work in partnership. I recognizes that an open and honest relationship between client and therapist can produce a positive effect in the therapeutic process and the level of acceptance demonstrated. I strives to reduce anxiety in order to increase engagement and connection, create a safe environment for discussion, and impart knowledge and facts about the various options and their implications. I enjoy to see people reach their full potential and thrive.
(612) 248-1852 View (612) 248-1852
Photo of Tracey Wilkins, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracey Wilkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cedar-Riverside, Minneapolis, MN 55454
If you are unhappy, struggling with life's challenges, feel like you are not reaching your potential, have difficulty in managing relationships or feel like there is something seriously wrong, we can work together to figure out what's wrong and work on solutions. I have over 15 years of clinical experience. I have siginificant experience in treating mood disorders including Depression and Bipolar Disorder, anxiety disorders and eating disorders.
If you are unhappy, struggling with life's challenges, feel like you are not reaching your potential, have difficulty in managing relationships or feel like there is something seriously wrong, we can work together to figure out what's wrong and work on solutions. I have over 15 years of clinical experience. I have siginificant experience in treating mood disorders including Depression and Bipolar Disorder, anxiety disorders and eating disorders.
(651) 560-3831 View (651) 560-3831
Photo of Abby J. Schnedler, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Abby J. Schnedler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar-Riverside, Minneapolis, MN 55454  (Online Only)
My therapeutic interests are general but I am well versed in working with clients experiencing stress/overwhelm, depression, adoption issues, anxiety, challenging relationships, family of origin issues, boundary issues, and constraints stemming from institutional and systemic racism and discrimination.
Hello! Let’s talk about healing…what are we struggling with that is our responsibility to heal and what might we be carrying that was passed onto us? Giving yourself the grace and compassion to heal is one way to change the dynamics of our interactions with others as well as our relationship with ourselves. Holding space for people to explore the impact of mental health on their own life is the central focus of my work. I am a relational therapist and feel that it is most important to establish a sense of trust and empathy with clients in order for therapeutic growth to occur.
My therapeutic interests are general but I am well versed in working with clients experiencing stress/overwhelm, depression, adoption issues, anxiety, challenging relationships, family of origin issues, boundary issues, and constraints stemming from institutional and systemic racism and discrimination.
Hello! Let’s talk about healing…what are we struggling with that is our responsibility to heal and what might we be carrying that was passed onto us? Giving yourself the grace and compassion to heal is one way to change the dynamics of our interactions with others as well as our relationship with ourselves. Holding space for people to explore the impact of mental health on their own life is the central focus of my work. I am a relational therapist and feel that it is most important to establish a sense of trust and empathy with clients in order for therapeutic growth to occur.
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Photo of Chanel Flower, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chanel Flower
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar-Riverside, Minneapolis, MN 55454
Immediate availability for afternoons and evenings, both virtually and in-person!
Immediate availability for afternoons and evenings, both virtually and in-person!
(612) 425-1755 View (612) 425-1755
Photo of Nikhat Rafiq, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nikhat Rafiq
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar-Riverside, Minneapolis, MN 55454
Nikhat (knee-cot) has a super positive vibe about her. She’s one of those people that lifts people’s spirits simply by her being in their orbit. Honestly, she’s pretty dang awesome. Have you ever met someone who just radiates positivity? That’s Nikhat. She’s just one of those people that everyone likes. And, let us tell you why. First, she is very engaged with her clients, and what she puts her mind to. She’s not a therapist who will just sit there, nod her head, and say “uh-huh”. Instead, she get’s right into the thick of things with her clients.
Nikhat (knee-cot) has a super positive vibe about her. She’s one of those people that lifts people’s spirits simply by her being in their orbit. Honestly, she’s pretty dang awesome. Have you ever met someone who just radiates positivity? That’s Nikhat. She’s just one of those people that everyone likes. And, let us tell you why. First, she is very engaged with her clients, and what she puts her mind to. She’s not a therapist who will just sit there, nod her head, and say “uh-huh”. Instead, she get’s right into the thick of things with her clients.
(763) 342-5598 View (763) 342-5598
Photo of Eli Coleman, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Eli Coleman
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Cedar-Riverside, Minneapolis, MN 55454  (Online Only)
I am accepting new referrals using telehealth now. I am especially looking for patients who are concerned about compulsive sexual behavior. I really enjoy working with motivated clients who are seeking help to resolve problems in their life. Some things are simple but other things are quite complex. I enjoy working with both kinds of problems. It is very satisfying to watch a client learn, grow and change - and sometimes over years of time.
I am accepting new referrals using telehealth now. I am especially looking for patients who are concerned about compulsive sexual behavior. I really enjoy working with motivated clients who are seeking help to resolve problems in their life. Some things are simple but other things are quite complex. I enjoy working with both kinds of problems. It is very satisfying to watch a client learn, grow and change - and sometimes over years of time.
(612) 482-1464 View (612) 482-1464
Photo of Noah C. Venables, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Noah C. Venables
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Cedar-Riverside, Minneapolis, MN 55454
I am a clinical psychologist and proprietor of Minnesota Psychological Services, LLC. I consider myself a generalist clinician, meaning I can assess and treat most psychological and mental health concerns. I have extensive training and experience working with individuals in various stages of substance use recovery: individual therapy as a primary means to address problematic substance use and/or developing new strategies for coping with strong emotions and other behavioral concerns without substance use. I offer a genuine dual-diagnosis approach that most addiction treatments do not provide.
I am a clinical psychologist and proprietor of Minnesota Psychological Services, LLC. I consider myself a generalist clinician, meaning I can assess and treat most psychological and mental health concerns. I have extensive training and experience working with individuals in various stages of substance use recovery: individual therapy as a primary means to address problematic substance use and/or developing new strategies for coping with strong emotions and other behavioral concerns without substance use. I offer a genuine dual-diagnosis approach that most addiction treatments do not provide.
(763) 703-1731 View (763) 703-1731
Photo of Gabe Gebremicael - Sunrise Recovery Services, LLC, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunrise Recovery Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cedar-Riverside, Minneapolis, MN 55454
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with clients (children & adults) experiencing acute stress, situational or chronic depression, anxiety, adjustment concerns.
Welcome! I'm here to support my clients cope with difficult emotions such as anger, worry, and hopelessness. Often, these challenges greatly impact us, our relationships, as well as other critical aspects of life. I support my clients in this journey and walk alongside them as they discover their strengths and persevere, whether it is overcoming anxiety or healing from lived trauma. My approach is cognitive behavioral, with an emphasis on using compassion, strengths, and behavioral activation in order to help individuals recover, grow, and develop new ways of adapting to life’s many challenges.
I specialize in working with clients (children & adults) experiencing acute stress, situational or chronic depression, anxiety, adjustment concerns.
Welcome! I'm here to support my clients cope with difficult emotions such as anger, worry, and hopelessness. Often, these challenges greatly impact us, our relationships, as well as other critical aspects of life. I support my clients in this journey and walk alongside them as they discover their strengths and persevere, whether it is overcoming anxiety or healing from lived trauma. My approach is cognitive behavioral, with an emphasis on using compassion, strengths, and behavioral activation in order to help individuals recover, grow, and develop new ways of adapting to life’s many challenges.
(612) 230-8358 View (612) 230-8358

Online Therapists

Photo of Seinah Isaacs, LSSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seinah Isaacs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55444
Are you tired of dealing with life's issues alone? In today's fast-paced environment, the weight of depression, anxiety, stress, grief and trauma, can take a toll on a person mentally, physically, and emotionally. This leaves you feeling overwhelmed, angry, frustrated and exhausted! With the right therapist, you can take control of your life by reflection, self-awareness, creating balance and working towards living in your highest potential. You put so much time, energy and resource into every other area of your life except where you need it most...on yourself! Remember- mental health is wealth!
Are you tired of dealing with life's issues alone? In today's fast-paced environment, the weight of depression, anxiety, stress, grief and trauma, can take a toll on a person mentally, physically, and emotionally. This leaves you feeling overwhelmed, angry, frustrated and exhausted! With the right therapist, you can take control of your life by reflection, self-awareness, creating balance and working towards living in your highest potential. You put so much time, energy and resource into every other area of your life except where you need it most...on yourself! Remember- mental health is wealth!
(763) 251-7828 View (763) 251-7828
Photo of Shane Hawley, MS, LADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shane Hawley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LADC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403
No matter what you’re going through there is something out there that can help make it easier. Maybe it’s therapy, maybe it’s a talking unicorn, but until you find a talking unicorn, I’m happy to fill in. I focus on practical solutions to your struggles and have years of experience helping people with substance use, trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism, as well as myriad other conditions and situations. I lean heavily on humor and affability to create a comfortable environment for my clients from all backgrounds and walks of life including LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC, and want my client to look forward to our sessions.
No matter what you’re going through there is something out there that can help make it easier. Maybe it’s therapy, maybe it’s a talking unicorn, but until you find a talking unicorn, I’m happy to fill in. I focus on practical solutions to your struggles and have years of experience helping people with substance use, trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism, as well as myriad other conditions and situations. I lean heavily on humor and affability to create a comfortable environment for my clients from all backgrounds and walks of life including LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC, and want my client to look forward to our sessions.
(763) 296-0601 x763 View (763) 296-0601 x763
Photo of Elena Louise Shaffer, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Elena Louise Shaffer
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55416
My areas of specialty include: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Domestic Violence, and helping clients who wish to strengthen communication skills and build healthy relationships.
Currently schedule openings: Mon at 11am, Tues before 3pm, Thurs at 12/1pm. I’m unable to offer evening appointments at this time. It wasn’t until I discovered the healing power of the mind, body, and spirit approach that I saw lasting change and healing in myself and in my clients. I am client centered, radically non-judgmental, authentic, and honest. I believe in meeting each individual where they are and joining together on a path to growth. I am strongly influenced by Sensorimotor Psychotherapy which focuses on the link between our bodies and our psychological wellbeing.
My areas of specialty include: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Domestic Violence, and helping clients who wish to strengthen communication skills and build healthy relationships.
Currently schedule openings: Mon at 11am, Tues before 3pm, Thurs at 12/1pm. I’m unable to offer evening appointments at this time. It wasn’t until I discovered the healing power of the mind, body, and spirit approach that I saw lasting change and healing in myself and in my clients. I am client centered, radically non-judgmental, authentic, and honest. I believe in meeting each individual where they are and joining together on a path to growth. I am strongly influenced by Sensorimotor Psychotherapy which focuses on the link between our bodies and our psychological wellbeing.
(612) 260-6786 View (612) 260-6786
Photo of Kait Nolte, MSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kait Nolte
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
While I work with a variety of individuals who identify as having a mood disorder, like anxiety or depression, my focus is on finding the root of these symptoms and supporting you in feeling empowered to cope with life's stressors.
My approach to therapy is relational, attachment focused, systems based, and trauma informed as I believe how we experience the world is through an eclectic lens of our relational and developmental histories, genetic and biological make-up, experiences with others, and the communities in which we live. I believe that sometimes healing is best ignited through connection, support, and exploration. I practice primarily with adult individuals, families, and couples navigating the effects of stress, PTSD/trauma, identity exploration and self-esteem, life transitions, oppression, and dual-diagnosis.
While I work with a variety of individuals who identify as having a mood disorder, like anxiety or depression, my focus is on finding the root of these symptoms and supporting you in feeling empowered to cope with life's stressors.
My approach to therapy is relational, attachment focused, systems based, and trauma informed as I believe how we experience the world is through an eclectic lens of our relational and developmental histories, genetic and biological make-up, experiences with others, and the communities in which we live. I believe that sometimes healing is best ignited through connection, support, and exploration. I practice primarily with adult individuals, families, and couples navigating the effects of stress, PTSD/trauma, identity exploration and self-esteem, life transitions, oppression, and dual-diagnosis.
(651) 615-4657 View (651) 615-4657
Photo of Tiffany Lopez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406  (Online Only)
I have also been successful in helping people work through symptoms associated with depression, anxiety and life transitions.
It may feel impossible to overcome challenges that leave us feeling broken, scared, uncertain or confused. If this feels true to you, having someone to assist in finding a sense of wholeness, joy, and peace might just be what you need. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed to practice in several states. I have experience working in a variety of mental health settings and have found peace as an outpatient therapist. In our work together, you can expect to be met with an alliance that promotes emotional safety, empathy, and compassion.
I have also been successful in helping people work through symptoms associated with depression, anxiety and life transitions.
It may feel impossible to overcome challenges that leave us feeling broken, scared, uncertain or confused. If this feels true to you, having someone to assist in finding a sense of wholeness, joy, and peace might just be what you need. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed to practice in several states. I have experience working in a variety of mental health settings and have found peace as an outpatient therapist. In our work together, you can expect to be met with an alliance that promotes emotional safety, empathy, and compassion.
(931) 910-2638 View (931) 910-2638
Photo of Cara Snyder, LICSW, LIMHP, CMSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cara Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LIMHP, CMSW, LISW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403  (Online Only)
I have therapeutic experience working with Adolescents, Adults, and Adults 65+ who are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Chronic Illness, Life Transitions, Setting Boundaries, Identity Issues, and Developing Healthy Coping Skills.
Change. Anxiety. Feeling stuck. Confusion. Loss. Chronic illness. Depression. Sleep. Relationships. Stress. Life feels like a struggle. Together we will develop a plan that uses evidence-based methods to help you identify and achieve your goals. I value your unique story and am dedicated to helping you stay motivated as you take steps toward improved mental wellness.
I have therapeutic experience working with Adolescents, Adults, and Adults 65+ who are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Chronic Illness, Life Transitions, Setting Boundaries, Identity Issues, and Developing Healthy Coping Skills.
Change. Anxiety. Feeling stuck. Confusion. Loss. Chronic illness. Depression. Sleep. Relationships. Stress. Life feels like a struggle. Together we will develop a plan that uses evidence-based methods to help you identify and achieve your goals. I value your unique story and am dedicated to helping you stay motivated as you take steps toward improved mental wellness.
(531) 233-5007 View (531) 233-5007
Photo of Ethan Feuer, MSW '25, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ethan Feuer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW '25, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55416
He is specifically interested in supporting individuals as they navigate anxiety/ depression, grief, life transitions, and their sense of self.
Why do we feel lost and adrift? What makes us lose touch with our ability to traverse life’s ups and downs? These are profound questions without one-size-fits-all answers. Life developments, whether related to transitions, trauma, or daily occurrences, can lead to us feeling alienated from ourselves - but through therapy, we reinforce our own ability to right our ship and navigate the obstacles we are facing. Therapy, whether you are beginning the process or continuing the journey, can feel overwhelming. It is all too easy to lose sight of our goals, our strengths, and our experiences.
He is specifically interested in supporting individuals as they navigate anxiety/ depression, grief, life transitions, and their sense of self.
Why do we feel lost and adrift? What makes us lose touch with our ability to traverse life’s ups and downs? These are profound questions without one-size-fits-all answers. Life developments, whether related to transitions, trauma, or daily occurrences, can lead to us feeling alienated from ourselves - but through therapy, we reinforce our own ability to right our ship and navigate the obstacles we are facing. Therapy, whether you are beginning the process or continuing the journey, can feel overwhelming. It is all too easy to lose sight of our goals, our strengths, and our experiences.
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Photo of Farina Thao, Pre-Licensed Professional
Farina Thao
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406  (Online Only)
I support teens and adults who are dealing with trauma, anxiety and depression, among many other things.
Hello! My name is Farina. As a first-generation Hmong student, I want to be able to support my community in removing the barriers that exist in our community around mental health awareness. I believe that it is critical to understand and contribute to the field of mental health, which is why I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults who are beginning to navigate their lives and need extra support! My interest in working in the social work field stems from my childhood. Being the oldest child in an immigrant family, I had to overcome many obstacles and struggles in order to support my family.
I support teens and adults who are dealing with trauma, anxiety and depression, among many other things.
Hello! My name is Farina. As a first-generation Hmong student, I want to be able to support my community in removing the barriers that exist in our community around mental health awareness. I believe that it is critical to understand and contribute to the field of mental health, which is why I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults who are beginning to navigate their lives and need extra support! My interest in working in the social work field stems from my childhood. Being the oldest child in an immigrant family, I had to overcome many obstacles and struggles in order to support my family.
(651) 401-4527 View (651) 401-4527
Photo of Terry M Post, MS, LPCC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terry M Post
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I help people overcome life’s challenges to grow and find their desired happiness. I have a long history of working with those struggling with addiction as well as concerns related to sex and intimacy. From a mental health perspective, I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, intimacy, relationship problems, and some personality disorders. I believe that our mental health, compulsive behaviors, relationships, sex, and intimacy all interact and influence one another to create who and how we show up today. I have an extensive history of working with individuals in the LGBT+ community and specialize in treating Chemsex
I help people overcome life’s challenges to grow and find their desired happiness. I have a long history of working with those struggling with addiction as well as concerns related to sex and intimacy. From a mental health perspective, I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, intimacy, relationship problems, and some personality disorders. I believe that our mental health, compulsive behaviors, relationships, sex, and intimacy all interact and influence one another to create who and how we show up today. I have an extensive history of working with individuals in the LGBT+ community and specialize in treating Chemsex
(952) 213-6554 View (952) 213-6554
Photo of Mark Hantla, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mark Hantla
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407
I have a particular interest in helping heal struggles of self-confidence and uncertainty, attachment and relationships, depression, and anxiety.
Often what brings us to therapy is a yearning for something wanted but not known.  I encourage you to trust this desire, and take the brave step of reaching out for help.  Together, we will work to explore your past and your present with curiosity and self-compassion.
I have a particular interest in helping heal struggles of self-confidence and uncertainty, attachment and relationships, depression, and anxiety.
Often what brings us to therapy is a yearning for something wanted but not known.  I encourage you to trust this desire, and take the brave step of reaching out for help.  Together, we will work to explore your past and your present with curiosity and self-compassion.
(612) 662-2586 View (612) 662-2586
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.