Depression Therapists in Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN

David A Dubois
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55407
I work with issues of depression, anxiety, ADHD, chemical and other addictions, as well with issues of anger management, victims of domestic abuse,and family therapy.
More information at; davidadubois.com I believe that therapy is not an easy process to begin or to say with over time. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and before that worked for 12 years as an alcohol and drug counselor. I work from a cognitive behavioral therapy perspective and believe that people come to therapy because they have tried every solution they know to make there life better. I believe therapy works best in an atmosphere of respect and trust, that people come to therapy because they want to make there life better in some way.
I work with issues of depression, anxiety, ADHD, chemical and other addictions, as well with issues of anger management, victims of domestic abuse,and family therapy.
More information at; davidadubois.com I believe that therapy is not an easy process to begin or to say with over time. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and before that worked for 12 years as an alcohol and drug counselor. I work from a cognitive behavioral therapy perspective and believe that people come to therapy because they have tried every solution they know to make there life better. I believe therapy works best in an atmosphere of respect and trust, that people come to therapy because they want to make there life better in some way.
(612) 293-6968 View (612) 293-6968
Photo of Jessica Carol Woodruff, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Carol Woodruff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
Immediate openings available! Hi I’m Jessica! Life can be so hard and confusing; sometimes you just need someone in your corner. I specialize in depression, anxiety, change of life, trauma and self improvement. I’m trained in EMDR and CBT but draw from other modalities as needed. Also, I am a Personal Trainer and see the value in taking care of your body as well as your mind. Through empathy and trust we can build a relationship that will support you in reaching your goals, overcoming obstacles and embracing the best version of yourself. Complimentary phone consultations available- reach out to schedule!
Immediate openings available! Hi I’m Jessica! Life can be so hard and confusing; sometimes you just need someone in your corner. I specialize in depression, anxiety, change of life, trauma and self improvement. I’m trained in EMDR and CBT but draw from other modalities as needed. Also, I am a Personal Trainer and see the value in taking care of your body as well as your mind. Through empathy and trust we can build a relationship that will support you in reaching your goals, overcoming obstacles and embracing the best version of yourself. Complimentary phone consultations available- reach out to schedule!
(612) 473-5541 View (612) 473-5541
Photo of Eric Francis Levy, LPCC, Counselor
Eric Francis Levy
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55404
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with extensive experience working with couples, families, adolescents and individuals. I have expertise working with family conflict, DUI related issues, sexuality, sexual behavior problems, addictions, and crisis intervention. Other areas of interest and experience include family conflict, divorce, depression, anxiety, developmental disabilities and parenting issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with extensive experience working with couples, families, adolescents and individuals. I have expertise working with family conflict, DUI related issues, sexuality, sexual behavior problems, addictions, and crisis intervention. Other areas of interest and experience include family conflict, divorce, depression, anxiety, developmental disabilities and parenting issues.
(612) 400-7756 View (612) 400-7756
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
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55408  (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 Molly L Nicholson, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Molly L Nicholson
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I have the honor of working with people experiencing a wide variety of concerns including: depression; anxiety; grief/loss; life transitions; chronic illness; postpartum depression; sexual abuse; relationship problems; low self-esteem; family of origin; stress and more. My relational approach is based on the belief that within the framework of a trusting relationship with a therapist, clients can explore patterns of behavior and emotions which may relate back to earlier relationships. Once a better understanding of the origins of these patterns is developed, people often find lasting freedom from their hold over their lives.
I have the honor of working with people experiencing a wide variety of concerns including: depression; anxiety; grief/loss; life transitions; chronic illness; postpartum depression; sexual abuse; relationship problems; low self-esteem; family of origin; stress and more. My relational approach is based on the belief that within the framework of a trusting relationship with a therapist, clients can explore patterns of behavior and emotions which may relate back to earlier relationships. Once a better understanding of the origins of these patterns is developed, people often find lasting freedom from their hold over their lives.
(612) 204-2823 View (612) 204-2823
Photo of Beth A Lenz, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Beth A Lenz
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
Sometimes life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, making it seem as if we have little control over the path our lives are taking. Trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, and other life challenges can make ordinary life difficult to navigate. I provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment that allows my clients to gain mastery over their situation rather than allowing their circumstances to run their lives. My therapeutic approach is culturally sensitive, collaborative, unique to each client, and focuses on client strengths.
Sometimes life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, making it seem as if we have little control over the path our lives are taking. Trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, and other life challenges can make ordinary life difficult to navigate. I provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment that allows my clients to gain mastery over their situation rather than allowing their circumstances to run their lives. My therapeutic approach is culturally sensitive, collaborative, unique to each client, and focuses on client strengths.
(612) 416-1664 View (612) 416-1664
Photo of Cerise Lewis, PhD, LMFT, LPCC, CTMH, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cerise Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPCC, CTMH, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Waitlist for new clients
I welcome the opportunity to assist you in overcoming challenges related to depression, anxiety, infidelity, sexual trauma, anger, parenting, and general relationship issues.
Life’s circumstances can sometimes feel like a heavy burden, leaving us powerless to change our situation. My passion lies in building confidence and empowering individuals, couples and families. Every day, people grapple with stress, trauma, and challenging problems that can be overwhelming to face alone. I’m here to help you navigate these difficulties and discover sustainable solutions, allowing you to heal, thrive, and become your best self.
I welcome the opportunity to assist you in overcoming challenges related to depression, anxiety, infidelity, sexual trauma, anger, parenting, and general relationship issues.
Life’s circumstances can sometimes feel like a heavy burden, leaving us powerless to change our situation. My passion lies in building confidence and empowering individuals, couples and families. Every day, people grapple with stress, trauma, and challenging problems that can be overwhelming to face alone. I’m here to help you navigate these difficulties and discover sustainable solutions, allowing you to heal, thrive, and become your best self.
(651) 383-1905 View (651) 383-1905
Photo of Stacy M. Husebo, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacy M. Husebo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55407
My areas of focus include: Anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, mindful living, and spiritual dimensions of mental health.
Life brings challenges for us all! I offer a person-centered therapeutic experience that is deliberate, supportive, and empowers you to grow and change in intentional and meaningful ways. Change happens when we become aware of and act upon patterns in our lives that limit us. I will support you in pursuing satisfying relationships, work, and overcoming obstacles and difficulties. We will work through grief, loss, inner conflicts, life challenges and difficulty in relationships. Changing our lives takes courage and unfolds in the context of a nourishing and accepting environment where one can explore new possibilities for their life.
My areas of focus include: Anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, mindful living, and spiritual dimensions of mental health.
Life brings challenges for us all! I offer a person-centered therapeutic experience that is deliberate, supportive, and empowers you to grow and change in intentional and meaningful ways. Change happens when we become aware of and act upon patterns in our lives that limit us. I will support you in pursuing satisfying relationships, work, and overcoming obstacles and difficulties. We will work through grief, loss, inner conflicts, life challenges and difficulty in relationships. Changing our lives takes courage and unfolds in the context of a nourishing and accepting environment where one can explore new possibilities for their life.
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Photo of Therapy For Doctors Nurses Therapists Madilyn Morgan, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapy For Doctors Nurses Therapists Madilyn Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55407
I also use these modalities to help you work through any anxiety and depression.
I am a therapist who specializes in helping nurses, doctors/residents, therapists, occupational/physical therapists, and other helping professionals. The pressure to "get it right" for our patients and clients can be overwhelming. If you find your entire day revolving around getting ready for work, working, and recovering from work, you might benefit from coming to therapy with me. I help healthcare providers distance themselves from obsessive thoughts about whether they did enough at work or all they still have to do. I aim to help you enjoy your job again and leave work at work.
I also use these modalities to help you work through any anxiety and depression.
I am a therapist who specializes in helping nurses, doctors/residents, therapists, occupational/physical therapists, and other helping professionals. The pressure to "get it right" for our patients and clients can be overwhelming. If you find your entire day revolving around getting ready for work, working, and recovering from work, you might benefit from coming to therapy with me. I help healthcare providers distance themselves from obsessive thoughts about whether they did enough at work or all they still have to do. I aim to help you enjoy your job again and leave work at work.
(763) 888-8524 View (763) 888-8524
Photo of Leigh Rosenberg, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Rosenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Waitlist for new clients
The power of relationship and being present and embodied guide my work in supporting people dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, life-transitions, grief, health issues, or other challenges. My approach is built on compassion, care and respect for the experiences and identities that make you who you are. If you have suffered traumatic or difficult experience, from birth till now, want to be at home in yourself and with others; if you are trying to navigate a world that too easily permits oppression, or you want to grow the kernels of wholeness (even if hidden) within you, I hope to explore working together.
The power of relationship and being present and embodied guide my work in supporting people dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, life-transitions, grief, health issues, or other challenges. My approach is built on compassion, care and respect for the experiences and identities that make you who you are. If you have suffered traumatic or difficult experience, from birth till now, want to be at home in yourself and with others; if you are trying to navigate a world that too easily permits oppression, or you want to grow the kernels of wholeness (even if hidden) within you, I hope to explore working together.
(612) 446-0933 View (612) 446-0933
Photo of Shane Hamp, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shane Hamp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55407  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or healing past hurt? Are you wanting to understand more where that hurt comes from? I can help you get to the core of these and find answers to making your life the best it can be. I am passionate about work in trauma, attachment, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and deepening the understanding of the self. I find that a strong therapeutic connection is the best approach to fostering growth and success.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or healing past hurt? Are you wanting to understand more where that hurt comes from? I can help you get to the core of these and find answers to making your life the best it can be. I am passionate about work in trauma, attachment, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and deepening the understanding of the self. I find that a strong therapeutic connection is the best approach to fostering growth and success.
(651) 427-3328 View (651) 427-3328
Photo of Teresa Winston, MA, LPCC, BCS, TTS, Counselor
Teresa Winston
Counselor, MA, LPCC, BCS, TTS
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55407
I have supported patients with anxiety, depression, and relationship issues for over 10 years using evidence-based therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused Therapy.
Are you anxious with shortness of breath, racing heart, and feeling like the walls are closing in? Anxiety is not your fault or caused by anything you have or haven’t done. Are you in the midst of relationship problems and do not know what direction to turn? Whether addressing small issues or potential relationship-breaking challenges, therapy can help. Does sadness have you distressed, depressed, and hopeless? There are proven steps and skills that have been shown to result in remarkable relief. I am passionate about providing quality service. It is my overall goal to empower growth and change.
I have supported patients with anxiety, depression, and relationship issues for over 10 years using evidence-based therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused Therapy.
Are you anxious with shortness of breath, racing heart, and feeling like the walls are closing in? Anxiety is not your fault or caused by anything you have or haven’t done. Are you in the midst of relationship problems and do not know what direction to turn? Whether addressing small issues or potential relationship-breaking challenges, therapy can help. Does sadness have you distressed, depressed, and hopeless? There are proven steps and skills that have been shown to result in remarkable relief. I am passionate about providing quality service. It is my overall goal to empower growth and change.
(612) 888-8169 View (612) 888-8169
Photo of Maddie Spalding, MA, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Maddie Spalding
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Maddie has experience working with individuals to address a variety of issues including substance misuse, OCD, eating disorders, negative body image, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship conflicts.
Maddie is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a pre-licensed psychotherapist under supervision for LPCC licensure. She has immediate openings for therapy. She has a background as a writer that informs her approach to therapy. She believes in the importance of empowering people to develop and grow into their own story and tap into their own motivations for change. She also believes that building community support and connection is an integral part of the healing process. She has experience working with adult men, adult women, adolescents, and LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC clients with various mental health issues.
Maddie has experience working with individuals to address a variety of issues including substance misuse, OCD, eating disorders, negative body image, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship conflicts.
Maddie is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a pre-licensed psychotherapist under supervision for LPCC licensure. She has immediate openings for therapy. She has a background as a writer that informs her approach to therapy. She believes in the importance of empowering people to develop and grow into their own story and tap into their own motivations for change. She also believes that building community support and connection is an integral part of the healing process. She has experience working with adult men, adult women, adolescents, and LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC clients with various mental health issues.
(952) 900-3942 View (952) 900-3942
Photo of Ellen Gormican, MPH, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Gormican
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55407  (Online Only)
In today’s world, engaging in therapy can be a radical act of self-love. My goal is to create a space where individuals feel comfortable accessing their vulnerabilities, exploring their identities, working through trauma, and healing childhood wounds. I use curiosity and compassion to identify behavioral patterns, negative self-talk, or anxieties that often keep us feeling stuck, dissatisfied, or depressed.
In today’s world, engaging in therapy can be a radical act of self-love. My goal is to create a space where individuals feel comfortable accessing their vulnerabilities, exploring their identities, working through trauma, and healing childhood wounds. I use curiosity and compassion to identify behavioral patterns, negative self-talk, or anxieties that often keep us feeling stuck, dissatisfied, or depressed.
(651) 615-6442 View (651) 615-6442
Photo of Grace Heneghan, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Grace Heneghan
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
​I enjoy working with folks exploring gender, sexuality, relationships, and the intersections of fatness, disability, and queerness. Additional areas of interest and experience include, sex therapy, neurodiversity, grief and loss, body image, self-worth, anxiety, depression, and COVID-19-related processing and support.
​I enjoy working with folks exploring gender, sexuality, relationships, and the intersections of fatness, disability, and queerness. Additional areas of interest and experience include, sex therapy, neurodiversity, grief and loss, body image, self-worth, anxiety, depression, and COVID-19-related processing and support.
(612) 453-4683 View (612) 453-4683
Photo of Cheryl Dornfeld, LPCC, MA, SEP
Cheryl Dornfeld
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MA, SEP
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I specialize in stress, trauma, anxiety, and depression and I integrate Somatic Experiencing, Polyvagal and Flow Theories with Self Compassion, Growth Mindset, and Wellbeing research to support you and what matters to you.
You may be new to therapy, looking for a change in therapy, or returning to therapy. You may be a college or grad student or in a life change. You may be struggling with feelings of shut down, disconnection, overwhelm & checked out (stuck on ‘off’; ‘dorsal vagal dominance’), or, the opposite, constriction, irritability, restlessness, hyper-alertness, & fear (stuck on ‘on’; ‘sympathetic arousal’). Wherever you are in your mental health, you may also be passionate, committed, perceptive, & caring. Positive shifts & meaningful healing are possible with therapeutic work that integrates the body, along with the mind, emotions, & spirit.
I specialize in stress, trauma, anxiety, and depression and I integrate Somatic Experiencing, Polyvagal and Flow Theories with Self Compassion, Growth Mindset, and Wellbeing research to support you and what matters to you.
You may be new to therapy, looking for a change in therapy, or returning to therapy. You may be a college or grad student or in a life change. You may be struggling with feelings of shut down, disconnection, overwhelm & checked out (stuck on ‘off’; ‘dorsal vagal dominance’), or, the opposite, constriction, irritability, restlessness, hyper-alertness, & fear (stuck on ‘on’; ‘sympathetic arousal’). Wherever you are in your mental health, you may also be passionate, committed, perceptive, & caring. Positive shifts & meaningful healing are possible with therapeutic work that integrates the body, along with the mind, emotions, & spirit.
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Photo of Ryanne Underhill, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryanne Underhill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55407  (Online Only)
I am a queer identified LICSW with more than 13 years of experience providing psychotherapy. I have extensive experience with clients with a variety of mental health diagnoses including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. I specialize in working with adults (21+) who are highly sensitive, those who are wanting to live more wholly and authentically as themselves, those that are looking to break intergenerational and transgeneration patterns and trauma, and parents of young children who are wanting to explore different ways of parenting. Many of the clients that I work with also identify as queer.
I am a queer identified LICSW with more than 13 years of experience providing psychotherapy. I have extensive experience with clients with a variety of mental health diagnoses including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. I specialize in working with adults (21+) who are highly sensitive, those who are wanting to live more wholly and authentically as themselves, those that are looking to break intergenerational and transgeneration patterns and trauma, and parents of young children who are wanting to explore different ways of parenting. Many of the clients that I work with also identify as queer.
(612) 688-5906 View (612) 688-5906
Photo of Rachel Mira Hoff, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Mira Hoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
I also work with depression, anxiety, parent needs and life transitions.
I am a visually impaired Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am trained and certified in Early Childhood Mental Health and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy. I believe that we are all created for relationships and the current world we live in fosters isolation and individuality. I seek to provide children, families, and adults effective mental health care that teaches them how to heal and recreate healthy relationships.
I also work with depression, anxiety, parent needs and life transitions.
I am a visually impaired Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am trained and certified in Early Childhood Mental Health and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy. I believe that we are all created for relationships and the current world we live in fosters isolation and individuality. I seek to provide children, families, and adults effective mental health care that teaches them how to heal and recreate healthy relationships.
(612) 888-8683 View (612) 888-8683
Photo of Zota Korti, MS, LPCC
Zota Korti
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I am also experienced in working with clients with histories of trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, emotional distress, grief/loss, life transitions and other relational issues.
Accepting New Clients at this Time. My life experiences have given me the gift of being Inter-Sectional. I know that a person has many parts of their life, that makes up the individual. Everyone has a story to tell. I work to empower my clients to see themselves as Whole beings with gifts to give the world. I specialize and hold certifications in the following: Trauma Informed care and healing, Self-esteem building, Anxiety Treatment, Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative Exposure and Internal Family Systems Therapies. I operate from a social-justice perspective, and purposely create spaces for BIPOC people to do their healing work.
I am also experienced in working with clients with histories of trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, emotional distress, grief/loss, life transitions and other relational issues.
Accepting New Clients at this Time. My life experiences have given me the gift of being Inter-Sectional. I know that a person has many parts of their life, that makes up the individual. Everyone has a story to tell. I work to empower my clients to see themselves as Whole beings with gifts to give the world. I specialize and hold certifications in the following: Trauma Informed care and healing, Self-esteem building, Anxiety Treatment, Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative Exposure and Internal Family Systems Therapies. I operate from a social-justice perspective, and purposely create spaces for BIPOC people to do their healing work.
(763) 363-3843 View (763) 363-3843
Photo of Amy Griffis, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Griffis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Powderhorn, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Are you an older teen or adult ages 17-65 years old? And have you been experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, gender identity exploration/issues, body image issues, or other issues and wish you could work collaboratively with someone who is compassionate and supportive to help you achieve your goals? Change and relief are possible and you don't have to do it alone.
Are you an older teen or adult ages 17-65 years old? And have you been experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, gender identity exploration/issues, body image issues, or other issues and wish you could work collaboratively with someone who is compassionate and supportive to help you achieve your goals? Change and relief are possible and you don't have to do it alone.
(612) 482-7601 View (612) 482-7601

See more therapy options for Powderhorn, Minneapolis

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.