Depression Therapists in New Brighton, MN

Photo of Joseph Biancardi - Biancardi Counseling & Consulting Services, Inc., MA, LP, Psychologist
Biancardi Counseling & Consulting Services, Inc.
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112
One of things I enjoy about my work as a psychologist, is the privilege of engaging in substantive discussion each day. I am passionate about my work and engaging clients in the process of transformation. I have been described as warm, friendly, and inviting. I typically work with professionals struggling with anxiety and depression. I do a lot of work with men surrounding issues pertaining to men's health and spiritual formation. I also work with couples/marriages and derive great satisfaction in helping people develop greater relational health.
One of things I enjoy about my work as a psychologist, is the privilege of engaging in substantive discussion each day. I am passionate about my work and engaging clients in the process of transformation. I have been described as warm, friendly, and inviting. I typically work with professionals struggling with anxiety and depression. I do a lot of work with men surrounding issues pertaining to men's health and spiritual formation. I also work with couples/marriages and derive great satisfaction in helping people develop greater relational health.
(763) 600-8265 View (763) 600-8265
Photo of Jordan Lindh - Jordan Lindh, Psy.D. LP, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Jordan Lindh, Psy.D. LP
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
My therapy interests include trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, abuse/neglect, grief, shame, identity development, spiritual development, and issues of sexuality.
Life is a journey with many surprises and unknowns. I believe we all do the best we can to navigate this journey, but sometimes we get stuck along the way. In my work with individuals and couples, I hope to accompany you on this journey, while promoting new ways of being and relating over time. Previous relationships and experiences greatly impact the way we see the world and how we currently relate to others. Our work together will include increasing awareness around how these factors might be impacting your life today, while exploring new and adaptive ways of relating to self and others.
My therapy interests include trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, abuse/neglect, grief, shame, identity development, spiritual development, and issues of sexuality.
Life is a journey with many surprises and unknowns. I believe we all do the best we can to navigate this journey, but sometimes we get stuck along the way. In my work with individuals and couples, I hope to accompany you on this journey, while promoting new ways of being and relating over time. Previous relationships and experiences greatly impact the way we see the world and how we currently relate to others. Our work together will include increasing awareness around how these factors might be impacting your life today, while exploring new and adaptive ways of relating to self and others.
(651) 395-7415 View (651) 395-7415
Photo of Drew Benson, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Drew Benson
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, LGBTQ issues, relationship difficulties and ADHD.
Have you been feeling down? Like something is off? Are you at a transition point in your life? Are you struggling with a relationship? You've made it this far, why not give counseling a try? For many people it is the first step in changing behaviors and patterns that have led to distress and relational challenges. Together, we’ll explore what might be getting in your way, and identify strategies that you can use to feel better. Therapy can also be a great opportunity to explore questions related to meaning and purpose in life and in work, as well as personal and professional identity development.
I have experience working with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, LGBTQ issues, relationship difficulties and ADHD.
Have you been feeling down? Like something is off? Are you at a transition point in your life? Are you struggling with a relationship? You've made it this far, why not give counseling a try? For many people it is the first step in changing behaviors and patterns that have led to distress and relational challenges. Together, we’ll explore what might be getting in your way, and identify strategies that you can use to feel better. Therapy can also be a great opportunity to explore questions related to meaning and purpose in life and in work, as well as personal and professional identity development.
(651) 358-2483 View (651) 358-2483
Photo of Jari Welle, MA, LMFT, RYT500, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jari Welle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT500
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
This, in turn, results in less stress, less anxiety and less depression.
Do you feel sad or anxious daily? Is this getting in the way of you living the life you really want to live? My approach in working with clients involves empowering, emotionally focused work, which includes building a connection for better growth during your therapy journey. I believe in supporting each client along the path of their own healing journey toward positive transformation, and in doing so, helping clients live a more happy and balanced life. I enjoy seeing clients with relationship issues, depression and anxiety.
This, in turn, results in less stress, less anxiety and less depression.
Do you feel sad or anxious daily? Is this getting in the way of you living the life you really want to live? My approach in working with clients involves empowering, emotionally focused work, which includes building a connection for better growth during your therapy journey. I believe in supporting each client along the path of their own healing journey toward positive transformation, and in doing so, helping clients live a more happy and balanced life. I enjoy seeing clients with relationship issues, depression and anxiety.
(651) 433-6295 View (651) 433-6295
Photo of Jennifer Andrews, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112  (Online Only)
Are you facing a challenge threatening to steal your joy and peace? You may be constantly disappointed in yourself, feel guilty or overwhelmed, anxious or depressed, procrastinate, can't sleep or constantly feel fatigued. Maybe you’re a couple rehearsing the same argument over and over, a person who's often disappointed in their relationships or someone who went through a stressful, traumatic or tragic event making life too difficult. Maybe it's hard helping your child who's often tearful, worried or sad, frequently has melt-downs, trouble getting along with others or lying?
Are you facing a challenge threatening to steal your joy and peace? You may be constantly disappointed in yourself, feel guilty or overwhelmed, anxious or depressed, procrastinate, can't sleep or constantly feel fatigued. Maybe you’re a couple rehearsing the same argument over and over, a person who's often disappointed in their relationships or someone who went through a stressful, traumatic or tragic event making life too difficult. Maybe it's hard helping your child who's often tearful, worried or sad, frequently has melt-downs, trouble getting along with others or lying?
(612) 230-4600 View (612) 230-4600
Photo of Ethan Lacey, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ethan Lacey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
I am especially interested in helping people who suffer from anxiety and panic, depression, trauma, restrictive eating, OCD & ADHD, religious/spiritual concerns, and behavioral issues.
I believe therapy should be more than teaching you to cope with your symptoms. My approach is focused on helping you experience long-lasting healing and growth. Trauma, unexpected events, and even our genetics can make life really difficult at times, but their effects don’t have to be permanent. Together, we will get to the root of whatever holds you back so that you can feel more like yourself again.
I am especially interested in helping people who suffer from anxiety and panic, depression, trauma, restrictive eating, OCD & ADHD, religious/spiritual concerns, and behavioral issues.
I believe therapy should be more than teaching you to cope with your symptoms. My approach is focused on helping you experience long-lasting healing and growth. Trauma, unexpected events, and even our genetics can make life really difficult at times, but their effects don’t have to be permanent. Together, we will get to the root of whatever holds you back so that you can feel more like yourself again.
(651) 615-3519 View (651) 615-3519
Photo of Jocelyne Collette, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jocelyne Collette
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families from all walks of life, as well as a variety of mental health backgrounds; depression, trauma, adjustments, anxiety, etc. I use an experiential and solution- focused approach, while still being flexible to adjust my therapy style to best fit you and your needs.
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families from all walks of life, as well as a variety of mental health backgrounds; depression, trauma, adjustments, anxiety, etc. I use an experiential and solution- focused approach, while still being flexible to adjust my therapy style to best fit you and your needs.
(651) 927-4254 View (651) 927-4254
Photo of Jenna Hobbs, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Jenna Hobbs
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
Depression, Anxiety (worry, panic, phobias), Trauma/Sexual abuse, Relationships, Substance Abuse, Grief and loss, Clinical hypnosis, Occupational stress management, Health related issues (i.
I work with adolescents and adults as a collaborative, supportive partner to improve mental health and overall wellbeing. My therapeutic approaches integrate cognitive, behavioral, and insight-focused strategies. This warm and personal style helps clients work through ingrained and unhealthy patterns that keep them stuck in emotional distress and unfulfilling relationships. I have a mindful and holistic perspective, and emphasize integrating mind, body, and spirit in healing. I address many presenting issues in addition to welcoming concerns about physical and mental health. I am trained in clinical hypnosis, and enjoy working creatively to find effective solutions to inspire lasting change.
Depression, Anxiety (worry, panic, phobias), Trauma/Sexual abuse, Relationships, Substance Abuse, Grief and loss, Clinical hypnosis, Occupational stress management, Health related issues (i.
I work with adolescents and adults as a collaborative, supportive partner to improve mental health and overall wellbeing. My therapeutic approaches integrate cognitive, behavioral, and insight-focused strategies. This warm and personal style helps clients work through ingrained and unhealthy patterns that keep them stuck in emotional distress and unfulfilling relationships. I have a mindful and holistic perspective, and emphasize integrating mind, body, and spirit in healing. I address many presenting issues in addition to welcoming concerns about physical and mental health. I am trained in clinical hypnosis, and enjoy working creatively to find effective solutions to inspire lasting change.
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Photo of Thomas King, MSW, MEd, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LICSW
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112
I specialize in helping people with depression, stress, or anxiety to gain emotional well-being, improve marriage and other relationships, and achieve work success.
You work hard and you are normally a positive and proactive person. But lately something is wrong and you find yourself feeling sad, unmotivated, and discouraged. You notice you are more irritable, you don't sleep well, and seem to be stuck in rut. You're marriage or other relationships are not what they used to be and you're job is not fulfilling you anymore. The good news is there are proven strategies to help you feel better and get back to functioning at your best. My approach to therapy and coaching is grounded in Positive Psychology.
I specialize in helping people with depression, stress, or anxiety to gain emotional well-being, improve marriage and other relationships, and achieve work success.
You work hard and you are normally a positive and proactive person. But lately something is wrong and you find yourself feeling sad, unmotivated, and discouraged. You notice you are more irritable, you don't sleep well, and seem to be stuck in rut. You're marriage or other relationships are not what they used to be and you're job is not fulfilling you anymore. The good news is there are proven strategies to help you feel better and get back to functioning at your best. My approach to therapy and coaching is grounded in Positive Psychology.
(651) 560-3336 View (651) 560-3336
Photo of Megan Callahan, PhD, Psychologist
Megan Callahan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112
You deserve to feel excited about your life! If you’re not there yet, I’d love to work with you as you move toward a happier space. I specialize in helping women manage depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship woes. We all know relationships of every kind can get complicated! I’m not very ‘formal’ and I don’t believe that therapy is one-size-fits-all. When you meet with me, we’ll first talk about how life is for you now and what you’d like to change. This helps us pinpoint some goals!
You deserve to feel excited about your life! If you’re not there yet, I’d love to work with you as you move toward a happier space. I specialize in helping women manage depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship woes. We all know relationships of every kind can get complicated! I’m not very ‘formal’ and I don’t believe that therapy is one-size-fits-all. When you meet with me, we’ll first talk about how life is for you now and what you’d like to change. This helps us pinpoint some goals!
(763) 363-1870 View (763) 363-1870
Photo of Kadey Seeger, BSW, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kadey Seeger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112
I am a dedicated therapist who provides empathy, compassion, and humor in individual therapy sessions for children, teenagers, and young adults. I am passionate about working with individuals who have experienced trauma that arises as depression, anxiety, and behavior difficulties. Childhood experiences often continue to influence our lives as we transition into adolescence and adulthood. Clients that I work with tend to have difficulties with asserting boundaries, experience low self-esteem, adversity to stress, and perfectionistic tendencies. I welcome you to give space for you or your child to process life experiences.
I am a dedicated therapist who provides empathy, compassion, and humor in individual therapy sessions for children, teenagers, and young adults. I am passionate about working with individuals who have experienced trauma that arises as depression, anxiety, and behavior difficulties. Childhood experiences often continue to influence our lives as we transition into adolescence and adulthood. Clients that I work with tend to have difficulties with asserting boundaries, experience low self-esteem, adversity to stress, and perfectionistic tendencies. I welcome you to give space for you or your child to process life experiences.
(651) 272-2900 View (651) 272-2900
Photo of Jessica Widboom, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Widboom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
Specialties: Self Compassion/Self-Esteem, Family Trauma, Anxiety, PTSD, Depression, Relationship Difficulties, Life Transitions and Adjustments, Emotion Regulation.
Immediate Openings! I am dedicated to providing a warm and welcoming environment for everyone to explore their feelings and challenges. It is my belief that every person's journey is unique, and I am here to support you in discovering your inner strength, self-confidence, and potential for healing. Together, we will embark on a path of self-exploration and growth, fostering a deeper understanding of yourself and enhancing your overall emotional well-being. I look forward to accompanying you on this transformative journey towards a happier and healthier life through openness, humor, and unconditional positive regard.
Specialties: Self Compassion/Self-Esteem, Family Trauma, Anxiety, PTSD, Depression, Relationship Difficulties, Life Transitions and Adjustments, Emotion Regulation.
Immediate Openings! I am dedicated to providing a warm and welcoming environment for everyone to explore their feelings and challenges. It is my belief that every person's journey is unique, and I am here to support you in discovering your inner strength, self-confidence, and potential for healing. Together, we will embark on a path of self-exploration and growth, fostering a deeper understanding of yourself and enhancing your overall emotional well-being. I look forward to accompanying you on this transformative journey towards a happier and healthier life through openness, humor, and unconditional positive regard.
(651) 877-6597 View (651) 877-6597
Photo of Lindsay Strong, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lindsay Strong
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
I work with depression, anxiety, perfectionism, trauma work, body neutrality, and issues around sex, gender, and identity.
“We have to continually be jumping off cliffs and developing our wings on the way down.” I am a therapist for the weirdos and misfits, those who feel they don’t quite belong. Weird is a good word around here! I work with folks of all genders to explore identity, stories, and what it all means. I’m a therapist for artists and artisans, creatives, and highly sensitive people. I work alongside you to uncover the things that hold us back, keep us stuck, and to tap into the good enoughness that is inherent to all of us.In our work together, you get to do some deep thinking and ask big questions.
I work with depression, anxiety, perfectionism, trauma work, body neutrality, and issues around sex, gender, and identity.
“We have to continually be jumping off cliffs and developing our wings on the way down.” I am a therapist for the weirdos and misfits, those who feel they don’t quite belong. Weird is a good word around here! I work with folks of all genders to explore identity, stories, and what it all means. I’m a therapist for artists and artisans, creatives, and highly sensitive people. I work alongside you to uncover the things that hold us back, keep us stuck, and to tap into the good enoughness that is inherent to all of us.In our work together, you get to do some deep thinking and ask big questions.
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Photo of Samara Fairwell, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Samara Fairwell
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112  (Online Only)
My clinical interests include working with individuals who want to focus on goals including ESL, self care and independent living skills, and vocational guidance. I enjoy working with a variety of individuals with varying diagnoses, but have specific interest in depression, trauma, grief/loss, and social barriers.
My clinical interests include working with individuals who want to focus on goals including ESL, self care and independent living skills, and vocational guidance. I enjoy working with a variety of individuals with varying diagnoses, but have specific interest in depression, trauma, grief/loss, and social barriers.
(651) 243-9900 View (651) 243-9900
Photo of Ashley Toussaint, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashley Toussaint
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, or a life transition that are disrupting your daily life and relationships? Do you tend to be a perfectionist or a people-pleaser? Perhaps you're overwhelmed by emotions that seem too intense for you or others, affecting how you connect with yourself and those around you. If this resonates with you, I'm here to help. I enjoy assisting teens and young adults in their journey to self-discovery and in navigating life's challenges and transitions. I have a particular fondness for working with teenage and college-aged women. As a parent myself, I also enjoy supporting parents and families.
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, or a life transition that are disrupting your daily life and relationships? Do you tend to be a perfectionist or a people-pleaser? Perhaps you're overwhelmed by emotions that seem too intense for you or others, affecting how you connect with yourself and those around you. If this resonates with you, I'm here to help. I enjoy assisting teens and young adults in their journey to self-discovery and in navigating life's challenges and transitions. I have a particular fondness for working with teenage and college-aged women. As a parent myself, I also enjoy supporting parents and families.
(651) 504-0163 View (651) 504-0163
Photo of Dr. Sydney Rose Eckert, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Sydney Rose Eckert
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112
Living in hell? I am here to help. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or BPD, I may be a great fit for you. I provide skills to alleviate symptoms like suicidality, self-harm, emotion dysregulation, relationship problems, sleep disturbances, and feeling out of control. If you are diagnosed with a medical condition, have cognitive impairment, or are a caregiver, I also may be a great fit. I find value in supporting clients and their families through life-changing medical events or diagnoses, end-of-life care, and disability. Let's work together to help you move through and out of hell.
Living in hell? I am here to help. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or BPD, I may be a great fit for you. I provide skills to alleviate symptoms like suicidality, self-harm, emotion dysregulation, relationship problems, sleep disturbances, and feeling out of control. If you are diagnosed with a medical condition, have cognitive impairment, or are a caregiver, I also may be a great fit. I find value in supporting clients and their families through life-changing medical events or diagnoses, end-of-life care, and disability. Let's work together to help you move through and out of hell.
(651) 371-7996 View (651) 371-7996
Photo of Whitney Bergstresser, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Whitney Bergstresser
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
Through personal experience during my time in the military as well as occupational experience working within the chemical dependency field I have seen first hand the curveballs that life can throw at us sometimes. But the beauty is that you don’t have to walk through these experiences alone. Some of the biggest signs of true strength come from embracing our vulnerability and reaching out to ask for help. I embrace empathy, curiosity and humor when working with clients. I work with adolescents (15+) and adults. My areas of interest include working with individuals struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Through personal experience during my time in the military as well as occupational experience working within the chemical dependency field I have seen first hand the curveballs that life can throw at us sometimes. But the beauty is that you don’t have to walk through these experiences alone. Some of the biggest signs of true strength come from embracing our vulnerability and reaching out to ask for help. I embrace empathy, curiosity and humor when working with clients. I work with adolescents (15+) and adults. My areas of interest include working with individuals struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(651) 661-3382 View (651) 661-3382
Photo of Kim Surve, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Surve
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been working in the field of psychology for 20+ years. I enjoy providing therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I utilize Experiential Play Therapy to help children recover from trauma and abuse as well as for children experiencing life stressors such as divorce and difficulties at school. I also practice Filial Therapy to strengthen parent-child relationships and reduce difficult behavior such as tantrums and defiance. I am trained in Somatic Experiencing to address symptoms of trauma such as flashbacks, avoidance, anxiety, depression, self-harm, etc.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been working in the field of psychology for 20+ years. I enjoy providing therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I utilize Experiential Play Therapy to help children recover from trauma and abuse as well as for children experiencing life stressors such as divorce and difficulties at school. I also practice Filial Therapy to strengthen parent-child relationships and reduce difficult behavior such as tantrums and defiance. I am trained in Somatic Experiencing to address symptoms of trauma such as flashbacks, avoidance, anxiety, depression, self-harm, etc.
(612) 255-6133 View (612) 255-6133
Photo of Susan M Nienaber, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan M Nienaber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112
Has life become challenging? Are you at a transition point? Are you grieving? Maybe you are not coping as well as you would like. Or, perhaps you are struggling with a relationship. You have the power to change! Therapy can be enormously helpful in working through a wide variety of concerns and also be a great opportunity to explore questions related to meaning and purpose in life and in work as well as personal and professional identity. I work with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma and past abuse, stress related to change and major life transitions and relationship difficulties.
Has life become challenging? Are you at a transition point? Are you grieving? Maybe you are not coping as well as you would like. Or, perhaps you are struggling with a relationship. You have the power to change! Therapy can be enormously helpful in working through a wide variety of concerns and also be a great opportunity to explore questions related to meaning and purpose in life and in work as well as personal and professional identity. I work with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma and past abuse, stress related to change and major life transitions and relationship difficulties.
(763) 363-7974 View (763) 363-7974
Photo of Donny Hobbs, MA, LMFT, CEC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donny Hobbs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
I offer Clinical Hypnotherapy which is a highly effective treatment option for anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relational and sleep issues, chronic pain, IBS, smoking cessation, professional and athletic performance issues, fear of flying/public speaking and many additional concerns.
I work with individuals who are impacted by anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. My treatment approach focuses on improving confidence and personal resilience while reducing emotional distress. I also provide counseling for couples and families who are working through relational challenges and life-cycle transitions.I work from a holistic perspective, and my approach is goal driven and solution-focused. Together we identify your goals and ideal outcomes and work through challenges and unhelpful patterns to achieve success. I use accountability coaching to help you achieve your goals and step into the next chapter of life.
I offer Clinical Hypnotherapy which is a highly effective treatment option for anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relational and sleep issues, chronic pain, IBS, smoking cessation, professional and athletic performance issues, fear of flying/public speaking and many additional concerns.
I work with individuals who are impacted by anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. My treatment approach focuses on improving confidence and personal resilience while reducing emotional distress. I also provide counseling for couples and families who are working through relational challenges and life-cycle transitions.I work from a holistic perspective, and my approach is goal driven and solution-focused. Together we identify your goals and ideal outcomes and work through challenges and unhelpful patterns to achieve success. I use accountability coaching to help you achieve your goals and step into the next chapter of life.
(651) 927-8109 View (651) 927-8109
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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.