There are no results for therapists in Northfield

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Minnesota below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Laura Smith, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Laura Smith
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
I have specialized training working with the early childhood (birth to five) population and their families who have experienced the impact of traumas, behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, attachment concerns, grief/loss, and life transitions.
Welcome all and thanks for taking this important step in either your personal wellness journey or your child's! I am honored to have the opportunity to join you and your family in fostering and uncovering your strengths, empowering you to live to your fullest, seek to understand potential unknown barriers, and give voice and better understanding to the voices of young children and their behaviors. I believe in holistic wellness and work from an evidence-based, strength-based, client-centered, empathetic, warm, and collaborative approach. It is not easy to ask for help and share your narrative, but I am here to support your journey.
I have specialized training working with the early childhood (birth to five) population and their families who have experienced the impact of traumas, behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, attachment concerns, grief/loss, and life transitions.
Welcome all and thanks for taking this important step in either your personal wellness journey or your child's! I am honored to have the opportunity to join you and your family in fostering and uncovering your strengths, empowering you to live to your fullest, seek to understand potential unknown barriers, and give voice and better understanding to the voices of young children and their behaviors. I believe in holistic wellness and work from an evidence-based, strength-based, client-centered, empathetic, warm, and collaborative approach. It is not easy to ask for help and share your narrative, but I am here to support your journey.
(612) 255-9325 View (612) 255-9325
Photo of Natalie A Larson, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Natalie A Larson
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Blaine, MN 55449
My professional experiences have taught me that my passion is working with children and families. I have a wealth of knowledge in infant and child mental health. Also, I work with children who have trauma histories and the families that care for them. I have experience assisting with adoption issues, family work, anxiety, depression, PTSD, coping with life change, and child and adolescent mental health issues. Working collaboratively with parents is also an essential part of my therapy practice.
My professional experiences have taught me that my passion is working with children and families. I have a wealth of knowledge in infant and child mental health. Also, I work with children who have trauma histories and the families that care for them. I have experience assisting with adoption issues, family work, anxiety, depression, PTSD, coping with life change, and child and adolescent mental health issues. Working collaboratively with parents is also an essential part of my therapy practice.
(763) 600-8273 View (763) 600-8273
Photo of Shaylor Alley - Aurora Healing Inc, LPCC, LADC, PsyDLP, Counselor
Aurora Healing Inc
Counselor, LPCC, LADC, PsyDLP
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
We work with individuals 14 and older who have a history of trauma, struggle with addiction, depression, anxiety, self-esteem/self worth, relationship issues, or are experiencing stress. We offer talk therapy in the office, or equine assisted psychotherapy (therapy with horses). We believe in trying approaches that work for each individual. Aurora Healing looks forward to providing a healing experience in Elk River, Zimmerman and surrounding areas.
We work with individuals 14 and older who have a history of trauma, struggle with addiction, depression, anxiety, self-esteem/self worth, relationship issues, or are experiencing stress. We offer talk therapy in the office, or equine assisted psychotherapy (therapy with horses). We believe in trying approaches that work for each individual. Aurora Healing looks forward to providing a healing experience in Elk River, Zimmerman and surrounding areas.
(763) 402-8689 View (763) 402-8689
Photo of Katia R. Lopez-Petrovich, MS, NCC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katia R. Lopez-Petrovich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, NCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist/Bilingual Psychotherapist focused on providing a range of services for the community including Individual and Family Therapy for Adolescents and Adults. I am not only bilingual (Spanish Language) but fully bicultural as well. I have an experience of more of 15 years. My areas of clinical specialty are mood disorders, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, trauma, complex trauma, PTSD, abuse and neglect issues, attachment trauma, acculturation issues, women's issues, post-partum depression, infertility grief & loss, multicultural family adjustments and parenting.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist/Bilingual Psychotherapist focused on providing a range of services for the community including Individual and Family Therapy for Adolescents and Adults. I am not only bilingual (Spanish Language) but fully bicultural as well. I have an experience of more of 15 years. My areas of clinical specialty are mood disorders, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, trauma, complex trauma, PTSD, abuse and neglect issues, attachment trauma, acculturation issues, women's issues, post-partum depression, infertility grief & loss, multicultural family adjustments and parenting.
(612) 400-7668 View (612) 400-7668
Photo of Charles Miller, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Charles Miller
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Stillwater, MN 55082  (Online Only)
My primary specializations are in trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, male-related issues, and family connection.
From the Mississippi to the St. Croix River, I am dedicated to providing quality mental health services to Stillwater Area. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I offer individual and family therapy that suits your unique needs.
My primary specializations are in trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, male-related issues, and family connection.
From the Mississippi to the St. Croix River, I am dedicated to providing quality mental health services to Stillwater Area. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I offer individual and family therapy that suits your unique needs.
(651) 661-3699 View (651) 661-3699
Photo of Cathy Rupnow, MA,  LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Rupnow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305
Cathy’s Christian beliefs blend beautifully with her extensive training in many types of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Cathy Rupnow is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She brings valuable experience to work with trauma, all types of abuse, and healing of past and present emotional wounds. Her non-judgmental approach helps her clients deal with family conflict, isolation, and loneliness.
Cathy’s Christian beliefs blend beautifully with her extensive training in many types of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Cathy Rupnow is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She brings valuable experience to work with trauma, all types of abuse, and healing of past and present emotional wounds. Her non-judgmental approach helps her clients deal with family conflict, isolation, and loneliness.
(952) 209-8667 View (952) 209-8667
Photo of Jan Search, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jan Search
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55405
I have worked with Children, Adolescents, Adults and Couples, and Parents for over 35 years providing therapy with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, attention and distractibility problems, eating disorders, and problem behaviors interfering with success in personal, school/work relationships.
Working together toward change, I place importance of the relationship with you in the therapy and emphasize getting to know you as an individual. We work toward your goals by exploring, not just your behavior, but the underlying feelings and thoughts which get in the way of your ability to make the changes you desire.
I have worked with Children, Adolescents, Adults and Couples, and Parents for over 35 years providing therapy with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, attention and distractibility problems, eating disorders, and problem behaviors interfering with success in personal, school/work relationships.
Working together toward change, I place importance of the relationship with you in the therapy and emphasize getting to know you as an individual. We work toward your goals by exploring, not just your behavior, but the underlying feelings and thoughts which get in the way of your ability to make the changes you desire.
(651) 760-8037 View (651) 760-8037
Photo of Jodi Smith, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jodi Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Andover, MN 55304  (Online Only)
I am interested and enthusiastic surrounding work with the following areas: couples, marital difficulties, intimacy concerns, boundary setting, women's issues, parenting skills, adolescents, children, attachment disturbances, child development, Christianity and spirituality, grief and loss, trauma, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, difficult transitional stages, and stress management.
It is difficult and very anxiety provoking to make the initial appointment, although, that is the first step towards success! I want to validate that emotional response, and to bring comfort by providing a faith driven approach enlightened with hope and strength for your personal growth and development. I assist my clients to be empowered by their self-worth, and work collaboratively to reach their ideal goal of success and progress. I provide a supportive, humorous, and safe environment where it's possible to connect on a therapeutic level.
I am interested and enthusiastic surrounding work with the following areas: couples, marital difficulties, intimacy concerns, boundary setting, women's issues, parenting skills, adolescents, children, attachment disturbances, child development, Christianity and spirituality, grief and loss, trauma, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, difficult transitional stages, and stress management.
It is difficult and very anxiety provoking to make the initial appointment, although, that is the first step towards success! I want to validate that emotional response, and to bring comfort by providing a faith driven approach enlightened with hope and strength for your personal growth and development. I assist my clients to be empowered by their self-worth, and work collaboratively to reach their ideal goal of success and progress. I provide a supportive, humorous, and safe environment where it's possible to connect on a therapeutic level.
(763) 575-8685 x164 View (763) 575-8685 x164
Sheila Conlin
Psychologist, MA, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Shoreview, MN 55126
I find that it is most helpful to speak on the phone initially when sorting out whether you would be comfortable working with me and to see whether I can be helpful with the issues that you are facing. I have worked as a psychologist and marriage and family therapist for over twenty years. I have experience with a wide range of diagnoses including depression and anxiety. My caseload includes adults, adolescents and children. I see families and couples who are struggling with relationships, mental health problems and adjustment to life's developmental challenges.
I find that it is most helpful to speak on the phone initially when sorting out whether you would be comfortable working with me and to see whether I can be helpful with the issues that you are facing. I have worked as a psychologist and marriage and family therapist for over twenty years. I have experience with a wide range of diagnoses including depression and anxiety. My caseload includes adults, adolescents and children. I see families and couples who are struggling with relationships, mental health problems and adjustment to life's developmental challenges.
(651) 674-3819 View (651) 674-3819
Photo of April Tuftee, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
April Tuftee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102
After a significant change or life transition, everything feels completely upside down; you feel uncertain not only about the future, but your ability to handle things now. This might be after starting a new job, becoming an adult, or getting a divorce. You may be experiencing anxiety that is keeping you from being able to work/ go about your daily life, or in negative thought patterns like “you just can’t do this like everyone else” that is leaving you feeling depressed. You might even feel like things are not going to get better. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for relief. You are ready to feel confident again.
After a significant change or life transition, everything feels completely upside down; you feel uncertain not only about the future, but your ability to handle things now. This might be after starting a new job, becoming an adult, or getting a divorce. You may be experiencing anxiety that is keeping you from being able to work/ go about your daily life, or in negative thought patterns like “you just can’t do this like everyone else” that is leaving you feeling depressed. You might even feel like things are not going to get better. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for relief. You are ready to feel confident again.
(651) 299-6293 View (651) 299-6293
Photo of Colleen Bethel, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Bethel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55412  (Online Only)
I provide therapeutic treatment for adults struggling with a variety of concerns including: trauma and abuse, intense anxiety or depression, relationship struggles, persistent negative beliefs and unwanted intrusive thoughts, body sensations and emotions that are overwhelming and/or confusing. My clients often find that they get relief from the patterns and symptoms they've had for years and for which regular talk therapy has helped, but not sufficiently resolved. I use a whole brain, collaborative and respectful approach that is creative and responsive to my clients' unique needs, strengths and circumstances.
I provide therapeutic treatment for adults struggling with a variety of concerns including: trauma and abuse, intense anxiety or depression, relationship struggles, persistent negative beliefs and unwanted intrusive thoughts, body sensations and emotions that are overwhelming and/or confusing. My clients often find that they get relief from the patterns and symptoms they've had for years and for which regular talk therapy has helped, but not sufficiently resolved. I use a whole brain, collaborative and respectful approach that is creative and responsive to my clients' unique needs, strengths and circumstances.
(763) 220-6198 View (763) 220-6198
Photo of Sherry Marie Omalley - Aspen Counseling, MA,  LP, Psychologist
Aspen Counseling
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Osseo, MN 55369  (Online Only)
Send me an email to schedule a free virtual consultation. I work with people who are dealing with anxiety, depression, family issues, parenting and behavioral problems, work stress, trauma and abuse issues, autism spectrum disorders, family therapy, adoption issues, infertility, and self esteem issues.
Send me an email to schedule a free virtual consultation. I work with people who are dealing with anxiety, depression, family issues, parenting and behavioral problems, work stress, trauma and abuse issues, autism spectrum disorders, family therapy, adoption issues, infertility, and self esteem issues.
(763) 888-8947 View (763) 888-8947
Photo of Michael Tiede, MA,  LP, Psychologist
Michael Tiede
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55129  (Online Only)
When my clients takes the first step towards healing, they are often unsure about what they want, what they will talk about, or how they will ever get there. Taking that first step to get help is commendable. As a Mayo Clinic trained clinician, I am here to support them on their journey to a happier, healthier life. Those who see me most often are adults with mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, or stress. I also specialize in teens struggling with Anxiety, OCD, and Depression and men who are navigating areas of stress in their roles, relationships, and/or career. Together, we build a foundation for lasting emotional growth and well-being.
When my clients takes the first step towards healing, they are often unsure about what they want, what they will talk about, or how they will ever get there. Taking that first step to get help is commendable. As a Mayo Clinic trained clinician, I am here to support them on their journey to a happier, healthier life. Those who see me most often are adults with mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, or stress. I also specialize in teens struggling with Anxiety, OCD, and Depression and men who are navigating areas of stress in their roles, relationships, and/or career. Together, we build a foundation for lasting emotional growth and well-being.
(651) 571-5465 View (651) 571-5465
Photo of Deb Goggins, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Deb Goggins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Kiel Walters, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kiel Walters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55431
Waitlist for new clients
I look forward to engaging in an open dialogue with you, offering perspective, and providing support as you take steps toward positive life change. I have extensive experience treating clients suffering from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship difficulties, and refine my therapeutic approach to each individual's needs. This means helping clients develop coping skills and change behaviors, connecting with teenagers, providing parent guidance, facilitating communication among families, and guiding processing to find resolution and relieve suffering.
I look forward to engaging in an open dialogue with you, offering perspective, and providing support as you take steps toward positive life change. I have extensive experience treating clients suffering from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship difficulties, and refine my therapeutic approach to each individual's needs. This means helping clients develop coping skills and change behaviors, connecting with teenagers, providing parent guidance, facilitating communication among families, and guiding processing to find resolution and relieve suffering.
(612) 260-1537 View (612) 260-1537
Darryl Ross Goetz
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Wayzata, MN 55391
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY for personal issues of depression/anxiety, adult emotional growth & health, adolescent emotional health, emotional & behavioral coaching for professional competence and success, loss & grief, family of origin issues, eating disorders, and living with chronic illness or disability.
Dr. Goetz is dedicated to promoting the Emotional, Psychological, Physical, and Relationship Health of Children, Youth, Adults, Couples, and Families. It is Dr. Goetz' philosophy of therapy to maximize the healthy development of each family member and enhance both individual and family strengths and resiliency.The Core Values of his work include: forming a therapeutic and equal partnership with clients in their quest for emotional and relationship health; and forming a partnership with other health care service providers when they are involved.
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY for personal issues of depression/anxiety, adult emotional growth & health, adolescent emotional health, emotional & behavioral coaching for professional competence and success, loss & grief, family of origin issues, eating disorders, and living with chronic illness or disability.
Dr. Goetz is dedicated to promoting the Emotional, Psychological, Physical, and Relationship Health of Children, Youth, Adults, Couples, and Families. It is Dr. Goetz' philosophy of therapy to maximize the healthy development of each family member and enhance both individual and family strengths and resiliency.The Core Values of his work include: forming a therapeutic and equal partnership with clients in their quest for emotional and relationship health; and forming a partnership with other health care service providers when they are involved.
(612) 294-8422 View (612) 294-8422
Photo of Erica Cook, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369
I specialize in working with adolescents, children, and adults with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, self-confidence, transitions, and other life concerns. I enjoy working with my clients around strength-based approaches, finding helpful coping strategies, and utilizing a different perspective around concerns at hand.
I specialize in working with adolescents, children, and adults with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, self-confidence, transitions, and other life concerns. I enjoy working with my clients around strength-based approaches, finding helpful coping strategies, and utilizing a different perspective around concerns at hand.
View
Photo of Christina Gwenn Copeland, MS, LPCC
Christina Gwenn Copeland
MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55449
Areas; ADHD, Adoption, ASD, DD, Foster Care, Blended/Divorced Families and Attachment concerns, Aging and Lifespan issues, LGBTQ, Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, Mood and Personality Disorders, Intellectual, Emotional and Physical Disabilities, Couples, Family and Relationship dynamics and Communication issues, Abuse, Trauma and Anger Management.
Christina enjoys working with individuals, couples and families helping support them in making changes they want to make. She has her B.A. in Sociology and Diversity Studies from SCSU and her M.S. in MHC from Walden University. She is an LPCC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the State of MN. Christina has worked 11 years in clinical counseling. She has 24 additional years working with children, and families with services that are person-centered, strength-based and therapeutic. She has worked in foster and long-term residential based programs, as well as crisis, substance abuse treatment, vocational and education areas.
Areas; ADHD, Adoption, ASD, DD, Foster Care, Blended/Divorced Families and Attachment concerns, Aging and Lifespan issues, LGBTQ, Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, Mood and Personality Disorders, Intellectual, Emotional and Physical Disabilities, Couples, Family and Relationship dynamics and Communication issues, Abuse, Trauma and Anger Management.
Christina enjoys working with individuals, couples and families helping support them in making changes they want to make. She has her B.A. in Sociology and Diversity Studies from SCSU and her M.S. in MHC from Walden University. She is an LPCC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the State of MN. Christina has worked 11 years in clinical counseling. She has 24 additional years working with children, and families with services that are person-centered, strength-based and therapeutic. She has worked in foster and long-term residential based programs, as well as crisis, substance abuse treatment, vocational and education areas.
(636) 266-2065 View (636) 266-2065
Photo of Darrah Krotz Grieger, MPS, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Darrah Krotz Grieger
Counselor, MPS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
I specialize in working with individuals with symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, sleep issues, trauma, isolation, disordered eating, anger, and grief.
I work with an amazing team at ALL IN Therapy that approaches treatment from a holistic mindset. Working nine-to-five doesn't mean there isn't time to prioritize your mental health. I'm a "night-owl therapist" and am available from 11 AM through 9 PM on weekdays. I want to ensure that therapy can integrate seamlessly into your life without disrupting it, whether you work daytime hours, are a student, or just feel more comfortable talking with someone after a long day rather than during it. We'll work together to find ways to manage your concerns so you can find more stability, passion, meaning, and peace in your life.
I specialize in working with individuals with symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, sleep issues, trauma, isolation, disordered eating, anger, and grief.
I work with an amazing team at ALL IN Therapy that approaches treatment from a holistic mindset. Working nine-to-five doesn't mean there isn't time to prioritize your mental health. I'm a "night-owl therapist" and am available from 11 AM through 9 PM on weekdays. I want to ensure that therapy can integrate seamlessly into your life without disrupting it, whether you work daytime hours, are a student, or just feel more comfortable talking with someone after a long day rather than during it. We'll work together to find ways to manage your concerns so you can find more stability, passion, meaning, and peace in your life.
(319) 257-2084 View (319) 257-2084
Photo of Ellie Biglow Anderson, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellie Biglow Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406
In addition, I have experience assisting individuals in working through grief and loss, general life transitions, anxiety and depression.
I believe strongly in the power of human resilience and believe our relationships are a key factor in this. As a marriage and family therapist, I enjoy working with adults, couples and families. I have experience working in a treatment setting for chemical dependency and complex trauma, where I gained experience in using somatic approaches such as Brainspotting and inner child work to help individuals overcome childhood wounds to be more present and functional in their current lives and relationships. I am also an AAMFT approved supervisor and with current openings for individual, dyad or group supervision.
In addition, I have experience assisting individuals in working through grief and loss, general life transitions, anxiety and depression.
I believe strongly in the power of human resilience and believe our relationships are a key factor in this. As a marriage and family therapist, I enjoy working with adults, couples and families. I have experience working in a treatment setting for chemical dependency and complex trauma, where I gained experience in using somatic approaches such as Brainspotting and inner child work to help individuals overcome childhood wounds to be more present and functional in their current lives and relationships. I am also an AAMFT approved supervisor and with current openings for individual, dyad or group supervision.
(844) 292-0103 View (844) 292-0103
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.