Depression Therapists in Owatonna, MN
![Photo of Dana M Houck, EdD, DMin, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad569489-cf1d-418e-8e08-dcab3558c654/1/320x400.png)
"Everyone has a destiny, however, various experiences, perceptions and life events often send us in another direction. Many people become stuck or have difficulty throwing off old thoughts and behaviors. The Psyche brings various symptoms, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders to move us forward. Working through these symptoms leads to a positive outlook on of life. My goal is to help individuals work through the symptoms and build on the strengths and potential within a person. Discovering these gifts can help alleviate negative symptoms and enable you to move into the future with a new awareness and zest for life.
"Everyone has a destiny, however, various experiences, perceptions and life events often send us in another direction. Many people become stuck or have difficulty throwing off old thoughts and behaviors. The Psyche brings various symptoms, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders to move us forward. Working through these symptoms leads to a positive outlook on of life. My goal is to help individuals work through the symptoms and build on the strengths and potential within a person. Discovering these gifts can help alleviate negative symptoms and enable you to move into the future with a new awareness and zest for life.
![Photo of Jason Schweitzer - Jason Schweitzer, LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f81d297-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jason Schweitzer, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Owatonna, MN 55060
I also treat anxiety, depression, and work with improving the mental health of those with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
I work with Adults, Seniors, and Past/Current Emergency Services and Military as well as their families. Presenting problems I deal with most include: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety/Phobias, Depression, Military/Family Life Issues, Anger Management, and struggles with the principles and commands of Christian scripture. I offer a variety of evidenced-based treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), exposure therapy, and other trauma therapies.
I also treat anxiety, depression, and work with improving the mental health of those with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
I work with Adults, Seniors, and Past/Current Emergency Services and Military as well as their families. Presenting problems I deal with most include: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety/Phobias, Depression, Military/Family Life Issues, Anger Management, and struggles with the principles and commands of Christian scripture. I offer a variety of evidenced-based treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), exposure therapy, and other trauma therapies.
![Photo of Michelle Jean Muff - Compassionate Counseling Services, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5af1e7ae-b7ec-48d8-b167-5db9ab9c7aea/3/320x400.jpeg)
Compassionate Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owatonna, MN 55060
We equip you with effective coping tools to help you understand your anxiety or depression, recognize the signs, learn how to control your thoughts and body symptoms to reclaim a new perspective on you life circumstance.
Is your body trying to tell you something, but you’re ignoring the insomnia, the stomach pains, shortness of breath and the heart palpitations? Maybe some days you feel like you are stuck in the mud unable to get motivated or find the energy to accomplish what you need to. Maybe you feel that it is your relationship with your spouse that is bringing you down and you want to learn how, when and what to change to get the spark back into your relationship. I have 22 years of speciality in the treatment of mental health difficulties and relationship conflict.
We equip you with effective coping tools to help you understand your anxiety or depression, recognize the signs, learn how to control your thoughts and body symptoms to reclaim a new perspective on you life circumstance.
Is your body trying to tell you something, but you’re ignoring the insomnia, the stomach pains, shortness of breath and the heart palpitations? Maybe some days you feel like you are stuck in the mud unable to get motivated or find the energy to accomplish what you need to. Maybe you feel that it is your relationship with your spouse that is bringing you down and you want to learn how, when and what to change to get the spark back into your relationship. I have 22 years of speciality in the treatment of mental health difficulties and relationship conflict.
![Photo of Dana L Phenix, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06c653ec-153d-49e6-b360-b81d356620ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling too needy in your relationship? Are you always feeling a little out of control in your relationship? Feeling scared, anxious, or confused by your partner’s behavior? I know exactly what you're feeling: the tightness in your chest, constantly feeling like you’re losing the one you love and care about, feeling pushed away, feeling like a crazy person, and feeling like you need security and reassurance NOW. These feelings can be consuming and terrifying, and I do not want you to suffer from them anymore. Holistic practices can reduce feelings of neediness, anxiety, and depression tremendously.
Feeling too needy in your relationship? Are you always feeling a little out of control in your relationship? Feeling scared, anxious, or confused by your partner’s behavior? I know exactly what you're feeling: the tightness in your chest, constantly feeling like you’re losing the one you love and care about, feeling pushed away, feeling like a crazy person, and feeling like you need security and reassurance NOW. These feelings can be consuming and terrifying, and I do not want you to suffer from them anymore. Holistic practices can reduce feelings of neediness, anxiety, and depression tremendously.
![Photo of Casey Larson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42233eb5-1062-4748-94c3-477e78283ca1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Casey Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Owatonna, MN 55060
My name is Casey Larson, and I am a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW). I enjoy working with children (6 and under) and their caregivers, youth, and adults. I have experience assisting people with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, dependent personality disorder, trauma among others. I value meeting clients where they are at and exploring their goals. Call today to schedule an appointment.
My name is Casey Larson, and I am a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW). I enjoy working with children (6 and under) and their caregivers, youth, and adults. I have experience assisting people with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, dependent personality disorder, trauma among others. I value meeting clients where they are at and exploring their goals. Call today to schedule an appointment.
![Photo of Heather Aje, MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/778cac53-17fe-448f-a946-92fccc69e1fe/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Aje
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owatonna, MN 55060 (Online Only)
While I have a special interest in this population, I also love working with those struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, and more! I offer a collaborative approach with humor, compassion and empathy while also challenging you.
Are you a new mother, expecting a child, or a mom just struggling with the daily demands and emotional toll (lets be real, aren't we all)? Maybe you've got the parenting thing down, or are not a parent at all. I can still help! Perhaps you are someone who is feeling stuck. Maybe you are unhappy/anxious/overwhelmed, or simply struggling in your relationships? If so, you're in the right place!
While I have a special interest in this population, I also love working with those struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, and more! I offer a collaborative approach with humor, compassion and empathy while also challenging you.
Are you a new mother, expecting a child, or a mom just struggling with the daily demands and emotional toll (lets be real, aren't we all)? Maybe you've got the parenting thing down, or are not a parent at all. I can still help! Perhaps you are someone who is feeling stuck. Maybe you are unhappy/anxious/overwhelmed, or simply struggling in your relationships? If so, you're in the right place!
![Photo of Colter Combellick, MSW, LICSW, CSW-PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab60c810-0b9f-4e91-bada-f46afa669f1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Colter Combellick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CSW-PIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Owatonna, MN 55060 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hau Mitakuyepi, Cante Waste Nape Ciyuzapelo. (Hello my relative, I greet you with a warm heart and handshake). Colter Combellick, Mnicoujou - Lakota, and member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, comes from the Tin Cup, Spotted Bear, and Yellow Hawk families. Colter (Colt) specializes in providing culturally responsive mental health care for Indigenous folks. Colt also works well with athletes, and individuals struggling with Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. Colt believes each client is sacred and understands that it is imperative to personalize services for each individual to ensure their success.
Hau Mitakuyepi, Cante Waste Nape Ciyuzapelo. (Hello my relative, I greet you with a warm heart and handshake). Colter Combellick, Mnicoujou - Lakota, and member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, comes from the Tin Cup, Spotted Bear, and Yellow Hawk families. Colter (Colt) specializes in providing culturally responsive mental health care for Indigenous folks. Colt also works well with athletes, and individuals struggling with Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. Colt believes each client is sacred and understands that it is imperative to personalize services for each individual to ensure their success.
![Photo of Mandy Doocy - Emerald Services & Counseling, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb4e51e8-6e5a-469a-abac-ba11046541fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emerald Services & Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Owatonna, MN 55060
Hello and welcome, Thank you for reaching out. My goal in the therapeutic process is to help clients achieve a greater sense of wellbeing. Everyone has different reasons for engaging in therapy, the process begins where you are. We all have up’s and down’s and mindset can play a significant role in how we are feeling. By understanding our mindset, we are better able to make the changes we need in order to improve ourselves and take on life’s challenges. As a therapist, working to create a safe and supportive space to talk and explore your thoughts and feelings is key.
Hello and welcome, Thank you for reaching out. My goal in the therapeutic process is to help clients achieve a greater sense of wellbeing. Everyone has different reasons for engaging in therapy, the process begins where you are. We all have up’s and down’s and mindset can play a significant role in how we are feeling. By understanding our mindset, we are better able to make the changes we need in order to improve ourselves and take on life’s challenges. As a therapist, working to create a safe and supportive space to talk and explore your thoughts and feelings is key.
![Photo of Kari Prestemon, MSSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/403d8f81-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate Openings. Are you feeling down, anxious, angry or unhappy? My philosophy is that "Life is too short" and for all the bad there is just as much good. Therapy helps one to start finding the good in life and making the necessary changes for that to happen. It is about learning new skills and trying on new ways of living. I feel that as a therapist I become a coach, cheerleader, supporter and confidant. You have already taken the hardest step and that is to admit that there is a problem and to seek help. I look forward to the Journey.
Immediate Openings. Are you feeling down, anxious, angry or unhappy? My philosophy is that "Life is too short" and for all the bad there is just as much good. Therapy helps one to start finding the good in life and making the necessary changes for that to happen. It is about learning new skills and trying on new ways of living. I feel that as a therapist I become a coach, cheerleader, supporter and confidant. You have already taken the hardest step and that is to admit that there is a problem and to seek help. I look forward to the Journey.
![Photo of Sadie Watts, MSW, LICSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e187464-4577-44b0-ad08-6116ce5f1ab0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a person currently contemplating personal change? Have you ever thought of therapy as a means towards personal growth or self discovery? I'd like to compassionately guide/support you toward actualizing your best self. I want to help you break out of the rut, to meet goals and to gain confidence and strength to conquer whatever obstacle is in your way. I prefer to emphasize and build on positive influences. I prefer to work in the realm of solutions, and I can help with deep, meaningful, personal shifts that lead to change.
Are you a person currently contemplating personal change? Have you ever thought of therapy as a means towards personal growth or self discovery? I'd like to compassionately guide/support you toward actualizing your best self. I want to help you break out of the rut, to meet goals and to gain confidence and strength to conquer whatever obstacle is in your way. I prefer to emphasize and build on positive influences. I prefer to work in the realm of solutions, and I can help with deep, meaningful, personal shifts that lead to change.
![Photo of Drew Weis, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26d8222f-af56-4844-af43-3b4bf606c57e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you in midlife or later and working on yourself? You might have concerns about the person you've become or the life you've lived or have yet to live. Maybe you're questioning what you've devoted yourself to or what you've sacrificed. You might be looking for a space to explore who you are or who you're becoming or need to be. Maybe you have questions about your spiritual life outside of a particular religion or you wonder about how you might further mature your spirituality. If you're looking to be deeply seen and heard as you delve into your big questions for living true to your heart and soul, let's connect.
Are you in midlife or later and working on yourself? You might have concerns about the person you've become or the life you've lived or have yet to live. Maybe you're questioning what you've devoted yourself to or what you've sacrificed. You might be looking for a space to explore who you are or who you're becoming or need to be. Maybe you have questions about your spiritual life outside of a particular religion or you wonder about how you might further mature your spirituality. If you're looking to be deeply seen and heard as you delve into your big questions for living true to your heart and soul, let's connect.
15 Second Videos
Compassionate Counseling Services
Colter Combellick
Drew Weis
Talisha Lormeus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Owatonna, MN 55060 (Online Only)
My approach is rooted in empathy and collaboration, and tailored to everyone’s unique needs. I walk along side people in a way that your voice and perspective are valued. Whether you're seeking support for yourself or parenting support for neurotypical or nuerodivergent kids, together, we'll work towards understanding and addressing any challenges you may be facing, with the goal of fostering healing, growth and hope.
My approach is rooted in empathy and collaboration, and tailored to everyone’s unique needs. I walk along side people in a way that your voice and perspective are valued. Whether you're seeking support for yourself or parenting support for neurotypical or nuerodivergent kids, together, we'll work towards understanding and addressing any challenges you may be facing, with the goal of fostering healing, growth and hope.
![Photo of Margaret P Moore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c15f529-5329-49b1-88bc-527d8474741e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a seasoned psychotherapist dedicated to assisting folks on their healing journey. As the picture demonstrates, I am casual, approachable, and delighted in walking with others on their journey to health. Educated as a Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Nurse, and Chemical Dependency Counselor, I practice under the License of an MFT. I also supervise several post-graduate Masters Level Therapists, most of whom are in their second careers, meaning they have life experiences under their belt and a newer education. Check out the website for more information about how we can serve you.
I am a seasoned psychotherapist dedicated to assisting folks on their healing journey. As the picture demonstrates, I am casual, approachable, and delighted in walking with others on their journey to health. Educated as a Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Nurse, and Chemical Dependency Counselor, I practice under the License of an MFT. I also supervise several post-graduate Masters Level Therapists, most of whom are in their second careers, meaning they have life experiences under their belt and a newer education. Check out the website for more information about how we can serve you.
![Photo of Brenda K. Oja, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9576a156-7c78-45d3-b7a1-da982f9758e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling and enjoy working with Adolescents, Adults, Couples and Families. I desire to see clients empowered to learn, grow, and heal from past hurts while discovering their best self. My approach is based on evidence based practices including the use of Adaptive Internal Relational (AIR) Network Model, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy practices while addressing the clients emotional, behavioral, relational and/or spiritual needs.
I have a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling and enjoy working with Adolescents, Adults, Couples and Families. I desire to see clients empowered to learn, grow, and heal from past hurts while discovering their best self. My approach is based on evidence based practices including the use of Adaptive Internal Relational (AIR) Network Model, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy practices while addressing the clients emotional, behavioral, relational and/or spiritual needs.
![Photo of Amanda Vaske, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, CCTP-II, DBT-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5da2330-edbd-4aff-b53b-6a5ec3177296/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Vaske
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, CCTP-II, DBT-C
Verified Verified
Owatonna, MN 55060
Life's a rollercoaster, huh? Whether you're battling self-doubt, caught in the chaos, or doing the social media shuffle, I'm here to bring some good vibes to your journey. Let's chat about it all – the ups, the downs, and everything in between. Parenting got you spinning? Overwhelmed by the daily grind? Anxiety knocking? I've got your back. Meet your guide (yep, that's me!). I'm here to bring a bit of sunshine to your days, kick out the blues, and make life's wild ride a bit more enjoyable. Your struggles are real and tackling them together is the way to go. Shoot me a message, I'm here for the support and brighter days.
Life's a rollercoaster, huh? Whether you're battling self-doubt, caught in the chaos, or doing the social media shuffle, I'm here to bring some good vibes to your journey. Let's chat about it all – the ups, the downs, and everything in between. Parenting got you spinning? Overwhelmed by the daily grind? Anxiety knocking? I've got your back. Meet your guide (yep, that's me!). I'm here to bring a bit of sunshine to your days, kick out the blues, and make life's wild ride a bit more enjoyable. Your struggles are real and tackling them together is the way to go. Shoot me a message, I'm here for the support and brighter days.
![Photo of Carla Rae Hunt, MS, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfbe4dc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe there is a time in everyone's life where one feels uncertain or in need of assistance to gain understanding of oneself. If you are seeking therapy you may be experiencing a variety of symptoms or searching for better understanding of yourself or a partner. I work toward identifying the root of problems to maximize potential and build on strengths within you. I view my role as a guide to support and assist in your journey of self-discovery. I honor the uniqueness and integrity of every individual, offering a safe and nonjudgmental environment.
I believe there is a time in everyone's life where one feels uncertain or in need of assistance to gain understanding of oneself. If you are seeking therapy you may be experiencing a variety of symptoms or searching for better understanding of yourself or a partner. I work toward identifying the root of problems to maximize potential and build on strengths within you. I view my role as a guide to support and assist in your journey of self-discovery. I honor the uniqueness and integrity of every individual, offering a safe and nonjudgmental environment.
![Photo of Christa Welbon, BS, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a82fae13-aeff-4ec1-978a-102c54461f91/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christa Welbon
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, LADC
Verified Verified
Owatonna, MN 55060 (Online Only)
Have you had life circumstances change and are looking for assistance in your recovery? I have been working with people who have addiction issues for over 25 years. I am motivated by peoples' ability to make positive life changes and believe everyone can choose to change and improve their life. I will meet you wherever you are in your recovery and help you make a plan for continued success. I believe in providing a safe and supportive space and looking at the whole person when working with a client. I use evidence based therapeutic interventions based on each client's goals.
Have you had life circumstances change and are looking for assistance in your recovery? I have been working with people who have addiction issues for over 25 years. I am motivated by peoples' ability to make positive life changes and believe everyone can choose to change and improve their life. I will meet you wherever you are in your recovery and help you make a plan for continued success. I believe in providing a safe and supportive space and looking at the whole person when working with a client. I use evidence based therapeutic interventions based on each client's goals.
![Photo of Holly Raatz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e26d0a6-7916-4730-94ca-0ce84e3c1b3b/1/320x400.jpeg)
One of my primary motivations for pursuing a career in this field is my genuine belief in the resilience and strength of individuals and their relationships. I am inspired by the ability of therapy to empower individuals and families to face adversity, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional bonds. I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive space, where clients can feel safe to explore their thoughts, emotions, and relational dynamics.
One of my primary motivations for pursuing a career in this field is my genuine belief in the resilience and strength of individuals and their relationships. I am inspired by the ability of therapy to empower individuals and families to face adversity, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional bonds. I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive space, where clients can feel safe to explore their thoughts, emotions, and relational dynamics.
![Photo of Maricia A Olsen, CARC 1, Carc 2](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81c4b115-f2da-4f2c-b015-433baa98ef6c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Individuals, Couples, Family or Groups that are Trauma survivors, or if you Have suffered Childhood Abuse, Sexual Assault, Abandonment, Role distortion, Substance Abuse. Anyone who wants to Heal. Anyone who is interested in self Identification and acceptance. Im here to help guide you out of that dark tunnel and into the light. I will use Encouragement, Motivation, Self Discovery, Acceptance and Validation to show you how you can take your power back!
Individuals, Couples, Family or Groups that are Trauma survivors, or if you Have suffered Childhood Abuse, Sexual Assault, Abandonment, Role distortion, Substance Abuse. Anyone who wants to Heal. Anyone who is interested in self Identification and acceptance. Im here to help guide you out of that dark tunnel and into the light. I will use Encouragement, Motivation, Self Discovery, Acceptance and Validation to show you how you can take your power back!
Online Therapists
![Photo of Ryan Gay, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f44c31a1-0f52-4aad-b58b-53b84187d473/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I provide Telehealth individual therapy sessions for adults who are primarily experiencing anxiety and depression struggles. I also have experience working with people who have challenges related to food and their body. I have worked in a variety of settings including an eating disorder clinic, residential treatment, outpatient therapy, and in-home skills services. It is my goal to help people work through intense emotions, unhelpful thoughts, and challenging life circumstances. Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and watching the MN Vikings.
Hello! I provide Telehealth individual therapy sessions for adults who are primarily experiencing anxiety and depression struggles. I also have experience working with people who have challenges related to food and their body. I have worked in a variety of settings including an eating disorder clinic, residential treatment, outpatient therapy, and in-home skills services. It is my goal to help people work through intense emotions, unhelpful thoughts, and challenging life circumstances. Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and watching the MN Vikings.
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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.