Depression Therapists in Saint Michael, MN

Photo of Whitney McElhone, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Whitney McElhone
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Embarking on the path to healing from trauma, anxiety, and depression is a deeply personal journey, and you don't have to navigate it alone.
Are you ready to make a positive change for YOU? If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms or overwhelmed by life's stressors then you have come to the right place! I specialize in empowering adults to conquer these challenges, drawing on my expertise as a devoted mental health therapist. Together, we'll navigate your journey to healing and happiness. I have been working in the field and helping individuals since 2016. Together, we can empower you to grow through healing wounds, reduce symptoms, gain insight and become the best version of yourself—all while staying true to who you are.
Embarking on the path to healing from trauma, anxiety, and depression is a deeply personal journey, and you don't have to navigate it alone.
Are you ready to make a positive change for YOU? If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms or overwhelmed by life's stressors then you have come to the right place! I specialize in empowering adults to conquer these challenges, drawing on my expertise as a devoted mental health therapist. Together, we'll navigate your journey to healing and happiness. I have been working in the field and helping individuals since 2016. Together, we can empower you to grow through healing wounds, reduce symptoms, gain insight and become the best version of yourself—all while staying true to who you are.
(507) 821-3151 View (507) 821-3151
Photo of Michele Laney, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michele Laney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
I have worked for several years with individuals, couples, families, children, and adolescents on many different presenting issues. I work collaboratively with people to identify strengths within themselves to address their life challenges. I work with many parents regarding parenting concerns, balancing marriage and kids, and trying to find themselves again after having children. I work with couples to re-start their relationship after many years of unspoken distance. My practice is broad-based; I have experience with a range of issues such as marital strife, blended families, substance abuse, mental illness, depression, grief, anxiety, sexual abuse, and loss.
I have worked for several years with individuals, couples, families, children, and adolescents on many different presenting issues. I work collaboratively with people to identify strengths within themselves to address their life challenges. I work with many parents regarding parenting concerns, balancing marriage and kids, and trying to find themselves again after having children. I work with couples to re-start their relationship after many years of unspoken distance. My practice is broad-based; I have experience with a range of issues such as marital strife, blended families, substance abuse, mental illness, depression, grief, anxiety, sexual abuse, and loss.
(612) 419-8461 View (612) 419-8461
Photo of Nick Flottmeier, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nick Flottmeier
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
As a dedicated pre-licensed clinician, I am passionately committed to the field of mental health and relational well-being. I aim to help individuals and families navigate all of life's challenges including depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. Throughout my career journey, I have actively engaged in clinical training and coursework which has helped me develop skills in assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic intervention. Drawing from various theoretical frameworks, including family systems theory and cognitive-behavioral techniques, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client.
As a dedicated pre-licensed clinician, I am passionately committed to the field of mental health and relational well-being. I aim to help individuals and families navigate all of life's challenges including depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. Throughout my career journey, I have actively engaged in clinical training and coursework which has helped me develop skills in assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic intervention. Drawing from various theoretical frameworks, including family systems theory and cognitive-behavioral techniques, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client.
(763) 312-2762 View (763) 312-2762
Photo of Alison Potter, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Potter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
As human beings, we are driven towards inner balance, and many situations in life can impact functioning and offset balance. Maybe you have developed patterns of coping that are not working anymore, or you are feeling stuck. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, eating concerns, eating disorders, grief, adjustments, and life adjustments. Collaboratively, we will work together on your goals, while noticing the strengths that lie within you and your authentic self. I have worked in a variety of settings, including: outpatient, school-based, residential treatment centers and community based.
As human beings, we are driven towards inner balance, and many situations in life can impact functioning and offset balance. Maybe you have developed patterns of coping that are not working anymore, or you are feeling stuck. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, eating concerns, eating disorders, grief, adjustments, and life adjustments. Collaboratively, we will work together on your goals, while noticing the strengths that lie within you and your authentic self. I have worked in a variety of settings, including: outpatient, school-based, residential treatment centers and community based.
(763) 307-5785 View (763) 307-5785
Photo of Mark Schmoyer, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Mark Schmoyer
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
I have experience working with adolescents and teenagers, particularly males, and help them through family struggles, school problems, relationships, depression, anxiety, and any other concern they may be experiencing.
I enjoy working with adults and teenagers as they navigate many of life's transitions. I make it my goal to establish a genuine relationship so that you feel validated and respected and our time together is centered on coming along side of you to create meaningful change. For those having thoughts of death or dying, it can be extremely distressing and I want to align with you to determine the best path forwards to manage and decrease those thoughts. I also value the role of faith in pursuing healing and strive to incorporate faith based conversations and interventions to assist you in your goals.
I have experience working with adolescents and teenagers, particularly males, and help them through family struggles, school problems, relationships, depression, anxiety, and any other concern they may be experiencing.
I enjoy working with adults and teenagers as they navigate many of life's transitions. I make it my goal to establish a genuine relationship so that you feel validated and respected and our time together is centered on coming along side of you to create meaningful change. For those having thoughts of death or dying, it can be extremely distressing and I want to align with you to determine the best path forwards to manage and decrease those thoughts. I also value the role of faith in pursuing healing and strive to incorporate faith based conversations and interventions to assist you in your goals.
(763) 325-8591 View (763) 325-8591
Photo of Chrissy Bensen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chrissy Bensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376  (Online Only)
Are you searching for ways to show up more joyfully and authentically in your life? Does something feel a little "off," and you wish there was a place where you could sort it out and find a way to feel better? You may be struggling with depression, anger, or anxiety. You might seem fine on the outside, but inside you feel disconnected, a little lonely, or falling just short of where you'd like to be in your life. Although it might be more of a nagging feeling, you might also have some history with workplace, family, or religious trauma, parenting/step-parenting, chronic pain or illness, or identity/existential concerns.
Are you searching for ways to show up more joyfully and authentically in your life? Does something feel a little "off," and you wish there was a place where you could sort it out and find a way to feel better? You may be struggling with depression, anger, or anxiety. You might seem fine on the outside, but inside you feel disconnected, a little lonely, or falling just short of where you'd like to be in your life. Although it might be more of a nagging feeling, you might also have some history with workplace, family, or religious trauma, parenting/step-parenting, chronic pain or illness, or identity/existential concerns.
(763) 777-7667 View (763) 777-7667
Photo of Dan Schmoyer, MEd, MA, LSC, LPCC, Counselor
Dan Schmoyer
Counselor, MEd, MA, LSC, LPCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Some speciality areas include: divorce, infidelity, pre-marriage/marriage counseling, high conflict divorce situations, women's issues, parenting, teenage behavior, healthy boundaries, depression, stress, anxiety, ADHD, sexual addictions, feeling lost and stuck in life, and finding purpose and direction.
*** We offer online/telehealth counseling sessions! If you are looking for someone who is compassionate yet honest enough to provide direction, advice, and guidance than give us a call. We also specialize in working with teenagers/young adults as they navigate life. Women's issues are an area of passion for some of our staff too. We base our counsel on a Christian worldview and have helped people from all walks of life find meaning, hope, and restoration through their struggle. Check out our website for more information and to watch a short video about our clinic.
Some speciality areas include: divorce, infidelity, pre-marriage/marriage counseling, high conflict divorce situations, women's issues, parenting, teenage behavior, healthy boundaries, depression, stress, anxiety, ADHD, sexual addictions, feeling lost and stuck in life, and finding purpose and direction.
*** We offer online/telehealth counseling sessions! If you are looking for someone who is compassionate yet honest enough to provide direction, advice, and guidance than give us a call. We also specialize in working with teenagers/young adults as they navigate life. Women's issues are an area of passion for some of our staff too. We base our counsel on a Christian worldview and have helped people from all walks of life find meaning, hope, and restoration through their struggle. Check out our website for more information and to watch a short video about our clinic.
(763) 280-7963 View (763) 280-7963
Photo of Matt Stiehm, EdD, MA, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Matt Stiehm
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Hello - My name is Matt, and I am transitioning from a career in the criminal justice field. With that I have 23 years of experience working in the CJ industry. I understand the nuances of work, and how it impacts one's family. I am looking to help those in CJ fields (corrections/law enforcement) process and deal with any and all mental health issues, to include relationship problems, stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. If you are looking for a safe environment to come talk with someone about mental health issues, and receive appropriate trained services please consider contacting me, and utilizing my services.
Hello - My name is Matt, and I am transitioning from a career in the criminal justice field. With that I have 23 years of experience working in the CJ industry. I understand the nuances of work, and how it impacts one's family. I am looking to help those in CJ fields (corrections/law enforcement) process and deal with any and all mental health issues, to include relationship problems, stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. If you are looking for a safe environment to come talk with someone about mental health issues, and receive appropriate trained services please consider contacting me, and utilizing my services.
(763) 363-2137 View (763) 363-2137
Photo of Jennifer Cepress, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Jennifer Cepress
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
As a Licensed Clinical Therapist, I especially enjoy working with couples. I also absolutely love working with individuals and families through their transformative journeys. My focus areas include navigating complex relationships, overcoming anxiety and depression by exploring core issues and utilizing proven techniques, healing from trauma, managing ADHD, sleep issues, providing effective parenting strategies encouraging healthier connections, addressing addiction challenges, navigating career and educational transitions, and managing chronic stress.
As a Licensed Clinical Therapist, I especially enjoy working with couples. I also absolutely love working with individuals and families through their transformative journeys. My focus areas include navigating complex relationships, overcoming anxiety and depression by exploring core issues and utilizing proven techniques, healing from trauma, managing ADHD, sleep issues, providing effective parenting strategies encouraging healthier connections, addressing addiction challenges, navigating career and educational transitions, and managing chronic stress.
(763) 363-5567 View (763) 363-5567
Photo of Michelle Clark, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Are you wanting to live a more fulfilled life? Are you engaged in an unhealthy relationship or experiencing marital conflicts? Do you feel overwhelmed with depression, anxiety or suffer from PTSD? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then call me, Michelle Clark MA, LMFT, where help & healing begins. I am devoted to helping you live the life you have always wanted and committed to providing the highest quality care in a fun, safe, professional environment focusing on practical strategies to help you live the life you have always wanted but struggled to achieve.
Are you wanting to live a more fulfilled life? Are you engaged in an unhealthy relationship or experiencing marital conflicts? Do you feel overwhelmed with depression, anxiety or suffer from PTSD? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then call me, Michelle Clark MA, LMFT, where help & healing begins. I am devoted to helping you live the life you have always wanted and committed to providing the highest quality care in a fun, safe, professional environment focusing on practical strategies to help you live the life you have always wanted but struggled to achieve.
(763) 363-6238 View (763) 363-6238
Photo of Rindie Eagle, MA, LPCC
Rindie Eagle
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of expertise include: perfectionism, chronic anxiety, panic, depression, anger, and those with a tendency to please others at the expense of self.
Currently full. If you find yourself struggling to keep the "perfect" mask on, I can help you become empowered to make the changes you want in your life to feel better and become recharged. We will use a strengths-based approach to identify the strengths you already have, and then you will learn how to use them in your favor to make the changes you want in your life in order to reduce the anxiety or depression that is draining your system. Go to this link to get on the waitlist: jotform.com/rindie/appointments
My areas of expertise include: perfectionism, chronic anxiety, panic, depression, anger, and those with a tendency to please others at the expense of self.
Currently full. If you find yourself struggling to keep the "perfect" mask on, I can help you become empowered to make the changes you want in your life to feel better and become recharged. We will use a strengths-based approach to identify the strengths you already have, and then you will learn how to use them in your favor to make the changes you want in your life in order to reduce the anxiety or depression that is draining your system. Go to this link to get on the waitlist: jotform.com/rindie/appointments
(763) 634-5444 View (763) 634-5444
Photo of Mark R. Thelen, PsyD, LP, LMFT, Psychologist
Mark R. Thelen
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
If you struggle with excessive anxiety, depression, anger, negative thoughts about yourself or others, it might time for a self tune-up and work on how you see yourself, view others and make the primary changes you want to make. There are many types of helpers out there, many good and wonderful people, but what I focus on is how you can change you and how you interact with others in the world. My focus is understanding your background and help you identify what you want to work on, change, accept, and/or do with your life. Hopefully, we can do this work in a timely and cost-efficient manner.
If you struggle with excessive anxiety, depression, anger, negative thoughts about yourself or others, it might time for a self tune-up and work on how you see yourself, view others and make the primary changes you want to make. There are many types of helpers out there, many good and wonderful people, but what I focus on is how you can change you and how you interact with others in the world. My focus is understanding your background and help you identify what you want to work on, change, accept, and/or do with your life. Hopefully, we can do this work in a timely and cost-efficient manner.
(763) 370-0243 View (763) 370-0243
Photo of Nathan Hoffman, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Nathan Hoffman
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in substance abuse, trauma, grief/loss, guilt and shame, domestic abuse, depression, and anxiety.
As a therapist, I take a person-centered approach to therapy and work with individuals to help them gain awareness and understanding of their mental health, while helping them identify their strengths and values. I work to meet individuals where they are and I believe that openness, honesty, trust, and respect are foundational in a therapeutic relationship. I am committed to helping individuals move towards improving their mental health and overall well-being by utilizing a holistic approach that focuses on physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
I specialize in substance abuse, trauma, grief/loss, guilt and shame, domestic abuse, depression, and anxiety.
As a therapist, I take a person-centered approach to therapy and work with individuals to help them gain awareness and understanding of their mental health, while helping them identify their strengths and values. I work to meet individuals where they are and I believe that openness, honesty, trust, and respect are foundational in a therapeutic relationship. I am committed to helping individuals move towards improving their mental health and overall well-being by utilizing a holistic approach that focuses on physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
(763) 247-7937 View (763) 247-7937
Photo of Kevin Smith - Northwinds Counseling Services, P.A., LMFT, LPCC, LGSW
Northwinds Counseling Services, P.A.
LMFT, LPCC, LGSW
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
At Northwinds, we consider it a privilege to help our clients as they go through life-changing experiences. With integrity, compassion, and a deep devotion to the worth of each individual we see, we are here to help you make positive adjustments to the stressful life challenges you are facing. We offer individual, couples, and family counseling. Our primary model of treatment is Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, though we frequently draw from other treatment models as needed. LMFT: Kevin Smith, Amy Halverson, John Torkelson, and Terri Jorstad; LPCC: Jordan Leuthold, Michelle Rhea, Raven Winter & Rindie Eagle; LGSW: Allison Brockway
At Northwinds, we consider it a privilege to help our clients as they go through life-changing experiences. With integrity, compassion, and a deep devotion to the worth of each individual we see, we are here to help you make positive adjustments to the stressful life challenges you are facing. We offer individual, couples, and family counseling. Our primary model of treatment is Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, though we frequently draw from other treatment models as needed. LMFT: Kevin Smith, Amy Halverson, John Torkelson, and Terri Jorstad; LPCC: Jordan Leuthold, Michelle Rhea, Raven Winter & Rindie Eagle; LGSW: Allison Brockway
(763) 280-5780 View (763) 280-5780
Photo of Johanna Schultz, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Johanna Schultz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I have experience and enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan. I believe in the inherent value, purpose, and dignity of each person and that through therapy, individuals can develop or re-establish this believe about themselves. I am here to actively and non-judgmentally listen to your story and work collaboratively to build upon your internal strengths and reaching your goals. I desire to create a space that is safe and supportive where you feel comfortable expressing yourself, your concerns, and aspirations.
Hello! I have experience and enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan. I believe in the inherent value, purpose, and dignity of each person and that through therapy, individuals can develop or re-establish this believe about themselves. I am here to actively and non-judgmentally listen to your story and work collaboratively to build upon your internal strengths and reaching your goals. I desire to create a space that is safe and supportive where you feel comfortable expressing yourself, your concerns, and aspirations.
(320) 322-6799 View (320) 322-6799
Photo of Robert Tucker, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robert Tucker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376  (Online Only)
My therapy model begins with its roots in authenticity. How can people engage with one another, specifically on sensitive or difficult topics, if they feel that the other person is not truly being themselves? I bring a steady presence to the therapy relationship to help manage difficult times and difficult interactions. Through therapy I hope that clients gain awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and actions and in doing so gain the ability to utilize this awareness to create a positive impact on their lives.
My therapy model begins with its roots in authenticity. How can people engage with one another, specifically on sensitive or difficult topics, if they feel that the other person is not truly being themselves? I bring a steady presence to the therapy relationship to help manage difficult times and difficult interactions. Through therapy I hope that clients gain awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and actions and in doing so gain the ability to utilize this awareness to create a positive impact on their lives.
(763) 515-4563 x888 View (763) 515-4563 x888
Photo of Breezy Martin, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breezy Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376  (Online Only)
I strive to be the type of therapist I would want to see. I keep it real, and I genuinely care about each client I work with, understanding the vulnerability all clients face to engage in therapy. I will ensure you feel respected, supported, and empowered to make the changes you set out to change. I hold a master's degree in social work from St. Cloud State University. I am completing final requirements to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide individual and couple's therapy. My areas of interest are adolescent and young adult issues. They are listed below.
I strive to be the type of therapist I would want to see. I keep it real, and I genuinely care about each client I work with, understanding the vulnerability all clients face to engage in therapy. I will ensure you feel respected, supported, and empowered to make the changes you set out to change. I hold a master's degree in social work from St. Cloud State University. I am completing final requirements to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide individual and couple's therapy. My areas of interest are adolescent and young adult issues. They are listed below.
(763) 878-6198 View (763) 878-6198
Photo of Jennifer Knapp, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Knapp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
We are not meant to live in isolation. From the moment we are born, our identity and sense of self is tied in with those around us. Over time, it may shift from parents to peer groups to intimate partners, but how we interact with others is at the core of our emotional well-being. Parenting comes with a unique set of questions, self-doubt, and high stakes. For many of us, it may activate unresolved hurt or resentment from our own childhood or invite feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. Our intimate relationships are another significant part of our lives. Clients can learn how to connect, improve understanding, and strengthen their intimate relationships by moving past the cycles that break down communication and build walls of hurt and defensiveness. Couples can re-establish that “spark,” share a vision of a connected future, and feel both valued and validated by their partners. Experiencing trauma impacts our ability to connect with and receive connection from others. Sometimes we get so stuck in that trauma that it shifts our view of the world and can permanently alter our perception. Therapy is a place to process through this experience, so you can move forward with life.
We are not meant to live in isolation. From the moment we are born, our identity and sense of self is tied in with those around us. Over time, it may shift from parents to peer groups to intimate partners, but how we interact with others is at the core of our emotional well-being. Parenting comes with a unique set of questions, self-doubt, and high stakes. For many of us, it may activate unresolved hurt or resentment from our own childhood or invite feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. Our intimate relationships are another significant part of our lives. Clients can learn how to connect, improve understanding, and strengthen their intimate relationships by moving past the cycles that break down communication and build walls of hurt and defensiveness. Couples can re-establish that “spark,” share a vision of a connected future, and feel both valued and validated by their partners. Experiencing trauma impacts our ability to connect with and receive connection from others. Sometimes we get so stuck in that trauma that it shifts our view of the world and can permanently alter our perception. Therapy is a place to process through this experience, so you can move forward with life.
(763) 334-6512 View (763) 334-6512
Photo of Teresa Movick-Anderson, MSW, LICSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa Movick-Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Please note, I am not currently taking on any new clients and will likely not have openings until summer or fall 2024. Please email if you would like to be added to my waitlist. I enjoy working with individuals and families from all walks of life. I believe we all have a unique story and need a safe space in order to share and process that story. My passion is working with children, teens, and young adults, especially those who are often labeled as difficult, misguided, or troubled. I also love working with adults, especially those struggling with trauma backgrounds, attachment disruptions, and/or mental health challenges.
Please note, I am not currently taking on any new clients and will likely not have openings until summer or fall 2024. Please email if you would like to be added to my waitlist. I enjoy working with individuals and families from all walks of life. I believe we all have a unique story and need a safe space in order to share and process that story. My passion is working with children, teens, and young adults, especially those who are often labeled as difficult, misguided, or troubled. I also love working with adults, especially those struggling with trauma backgrounds, attachment disruptions, and/or mental health challenges.
(763) 284-3636 View (763) 284-3636
Photo of Neko J. Vanevenhoven - Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC, LMFT, LP, LPCC, LADC, Supervi, Marriage & Family Therapist
Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LP, LPCC, LADC, Supervi
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Authentic Roots Therapy is a mental health collaborative where licensed professionals provide individual, couple, & family mental health therapy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in working with children, couples, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals who are questioning, curious, transitioning, or identifying as transgender/non-binary, mothers in postpartum, faith communities, individuals experiencing traumatic symptomatology, and highly sensitive men.
Authentic Roots Therapy is a mental health collaborative where licensed professionals provide individual, couple, & family mental health therapy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in working with children, couples, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals who are questioning, curious, transitioning, or identifying as transgender/non-binary, mothers in postpartum, faith communities, individuals experiencing traumatic symptomatology, and highly sensitive men.
(763) 703-1621 View (763) 703-1621
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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.