Depression Therapists in South Saint Paul, MN

Photo of Amber Remackel, LSC, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amber Remackel
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Saint Paul, MN 55075
If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, questioning life, or hoping for clarity, I am here to help. Taking the first step towards change is not an easy one, but a courageous one. I believe that most people are capable of change given the opportunity and motivation to do so. I pride myself on meeting my clients where they are at on their journey and working as a team to help clients grow, heal and transform. I offer a safe environment where my clients are free from moral judgment and other biases that may hinder personal development.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, questioning life, or hoping for clarity, I am here to help. Taking the first step towards change is not an easy one, but a courageous one. I believe that most people are capable of change given the opportunity and motivation to do so. I pride myself on meeting my clients where they are at on their journey and working as a team to help clients grow, heal and transform. I offer a safe environment where my clients are free from moral judgment and other biases that may hinder personal development.
(952) 260-2370 View (952) 260-2370
Photo of Morgan Phillips, LCSW, CSAC, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Saint Paul, MN 55075  (Online Only)
Thanks for visiting my profile. Are you struggling to feel connected to yourself and those around you? Feeling depressed, anxious, or lost? I would love to hold space with you while you explore the inner workings of all things related to you. I believe that as human beings, everything we do is relational, therefore, I believe therapy offers the opportunity to heal with another person being present. I have been working as a clinical social worker for the past 12 years. I currently offer telehealth services in Minnesota and Wisconsin to individuals 25 and older.
Thanks for visiting my profile. Are you struggling to feel connected to yourself and those around you? Feeling depressed, anxious, or lost? I would love to hold space with you while you explore the inner workings of all things related to you. I believe that as human beings, everything we do is relational, therefore, I believe therapy offers the opportunity to heal with another person being present. I have been working as a clinical social worker for the past 12 years. I currently offer telehealth services in Minnesota and Wisconsin to individuals 25 and older.
(651) 615-9099 View (651) 615-9099
Photo of Jacob Thomas Minnig - Jacob Minnig  Behavioral Health Integration EMDR T, MA, LPCC, LADC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacob Minnig Behavioral Health Integration EMDR T
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
South Saint Paul, MN 55075
When it comes to my work as a mental health and addiction therapist my love and passion for aiding veterans, police officers, and emergency service workers is second to none. I am strongly devoted to aiding these individuals as it comes to various mental health disorders from anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and many others. I also have many years of experiences helping veterans and the general population with various type of substance use disorders. I am proud advocate for the wounded warrior project as well as supporting police officer's and EMS worker's hoping to live healthier lives.
When it comes to my work as a mental health and addiction therapist my love and passion for aiding veterans, police officers, and emergency service workers is second to none. I am strongly devoted to aiding these individuals as it comes to various mental health disorders from anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and many others. I also have many years of experiences helping veterans and the general population with various type of substance use disorders. I am proud advocate for the wounded warrior project as well as supporting police officer's and EMS worker's hoping to live healthier lives.
(651) 427-1180 View (651) 427-1180
Photo of Marina Himmer, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Marina Himmer
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
South Saint Paul, MN 55077
Life can be challenging when we experience adjustments, trials and loses, causing us to experience loneliness, conflicting emotions, anxiety, depression or simply feeling something is missing in our lives. Therapy can provide a way out by integrating a mind/body/spirit connection to help you return to wellness. It requires great courage taking the first step to reach out. I would be honored if you allow me to walk alongside to unlock your full potential. I strive to follow your lead and adapt to your personal style and needs and together, create a safe and nurturing environment. Hablo nativo Español al 100% y me encantaria servirte!
Life can be challenging when we experience adjustments, trials and loses, causing us to experience loneliness, conflicting emotions, anxiety, depression or simply feeling something is missing in our lives. Therapy can provide a way out by integrating a mind/body/spirit connection to help you return to wellness. It requires great courage taking the first step to reach out. I would be honored if you allow me to walk alongside to unlock your full potential. I strive to follow your lead and adapt to your personal style and needs and together, create a safe and nurturing environment. Hablo nativo Español al 100% y me encantaria servirte!
(651) 439-2059 View (651) 439-2059
Photo of Carley Mason, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carley Mason
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Saint Paul, MN 55075  (Online Only)
She understands the complexity of issues such as depression, ADHD, relationship difficulties, family conflict, life stage changes, complex family structures, hoarding tendencies, etc.
Building relationships and trust are at the heart of Carley's practice, and she believes everyone has unique and resilient qualities that can be tapped into, especially during difficult times in life. She strives to create a safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment, where clients feel accepted and understood. Carley’s professional philosophy is framed within a holistic approach to treatment. She helps clients integrate the mind/body and gain a sense of cognitive and emotional balance.
She understands the complexity of issues such as depression, ADHD, relationship difficulties, family conflict, life stage changes, complex family structures, hoarding tendencies, etc.
Building relationships and trust are at the heart of Carley's practice, and she believes everyone has unique and resilient qualities that can be tapped into, especially during difficult times in life. She strives to create a safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment, where clients feel accepted and understood. Carley’s professional philosophy is framed within a holistic approach to treatment. She helps clients integrate the mind/body and gain a sense of cognitive and emotional balance.
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Photo of Amanda Ripley-Kayala, MA, LPCC, LADC, EMDR, Counselor
Amanda Ripley-Kayala
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Saint Paul, MN 55075
Specialties: Adults (18+), Individual therapy, Trauma, EMDR, LGBTQIA+, Gender identity, Sexual identity, Sexual health, Queer, Poly, Kink Community, Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, PTSD, Addiction, Stress, Co-occurring Disorders, Life transitions, Coping skills.
Amanda Ripley-Kayala is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Amanda is trained in EMDR and has completed UW-Stout’s Sex Therapy Certificate Program. Amanda is a highly skilled, trauma-informed, holistic, client centered therapist whose goal is to create a trusting and compassionate therapeutic atmosphere which encourages self-exploration, self-awareness, empowerment and and movement to achieve goals in therapy and life.
Specialties: Adults (18+), Individual therapy, Trauma, EMDR, LGBTQIA+, Gender identity, Sexual identity, Sexual health, Queer, Poly, Kink Community, Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, PTSD, Addiction, Stress, Co-occurring Disorders, Life transitions, Coping skills.
Amanda Ripley-Kayala is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Amanda is trained in EMDR and has completed UW-Stout’s Sex Therapy Certificate Program. Amanda is a highly skilled, trauma-informed, holistic, client centered therapist whose goal is to create a trusting and compassionate therapeutic atmosphere which encourages self-exploration, self-awareness, empowerment and and movement to achieve goals in therapy and life.
(952) 649-5978 View (952) 649-5978
Photo of Laura Koletar, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Koletar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Saint Paul, MN 55075  (Online Only)
My focus in therapy is to build a trusting relationship which inspires self-discovery and a greater capacity for change. I tend to use a relational style with curiosity, humor, and compassion to support people in understanding and coping with mental health symptoms, learning better communication skills in relationships, and exploring identity development and life transitions. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples, and particularly enjoy working with those seeking support for anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, and identity development, including LGBTQ+ identities, as a queer person myself.
My focus in therapy is to build a trusting relationship which inspires self-discovery and a greater capacity for change. I tend to use a relational style with curiosity, humor, and compassion to support people in understanding and coping with mental health symptoms, learning better communication skills in relationships, and exploring identity development and life transitions. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples, and particularly enjoy working with those seeking support for anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, and identity development, including LGBTQ+ identities, as a queer person myself.
(763) 878-8736 View (763) 878-8736
Photo of Nicole Benson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nicole Benson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Saint Paul, MN 55075
As a therapist, I believe we all long for connection. It is primal and in our DNA. However, in order to feel a connection, we need to feel a sense of safety first. I am passionate about working with individuals and couples who are experiencing a lack of connection, attachment wounds, or grief/loss and are seeking help with hopes of increasing the effectiveness of their communication, boundaries, and connection whether that means with themselves or with others.
As a therapist, I believe we all long for connection. It is primal and in our DNA. However, in order to feel a connection, we need to feel a sense of safety first. I am passionate about working with individuals and couples who are experiencing a lack of connection, attachment wounds, or grief/loss and are seeking help with hopes of increasing the effectiveness of their communication, boundaries, and connection whether that means with themselves or with others.
(612) 888-8134 View (612) 888-8134
Photo of Rebecca Mitchell, MA, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Mitchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Saint Paul, MN 55075
Do you find yourself struggling with daily tasks due to your anxiety, trauma, or substance use? If so I am here to help! Clients come to me looking for a therapist who can provide a safe, supportive, and light setting, while exploring symptoms or experiences. Therapy should be a place where you feel heard and validated in session. Sessions with me are focused on your current needs while challenge thought patterns, beliefs, and better understanding your symptoms. Together, we achieve the growth and healing you need to improve your daily routine, we always go at your pace, never pushing to a place you don’t feel ready to be.
Do you find yourself struggling with daily tasks due to your anxiety, trauma, or substance use? If so I am here to help! Clients come to me looking for a therapist who can provide a safe, supportive, and light setting, while exploring symptoms or experiences. Therapy should be a place where you feel heard and validated in session. Sessions with me are focused on your current needs while challenge thought patterns, beliefs, and better understanding your symptoms. Together, we achieve the growth and healing you need to improve your daily routine, we always go at your pace, never pushing to a place you don’t feel ready to be.
(651) 758-5491 View (651) 758-5491
Photo of Kelsey Rehome-Peymann, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsey Rehome-Peymann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
South Saint Paul, MN 55075
Each person holds their own unique set of values and beliefs. I am not hear to judge or dictate your behavior, rather, I strive to acknowledged and honor your experiences; accepting who you are, where you are at this current moment, and where you would like to go. Through collaboration, encouragement, and active participation in therapeutic process, you can become the agent of change in your life. As a supportive therapist, I am here to help you cultivate a better personal understanding of your life and make choices that will benefit your personal growth and overall well-being.
Each person holds their own unique set of values and beliefs. I am not hear to judge or dictate your behavior, rather, I strive to acknowledged and honor your experiences; accepting who you are, where you are at this current moment, and where you would like to go. Through collaboration, encouragement, and active participation in therapeutic process, you can become the agent of change in your life. As a supportive therapist, I am here to help you cultivate a better personal understanding of your life and make choices that will benefit your personal growth and overall well-being.
(612) 439-4256 View (612) 439-4256
Photo of Jessie Cylkowski, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessie Cylkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
South Saint Paul, MN 55075
My practice has multiple providers taking new patients. We provide a space where you can express yourself without fear of judgment. The goal is to understand your experience and work to see things in a new light in order to bring a renewed sense of hope. Establishing a strong toolbox of coping skills along with raised awareness of what brought you into therapy can bring a stronger sense of empowerment for positive change. I believe everyone has the ability to navigate what life throws at us and make meaning from those challenges. "Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations. The best is yet to come.” ― Zig Ziglar
My practice has multiple providers taking new patients. We provide a space where you can express yourself without fear of judgment. The goal is to understand your experience and work to see things in a new light in order to bring a renewed sense of hope. Establishing a strong toolbox of coping skills along with raised awareness of what brought you into therapy can bring a stronger sense of empowerment for positive change. I believe everyone has the ability to navigate what life throws at us and make meaning from those challenges. "Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations. The best is yet to come.” ― Zig Ziglar
(651) 362-4061 View (651) 362-4061
Photo of LeAnne Renteria, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
LeAnne Renteria
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Saint Paul, MN 55075
Not accepting new clients
My professional areas of interest include trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, work related stress, work-life balance, family resilience, and relationship building.
Are you feeling stuck, stressed, or overwhelmed with life, work, or your relationships? Therapy can help. I am passionate about my work with individuals and couples, and I enjoy supporting others to work through life’s struggles and live their best lives. While working in the mental health field, I have worked with people from all aspects of life. In addition, I specialize in working with police officers, first responders, and their families.
My professional areas of interest include trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, work related stress, work-life balance, family resilience, and relationship building.
Are you feeling stuck, stressed, or overwhelmed with life, work, or your relationships? Therapy can help. I am passionate about my work with individuals and couples, and I enjoy supporting others to work through life’s struggles and live their best lives. While working in the mental health field, I have worked with people from all aspects of life. In addition, I specialize in working with police officers, first responders, and their families.
(651) 998-7242 View (651) 998-7242

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Laurie Lynn Murray, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Laurie Lynn Murray
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
We have one chance at life so lets make the most of it. I believe many of our issues stem from a variety of factors such as our health, our thoughts, our past, our relationships, and society at large - just to name a few. We will work together to explore what holds you back, break the chains, and empower you to live the life you deserve as the valuable human being you are. My specialties include depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues ,and self esteem. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I provide Telemental Health and am licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Oregon.
We have one chance at life so lets make the most of it. I believe many of our issues stem from a variety of factors such as our health, our thoughts, our past, our relationships, and society at large - just to name a few. We will work together to explore what holds you back, break the chains, and empower you to live the life you deserve as the valuable human being you are. My specialties include depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues ,and self esteem. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I provide Telemental Health and am licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Oregon.
(651) 376-2445 View (651) 376-2445
Photo of Tina McDonough, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina McDonough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
I have expertise in the areas of parenting, divorce, step family dynamics, depression, anxiety, stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger's), ADHD, and alcohol/drug dependence.
I provide a warm, safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment for people to explore interpersonal concerns and relationships with others. Clients find me to be very personable, humorous, and direct - yet gentle. Whether you are struggling with a significant other, parent, child, friend, boss, or colleague - I can help you identify thoughts, feelings, and needs which will allow you to understand yourself better and enhance communication with your world. This new self awareness will greatly improve your relationships, increase your self esteem, and allow you to enjoy your life to its fullest.
I have expertise in the areas of parenting, divorce, step family dynamics, depression, anxiety, stress, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger's), ADHD, and alcohol/drug dependence.
I provide a warm, safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment for people to explore interpersonal concerns and relationships with others. Clients find me to be very personable, humorous, and direct - yet gentle. Whether you are struggling with a significant other, parent, child, friend, boss, or colleague - I can help you identify thoughts, feelings, and needs which will allow you to understand yourself better and enhance communication with your world. This new self awareness will greatly improve your relationships, increase your self esteem, and allow you to enjoy your life to its fullest.
(612) 284-0462 View (612) 284-0462
Photo of Lisa LeMay, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa LeMay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
If you are struggling with overthinking, feeling overwhelmed or depressed, relationship issues, parenting, hurt from the past or stuck in the present, I'd encourage you to give me a call or shoot me an email.
What I offer is genuine concern, empathy, kindness, and the kind of listening that lets you know you've really been heard and understood. I can help you identify what is causing your pain and will offer practical suggestions and specific tools you can try right away to try to improve your situation. Together we can look at your difficulty, find a way through, and make meaning out of your experience, which will lead you to a more grounded sense of self, healthier relationships, and a more satisfying life.
If you are struggling with overthinking, feeling overwhelmed or depressed, relationship issues, parenting, hurt from the past or stuck in the present, I'd encourage you to give me a call or shoot me an email.
What I offer is genuine concern, empathy, kindness, and the kind of listening that lets you know you've really been heard and understood. I can help you identify what is causing your pain and will offer practical suggestions and specific tools you can try right away to try to improve your situation. Together we can look at your difficulty, find a way through, and make meaning out of your experience, which will lead you to a more grounded sense of self, healthier relationships, and a more satisfying life.
(612) 979-1345 View (612) 979-1345
Photo of Beth Saunders, MA, LPCC, LPC, Counselor
Beth Saunders
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Beth Saunders experience includes working with individuals and families dealing with a variety of issues including life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, self-esteem issues and loss/grief of all kinds.
Healing can take many forms in our lives and therapy is one of those places that can facilitate that process. Finding a therapist, you can trust to process some of the difficult moments in your life is foundational. As your counseling partner, I will create a safe place for you as you navigate the challenges you are facing and help you figure out what you want and need moving forward. I believe in healing and the resiliency of the human heart and soul. Out of our difficulties, something beautiful can emerge. Come as you are and we can go from there. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and stages in life.
Beth Saunders experience includes working with individuals and families dealing with a variety of issues including life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, self-esteem issues and loss/grief of all kinds.
Healing can take many forms in our lives and therapy is one of those places that can facilitate that process. Finding a therapist, you can trust to process some of the difficult moments in your life is foundational. As your counseling partner, I will create a safe place for you as you navigate the challenges you are facing and help you figure out what you want and need moving forward. I believe in healing and the resiliency of the human heart and soul. Out of our difficulties, something beautiful can emerge. Come as you are and we can go from there. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and stages in life.
(952) 522-5704 View (952) 522-5704
Photo of David Kaehr, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Kaehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport, MN 55055  (Online Only)
I am a newly licensed therapist specializing in Trauma, LGBTQIA, Anxiety, and Depression! I wish to help all of my clients understand who they are, how their history defines who they are today, and how to make sense of that within the change process. Let's work together to meet your therapeutic and life goals!
I am a newly licensed therapist specializing in Trauma, LGBTQIA, Anxiety, and Depression! I wish to help all of my clients understand who they are, how their history defines who they are today, and how to make sense of that within the change process. Let's work together to meet your therapeutic and life goals!
(651) 615-9719 View (651) 615-9719
Photo of Haley Morgan-Shepard, LPCC, CAGCS, Counselor
Haley Morgan-Shepard
Counselor, LPCC, CAGCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55118  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For the past decade, I have helped individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and the unique challenges of adolescents.
Life can be difficult. All of us face challenges, setbacks, and painful emotions. When the weight of it all feels too heavy to bear alone, I'm here to listen and support you. I understand how hard it can be to reach out for help. Showing vulnerability takes courage. Healing often requires us to face parts of ourselves we would rather avoid. But in the end, we are all human - imperfect and complex. There is no shame in seeking therapy or asking for support. In fact, it demonstrates remarkable strength. Sometimes, taking the first step is daunting and I recognize the courage this takes. You don't have to walk alone in your journey.
For the past decade, I have helped individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and the unique challenges of adolescents.
Life can be difficult. All of us face challenges, setbacks, and painful emotions. When the weight of it all feels too heavy to bear alone, I'm here to listen and support you. I understand how hard it can be to reach out for help. Showing vulnerability takes courage. Healing often requires us to face parts of ourselves we would rather avoid. But in the end, we are all human - imperfect and complex. There is no shame in seeking therapy or asking for support. In fact, it demonstrates remarkable strength. Sometimes, taking the first step is daunting and I recognize the courage this takes. You don't have to walk alone in your journey.
(651) 800-9621 View (651) 800-9621
Photo of Cathy L Chavez, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy L Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
A few of the areas I specialize in are marital and couple's counseling including stepfamilies and issues unique to military families, depression and anxiety disorders, weight loss and emotional eating, obsessive-compulsive disorders, body focused repetitive disorders such as skin picking, hair pulling, nail biting.
I believe your situation is unique and deserves an individualized plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. You can be assured I will always remember your unique "story" every time we meet. My approach to counseling is straight forward, yet caring and compassionate.
A few of the areas I specialize in are marital and couple's counseling including stepfamilies and issues unique to military families, depression and anxiety disorders, weight loss and emotional eating, obsessive-compulsive disorders, body focused repetitive disorders such as skin picking, hair pulling, nail biting.
I believe your situation is unique and deserves an individualized plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. You can be assured I will always remember your unique "story" every time we meet. My approach to counseling is straight forward, yet caring and compassionate.
(651) 314-7570 View (651) 314-7570
Photo of Haven Hafar, MSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Haven Hafar
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
You feel alone, never good enough, & on high alert to ensure everyone around you is okay... Maybe it's hard for you to figure out what your own feelings and needs are & asking for help from others or setting boundaries feels impossible! Our late teens and 20s are full of life transitions, uncertainty, new experiences, big decisions, and figuring out who we are. It's overwhelming! I have a niche for working with individuals in this stage of life, especially those also dealing with anxiety, depression, or complex family systems on top of it all. I work with couples too, understanding relationships impact mental health and vice versa.
You feel alone, never good enough, & on high alert to ensure everyone around you is okay... Maybe it's hard for you to figure out what your own feelings and needs are & asking for help from others or setting boundaries feels impossible! Our late teens and 20s are full of life transitions, uncertainty, new experiences, big decisions, and figuring out who we are. It's overwhelming! I have a niche for working with individuals in this stage of life, especially those also dealing with anxiety, depression, or complex family systems on top of it all. I work with couples too, understanding relationships impact mental health and vice versa.
(651) 337-9218 View (651) 337-9218

See more therapy options for South Saint Paul

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.