Depression Therapists in High Ridge, MO

Photo of Tammy Delbruegge, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammy Delbruegge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
High Ridge, MO 63049
I have experience working effectively with a variety of issues including, anxiety, anger, depression, stress, grief, relationships, divorce, parenting, adolescent issues, self-injury/cutting, eating, pet loss, and other serious mental health issues.
Are you overwhelmed with parenting responsibilities or job stress? Is depression or anxiety keeping you from enjoying life? Are relationships or grief keeping you from moving forward? Are you eating or injuring yourself to cope with life's challenges? If so, I can offer a safe place to process these experiences and increase your ability to cope. I prefer a practical approach and frequently use solution focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and rational emotive behavioral therapy. I use homework assignments and psycho-educational techniques when appropriate.
I have experience working effectively with a variety of issues including, anxiety, anger, depression, stress, grief, relationships, divorce, parenting, adolescent issues, self-injury/cutting, eating, pet loss, and other serious mental health issues.
Are you overwhelmed with parenting responsibilities or job stress? Is depression or anxiety keeping you from enjoying life? Are relationships or grief keeping you from moving forward? Are you eating or injuring yourself to cope with life's challenges? If so, I can offer a safe place to process these experiences and increase your ability to cope. I prefer a practical approach and frequently use solution focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and rational emotive behavioral therapy. I use homework assignments and psycho-educational techniques when appropriate.
(636) 329-4061 View (636) 329-4061
Photo of Rebecca West, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca West
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
High Ridge, MO 63049
I specialize in anxiety and depression, as well as life transition, relationships, marriage, teenage years and spirituality- especially Christianity.
Every person needs to feel emotionally validated and mentally prepared for life, especially when going through a hard time. Knowing when to ask for help is one of the wisest choices that you can make. When a person is willing, healing is always available, and I am eager to come along side in the hard times, shine a light in the dark times, and celebrate the good times. I have found that clients heal best when they feel known and understood, so being open and transparent is key. Keep an open mind and you'll be surprised the healing that you will find!
I specialize in anxiety and depression, as well as life transition, relationships, marriage, teenage years and spirituality- especially Christianity.
Every person needs to feel emotionally validated and mentally prepared for life, especially when going through a hard time. Knowing when to ask for help is one of the wisest choices that you can make. When a person is willing, healing is always available, and I am eager to come along side in the hard times, shine a light in the dark times, and celebrate the good times. I have found that clients heal best when they feel known and understood, so being open and transparent is key. Keep an open mind and you'll be surprised the healing that you will find!
(636) 428-3272 View (636) 428-3272
Photo of Serena Steuber, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Serena Steuber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Ridge, MO 63049
I specialize in navigating anxiety, depression, family concerns, grief, self-esteem, coping skills, school challenges, and life transitions.
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and young adults seeking a supportive and understanding environment to navigate emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, family concerns, grief, self-esteem issues, coping skills, school challenges, and life transitions. They need a safe space, empathy, personalized approaches, and practical strategies. Together, we'll work towards emotional well-being, resilience, self-understanding, improved relationships, and academic and life success. Clients seek relief from symptoms, support, personal growth, and practical solutions for stress management.
I specialize in navigating anxiety, depression, family concerns, grief, self-esteem, coping skills, school challenges, and life transitions.
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and young adults seeking a supportive and understanding environment to navigate emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, family concerns, grief, self-esteem issues, coping skills, school challenges, and life transitions. They need a safe space, empathy, personalized approaches, and practical strategies. Together, we'll work towards emotional well-being, resilience, self-understanding, improved relationships, and academic and life success. Clients seek relief from symptoms, support, personal growth, and practical solutions for stress management.
(314) 470-8910 View (314) 470-8910
Photo of Steve Brunk, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steve Brunk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Ridge, MO 63049
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, and abuse recovery, offering expertise in addiction, anxiety, and depression management.
Are you a first responder, veteran, or individual with a history of trauma, seeking therapy for PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues? Do you need a safe, non-judgmental space for healing, effective coping strategies, and support for addiction recovery? Do your goals include mental and emotional well-being, improved coping mechanisms, and healthier relationships? If you seek professional guidance, a holistic approach, and practical tools for daily life, valuing a supportive partnership in their journey to recovery and personal growth, give me a call.
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, and abuse recovery, offering expertise in addiction, anxiety, and depression management.
Are you a first responder, veteran, or individual with a history of trauma, seeking therapy for PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues? Do you need a safe, non-judgmental space for healing, effective coping strategies, and support for addiction recovery? Do your goals include mental and emotional well-being, improved coping mechanisms, and healthier relationships? If you seek professional guidance, a holistic approach, and practical tools for daily life, valuing a supportive partnership in their journey to recovery and personal growth, give me a call.
(636) 249-5855 View (636) 249-5855
Photo of Steven Charles May, LPC , MA MFT, CJP, APP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven Charles May
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , MA MFT, CJP, APP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Ridge, MO 63049
Change does not occur by magic but through courage. You may want to change by tomorrow or you just may want to window shop what change might look like in your life. Wherever you are at in process of change I can collaborate with you on the goals that you wish to achieve. With almost 20 years of experience in psychotherapy practice as well as post-graduate certified training and supervision in a multitude of therapeutic modalities, I would be honored to serve you in the empathic, and collaborative process of change.
Change does not occur by magic but through courage. You may want to change by tomorrow or you just may want to window shop what change might look like in your life. Wherever you are at in process of change I can collaborate with you on the goals that you wish to achieve. With almost 20 years of experience in psychotherapy practice as well as post-graduate certified training and supervision in a multitude of therapeutic modalities, I would be honored to serve you in the empathic, and collaborative process of change.
(314) 347-8250 View (314) 347-8250
Photo of Michelle Maguire, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Maguire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
High Ridge, MO 63049  (Online Only)
My name is Michelle Maguire, I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri and Kansas. I believe trust, compassion and respect are essential for effective treatment. I will create a safe and non-judgmental space for healing and change. I studied at Kansas State University for my undergraduate degree in social work. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from the University of Missouri. I have been a practicing therapist since 2003. My clinical experience spans clients of all ages and backgrounds.
My name is Michelle Maguire, I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri and Kansas. I believe trust, compassion and respect are essential for effective treatment. I will create a safe and non-judgmental space for healing and change. I studied at Kansas State University for my undergraduate degree in social work. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from the University of Missouri. I have been a practicing therapist since 2003. My clinical experience spans clients of all ages and backgrounds.
(636) 242-6123 View (636) 242-6123
Photo of Kristin Effan, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Effan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
High Ridge, MO 63049  (Online Only)
You seemingly have it all together. Externally, you appear hard working, ambitious, high-achieving and organized, but internally, you’re overwhelmed and paralyzed by racing thoughts, perfectionism, fear of failure and self-doubt. Maintaining impossible standards and casting aside your needs to please others is beginning to take a toll and you're exhausted. The never ending “what if” scenarios consuming your mind leave you feeling drained and dreading the days ahead. Your worry causes sleepless nights, irritability and emotional instability which impact your energy levels, self-esteem, school or work performance, and relationships.
You seemingly have it all together. Externally, you appear hard working, ambitious, high-achieving and organized, but internally, you’re overwhelmed and paralyzed by racing thoughts, perfectionism, fear of failure and self-doubt. Maintaining impossible standards and casting aside your needs to please others is beginning to take a toll and you're exhausted. The never ending “what if” scenarios consuming your mind leave you feeling drained and dreading the days ahead. Your worry causes sleepless nights, irritability and emotional instability which impact your energy levels, self-esteem, school or work performance, and relationships.
(636) 597-5756 View (636) 597-5756
Photo of Ashley Nagel, MA, PLPC, CRC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashley Nagel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC, CRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
High Ridge, MO 63049
Ashley Nagel, MA, PLPC, CRC, is a dedicated trauma clinician specializing in supporting Veterans and First Responders. Ashley utilizes trauma-informed care to create a safe and healing space for this community and their families. One of the unique aspects that set Ashley apart as a therapist is her specialized education as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Her expertise lies in providing exceptional support and advocacy to individuals living with disabilities, empowering them to embrace their abilities and recognize their strengths, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.
Ashley Nagel, MA, PLPC, CRC, is a dedicated trauma clinician specializing in supporting Veterans and First Responders. Ashley utilizes trauma-informed care to create a safe and healing space for this community and their families. One of the unique aspects that set Ashley apart as a therapist is her specialized education as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Her expertise lies in providing exceptional support and advocacy to individuals living with disabilities, empowering them to embrace their abilities and recognize their strengths, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.
(636) 264-8735 View (636) 264-8735
Photo of Nicole Reineri, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Reineri
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
High Ridge, MO 63049  (Online Only)
Our problems, concerns and struggles in life often cannot be reduced to a simple diagnosis. As human beings navigating a constantly evolving and sometimes difficult world, we are accumulations of our experiences, patterns, skills, and desires. We sometimes need to enhance our abilities to cope or gain insight through seeing a different perspective, but we all have the innate ability to grow and heal ourselves. As a therapist, my goal is to assist you in attaining your desired outcomes and reaching a point of contentment in your life.
Our problems, concerns and struggles in life often cannot be reduced to a simple diagnosis. As human beings navigating a constantly evolving and sometimes difficult world, we are accumulations of our experiences, patterns, skills, and desires. We sometimes need to enhance our abilities to cope or gain insight through seeing a different perspective, but we all have the innate ability to grow and heal ourselves. As a therapist, my goal is to assist you in attaining your desired outcomes and reaching a point of contentment in your life.
(636) 452-2764 View (636) 452-2764

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michael Diller, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Diller
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63021  (Online Only)
Having 20 + years of experience in the counseling field, I enjoy helping people improve marriage and family relationships, and I am passionate about working alongside individuals to overcome anxiety, depression, ADHD, and sexual addiction. I believe in the importance of a positive client-therapist relationship for making the counseling experience a success. Often, this can happen in a short-term time frame. From a therapeutic perspective, I bring in both Christian principles and psychology into my practice and help identify personal strengths and solutions for creating treatment goals.
Having 20 + years of experience in the counseling field, I enjoy helping people improve marriage and family relationships, and I am passionate about working alongside individuals to overcome anxiety, depression, ADHD, and sexual addiction. I believe in the importance of a positive client-therapist relationship for making the counseling experience a success. Often, this can happen in a short-term time frame. From a therapeutic perspective, I bring in both Christian principles and psychology into my practice and help identify personal strengths and solutions for creating treatment goals.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Jennifer Yim, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Yim
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Arnold, MO 63010  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with people. We all have struggles from time to time and need someone to walk along side us to be a support. I’ve been practicing since 2017, working along side individuals, couples, kids and their families. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, communication struggles, blended family issues, couples, pre-marital, etc. If you’re looking to start your journey to finding a new you, call today!
I have a passion for working with people. We all have struggles from time to time and need someone to walk along side us to be a support. I’ve been practicing since 2017, working along side individuals, couples, kids and their families. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, communication struggles, blended family issues, couples, pre-marital, etc. If you’re looking to start your journey to finding a new you, call today!
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Cynthia Dohogne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Dohogne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63021  (Online Only)
Cindy has 30 years experience working in numerous mental health setting including hospitals, outpatient and state and federal agencies. A major focus in her work has been with depression and anxiety management and helping her clients develop healthy coping and relaxation techniques. Cindy has experience working with adolescent, adult and geriatric population. Cindy has most recently been working with the veteran population and engaging in trauma therapy.
Cindy has 30 years experience working in numerous mental health setting including hospitals, outpatient and state and federal agencies. A major focus in her work has been with depression and anxiety management and helping her clients develop healthy coping and relaxation techniques. Cindy has experience working with adolescent, adult and geriatric population. Cindy has most recently been working with the veteran population and engaging in trauma therapy.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Elaine J Toon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elaine J Toon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arnold, MO 63010
While I specialize in trauma, I've had years of experience working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety and a variety of mental health issues.
Whether from depression, anxiety or trauma, many clients experiencing emotional pain feel stuck, alone and misunderstood. I believe that healing is always possible. It is important for someone to be with you, to hear your story and to help you get to that place of healing.
While I specialize in trauma, I've had years of experience working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety and a variety of mental health issues.
Whether from depression, anxiety or trauma, many clients experiencing emotional pain feel stuck, alone and misunderstood. I believe that healing is always possible. It is important for someone to be with you, to hear your story and to help you get to that place of healing.
(314) 649-2662 View (314) 649-2662
Photo of Kimberly Kirklin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Kirklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Arnold, MO 63010  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals who have a variety of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, psychotic disorders and PTSD.
Stress, trauma and mental illness can affect anyone. People do not seek treatment for many reasons and sometimes the hardest part is deciding you need help. I am so glad you are here! I am a licensed clinical social worker committed to helping individuals and couples learn how to making positive changes in their lives and relationships. My work focuses on improving communication, addressing symptoms and learning coping skills to assist with managing those symptoms. I believe in meeting the person where they are and collaborating together to reach your goals. I have 14 years experience in social work, primarily working in community
I have experience working with individuals who have a variety of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, psychotic disorders and PTSD.
Stress, trauma and mental illness can affect anyone. People do not seek treatment for many reasons and sometimes the hardest part is deciding you need help. I am so glad you are here! I am a licensed clinical social worker committed to helping individuals and couples learn how to making positive changes in their lives and relationships. My work focuses on improving communication, addressing symptoms and learning coping skills to assist with managing those symptoms. I believe in meeting the person where they are and collaborating together to reach your goals. I have 14 years experience in social work, primarily working in community
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Danielle Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Arnold, MO 63010  (Online Only)
I have been Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri for 8 years and I am also a Certified Grief Informed Professional. Prior to this I spent 5 years as a Recovery Counselor working in both an outpatient setting and treatment court and before that I spent 6 years working with Family Centered Services as a case manager and intervention specialist. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, stress, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our therapy to meet your unique and specific needs.
I have been Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri for 8 years and I am also a Certified Grief Informed Professional. Prior to this I spent 5 years as a Recovery Counselor working in both an outpatient setting and treatment court and before that I spent 6 years working with Family Centered Services as a case manager and intervention specialist. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, stress, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our therapy to meet your unique and specific needs.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Bonnie Waller, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bonnie Waller
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Arnold, MO 63010  (Online Only)
I love being a counselor and empowering clients to create a life full of meaning and joy. My approach is very client-centered and I am focused on helping clients recognize their own strengths and develop the coping skills needed toward healthier relationships with themselves and others. I specialize in helping clients who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, anger and relationship issues. About me: She/Her. In 2015 I graduated with a Masters Degree in Counseling from Western Illinois University and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of Missouri.
I love being a counselor and empowering clients to create a life full of meaning and joy. My approach is very client-centered and I am focused on helping clients recognize their own strengths and develop the coping skills needed toward healthier relationships with themselves and others. I specialize in helping clients who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, anger and relationship issues. About me: She/Her. In 2015 I graduated with a Masters Degree in Counseling from Western Illinois University and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of Missouri.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Sarah Tyndall, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Tyndall
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Arnold, MO 63010  (Online Only)
CBT for anxiety, and CBT for substance abuse disorders), Interpersonal Therapy for Depression, and Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma.
Do your relationships cause you to feel anxious or depressed? Do you want to quit or cut back your substance use but find it difficult? Is your anxiety getting in the way of your goals and living? I provides a warm, safe environment in which you can share and process relationships, or things that may be causing you distress. Asking for help, starting the process of change and growth is hard, but you do not have to do it alone. It takes time, and we will go at your pace, making sure that your needs are being met. You are an expert in you! I approach therapy from an eclectic, trauma informed approach.
CBT for anxiety, and CBT for substance abuse disorders), Interpersonal Therapy for Depression, and Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma.
Do your relationships cause you to feel anxious or depressed? Do you want to quit or cut back your substance use but find it difficult? Is your anxiety getting in the way of your goals and living? I provides a warm, safe environment in which you can share and process relationships, or things that may be causing you distress. Asking for help, starting the process of change and growth is hard, but you do not have to do it alone. It takes time, and we will go at your pace, making sure that your needs are being met. You are an expert in you! I approach therapy from an eclectic, trauma informed approach.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Kayla Theberge, LPC, MEd, CRADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kayla Theberge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, CRADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
Hi there! My name is Kayla! I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked and interned in several settings, including adolescent and women's drug treatment centers, drug prevention programs, community outreach, and schools. I've worked with clients to address a variety of concerns, such as drug use, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, stress, self-harm, and gender identity. I especially enjoy working with adolescents and young adults. I am passionate about breaking the stigma of mental health, while maintaining a humorous and lighthearted nature. I am a cat mom, bookworm, and cardigan thrifter.
Hi there! My name is Kayla! I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked and interned in several settings, including adolescent and women's drug treatment centers, drug prevention programs, community outreach, and schools. I've worked with clients to address a variety of concerns, such as drug use, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, stress, self-harm, and gender identity. I especially enjoy working with adolescents and young adults. I am passionate about breaking the stigma of mental health, while maintaining a humorous and lighthearted nature. I am a cat mom, bookworm, and cardigan thrifter.
(636) 428-3772 View (636) 428-3772
Photo of Julie Walters - Ellie Mental Health Concord Mo, M Ed, PLPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julie Walters - Ellie Mental Health Concord Mo
Pre-Licensed Professional, M Ed, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63128
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic style caters sessions to each person individually. I have a passion for creating a warm, open space for clients to experience significant change in their lives, and find healing. I have experience working with a wide variety of clients, including children, adolescents and adults within agency, group practice and school settings. My main treatment specializations include depression, anxiety, trauma, C-PTSD, life adjustment issues, suicidal ideation and self-harm. I use therapeutic techniques drawn from CBT, strength-based therapy and play therapy. I welcome the opportunity to help you in your mental health journey!
My therapeutic style caters sessions to each person individually. I have a passion for creating a warm, open space for clients to experience significant change in their lives, and find healing. I have experience working with a wide variety of clients, including children, adolescents and adults within agency, group practice and school settings. My main treatment specializations include depression, anxiety, trauma, C-PTSD, life adjustment issues, suicidal ideation and self-harm. I use therapeutic techniques drawn from CBT, strength-based therapy and play therapy. I welcome the opportunity to help you in your mental health journey!
(314) 742-9557 View (314) 742-9557
Photo of Amy Goldstein, MA, LPC, CSAT, CSAM, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Goldstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT, CSAM, CHT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Arnold, MO 63010
I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment where my clients can explore their issues and challenges they face. I see a wide array of clients with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship issues, anger issues etc. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better. I am currently accepting new clients, and my services are offered at a reduced rate which makes affordability an option. My location is in Creve Coeur which is 20 minutes from O'Fallon, 15 minutes to Chesterfield, and approx 25 minutes to downtown.
I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment where my clients can explore their issues and challenges they face. I see a wide array of clients with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship issues, anger issues etc. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better. I am currently accepting new clients, and my services are offered at a reduced rate which makes affordability an option. My location is in Creve Coeur which is 20 minutes from O'Fallon, 15 minutes to Chesterfield, and approx 25 minutes to downtown.
(636) 577-2397 View (636) 577-2397

See more therapy options for High Ridge

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.