Depression Therapists in University City, MO

Photo of Matt Shatzman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matt Shatzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
Therapy is an experience where human beings learn to live differently. Differently is the key word. Different can look like less depression, more spontaneity, or deeper and more mutual relationships. Different can be learning to say "yes," "no," or "maybe." Different can be improved physical health, less anxiety, or sustained sobriety. When one begins treatment there's usually a percolating idea of what needs to be different. Helping you clarify the ways you'd like to live differently, what has gotten in your way up to this point, and how those changes can be made is psychotherapy.
Therapy is an experience where human beings learn to live differently. Differently is the key word. Different can look like less depression, more spontaneity, or deeper and more mutual relationships. Different can be learning to say "yes," "no," or "maybe." Different can be improved physical health, less anxiety, or sustained sobriety. When one begins treatment there's usually a percolating idea of what needs to be different. Helping you clarify the ways you'd like to live differently, what has gotten in your way up to this point, and how those changes can be made is psychotherapy.
(314) 480-3895 View (314) 480-3895
Photo of Elizabeth Bloomfield-Deal, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Bloomfield-Deal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse and relational issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adolescents, adults and couples. I approach psychotherapy as an opportunity to address unresolved issues and conflicts as they arise in life through the therapeutic relationship. I believe it is important to examine the various ways and places in one's life that symptoms present, and to work to understand the function and underlying meanings of the symptoms.
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse and relational issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adolescents, adults and couples. I approach psychotherapy as an opportunity to address unresolved issues and conflicts as they arise in life through the therapeutic relationship. I believe it is important to examine the various ways and places in one's life that symptoms present, and to work to understand the function and underlying meanings of the symptoms.
(314) 254-9694 View (314) 254-9694
Photo of William Mattingly, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
William Mattingly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
My passion and specialty are using evidence-based treatment, an up-to-date understanding of the brain, and a safe, healing therapeutic relationship to help adolescents and adults who suffer from sleep issues, depression, anxiety, and sexual addiction and those struggling in their marriages and intimate relationships or moving through major life transitions.
Life is difficult. You can be coasting along, only to wake up and find you just don’t have the same kind of joy and excitement that you used to. Activities and being with people you used to enjoy now just feel dull and lifeless or fill you with anxiety and, no matter what you do, nothing changes. You have difficulty falling asleep and, when you finally do, you wake up feeling exhausted and unrested. Your relationships may often be defined by constant fighting, insecurity, or lack of connection and excitement. Issues of sexual integrity fill you with shame, and, no matter what you do, you continue to struggle.
My passion and specialty are using evidence-based treatment, an up-to-date understanding of the brain, and a safe, healing therapeutic relationship to help adolescents and adults who suffer from sleep issues, depression, anxiety, and sexual addiction and those struggling in their marriages and intimate relationships or moving through major life transitions.
Life is difficult. You can be coasting along, only to wake up and find you just don’t have the same kind of joy and excitement that you used to. Activities and being with people you used to enjoy now just feel dull and lifeless or fill you with anxiety and, no matter what you do, nothing changes. You have difficulty falling asleep and, when you finally do, you wake up feeling exhausted and unrested. Your relationships may often be defined by constant fighting, insecurity, or lack of connection and excitement. Issues of sexual integrity fill you with shame, and, no matter what you do, you continue to struggle.
(314) 310-2279 View (314) 310-2279
Photo of Melissa T Scolaro, MSW, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa T Scolaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of special interest or experience include: anxiety, depression, gay and lesbian issues, women's issues including fertility and parenting, men's issues, veterans (trauma, PTSD), grief/loss, life transition, sexuality, attachment, adoption, marriage/couples, premarital work.
When the challenges of life and relationship present you with complex dilemmas and create painful or uncomfortable symptoms, therapy offers an opportunity for healing and long-lasting psychological change. The power of therapy is in the way it expands your choice in behaviors or ways of seeing others, yourself and your life circumstances. Through a compassionate journey of self-exploration I will help you work toward a fuller understanding of yourself which will lead to greater choice in how you live, love, work and play. It is a privilege to join you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.
Areas of special interest or experience include: anxiety, depression, gay and lesbian issues, women's issues including fertility and parenting, men's issues, veterans (trauma, PTSD), grief/loss, life transition, sexuality, attachment, adoption, marriage/couples, premarital work.
When the challenges of life and relationship present you with complex dilemmas and create painful or uncomfortable symptoms, therapy offers an opportunity for healing and long-lasting psychological change. The power of therapy is in the way it expands your choice in behaviors or ways of seeing others, yourself and your life circumstances. Through a compassionate journey of self-exploration I will help you work toward a fuller understanding of yourself which will lead to greater choice in how you live, love, work and play. It is a privilege to join you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.
(314) 828-1020 View (314) 828-1020
Photo of Laura M Kaplan, PhD, Psychologist
Laura M Kaplan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, academic problems, family issues, parenting concerns, relationship difficulties, and professional challenges.
I am a licensed psychologist with over twenty-five years of experience working with adolescents and adults. While I see a diverse group of clients, I do work with many members of St. Louis' academic community, including professors, graduate students, administrators, and physicians. I also see undergraduates and older high school students. A second area of my focus is our city's creative community; I work with many musicians, artists, performers and writers. My treatment style is warm, thoughtful and natural, and I draw from many different treatment approaches to provide the best possible care. I look forward to hearing from you.
My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, academic problems, family issues, parenting concerns, relationship difficulties, and professional challenges.
I am a licensed psychologist with over twenty-five years of experience working with adolescents and adults. While I see a diverse group of clients, I do work with many members of St. Louis' academic community, including professors, graduate students, administrators, and physicians. I also see undergraduates and older high school students. A second area of my focus is our city's creative community; I work with many musicians, artists, performers and writers. My treatment style is warm, thoughtful and natural, and I draw from many different treatment approaches to provide the best possible care. I look forward to hearing from you.
(314) 560-0470 View (314) 560-0470
Photo of Laura Weinstock, PhD, Psychologist
Laura Weinstock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
I treat a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including anxiety, depression, panic, adjustment issues, social difficulties, self-esteem issues, relationship problems, coping skill deficits, grief/loss, & parenting difficulties.
As a clinical psychologist working with adults, adolescents, and children, I use a variety of empirically supported treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy. The treatment I provide is tailored to meet the unique individual needs of each client or family. Together, we will set specific goals at the beginning of treatment that will guide the process of change. I strive to develop a warm, supportive therapeutic relationship with each client that will facilitate making positive changes. Services are provided in an environment that is caring and professional.
I treat a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including anxiety, depression, panic, adjustment issues, social difficulties, self-esteem issues, relationship problems, coping skill deficits, grief/loss, & parenting difficulties.
As a clinical psychologist working with adults, adolescents, and children, I use a variety of empirically supported treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy. The treatment I provide is tailored to meet the unique individual needs of each client or family. Together, we will set specific goals at the beginning of treatment that will guide the process of change. I strive to develop a warm, supportive therapeutic relationship with each client that will facilitate making positive changes. Services are provided in an environment that is caring and professional.
(314) 200-0315 View (314) 200-0315
Photo of Shannon Newcomb, MSW, LMSW, CLC
Shannon Newcomb
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130  (Online Only)
I have over 9-years-experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, and developmental disabilities.
Do you feel like no one understands what you're going through and like you have to constantly explain yourself? We all have bumps along the road and I am here to provide you with the support needed in order to get through them. I provide therapeutic services through a "person-centered" approach and allow for clients I am working with to take the driver's seat and determine where we go and what aspects of concern we will talk about in session. I am here to listen, help you create positive change in your life, and provide you with skills necessary to handle everyday hurdles you encounter.
I have over 9-years-experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, and developmental disabilities.
Do you feel like no one understands what you're going through and like you have to constantly explain yourself? We all have bumps along the road and I am here to provide you with the support needed in order to get through them. I provide therapeutic services through a "person-centered" approach and allow for clients I am working with to take the driver's seat and determine where we go and what aspects of concern we will talk about in session. I am here to listen, help you create positive change in your life, and provide you with skills necessary to handle everyday hurdles you encounter.
(636) 434-2577 View (636) 434-2577
Photo of Deborah L Tannenbaum, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah L Tannenbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
During my years as a clinician, I have worked with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and psychosis.
Change is one of the few things life guarantees us. If you're going through a transition in your life you may be feeling lost and confused. Maybe you're feeling stuck and wondering how you will ever get through this. Other people seem to skate through life effortlessly so why do you keep hitting every bump? Everything you're thinking and feeling right now is normal. Change is a difficult but necessary part of life. The good news is that you will get through this and come out a happier and stronger person on the other side.
During my years as a clinician, I have worked with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and psychosis.
Change is one of the few things life guarantees us. If you're going through a transition in your life you may be feeling lost and confused. Maybe you're feeling stuck and wondering how you will ever get through this. Other people seem to skate through life effortlessly so why do you keep hitting every bump? Everything you're thinking and feeling right now is normal. Change is a difficult but necessary part of life. The good news is that you will get through this and come out a happier and stronger person on the other side.
(636) 451-9386 View (636) 451-9386
Photo of Missy Showalter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Missy Showalter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, stress management, LGBTQ+ identity development and navigating life transitions.
Have you been considering therapy but don't know where to start? Start here! My name is Missy (she/her) and I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate your next steps. I know that life can feel difficult and quite complicated at times. I believe therapy can help by providing a safe space to process events, thoughts and emotions. Together, we can explore and learn different tools and strategies to help you navigate current and past challenges. It is never too late to start working on your wellness.
My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, stress management, LGBTQ+ identity development and navigating life transitions.
Have you been considering therapy but don't know where to start? Start here! My name is Missy (she/her) and I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate your next steps. I know that life can feel difficult and quite complicated at times. I believe therapy can help by providing a safe space to process events, thoughts and emotions. Together, we can explore and learn different tools and strategies to help you navigate current and past challenges. It is never too late to start working on your wellness.
(314) 470-9821 View (314) 470-9821
Photo of Kimberly L Cappetta, LPC, MA
Kimberly L Cappetta
LPC, MA
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
The work we do together will give you the tools needed to combat trauma, depression/anxiety, relational issues, abuse recovery, and the strains of daily life.
Give yourself permission to heal. See the evidence of your work in the enriched connections you create with yourself and the important people in your life. There’s no one right way to heal or care for the self, but there are strategies and approaches that can offer you a stroke of confidence and peace of mind. I approach self-care with a realization that it’s multi-faceted and unique to each of us. I realize that what works well for you may not work well for everyone else.
The work we do together will give you the tools needed to combat trauma, depression/anxiety, relational issues, abuse recovery, and the strains of daily life.
Give yourself permission to heal. See the evidence of your work in the enriched connections you create with yourself and the important people in your life. There’s no one right way to heal or care for the self, but there are strategies and approaches that can offer you a stroke of confidence and peace of mind. I approach self-care with a realization that it’s multi-faceted and unique to each of us. I realize that what works well for you may not work well for everyone else.
(314) 310-5597 View (314) 310-5597
Photo of Robert Hackleman - Robert Hackleman LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Hackleman LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
I can help by providing tools to escape feeling anxious, depressed, fearful, overworked, underappreciated, or overwhelmed. It has been reported that the single most important factor in determining the success of therapy is not the therapeutic model the practitioner uses, rather it is the therapeutic relationship. Knowing this, I strive to make you feel comfortable and begin to trust the therapeutic process. As we explore problems and dilemmas, you will gain new insights and perspectives.
I can help by providing tools to escape feeling anxious, depressed, fearful, overworked, underappreciated, or overwhelmed. It has been reported that the single most important factor in determining the success of therapy is not the therapeutic model the practitioner uses, rather it is the therapeutic relationship. Knowing this, I strive to make you feel comfortable and begin to trust the therapeutic process. As we explore problems and dilemmas, you will gain new insights and perspectives.
(314) 888-5151 View (314) 888-5151
Photo of Carolyn Versical - Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
At Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, we specialize in brief and long-term therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We believe everyone possess within themselves the potential for transformation, growth, and healing, and have experience helping clients address a variety of concerns: anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, identity development, LGBTQ+ issues, healthy relationships, career concerns, women's issues, eating and body image concerns, substance use, trauma, and living with chronic illness.
At Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, we specialize in brief and long-term therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We believe everyone possess within themselves the potential for transformation, growth, and healing, and have experience helping clients address a variety of concerns: anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, identity development, LGBTQ+ issues, healthy relationships, career concerns, women's issues, eating and body image concerns, substance use, trauma, and living with chronic illness.
(314) 310-8020 View (314) 310-8020
Photo of Matthew Morgan Henderson - Matthew Morgan Henderson Counseling LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Morgan Henderson Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
I can help you deal with difficult life circumstances and transitions, work through relationship problems, get a handle on anxiety and depression, and break free from trauma and addictions.
I can help you deal with difficult life circumstances and transitions, work through relationship problems, get a handle on anxiety and depression, and break free from trauma and addictions.
(314) 668-9198 View (314) 668-9198
Photo of Naaman L Lauderdale - First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation, ThD Psy, PhD CES, LPCCS, MAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation
Licensed Professional Counselor, ThD Psy, PhD CES, LPCCS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
Our patients are individuals, couples or groups who have been struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder and other behavioral challenges that have made ordinary day to day functioning impossible or extremely difficult. Through evidence-based clinical mental health therapy that includes EMDR, CBT, DBT, and SFBT, we assess, and diagnose individuals, couples and groups providing evidenced-based treatment plans.
Our patients are individuals, couples or groups who have been struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder and other behavioral challenges that have made ordinary day to day functioning impossible or extremely difficult. Through evidence-based clinical mental health therapy that includes EMDR, CBT, DBT, and SFBT, we assess, and diagnose individuals, couples and groups providing evidenced-based treatment plans.
(314) 310-5648 View (314) 310-5648
Photo of Jessica Rae Bryant, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Rae Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
I have experience counseling clients facing anxiety, depression, personality disorders, childhood trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, marriage and relationships, pre-marital, life transition, body image, identity as well as self-esteem issues.
One of my greatest joys is helping people from all walks of life, including couples, teens, young adults and families. My heart is to help each client understand themselves, their environment, as well as their relationships, in addition to the past and present, which sets the stage for fostering positive experiences and embracing new possibilities. I take a “down to earth” holistic person-centered approach to counseling, tailoring each client’s therapy with a unique mix of clinical theory and spiritual truth at the client’s pace. Psychoeducation and Bibliotherapy are integral to my approach, ensuring care for the spirit and soul!
I have experience counseling clients facing anxiety, depression, personality disorders, childhood trauma, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, marriage and relationships, pre-marital, life transition, body image, identity as well as self-esteem issues.
One of my greatest joys is helping people from all walks of life, including couples, teens, young adults and families. My heart is to help each client understand themselves, their environment, as well as their relationships, in addition to the past and present, which sets the stage for fostering positive experiences and embracing new possibilities. I take a “down to earth” holistic person-centered approach to counseling, tailoring each client’s therapy with a unique mix of clinical theory and spiritual truth at the client’s pace. Psychoeducation and Bibliotherapy are integral to my approach, ensuring care for the spirit and soul!
(314) 804-0996 View (314) 804-0996
Photo of Monica Uthlaut, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Uthlaut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
*My specialties include: healing trauma through neuroscience; Somatic EMDR; Natural Processing (somatic/body work - a "bottom up" strategy for effectively healing a dysregulated nervous system and trauma, which often presents like "anxiety/depression/mood symptoms"); holistic and integrative nutritional wellness; narcissistic abuse; domestic violence.
Unbeknownst to many, the stigma associated with therapy is lifting. Society is learning and realizing overall health needs to be a non-negotiable. My passion lies in supporting/educating clients on what trauma actually is (and is not) and how to effectively heal. My ideal client is ready to do some hard work and is willing to be challenged. You are curious and brave enough to look inside and identify road blocks, get honest with self, work on vulnerability, improve awareness, and face your fears. Together, we will identify and dig out the roots that no longer serve you and cultivate a healthier and more fulfilling path.
*My specialties include: healing trauma through neuroscience; Somatic EMDR; Natural Processing (somatic/body work - a "bottom up" strategy for effectively healing a dysregulated nervous system and trauma, which often presents like "anxiety/depression/mood symptoms"); holistic and integrative nutritional wellness; narcissistic abuse; domestic violence.
Unbeknownst to many, the stigma associated with therapy is lifting. Society is learning and realizing overall health needs to be a non-negotiable. My passion lies in supporting/educating clients on what trauma actually is (and is not) and how to effectively heal. My ideal client is ready to do some hard work and is willing to be challenged. You are curious and brave enough to look inside and identify road blocks, get honest with self, work on vulnerability, improve awareness, and face your fears. Together, we will identify and dig out the roots that no longer serve you and cultivate a healthier and more fulfilling path.
(314) 310-3429 View (314) 310-3429
Photo of Cathy Robertson, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cathy Robertson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
A basic theme in behavior can be viewed as a directional thought process. If we think it, believe it, we can become it. This thought process can apply to how one handles a problem. There are times that problems interfere with daily life in such a way that it grows into an overwhelming place of emotional discord in our personal and/or professional lives. Stress, anxiety, depression, and premarital/marital issues can be metaphorically high on the Richter scale for mental health therapy. These factors can also be connected to deeper issues related to human behavior. Welcome services are provided for individuals, couples, and families.
A basic theme in behavior can be viewed as a directional thought process. If we think it, believe it, we can become it. This thought process can apply to how one handles a problem. There are times that problems interfere with daily life in such a way that it grows into an overwhelming place of emotional discord in our personal and/or professional lives. Stress, anxiety, depression, and premarital/marital issues can be metaphorically high on the Richter scale for mental health therapy. These factors can also be connected to deeper issues related to human behavior. Welcome services are provided for individuals, couples, and families.
(314) 858-8953 View (314) 858-8953
Photo of Gladys Smith, PsyD, LPC, NCC, MAC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gladys Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC, MAC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in trauma, addiction, depression and anxiety, as well as stress and adjustment. I address the whole person in treatment planning. Individuals that work with me are empowered and encourages to meet their selected goal to achieve balance in their lives. We work together to form goals and I help you navigate the journey to wellness. We will use the body as a resource, as well as art, movement and poetry if a person chooses.This is a veteran owned business. I served 27 years in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman (Medic), I work with first Responders and thrir families, veterans and MST.
I have extensive training in trauma, addiction, depression and anxiety, as well as stress and adjustment. I address the whole person in treatment planning. Individuals that work with me are empowered and encourages to meet their selected goal to achieve balance in their lives. We work together to form goals and I help you navigate the journey to wellness. We will use the body as a resource, as well as art, movement and poetry if a person chooses.This is a veteran owned business. I served 27 years in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman (Medic), I work with first Responders and thrir families, veterans and MST.
(314) 300-0370 View (314) 300-0370
Photo of Gabrielle Mischel, LPC, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabrielle Mischel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
I specialize in anxiety, depression, perfectionism, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My approach to therapy is unique. I strive to build a genuine, person-centered relationship with you. Using a solution-focused and motivational approach, my goal is to provide you with tools and skills that will help you understand yourself better. Through the therapy process, I will assist you in the process of boosting your self-esteem, confidence, and empower you to take on life's challenges.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, perfectionism, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My approach to therapy is unique. I strive to build a genuine, person-centered relationship with you. Using a solution-focused and motivational approach, my goal is to provide you with tools and skills that will help you understand yourself better. Through the therapy process, I will assist you in the process of boosting your self-esteem, confidence, and empower you to take on life's challenges.
(540) 699-0226 x1 View (540) 699-0226 x1
Photo of Natalie Lanning, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Lanning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
Through a mindfulness approach and cognitive behavioral therapy, our work targets easing anxiety and depression by examining your thought process and patterns.
Many women experience life changes, whether expected or unexpected, that result in feelings of restlessness, confusion and anxiety. Perhaps you feel stuck, consumed by negative thoughts or concerns, unable to complete goals and/or are looking for a change within yourself. Often we find ourselves at crossroads struggling for clarity or ways to find joy. Let me help you find a path of hope and confidence again.
Through a mindfulness approach and cognitive behavioral therapy, our work targets easing anxiety and depression by examining your thought process and patterns.
Many women experience life changes, whether expected or unexpected, that result in feelings of restlessness, confusion and anxiety. Perhaps you feel stuck, consumed by negative thoughts or concerns, unable to complete goals and/or are looking for a change within yourself. Often we find ourselves at crossroads struggling for clarity or ways to find joy. Let me help you find a path of hope and confidence again.
(314) 310-7166 View (314) 310-7166
1

See more therapy options for University City

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.