Depression Therapists in Wildwood, MO

Mary Lakey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63025  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate, feeling and caring counselor who will listen to your story with empathy and sensitivity. I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, stress, depression and anger as well as many other mental health issues. I counsel all populations including underprivileged, LGBTQIA, African Americans, veterans, homeless, unemployed, abused or the ill as well as people victimized by various forms of ageism, racism, sexism and other oppressions. My goal is to tenderly and gently assist clients with their troubles and issues such that they can regain confidence and self-esteem in efforts to live productive and fulfilling lives.
I am a compassionate, feeling and caring counselor who will listen to your story with empathy and sensitivity. I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, stress, depression and anger as well as many other mental health issues. I counsel all populations including underprivileged, LGBTQIA, African Americans, veterans, homeless, unemployed, abused or the ill as well as people victimized by various forms of ageism, racism, sexism and other oppressions. My goal is to tenderly and gently assist clients with their troubles and issues such that they can regain confidence and self-esteem in efforts to live productive and fulfilling lives.
(314) 626-0511 View (314) 626-0511
Photo of Ingrid McCarty, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ingrid McCarty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63040
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, worried, or depressed? Life can be very challenging at times! With the right help and guidance however, we can find our way back towards emotional well-being and resolve the issues that burden us. As valedictorian of both my undergraduate and graduate degree program, professional excellence and effective treatment is a priority for me in my work with children, adolescents, and adults.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, worried, or depressed? Life can be very challenging at times! With the right help and guidance however, we can find our way back towards emotional well-being and resolve the issues that burden us. As valedictorian of both my undergraduate and graduate degree program, professional excellence and effective treatment is a priority for me in my work with children, adolescents, and adults.
(636) 329-4265 View (636) 329-4265
Photo of Nicole Rae Buesse, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Rae Buesse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63040
If you or your teen is struggling in this heavy world with anxiety, depression, grief, suicidal ideation, perfectionism, conflict, identity, goal-setting, motivation, or more, reach out with questions or to discuss an appointment.
The first step to change is deciding you are ready. Life is beautiful, but it can also be hard. If things feel out of control, you aren't reaching your goals, or you simply need someone to talk to, therapy might be for you. In my practice, I aspire to help each of my clients better understand their struggles, set goals, and begin the often difficult work of growth through an eclectic, client-centered approach that focuses on strengths and solutions and incorporates elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
If you or your teen is struggling in this heavy world with anxiety, depression, grief, suicidal ideation, perfectionism, conflict, identity, goal-setting, motivation, or more, reach out with questions or to discuss an appointment.
The first step to change is deciding you are ready. Life is beautiful, but it can also be hard. If things feel out of control, you aren't reaching your goals, or you simply need someone to talk to, therapy might be for you. In my practice, I aspire to help each of my clients better understand their struggles, set goals, and begin the often difficult work of growth through an eclectic, client-centered approach that focuses on strengths and solutions and incorporates elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(636) 238-2627 View (636) 238-2627
Photo of Susie Berg, MEd, LPC, NCC, CPAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susie Berg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, CPAT
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63038
I work with individuals, couples and families dealing with all types of issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, transitions, marriage, anger and fear.
I believe a core element of growth lies in the understanding that the only thing you have control over is your thinking and response to any given situation. I seek to provide an atmosphere of non-judgmental support so that you can educate and empower yourself to no longer believe your happiness and contentment lies in anything outside yourself. I invite you, from the heart, to start your journey and discover how to take charge of your wellbeing.
I work with individuals, couples and families dealing with all types of issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, transitions, marriage, anger and fear.
I believe a core element of growth lies in the understanding that the only thing you have control over is your thinking and response to any given situation. I seek to provide an atmosphere of non-judgmental support so that you can educate and empower yourself to no longer believe your happiness and contentment lies in anything outside yourself. I invite you, from the heart, to start your journey and discover how to take charge of your wellbeing.
(314) 470-9217 View (314) 470-9217
Photo of Jessica Orrick, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Orrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63005  (Online Only)
I work with folks on a multitude of concerns including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, relationship issues, codependency, stress management, communication, life transitions, and grief.
Tired of waking up and dragging through the day, feeling "meh" all the time? Feel disconnected from friends and family, or like you just don't "have it in you" to do a single more adulty thing? You are not alone. We can work together to help you feel reconnected to family and friends, feel more present, and enjoy these relationships again. We'll figure out together ways to manage feelings and regain energy to invest time back into yourself AND the things you enjoy doing. All are welcome! I am a LGBTQ+, ENM, kink, and geek affirming therapist.
I work with folks on a multitude of concerns including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, relationship issues, codependency, stress management, communication, life transitions, and grief.
Tired of waking up and dragging through the day, feeling "meh" all the time? Feel disconnected from friends and family, or like you just don't "have it in you" to do a single more adulty thing? You are not alone. We can work together to help you feel reconnected to family and friends, feel more present, and enjoy these relationships again. We'll figure out together ways to manage feelings and regain energy to invest time back into yourself AND the things you enjoy doing. All are welcome! I am a LGBTQ+, ENM, kink, and geek affirming therapist.
(636) 245-0154 View (636) 245-0154
Photo of Scott Moore, LCSW, CSAT, PCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scott Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, PCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63025  (Online Only)
Sex addiction doesn't have to continue ruining your life. Life may feel hopeless, and your anxiety may be higher than you've ever felt before. Yet, it doesn't have to stay this way. My clients all have two things in common: 1) They want to be here for themselves, even when others are making them, and 2) They work to achieve their goals. They come to me usually in a state of panic or depression, or some even come in when their world is chaotic and out of control. When you're ready to tackle your issues, give me a call.
Sex addiction doesn't have to continue ruining your life. Life may feel hopeless, and your anxiety may be higher than you've ever felt before. Yet, it doesn't have to stay this way. My clients all have two things in common: 1) They want to be here for themselves, even when others are making them, and 2) They work to achieve their goals. They come to me usually in a state of panic or depression, or some even come in when their world is chaotic and out of control. When you're ready to tackle your issues, give me a call.
(636) 205-1686 View (636) 205-1686
Photo of Dena Henry, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dena Henry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63040  (Online Only)
Many of the individuals I work with struggle with issues surrounding self-esteem, people pleasing, and caretaking behaviors. Often times, these issues lead to feelings or symptoms of depression or anxiety. It is hard to live our crazy busy lives day in and day out while handling the heaviness of our feelings and caretaking the feelings of those around us. Where I see these issues arise is in relationships that thrive in codependency, such as caring for a loved one who has an addiction, parenting and postpartum, and in being the primary or default caretaker for others.
Many of the individuals I work with struggle with issues surrounding self-esteem, people pleasing, and caretaking behaviors. Often times, these issues lead to feelings or symptoms of depression or anxiety. It is hard to live our crazy busy lives day in and day out while handling the heaviness of our feelings and caretaking the feelings of those around us. Where I see these issues arise is in relationships that thrive in codependency, such as caring for a loved one who has an addiction, parenting and postpartum, and in being the primary or default caretaker for others.
(636) 278-9670 View (636) 278-9670
Photo of Christine E Ottinger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine E Ottinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63040
My specialties include working with adults, children & adolescents with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD and Anxiety Disorders.
Is your teen or tween struggling at home, school or in peer relationships? Is his/her mood or behavior creating a chaotic environment for your family? I believe that with education and encouragement, your adolescent can learn the skills necessary to cope with stress, adjust to life's transitions and mature into a healthy resilient adult.
My specialties include working with adults, children & adolescents with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD and Anxiety Disorders.
Is your teen or tween struggling at home, school or in peer relationships? Is his/her mood or behavior creating a chaotic environment for your family? I believe that with education and encouragement, your adolescent can learn the skills necessary to cope with stress, adjust to life's transitions and mature into a healthy resilient adult.
(636) 875-7912 View (636) 875-7912
Photo of Michelle Fienup, MEd, LPC, ASDCS, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Fienup
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, ASDCS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63040
Michelle Fienup is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois, National Board-Certified Counselor, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and a Certified Employee Assistance Provider. Michelle works with a wide variety of adults and has experience working with individuals who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, grief and loss, PTSD, sexual assault or abuse, gender or sexual identity issues, relationship issues, and communication issues.
Michelle Fienup is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois, National Board-Certified Counselor, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and a Certified Employee Assistance Provider. Michelle works with a wide variety of adults and has experience working with individuals who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, grief and loss, PTSD, sexual assault or abuse, gender or sexual identity issues, relationship issues, and communication issues.
(636) 228-6584 View (636) 228-6584
Photo of Pagina Brown, LPC, NCC , ASDCS , Licensed Professional Counselor
Pagina Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC , ASDCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63040
Pagina Brown is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, and certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. Pagina sees a wide variety of adults and has specialties in treating attention deficit disorders, autism spectrum disorder/Asperger's, anxiety disorders, trauma concerns, stress related to life with food allergies, and depression.
Pagina Brown is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, and certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. Pagina sees a wide variety of adults and has specialties in treating attention deficit disorders, autism spectrum disorder/Asperger's, anxiety disorders, trauma concerns, stress related to life with food allergies, and depression.
(636) 649-4002 View (636) 649-4002
Photo of Michael Evetts, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Evetts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63040
Are you or your loved ones struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, or behavioral issues? Do you long for a compassionate, supportive counselor who understands your unique challenges and can guide you towards positive change? Look no further. As a specialized counselor, I offer empathetic support tailored to individuals facing ADHD, depression, anxiety, and behavioral hurdles. My approach is rooted in kindness, understanding, and a genuine desire to see my clients thrive. I believe in fostering a safe and non-judgmental space where you can freely express yourself and explore your concerns.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, or behavioral issues? Do you long for a compassionate, supportive counselor who understands your unique challenges and can guide you towards positive change? Look no further. As a specialized counselor, I offer empathetic support tailored to individuals facing ADHD, depression, anxiety, and behavioral hurdles. My approach is rooted in kindness, understanding, and a genuine desire to see my clients thrive. I believe in fostering a safe and non-judgmental space where you can freely express yourself and explore your concerns.
(636) 259-4654 x314 View (636) 259-4654 x314
Photo of Jamie Heimos, M Ed, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Heimos
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63040
Through my experiences working in a variety of settings, I have a range of knowledge in grief support, anxiety disorders, depression, and behavior issues as well as helping siblings of children with special needs.
Mental wellness is just as important as our physical wellness. Whether you are trying to pinpoint your child's or teen's presenting issue, are feeling they are in a "funk" or your child is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions or school difficulties, I would be honored to help be a guide to help find balance in your life. We all have the potential to grow and find happiness even in the midst of chaos or times of uncertainty. If you are ready to make changes in your life, I'd be happy to help guide your family.
Through my experiences working in a variety of settings, I have a range of knowledge in grief support, anxiety disorders, depression, and behavior issues as well as helping siblings of children with special needs.
Mental wellness is just as important as our physical wellness. Whether you are trying to pinpoint your child's or teen's presenting issue, are feeling they are in a "funk" or your child is struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions or school difficulties, I would be honored to help be a guide to help find balance in your life. We all have the potential to grow and find happiness even in the midst of chaos or times of uncertainty. If you are ready to make changes in your life, I'd be happy to help guide your family.
(636) 435-7148 View (636) 435-7148
Photo of Karen Memhardt - A House of Therapy, LLC, MA, MedPysc, LPC, EMDR, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
A House of Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MedPysc, LPC, EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63040
I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, psychological evaluations and testing for ADHD, personality disorders, Bipolar, learning disorders, autism for work or school accommodations. I work with clients who would benefit from in-depth talk therapy, who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, past or present trauma, addictions, personal, family or work related relationship issues.
I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, psychological evaluations and testing for ADHD, personality disorders, Bipolar, learning disorders, autism for work or school accommodations. I work with clients who would benefit from in-depth talk therapy, who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, past or present trauma, addictions, personal, family or work related relationship issues.
(636) 265-8201 View (636) 265-8201
Photo of Sandy Young, MAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandy Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63021
I am experienced in working with clients of various ages, genders, and backgrounds and provide individual counseling for several issues including anxiety, depression, various forms of trauma, relational conflict, spiritual struggles, and life transitions.
What is keeping you from living the life that you long-for? What are the roadblocks that you just can't seem to navigate through on your own? I have a passion for helping individuals and families find their inner source of hope and gain the skills to work through life's obstacles. With patience and perseverance I provide a safe, personal, and realistic approach to counseling. You don't have to be weighed down by your emotions, I believe in earning your trust and look forward to walking along side you. Healing can be the start of your new beginning!
I am experienced in working with clients of various ages, genders, and backgrounds and provide individual counseling for several issues including anxiety, depression, various forms of trauma, relational conflict, spiritual struggles, and life transitions.
What is keeping you from living the life that you long-for? What are the roadblocks that you just can't seem to navigate through on your own? I have a passion for helping individuals and families find their inner source of hope and gain the skills to work through life's obstacles. With patience and perseverance I provide a safe, personal, and realistic approach to counseling. You don't have to be weighed down by your emotions, I believe in earning your trust and look forward to walking along side you. Healing can be the start of your new beginning!
(636) 821-8238 View (636) 821-8238
Photo of Steve Brunk, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steve Brunk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63038
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.
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 Madeline M. Senay, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madeline M. Senay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63038
I am also informed on evidence based treatments for anxiety, depression, and low self esteem such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
When I was serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine, the comfort of someone speaking my language was immeasurable. Speaking your language is important to me. Whether it’s through humor, warmth, empathy, or directness, I strive to make therapy relieving rather than another foreign experience. When therapists discuss what type of therapy they do, is it just another set of abbreviations with absolutely no meaning? Let me be your translator. I deeply value education, so if you are unfamiliar with any of the therapies I list below, I will explain extensively as to how they work within session. If you like learning, I'm your person.
I am also informed on evidence based treatments for anxiety, depression, and low self esteem such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
When I was serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine, the comfort of someone speaking my language was immeasurable. Speaking your language is important to me. Whether it’s through humor, warmth, empathy, or directness, I strive to make therapy relieving rather than another foreign experience. When therapists discuss what type of therapy they do, is it just another set of abbreviations with absolutely no meaning? Let me be your translator. I deeply value education, so if you are unfamiliar with any of the therapies I list below, I will explain extensively as to how they work within session. If you like learning, I'm your person.
(314) 254-9841 View (314) 254-9841
Photo of Denise Frisella, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Frisella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63011  (Online Only)
I specialize in EMDR trauma therapy, grief and loss, depression and fostering general mental health and wellness. My practice is anchored in offering a compassionate space that promotes healing. Together we'll work toward releasing blockages and nurturing your path to recovery as you evolve and deepen your self connection. ​
I specialize in EMDR trauma therapy, grief and loss, depression and fostering general mental health and wellness. My practice is anchored in offering a compassionate space that promotes healing. Together we'll work toward releasing blockages and nurturing your path to recovery as you evolve and deepen your self connection. ​
(636) 422-5684 View (636) 422-5684
Photo of Afshan Malik, LPC, EMDR, Coach, MP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Afshan Malik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR, Coach, MP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63011  (Online Only)
My services and expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Trauma I Relational Issues, Codependency, Imposter syndrome, Low self-esteem, Career, Adulting, Personal Development & Coaching.
Life transitions are the new beginning; unfortunately, past experiences, insecurities, trauma, and grief can influence the present behavior & actions. Making life transitions emotionally exhausting while getting the same results exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness in the rut. If you are tired of starting over and want to learn Why, When, & How you self-sabotage your success & relationships, If you want to gain mastery over your emotions, have clarity, focus, and commitment to your life goals. Grow personally/professionally, feel more in control, and less stressed than I am the therapeutic coach you need. Online and self-pay only.
My services and expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Trauma I Relational Issues, Codependency, Imposter syndrome, Low self-esteem, Career, Adulting, Personal Development & Coaching.
Life transitions are the new beginning; unfortunately, past experiences, insecurities, trauma, and grief can influence the present behavior & actions. Making life transitions emotionally exhausting while getting the same results exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness in the rut. If you are tired of starting over and want to learn Why, When, & How you self-sabotage your success & relationships, If you want to gain mastery over your emotions, have clarity, focus, and commitment to your life goals. Grow personally/professionally, feel more in control, and less stressed than I am the therapeutic coach you need. Online and self-pay only.
(314) 310-7916 View (314) 310-7916
Photo of Laura Cook - Laura Cook Counseling, LPC, Counselor
Laura Cook Counseling
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63040
Mental health therapy is able to help you in many aspects of your life. Some of those aspects might be life transitions, anxiety, depression, past trauma, and relationship issues. In the presence of a trusted therapist, you are able to discuss what might be keeping you from leading a more contented, peaceful life while working to form a deeper understanding of yourself. In therapy, we will discuss self-talk, mind-body connections, and patterns that are prevalent in your life. We will also explore past trauma that might be manifesting itself in symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
Mental health therapy is able to help you in many aspects of your life. Some of those aspects might be life transitions, anxiety, depression, past trauma, and relationship issues. In the presence of a trusted therapist, you are able to discuss what might be keeping you from leading a more contented, peaceful life while working to form a deeper understanding of yourself. In therapy, we will discuss self-talk, mind-body connections, and patterns that are prevalent in your life. We will also explore past trauma that might be manifesting itself in symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
(636) 228-6460 View (636) 228-6460
Photo of William Arrington, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
William Arrington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63005
Imagine going from confusion to clarity, depression to joy, to anxiousness to a deeper level of peace.
Perhaps you're in a relationship, family, or job where everything is always your fault. You're made to feel not good enough, that you have to try harder despite the other never taking accountability. You have difficulty expressing yourself in fear of the other person throwing it back in your face. Perhaps this mounting pressure from those relationships have made you give up, anxious, or just feel stuck. You don't know who you are anymore—you’ve been told how to think and feel. You may feel like you’re in a fog or just don’t know how to get back on track to the way things used to be.
Imagine going from confusion to clarity, depression to joy, to anxiousness to a deeper level of peace.
Perhaps you're in a relationship, family, or job where everything is always your fault. You're made to feel not good enough, that you have to try harder despite the other never taking accountability. You have difficulty expressing yourself in fear of the other person throwing it back in your face. Perhaps this mounting pressure from those relationships have made you give up, anxious, or just feel stuck. You don't know who you are anymore—you’ve been told how to think and feel. You may feel like you’re in a fog or just don’t know how to get back on track to the way things used to be.
(314) 907-0747 View (314) 907-0747
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.