Depression Therapists in Apex, NC

Photo of Jeff Johnson, PsyD, MDiv, Pastoral Counselor
Jeff Johnson
Pastoral Counselor, PsyD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
The wound is the way. Wise words from a trusted friend that helped me through a low place in my life and shaped my understanding of healing. I learned that avoiding pain and denying its effects only prolongs the suffering. But talking about it, writing about it, and feeling the pain of the wound somehow lessens its effects on us and allows us to go on. Chances are, you're carrying a wound and the pain is getting in the way of your health and happiness, your work and family. Is it a wound of betrayal, agonizing loss, anxiety or depression from childhood trauma, anger that wrecks your interactions with people? The wound is the way.
The wound is the way. Wise words from a trusted friend that helped me through a low place in my life and shaped my understanding of healing. I learned that avoiding pain and denying its effects only prolongs the suffering. But talking about it, writing about it, and feeling the pain of the wound somehow lessens its effects on us and allows us to go on. Chances are, you're carrying a wound and the pain is getting in the way of your health and happiness, your work and family. Is it a wound of betrayal, agonizing loss, anxiety or depression from childhood trauma, anger that wrecks your interactions with people? The wound is the way.
(910) 400-1912 View (910) 400-1912
Photo of Jennifer Lieberman Schiappa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Lieberman Schiappa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
I work with clients ages 15 on up struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes who desire to improve mood and learn healthy coping skills. I have experience working with people on the autism spectrum as well as people diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. LGBTQIA+ friendly. "You don't have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you." -Dan Millman
I work with clients ages 15 on up struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes who desire to improve mood and learn healthy coping skills. I have experience working with people on the autism spectrum as well as people diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. LGBTQIA+ friendly. "You don't have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you." -Dan Millman
(919) 635-1854 View (919) 635-1854
Photo of Carlos Lopez, MS, LPC, LCAS-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carlos Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27523
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate in the state of North Carolina. With over 8 years of experience in the mental health and addiction field, I have been trained in a variety of treatment modalities to assist individuals and their families. I earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Walden University in Minnesota and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the Inter-American University of Puerto Rico, San German campus. I treat mental health issues including depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, grief/loss, family issues, addiction and substance abuse.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate in the state of North Carolina. With over 8 years of experience in the mental health and addiction field, I have been trained in a variety of treatment modalities to assist individuals and their families. I earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Walden University in Minnesota and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the Inter-American University of Puerto Rico, San German campus. I treat mental health issues including depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, grief/loss, family issues, addiction and substance abuse.
(984) 205-7403 View (984) 205-7403
Photo of Yuye Zhang, PhD, HSP-P, Psychologist
Yuye Zhang
Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
As a licensed psychologist, I bring years of experience in treating depression, anxiety, and a wide range of other prevalent issues.
We all face unique struggles and hardships in life. Whether you're going through major changes, recovering from difficult experiences, or exploring your identity, these experiences can be difficult and distressing at times. Luckily, we have the power to choose how we respond to our suffering. If you feel therapy could benefit you, I'm here to support and empower you on your journey towards a fulfilling and authentic life.
As a licensed psychologist, I bring years of experience in treating depression, anxiety, and a wide range of other prevalent issues.
We all face unique struggles and hardships in life. Whether you're going through major changes, recovering from difficult experiences, or exploring your identity, these experiences can be difficult and distressing at times. Luckily, we have the power to choose how we respond to our suffering. If you feel therapy could benefit you, I'm here to support and empower you on your journey towards a fulfilling and authentic life.
(919) 705-0672 View (919) 705-0672
Photo of Corinne Fisher-LaRoche, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corinne Fisher-LaRoche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been very useful to treat a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, and Bipolar disorder.
Therapy can help you overcome and cope with a number of challenges. It is my hope that you feel empowered after each session with tools that will last a lifetime. I have 25 yrs as a psychotherapist. Before moving to NC I had a private practice in northern CA and still maintain my license in CA and see clients remotely. Over the years I have broadened my client population to adolescents as well as adults. My specialty is anxiety but I see clients with a range of clinical issues or simply just coping with life events and transitions. Additionally, I am certified to provide clinical supervision to clinicians seeking their LCSW in NC
Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been very useful to treat a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, and Bipolar disorder.
Therapy can help you overcome and cope with a number of challenges. It is my hope that you feel empowered after each session with tools that will last a lifetime. I have 25 yrs as a psychotherapist. Before moving to NC I had a private practice in northern CA and still maintain my license in CA and see clients remotely. Over the years I have broadened my client population to adolescents as well as adults. My specialty is anxiety but I see clients with a range of clinical issues or simply just coping with life events and transitions. Additionally, I am certified to provide clinical supervision to clinicians seeking their LCSW in NC
(919) 885-1149 View (919) 885-1149
Photo of Isabella Patterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Isabella Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27523  (Online Only)
I serve adults coping with issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD/history of trauma, mood disorders, and career challenges.
My goal is to lend a compassionate hand to guide you through coping with the past and promoting healing for the future to achieve the best version of yourself. My passion lies in working with people from all walks of life to manage emotions and relationships. Whether you are trying to cope with a history of trauma or complexity, navigating a challenging life event or transition, or in the midst of conflict, I can help you achieve a more peaceful, fulfilling and resilient self through building on the skills you already have.
I serve adults coping with issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD/history of trauma, mood disorders, and career challenges.
My goal is to lend a compassionate hand to guide you through coping with the past and promoting healing for the future to achieve the best version of yourself. My passion lies in working with people from all walks of life to manage emotions and relationships. Whether you are trying to cope with a history of trauma or complexity, navigating a challenging life event or transition, or in the midst of conflict, I can help you achieve a more peaceful, fulfilling and resilient self through building on the skills you already have.
(919) 629-1230 View (919) 629-1230
Photo of Brett Maher, PsyD, Psychologist
Brett Maher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, life transitions, divorce, grief, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, trauma, abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, insomnia, and all personality disorders.
Are you feeling like your life needs a change but you are not sure where to start? It seems, as life becomes more complex, more and more people are suffering from the devastating effects of stress, depression and anxiety and can benefit from the support and insight that therapy provides. I am a NC Licensed Psychologist working clinically with a wide range of ages and issues. I've worked in the field for 20 years, in schools, day treatment, and the private practice setting with adults, families, couples and children; focusing on adjustment difficulties, relationship problems, childhood abuse and maladaptive coping.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, life transitions, divorce, grief, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, trauma, abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, insomnia, and all personality disorders.
Are you feeling like your life needs a change but you are not sure where to start? It seems, as life becomes more complex, more and more people are suffering from the devastating effects of stress, depression and anxiety and can benefit from the support and insight that therapy provides. I am a NC Licensed Psychologist working clinically with a wide range of ages and issues. I've worked in the field for 20 years, in schools, day treatment, and the private practice setting with adults, families, couples and children; focusing on adjustment difficulties, relationship problems, childhood abuse and maladaptive coping.
(919) 429-8751 View (919) 429-8751
Photo of Antonia Leonore Verhine, LCSW, LCASA, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antonia Leonore Verhine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA, CIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I am a licensed clinical social worker, addiction specialist associate, and certified integrative mental health provider who takes a holistic and trauma-informed approach to treating mental health and substance abuse disorders. Currently, I am going through training to become a certified ketamine-assisted psychotherapy provider. I have experience working with clients on a variety of issues, such as anxiety and panic disorders, depression, personal growth and self-esteem, general relationship challenges (family, friends, co-workers), and Addiction and substance misuse.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, addiction specialist associate, and certified integrative mental health provider who takes a holistic and trauma-informed approach to treating mental health and substance abuse disorders. Currently, I am going through training to become a certified ketamine-assisted psychotherapy provider. I have experience working with clients on a variety of issues, such as anxiety and panic disorders, depression, personal growth and self-esteem, general relationship challenges (family, friends, co-workers), and Addiction and substance misuse.
(984) 368-4697 View (984) 368-4697
Photo of Debra Bergman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra Bergman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
(336) 530-1569 View (336) 530-1569
Photo of Stonebridge Counseling - Stonebridge Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stonebridge Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PLLC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Issues including, but not limited to: stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, behavioral issues, divorce, anger, eating disorders/disordered eating, self esteem, relationship issues, teen issues, chronic illness, family conflict, and life transitions.
Asking for help is the first step towards feeling better and leading a happier, healthier life. Mental health is an important part of overall well-being. Most of us, at one time or another, are impacted by mental health concerns. We have therapists that treat adults, children, and teens. If you don't even know where to start call or e-mail the office and we will help guide you in choosing the right therapist and check your insurance benefits. To learn more about each of our therapists and their individual specialties, please visit our website www.sbcounseling.com/therapists
Issues including, but not limited to: stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, behavioral issues, divorce, anger, eating disorders/disordered eating, self esteem, relationship issues, teen issues, chronic illness, family conflict, and life transitions.
Asking for help is the first step towards feeling better and leading a happier, healthier life. Mental health is an important part of overall well-being. Most of us, at one time or another, are impacted by mental health concerns. We have therapists that treat adults, children, and teens. If you don't even know where to start call or e-mail the office and we will help guide you in choosing the right therapist and check your insurance benefits. To learn more about each of our therapists and their individual specialties, please visit our website www.sbcounseling.com/therapists
(919) 434-6398 View (919) 434-6398
Photo of Brittney Peiffer, LCMHCA, LMHC, Counselor
Brittney Peiffer
Counselor, LCMHCA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
Brittney Peiffer is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina who has 6 years experience partnering with young children, adolescents, and adults to help with depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, grief and loss, anger management needs. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and received a Master of Arts in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice.
Brittney Peiffer is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina who has 6 years experience partnering with young children, adolescents, and adults to help with depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, grief and loss, anger management needs. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and received a Master of Arts in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice.
(919) 551-6499 View (919) 551-6499
Photo of Laurin Oxendine-Myers, LCMHC , LPC
Laurin Oxendine-Myers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , LPC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27523  (Online Only)
I have experience with depression, substance abuse, family/relationship issues and anxiety.
I have assisted both individuals and families for over 11 years in various settings to overcome the challenges of divorce, substance abuse, life and family transitions. Together we will build strong communication skills and a healthy foundation to begin a new path in your life! Together we are able to explore past behaviors and patterns that may impact you moving forward. I look forward to creating a plan for a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
I have experience with depression, substance abuse, family/relationship issues and anxiety.
I have assisted both individuals and families for over 11 years in various settings to overcome the challenges of divorce, substance abuse, life and family transitions. Together we will build strong communication skills and a healthy foundation to begin a new path in your life! Together we are able to explore past behaviors and patterns that may impact you moving forward. I look forward to creating a plan for a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
(919) 823-5765 View (919) 823-5765
Photo of Ashley Lee, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor
Ashley Lee
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27539
We are not meant to hurt alone. Starting therapy can be the best decision that you can make for yourself. Ashley is passionate about guiding her clients through their unique journey of self-discovery, building self-esteem, and healing. Ashley enjoys pulling strength and resiliency out of her clients. Ashley believes counseling is a collaborative venture, walking alongside, embracing, encouraging, and inspiring all to become the best version of themselves, and when appropriate, to dig into life’s complexities. Ashley’s specializations extend to helping women, teens, LGBTQ+ community, life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma.
We are not meant to hurt alone. Starting therapy can be the best decision that you can make for yourself. Ashley is passionate about guiding her clients through their unique journey of self-discovery, building self-esteem, and healing. Ashley enjoys pulling strength and resiliency out of her clients. Ashley believes counseling is a collaborative venture, walking alongside, embracing, encouraging, and inspiring all to become the best version of themselves, and when appropriate, to dig into life’s complexities. Ashley’s specializations extend to helping women, teens, LGBTQ+ community, life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma.
(919) 980-9406 View (919) 980-9406
Photo of Elena Rael, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elena Rael
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: (updated 7/9)* When in session, I want to foster safe spaces where challenging conversations and vulnerable emotions can be explored and processed, and achievements are celebrated. When stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and other emotional distress occurs, I meet my clients where they are at. Just because we can do something alone, does not mean we have to. Whatever stage of life you are in, let's work through those personal transitions and obstacles. Thus, I believe the best clinical relationships come when both of us are open, curious, and eager for the growth to come from session-to-session.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: (updated 7/9)* When in session, I want to foster safe spaces where challenging conversations and vulnerable emotions can be explored and processed, and achievements are celebrated. When stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and other emotional distress occurs, I meet my clients where they are at. Just because we can do something alone, does not mean we have to. Whatever stage of life you are in, let's work through those personal transitions and obstacles. Thus, I believe the best clinical relationships come when both of us are open, curious, and eager for the growth to come from session-to-session.
(984) 203-7596 View (984) 203-7596
Photo of Sherry Horowitz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherry Horowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Special interests include eating disorders, body image concerns, ADHD in girls and women, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and grief and loss concerns.
Do you struggle with feelings, thoughts, or behaviors that make life feel overwhelming? I can partner with you on your journey toward improved health and happiness. I offer a supportive, compassionate, non judgmental space where we will explore your needs and identify solutions. Together, we will work toward strengthening coping skills and healthy behaviors. I believe that better emotional health is achieved through developing a stronger sense of self!
Special interests include eating disorders, body image concerns, ADHD in girls and women, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and grief and loss concerns.
Do you struggle with feelings, thoughts, or behaviors that make life feel overwhelming? I can partner with you on your journey toward improved health and happiness. I offer a supportive, compassionate, non judgmental space where we will explore your needs and identify solutions. Together, we will work toward strengthening coping skills and healthy behaviors. I believe that better emotional health is achieved through developing a stronger sense of self!
(919) 887-1100 View (919) 887-1100
Photo of Christi Baggett Stanforth, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christi Baggett Stanforth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
I offer strengths-based counseling for people 18+ years old who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, ADHD, relationship problems, difficult transitions, and general life questions. My approach is collaborative and tailored to a client's needs: I use ideas and tools from ACT, interpersonal therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness-based CBT, and systems and other therapies. I have particular experience with the challenges of blended families, long-distance relationships, and midlife career shifts. See cbstanforth.com or headway.co/providers.
I offer strengths-based counseling for people 18+ years old who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, ADHD, relationship problems, difficult transitions, and general life questions. My approach is collaborative and tailored to a client's needs: I use ideas and tools from ACT, interpersonal therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness-based CBT, and systems and other therapies. I have particular experience with the challenges of blended families, long-distance relationships, and midlife career shifts. See cbstanforth.com or headway.co/providers.
(720) 712-1485 View (720) 712-1485
Photo of Pamela Offner Burch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Offner Burch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
There is a path to Hope and Healing for you or someone you love. Allow me to assist in that journey for those of you who are struggling. Whether you are facing the impact of depression, anxiety, stressful times, anger and resentment, grief and loss, parenting challenges, divorce recovery, communication difficulties or just life adjustment issues, consider investing in your recovery by entering into therapy. Whether you are an adult, adolescent, or child, I will walk down that path along side of you in order for you to experience positive change and healing.
There is a path to Hope and Healing for you or someone you love. Allow me to assist in that journey for those of you who are struggling. Whether you are facing the impact of depression, anxiety, stressful times, anger and resentment, grief and loss, parenting challenges, divorce recovery, communication difficulties or just life adjustment issues, consider investing in your recovery by entering into therapy. Whether you are an adult, adolescent, or child, I will walk down that path along side of you in order for you to experience positive change and healing.
(919) 429-7729 View (919) 429-7729
Photo of Amanda L Furman - Amanda Furman Counseling, MS, LCMHC, BC-THC, Counselor
Amanda Furman Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, BC-THC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing art therapy along with traditional "talk" therapy addressing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, parenting, and other challenges. I create a personalized approach (including utilization of techniques from art therapy, solution-focused, person and family centered, cognitive-behavioral, and Yalom therapeutic models) for the adolescents/adults served and empower you to develop the skills and confidence needed to address future issues. Art therapy provides the opportunity to further optimize possibilities for insight, processing, and developing new tools for expression of thoughts/ feelings in ways traditional therapy may not be able to bring about.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing art therapy along with traditional "talk" therapy addressing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, parenting, and other challenges. I create a personalized approach (including utilization of techniques from art therapy, solution-focused, person and family centered, cognitive-behavioral, and Yalom therapeutic models) for the adolescents/adults served and empower you to develop the skills and confidence needed to address future issues. Art therapy provides the opportunity to further optimize possibilities for insight, processing, and developing new tools for expression of thoughts/ feelings in ways traditional therapy may not be able to bring about.
(919) 666-3454 View (919) 666-3454
Photo of Peter Summers, PhD, Psychologist
Peter Summers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, anger, career and work-related difficulties, relationship issues, and other problems of living.
My practice is dedicated to helping adult clients take charge of their emotional and psychological health, happiness, and success. I provide evidence-based consultation, counseling and psychotherapy services with a personal touch that is collaborative and client-centered; solution-focused, goal-oriented and practical; tailored to clients' core values and beliefs; and exclusively private and confidential.
I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, anger, career and work-related difficulties, relationship issues, and other problems of living.
My practice is dedicated to helping adult clients take charge of their emotional and psychological health, happiness, and success. I provide evidence-based consultation, counseling and psychotherapy services with a personal touch that is collaborative and client-centered; solution-focused, goal-oriented and practical; tailored to clients' core values and beliefs; and exclusively private and confidential.
(919) 617-9653 View (919) 617-9653
Photo of Jason Robert Cole, MA, LCMHC, CAMS-II, Counselor
Jason Robert Cole
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Jason Cole is a mental health counselor with experience working with children, adolescents and adults using a variety of theoretical perspectives in individual, group, couples and family therapy sessions. His area of expertise is in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults with a diverse range of needs and difficulties in traditional talk therapy. Jason enjoys working with clients to create and meet life goals through times of difficulty or uncertainty, and has worked extensively in the areas of life changes, anger management, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, behavioral issues, and depression.
Jason Cole is a mental health counselor with experience working with children, adolescents and adults using a variety of theoretical perspectives in individual, group, couples and family therapy sessions. His area of expertise is in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults with a diverse range of needs and difficulties in traditional talk therapy. Jason enjoys working with clients to create and meet life goals through times of difficulty or uncertainty, and has worked extensively in the areas of life changes, anger management, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, behavioral issues, and depression.
(919) 289-8053 View (919) 289-8053
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Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.