Depression Therapists in Bahama, NC

Photo of Johanna E Bridges, LCMHC
Johanna E Bridges
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Bahama, NC 27503  (Online Only)
Johanna Bridges is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 20 years of experience. The majority of the clients she works with are experiencing transitions in their lives; divorce or marriage, retirement, grief from loss, and work transitions, just to name a few. From her many years of experience, Johanna has had the opportunity to work in the areas of military, relationships, life plans, trauma, and sexual issues. She has developed a passion for helping people and meeting them where they are today. Johanna specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, transition next steps/plans, and trauma.
Johanna Bridges is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 20 years of experience. The majority of the clients she works with are experiencing transitions in their lives; divorce or marriage, retirement, grief from loss, and work transitions, just to name a few. From her many years of experience, Johanna has had the opportunity to work in the areas of military, relationships, life plans, trauma, and sexual issues. She has developed a passion for helping people and meeting them where they are today. Johanna specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, transition next steps/plans, and trauma.
(984) 265-8391 View (984) 265-8391
Photo of Liana Nelson Peterson, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liana Nelson Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Bahama, NC 27503  (Online Only)
Liana K. Nelson-Peterson is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician with 20 years of experience in mental health. Liana started her career with the intention of dedicating herself to inspire more people of color to feel free and empowered to seek therapy without fearing rejection within their community. Liana initially started her career as a Family Support Case manager with the Missouri Division of Social Services. Liana continues to work with individuals—young and seasoned—families, and couples to help build connections by teaching and educating the dynamics of grief, complicated grief, levels of intimacy and attachment.
Liana K. Nelson-Peterson is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician with 20 years of experience in mental health. Liana started her career with the intention of dedicating herself to inspire more people of color to feel free and empowered to seek therapy without fearing rejection within their community. Liana initially started her career as a Family Support Case manager with the Missouri Division of Social Services. Liana continues to work with individuals—young and seasoned—families, and couples to help build connections by teaching and educating the dynamics of grief, complicated grief, levels of intimacy and attachment.
(919) 736-6484 View (919) 736-6484
Photo of Michael P. Iezzi, PhD, Psychologist
Michael P. Iezzi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bahama, NC 27503
Everyone could benefit from talking with a counselor to help cope with life's stressors. You may prefer to meet with a counselor one-on-one to help improve your quality of life. If your intimate relationship is a concern, you and your partner(s) could utilize relationship counseling to communicate more effectively and regain the passion that drew you together. Building a support network and feeling as if you belong are also valuable resources that group counseling can provide. Regardless of your concern, there are multiple counseling options to help meet your needs. Initiating counseling services is the first step to feeling better.
Everyone could benefit from talking with a counselor to help cope with life's stressors. You may prefer to meet with a counselor one-on-one to help improve your quality of life. If your intimate relationship is a concern, you and your partner(s) could utilize relationship counseling to communicate more effectively and regain the passion that drew you together. Building a support network and feeling as if you belong are also valuable resources that group counseling can provide. Regardless of your concern, there are multiple counseling options to help meet your needs. Initiating counseling services is the first step to feeling better.
(984) 237-2741 View (984) 237-2741

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Catherine Carter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27715
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have worked with adults and children from diverse cultural backgrounds, gender differences, and mental health disorders such as Major Depression, Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and various other mental health conditions. I am also a nationally certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and an American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Approved Supervisor. Feel free to visit me at drcarterlmft.com!
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have worked with adults and children from diverse cultural backgrounds, gender differences, and mental health disorders such as Major Depression, Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and various other mental health conditions. I am also a nationally certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and an American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Approved Supervisor. Feel free to visit me at drcarterlmft.com!
(919) 769-2368 View (919) 769-2368
Photo of Jessie Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessie Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27712
My name is Jessie Smith, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of North Carolina. I have experience working with adults, adults with SPMI, adolescents, and families seeking support to overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, parenting issues, anger, self-esteem, codependency, and other challenges that arise in life. I earned a Bachelor's and Master of Social Work from The University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
My name is Jessie Smith, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of North Carolina. I have experience working with adults, adults with SPMI, adolescents, and families seeking support to overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, parenting issues, anger, self-esteem, codependency, and other challenges that arise in life. I earned a Bachelor's and Master of Social Work from The University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
(980) 332-2508 View (980) 332-2508
Photo of Sandra Painter, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Painter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, anxious or depressed, I invite you to contact me at the number below.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, down, or struggling in relationships with family, friends or significant others? Are you experiencing loss or dealing with chronic illness in you or a family member? We all face a variety of challenging situations, emotions relationships and events. I believe there are times people may want to clarify their thinking about a problem or take their management of a life challenge up a notch. I believe my job is to support people’s efforts to do that by listening and assisting people in leveraging their strengths.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, anxious or depressed, I invite you to contact me at the number below.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, down, or struggling in relationships with family, friends or significant others? Are you experiencing loss or dealing with chronic illness in you or a family member? We all face a variety of challenging situations, emotions relationships and events. I believe there are times people may want to clarify their thinking about a problem or take their management of a life challenge up a notch. I believe my job is to support people’s efforts to do that by listening and assisting people in leveraging their strengths.
(919) 766-2706 x24 View (919) 766-2706 x24
Photo of Anna Kull, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Kull
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27712
Seeking support takes strength and I strive to create a welcoming and safe environment. Guided by my belief in every person’s right to be whole and heard, I have helped clients navigate many challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult emotions, life transitions, hard to change behaviors such as substance use, career concerns, parenting concerns, and relationship challenges. I enjoy helping adults of all identities move towards healing and their life goals.
Seeking support takes strength and I strive to create a welcoming and safe environment. Guided by my belief in every person’s right to be whole and heard, I have helped clients navigate many challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult emotions, life transitions, hard to change behaviors such as substance use, career concerns, parenting concerns, and relationship challenges. I enjoy helping adults of all identities move towards healing and their life goals.
(919) 213-0225 View (919) 213-0225
Photo of Cassandra M. Smith, MA, LCMHC, CGP, CTMH
Cassandra M. Smith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health COunselor, MA, LCMHC, CGP, CTMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
I specialize in grief/loss and also offer counseling for anxiety, depression, and self-worth.
My introduction to counseling started well before I became a clinician. As a widow raising young children without the support of a husband/father, life was overwhelming and, initially, felt impossible to bear. Fear, anxiety, depression, anger, and sometimes debilitating emotional pain worked overtime to leave me feeling hopeless. The decision to reach out for help changed my life. It was empowering and provided the needed tools to not only survive but to thrive. Now, with over 12 yrs of clinical work, I look forward to working with you to provide an experience of empowerment as you grow through what led you to seek support.
I specialize in grief/loss and also offer counseling for anxiety, depression, and self-worth.
My introduction to counseling started well before I became a clinician. As a widow raising young children without the support of a husband/father, life was overwhelming and, initially, felt impossible to bear. Fear, anxiety, depression, anger, and sometimes debilitating emotional pain worked overtime to leave me feeling hopeless. The decision to reach out for help changed my life. It was empowering and provided the needed tools to not only survive but to thrive. Now, with over 12 yrs of clinical work, I look forward to working with you to provide an experience of empowerment as you grow through what led you to seek support.
(919) 343-5218 View (919) 343-5218
Photo of Dawn K Clark, MS, LCMHC
Dawn K Clark
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704
My name is Dawn Clark, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 27 years of clinical experience. My primary focal point is adults and couples with Anxiety, Depression, Women's Issues, Sexual Orientation, Trauma, and PTSD. I focus on helping and encouraging individuals., not treating a disorder. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, Coaching, Couples Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapies during treatments with my clients. I believe that I am very direct and open-minded, and no one should ever feel out of place in a relationship.
My name is Dawn Clark, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 27 years of clinical experience. My primary focal point is adults and couples with Anxiety, Depression, Women's Issues, Sexual Orientation, Trauma, and PTSD. I focus on helping and encouraging individuals., not treating a disorder. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, Coaching, Couples Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapies during treatments with my clients. I believe that I am very direct and open-minded, and no one should ever feel out of place in a relationship.
(910) 941-8818 View (910) 941-8818
Photo of Audra Westbrook, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audra Westbrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27712  (Online Only)
Hi, welcome to my corner of understanding and growth. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I'm deeply committed to fostering healing and empowerment in the lives of my clients. Whether you're navigating life transitions, managing anxiety or depression, battling addiction, experiencing grief, or seeking to enhance your relationships, I'm here to offer guidance and support every step of the way. I also specialize in working with older adults and the unique challenges of this life stage.
Hi, welcome to my corner of understanding and growth. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I'm deeply committed to fostering healing and empowerment in the lives of my clients. Whether you're navigating life transitions, managing anxiety or depression, battling addiction, experiencing grief, or seeking to enhance your relationships, I'm here to offer guidance and support every step of the way. I also specialize in working with older adults and the unique challenges of this life stage.
(980) 577-0925 View (980) 577-0925
Photo of Laura Harris, LCMHC
Laura Harris
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
Laura Harris is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina with over 9 years of professional counseling experience. She specializes in helping clients with anger, anxiety, depression, stress management, coping strategies development, problem-solving skills, and more. Laura works with a wide variety of individuals including artists, academic instructors, people of color, immigrants, students, those who identify as LGBTQ+, and those who self-describe as socially awkward.
Laura Harris is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina with over 9 years of professional counseling experience. She specializes in helping clients with anger, anxiety, depression, stress management, coping strategies development, problem-solving skills, and more. Laura works with a wide variety of individuals including artists, academic instructors, people of color, immigrants, students, those who identify as LGBTQ+, and those who self-describe as socially awkward.
(984) 205-6780 View (984) 205-6780
Photo of Sophia Dorton Caudle, PhD, LCMHC-S, CSAT-S, CST, CTCT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sophia Dorton Caudle
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, CSAT-S, CST, CTCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
I specialize in relationship & intimacy issues, sex and porn addiction, partners of addicts, couples counseling, substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, and compulsive behaviors.
In my clinical practice, I work with adults regarding a wide range of life's emotional and behavioral challenges, and provide services in the areas of trauma, attachment, sex addiction, love addiction, internet and pornography addiction, sex therapy, couples therapy, problematic compulsive behaviors, grief/loss, and more. I offer a highly personalized approach and utilize research based and effective techniques tailored to each of my clients' individual needs to support their personal growth and overall peace and well-being.
I specialize in relationship & intimacy issues, sex and porn addiction, partners of addicts, couples counseling, substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, and compulsive behaviors.
In my clinical practice, I work with adults regarding a wide range of life's emotional and behavioral challenges, and provide services in the areas of trauma, attachment, sex addiction, love addiction, internet and pornography addiction, sex therapy, couples therapy, problematic compulsive behaviors, grief/loss, and more. I offer a highly personalized approach and utilize research based and effective techniques tailored to each of my clients' individual needs to support their personal growth and overall peace and well-being.
(919) 382-0288 View (919) 382-0288
Photo of Briana J. Yarber, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Briana J. Yarber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
Are you wanting to make some life changes or feeling stuck? Or maybe you’re having trouble with difficult feelings or anxiety. I see children, teenagers, and adults who struggle with attention disorders, depression, anxiety, multicultural issues, trauma, interpersonal problems, and transition. I especially enjoy seeing people of color, students, professionals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Self-compassion is one of the driving forces in my practice of helping others. My goal is to help you through your life's journey while using empathy, connection, and laughter.
Are you wanting to make some life changes or feeling stuck? Or maybe you’re having trouble with difficult feelings or anxiety. I see children, teenagers, and adults who struggle with attention disorders, depression, anxiety, multicultural issues, trauma, interpersonal problems, and transition. I especially enjoy seeing people of color, students, professionals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Self-compassion is one of the driving forces in my practice of helping others. My goal is to help you through your life's journey while using empathy, connection, and laughter.
(984) 214-8259 View (984) 214-8259
Photo of Daniel T Perry, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel T Perry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27712
I am a counselor who understands how it feels to sit in front of a therapist, that is why compassion is important to me. Vulnerability can be difficult, but we can create a safe space so when you're ready, we can change the difficulties interfering with your wants. That is therapy, getting what you need to get what you want. For example, depression has different flavors, but it keeps us from engaging fully in life and/or losing focus on what our dreams are. Whatever you are seeking to make life better and better, I am here to help. In person sessions can be scheduled on a limited basis but Telehealth with be offered on going.
I am a counselor who understands how it feels to sit in front of a therapist, that is why compassion is important to me. Vulnerability can be difficult, but we can create a safe space so when you're ready, we can change the difficulties interfering with your wants. That is therapy, getting what you need to get what you want. For example, depression has different flavors, but it keeps us from engaging fully in life and/or losing focus on what our dreams are. Whatever you are seeking to make life better and better, I am here to help. In person sessions can be scheduled on a limited basis but Telehealth with be offered on going.
(919) 584-8684 View (919) 584-8684
Photo of Sarah Patricia Jones, MBA, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Sarah Patricia Jones
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MBA, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Waitlist for new clients
Only Accepting In-person Appointments In Hillsborough on Mon and Thu between 10am and 4PM. I enjoy working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, work/university/college stress, life transitions, or other forms of emotional and behavioral distress. I provide a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment for clients to explore their concerns and to to develop coping skills in a safe space. I believe in the power of the human-animal bond and time spent in nature to accelerate client discovery, insight and growth.
Only Accepting In-person Appointments In Hillsborough on Mon and Thu between 10am and 4PM. I enjoy working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, work/university/college stress, life transitions, or other forms of emotional and behavioral distress. I provide a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment for clients to explore their concerns and to to develop coping skills in a safe space. I believe in the power of the human-animal bond and time spent in nature to accelerate client discovery, insight and growth.
(984) 400-4148 View (984) 400-4148
Photo of Eleri Irish, MSW, LCSW-A
Eleri Irish
LCSW Associate , MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704
My training and experience includes working with a wide range of individuals presenting with ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideation, and behavioral challenges.
Hi, my name is Eleri (rhymes with “celery”)! I am a child and adolescent mental health therapist specialized in developmental and psychiatric disabilities. While I am rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), I integrate elements of several modalities including dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, play therapy, and adventure/experiential therapy into my practice. My primary focus is providing individual psychotherapy to children, teens, and college students (ages 5 to 25).
My training and experience includes working with a wide range of individuals presenting with ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideation, and behavioral challenges.
Hi, my name is Eleri (rhymes with “celery”)! I am a child and adolescent mental health therapist specialized in developmental and psychiatric disabilities. While I am rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), I integrate elements of several modalities including dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, play therapy, and adventure/experiential therapy into my practice. My primary focus is providing individual psychotherapy to children, teens, and college students (ages 5 to 25).
(919) 205-8305 View (919) 205-8305
Photo of David M Franzen, MDiv, ThM, DMin, Pastoral Counselor
David M Franzen
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, ThM, DMin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
My highest priority is to respect the integrity, faith and values of each person. I work with a variety of people and have an extensive psychodynamic and psychoanalytic background, advanced degrees in Psychology and Theology, and decades of clinical experience with persons and families in crisis. I welcome clients from any (or no) faith tradition. I have decades of experience working with people struggling with loss, grief, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. Visit me at www.drdavidfranzen.com. I'd be honored to walk alongside you as you journey toward greater wholeness, and health.
My highest priority is to respect the integrity, faith and values of each person. I work with a variety of people and have an extensive psychodynamic and psychoanalytic background, advanced degrees in Psychology and Theology, and decades of clinical experience with persons and families in crisis. I welcome clients from any (or no) faith tradition. I have decades of experience working with people struggling with loss, grief, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. Visit me at www.drdavidfranzen.com. I'd be honored to walk alongside you as you journey toward greater wholeness, and health.
(919) 561-6118 View (919) 561-6118
Photo of Arizona Danielle Faison, LCMHC, NCC
Arizona Danielle Faison
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27712
Whether you're facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or navigating life transitions, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Welcome to my practice! Building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my approach to counseling. I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be challenging, and I commend you for your courage. With a deep commitment to your well-being, I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly. My therapeutic style is empathetic, collaborative, and tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
Whether you're facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or navigating life transitions, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Welcome to my practice! Building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my approach to counseling. I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be challenging, and I commend you for your courage. With a deep commitment to your well-being, I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly. My therapeutic style is empathetic, collaborative, and tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
(984) 217-4817 View (984) 217-4817
Photo of Sophia Caudle - Bull City Psychotherapy, PLLC, PhD, LPC-S, LCSW, LCAS, CSAT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bull City Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCSW, LCAS, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
Our areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, sex addiction, pornography addiction, substance abuse, LGBTQ.
Welcome to Bull City Psychotherapy. We are a caring group of psychotherapists who are passionate about helping others improve their moods, improve relationships, and recover from addictions. We offer a private and comfortable environment for our work with you, so you can feel safe and at ease. We are all highly trained in our areas of expertise, and we value our clients achieving their goals and moving forward. We believe in effective therapy that works.
Our areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, sex addiction, pornography addiction, substance abuse, LGBTQ.
Welcome to Bull City Psychotherapy. We are a caring group of psychotherapists who are passionate about helping others improve their moods, improve relationships, and recover from addictions. We offer a private and comfortable environment for our work with you, so you can feel safe and at ease. We are all highly trained in our areas of expertise, and we value our clients achieving their goals and moving forward. We believe in effective therapy that works.
(984) 228-2152 View (984) 228-2152
Photo of Orlando Dowdy, DMin, MDiv, Pastoral Counselor
Orlando Dowdy
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, MDiv
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704
Of particular interest are, cultural, family and systemic concerns, those suffering with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship crisis, changes in life, anger management, crossroads in one's faith and clergy in crisis.
I am a therapist who believes in the authenticity of each person's struggles as they encounter them in their journey through life. I seek to help others in the curing of their souls through psychotherapy. I make every effort to provide a therapeutic environment that is non-judgmental, supportive, safe, nurturing and empathic. Making the decision to come to counseling can be difficult and overwhelming. It's a privilege for me to be present with you in this process. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to email or call.
Of particular interest are, cultural, family and systemic concerns, those suffering with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship crisis, changes in life, anger management, crossroads in one's faith and clergy in crisis.
I am a therapist who believes in the authenticity of each person's struggles as they encounter them in their journey through life. I seek to help others in the curing of their souls through psychotherapy. I make every effort to provide a therapeutic environment that is non-judgmental, supportive, safe, nurturing and empathic. Making the decision to come to counseling can be difficult and overwhelming. It's a privilege for me to be present with you in this process. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to email or call.
(919) 975-5892 View (919) 975-5892

See more therapy options for Bahama

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.