Depression Therapists in Castle Hayne, NC

Photo of Sarah Ritenour, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Ritenour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Hayne, NC 28429  (Online Only)
Struggling with depression? Anxiety, panic attacks, or other symptoms that are interfering in your daily life? Reach out! I have experience working with individuals who are experiencing multiple types of mental health symptoms. My aim is to treat people holistically, ensure they feel valued and validated. I utilized Multiple strength- based theories in treatment to help every individual reach their goals. I have experience working with teens and adults with a large range of mental health struggles.
Struggling with depression? Anxiety, panic attacks, or other symptoms that are interfering in your daily life? Reach out! I have experience working with individuals who are experiencing multiple types of mental health symptoms. My aim is to treat people holistically, ensure they feel valued and validated. I utilized Multiple strength- based theories in treatment to help every individual reach their goals. I have experience working with teens and adults with a large range of mental health struggles.
(910) 996-3799 View (910) 996-3799
Photo of Dr. Josalin J Hunter, PhD, LCSW, MSW MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Josalin J Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MSW MPH
Verified Verified
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Life can be tough, but there is also joy! I stand with you- recognizing all we've been through as humankind and then, to help you work through your own personal life challenges. Whether you are experiencing stress, anxious thoughts, feeling low or depressed; ongoing conflict in your romantic relationship, and/or an end to a relationship or marriage; trouble managing friendships, or even working through some tough things that have happened in your past- I am here for you. I am committed to helping you unveil your best, most resilient self- showing up to cope through your challenges more empowered and head on.
Life can be tough, but there is also joy! I stand with you- recognizing all we've been through as humankind and then, to help you work through your own personal life challenges. Whether you are experiencing stress, anxious thoughts, feeling low or depressed; ongoing conflict in your romantic relationship, and/or an end to a relationship or marriage; trouble managing friendships, or even working through some tough things that have happened in your past- I am here for you. I am committed to helping you unveil your best, most resilient self- showing up to cope through your challenges more empowered and head on.
(910) 597-4337 View (910) 597-4337
Photo of Kristin Hammond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Hello! It's great to meet you! My name is Kristin Hammond, and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 23 years of clinical experience working with adults, couples, and some adolescence. I work with many issues, including anxiety, health anxiety, panic, depression, life stressors, family dysfunction, relationship issues, self-esteem, and other emotional and behavioral issues. I mainly draw from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Holistic, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Supportive therapies. I believe one of the biggest keys to success in treatment is having a connection with your therapist.
Hello! It's great to meet you! My name is Kristin Hammond, and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 23 years of clinical experience working with adults, couples, and some adolescence. I work with many issues, including anxiety, health anxiety, panic, depression, life stressors, family dysfunction, relationship issues, self-esteem, and other emotional and behavioral issues. I mainly draw from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Holistic, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Supportive therapies. I believe one of the biggest keys to success in treatment is having a connection with your therapist.
(336) 999-6951 View (336) 999-6951
Photo of Cecilia I. Patino, MA, LCMHCA
Cecilia I. Patino
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
I'm deeply committed to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and growth. My heart is truly invested in guiding those who are navigating through challenges such as anxiety, trauma, depression, self-esteem issues, or major life changes. My mission is to uplift my clients, helping them to embrace their true selves, confront obstacles, and uncover their inner resilience. In my practice, I cultivate a warm, empathetic environment infused with genuine curiosity. Drawing from my rich multicultural background, I offer a perspective that celebrates diversity and fosters a safe, nurturing space for your healing journey!
I'm deeply committed to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and growth. My heart is truly invested in guiding those who are navigating through challenges such as anxiety, trauma, depression, self-esteem issues, or major life changes. My mission is to uplift my clients, helping them to embrace their true selves, confront obstacles, and uncover their inner resilience. In my practice, I cultivate a warm, empathetic environment infused with genuine curiosity. Drawing from my rich multicultural background, I offer a perspective that celebrates diversity and fosters a safe, nurturing space for your healing journey!
(910) 727-5248 View (910) 727-5248
Photo of Jennifer Upchurch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Upchurch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Thank you for visiting my profile. In my 23 years as a therapist I have developed a passion in working with adults whom have experienced trauma or attachment wounds & are now struggling with anxiety, depression & repeating unwanted patterns. I have received specialized training in EMDR or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I am an Emdria Certified EMDR clinician and consultant. I also have completed the level 3 AF-EMDR training through the Parnell Institute. This treatment has been enormously effective for individuals whom have experienced traumas or stress in their lives.
Thank you for visiting my profile. In my 23 years as a therapist I have developed a passion in working with adults whom have experienced trauma or attachment wounds & are now struggling with anxiety, depression & repeating unwanted patterns. I have received specialized training in EMDR or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I am an Emdria Certified EMDR clinician and consultant. I also have completed the level 3 AF-EMDR training through the Parnell Institute. This treatment has been enormously effective for individuals whom have experienced traumas or stress in their lives.
(910) 565-4301 View (910) 565-4301
Photo of Christy Vitou Miles, NCC, LCMHC
Christy Vitou Miles
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Castle Hayne, NC 28429  (Online Only)
Sometimes life can seem overwhelming and the pressure to be on top of everything can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. The stress of life can also lead to feelings of inadequacy and self defeat. My goal as a LCMHC is to listen without judgement, validate your feelings, and help you develop skills to manage stress. In my therapeutic practice, I adopt a person centered approach, valuing each client as a distinct individual. This allows me to tailor interventions to the needs of the client. I provide telehealth services to adult, female clients.
Sometimes life can seem overwhelming and the pressure to be on top of everything can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. The stress of life can also lead to feelings of inadequacy and self defeat. My goal as a LCMHC is to listen without judgement, validate your feelings, and help you develop skills to manage stress. In my therapeutic practice, I adopt a person centered approach, valuing each client as a distinct individual. This allows me to tailor interventions to the needs of the client. I provide telehealth services to adult, female clients.
(910) 996-0502 View (910) 996-0502
Photo of Kimberly S Adams, PsyD, ABPP-CN, Psychologist
Kimberly S Adams
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
I am a board certified clinical neuropsychologist practicing in a private practice setting. My practice is primarily neuropsychological testing of patients presenting with memory disorders, dementia, traumatic brain injury, stroke, and mood disorders. I also complete psychological evaluations for ADHD, learning disorders, and behavioral disorders.
I am a board certified clinical neuropsychologist practicing in a private practice setting. My practice is primarily neuropsychological testing of patients presenting with memory disorders, dementia, traumatic brain injury, stroke, and mood disorders. I also complete psychological evaluations for ADHD, learning disorders, and behavioral disorders.
(910) 817-0931 View (910) 817-0931
Photo of Allison Jackson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Do you worry that you may have ADHD? Are you a young professional struggling with burnout? Are panic attacks and/or anxiety interfering with your quality of life? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I’d love to meet you! I help college students, young adults, and teens navigate the overwhelming changes going on in their lives. I’m passionate about providing neurodiversity-affirming therapy to the Gen-Z population, especially individuals with ADHD and Autism.
Do you worry that you may have ADHD? Are you a young professional struggling with burnout? Are panic attacks and/or anxiety interfering with your quality of life? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I’d love to meet you! I help college students, young adults, and teens navigate the overwhelming changes going on in their lives. I’m passionate about providing neurodiversity-affirming therapy to the Gen-Z population, especially individuals with ADHD and Autism.
(910) 773-4637 View (910) 773-4637
Photo of Maureen Cavanagh, MEd, MPA, LADC1, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Maureen Cavanagh
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, MPA, LADC1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Hayne, NC 28429  (Online Only)
Family & partners supporting someone with a substance use disorder need guidance based on lived experience as well as the counseling expertise and education around addiction and recovery. I am a national coach, educator, and interventionist working with clients & families virtually across the US and Canada. Utilizing a variety of counseling modalities and coaching techniques I can help you to understand the most effective ways to communicate, create boundaries, and be a source of support to your loved one. We can also create a plan to help get your own life back by taking control of the only person you have any control over; YOU!
Family & partners supporting someone with a substance use disorder need guidance based on lived experience as well as the counseling expertise and education around addiction and recovery. I am a national coach, educator, and interventionist working with clients & families virtually across the US and Canada. Utilizing a variety of counseling modalities and coaching techniques I can help you to understand the most effective ways to communicate, create boundaries, and be a source of support to your loved one. We can also create a plan to help get your own life back by taking control of the only person you have any control over; YOU!
(978) 541-4850 View (978) 541-4850
Photo of Dana King, LCMHCA
Dana King
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Welcome to “Beyond Reach Professional Counseling Center.” Thank you for visiting my profile, Dana King LCMHCA. As an African-American woman, counseling was not something that was discussed in my family. I am excited to see how the perception of therapy has changed for the better. We all experience difficult times and sometimes it takes a professional to assist in the healing process and that’s ok. I want to provide you with a safe and open environment. I can offer a space of comfort, mutual respect and trust.
Welcome to “Beyond Reach Professional Counseling Center.” Thank you for visiting my profile, Dana King LCMHCA. As an African-American woman, counseling was not something that was discussed in my family. I am excited to see how the perception of therapy has changed for the better. We all experience difficult times and sometimes it takes a professional to assist in the healing process and that’s ok. I want to provide you with a safe and open environment. I can offer a space of comfort, mutual respect and trust.
(910) 714-9237 View (910) 714-9237
Photo of Courtney Jost, LCSWA, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Jost
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Hayne, NC 28429  (Online Only)
I am passionate about supporting women during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well as guiding new parents and young adults through their unique challenges. I believe in the transformative power of connection and self-exploration. By fostering an open and trusting environment, I encourage clients to delve into their experiences, ultimately guiding them toward clarity and healing. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, and I strive to create a space where everyone feels heard and valued.
I am passionate about supporting women during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well as guiding new parents and young adults through their unique challenges. I believe in the transformative power of connection and self-exploration. By fostering an open and trusting environment, I encourage clients to delve into their experiences, ultimately guiding them toward clarity and healing. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, and I strive to create a space where everyone feels heard and valued.
(910) 981-2394 View (910) 981-2394
Photo of Leah Webb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Hayne, NC 28429  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15+ years of experience working with children and their families in a variety of roles and settings. I am experienced in individual, group and family therapy. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community myself, I am passionate about working with the queer community and I pride myself on creating a safe and accepting space for all.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15+ years of experience working with children and their families in a variety of roles and settings. I am experienced in individual, group and family therapy. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community myself, I am passionate about working with the queer community and I pride myself on creating a safe and accepting space for all.
(910) 994-8597 View (910) 994-8597
Photo of Joseph Rengifo - Wilmington Mental Health, LCMHC, LCAS, LCSW, NPMHNP, FNP, Counselor
Wilmington Mental Health
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, LCSW, NPMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Wilmington Mental Health (WMH) provides evidence-based and person-centered treatment to residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Our mission is to offer accessible universal mental health treatment so that everyone in our community has access to the services they need, when and where they need them. WMH integrates multiple therapeutic techniques to create optimal patient experience. WMH understands that life presents difficulties that can reduce the quality of life and happiness of those in our community. These challenges can be detrimental if left on unresolved. Hence, it is critical that access to mental health care exist when individuals need it most. WMH has developed a platform that provides therapeutic support for teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families. Our compassionate counselors are ready to meet with you to help you resolve challenges and move forward in your life. Get on the road to recovery with Wilmington Mental Health Today! Book a confidential consultation, call 910-777-5575 or email us at info@wmhwc.com.
Wilmington Mental Health (WMH) provides evidence-based and person-centered treatment to residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Our mission is to offer accessible universal mental health treatment so that everyone in our community has access to the services they need, when and where they need them. WMH integrates multiple therapeutic techniques to create optimal patient experience. WMH understands that life presents difficulties that can reduce the quality of life and happiness of those in our community. These challenges can be detrimental if left on unresolved. Hence, it is critical that access to mental health care exist when individuals need it most. WMH has developed a platform that provides therapeutic support for teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families. Our compassionate counselors are ready to meet with you to help you resolve challenges and move forward in your life. Get on the road to recovery with Wilmington Mental Health Today! Book a confidential consultation, call 910-777-5575 or email us at info@wmhwc.com.
(910) 909-4408 View (910) 909-4408
Photo of Dawn Richard Cook, MA, LCMHC
Dawn Richard Cook
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Castle Hayne, NC 28429
Not accepting new clients
A colleague once told me that sometimes you just have to validate your client by saying "life sucks". Hi, welcome, I am happy you are here! I have been working in the field of mental health for over 20 years. My experience includes a variety of work settings, including community mental health, school guidance, contract mental health and private practice. Along with my psychiatric facility dog RUPP, I use an integrated, person-centered approach to therapy that first establishes therapeutic rapport to determine goals and objectives.
A colleague once told me that sometimes you just have to validate your client by saying "life sucks". Hi, welcome, I am happy you are here! I have been working in the field of mental health for over 20 years. My experience includes a variety of work settings, including community mental health, school guidance, contract mental health and private practice. Along with my psychiatric facility dog RUPP, I use an integrated, person-centered approach to therapy that first establishes therapeutic rapport to determine goals and objectives.
(910) 446-6382 View (910) 446-6382

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Julie Sams - Bowman Family Services, MA, LCMHCS, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bowman Family Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
I am the owner of Bowman Family Services, and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Supervisor with over 26 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. My carefully selected team of child, adolescent, adult, couples and family therapists, and psychologists utilize play, art and yoga therapy, sound therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, Pre-Marital and psychological testing. We receive ongoing trainings to utilize the best therapy approaches in our field. We specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. We have offices in Wake Forest, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wilmington, and Cary NC.
I am the owner of Bowman Family Services, and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Supervisor with over 26 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. My carefully selected team of child, adolescent, adult, couples and family therapists, and psychologists utilize play, art and yoga therapy, sound therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, Pre-Marital and psychological testing. We receive ongoing trainings to utilize the best therapy approaches in our field. We specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. We have offices in Wake Forest, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wilmington, and Cary NC.
(919) 229-8943 View (919) 229-8943
Photo of Natalie Campbell (Smith), PsyD, LLC, PsyPact, Psychologist
Natalie Campbell (Smith)
Psychologist, PsyD, LLC, PsyPact
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
Nationwide TELE-HEALTH PROVIDED. Symptoms caused by depression, anxiety, trauma, transitions, divorce, addictions, and mental illness can impair one's confidence and clarity of sound mind and body. I offer a person-centered approach that allows for persons to explore themselves in a safe and nonjudgemental space. Given that each person is unique with varying needs, the type of intervention and skills will vary. CBT, hypnosis, and client-centered approach are some of the modalities offered. It is essential that you feel safe; therefore, our relationship is an ongoing mutual exchange of clear communication and understanding.
Nationwide TELE-HEALTH PROVIDED. Symptoms caused by depression, anxiety, trauma, transitions, divorce, addictions, and mental illness can impair one's confidence and clarity of sound mind and body. I offer a person-centered approach that allows for persons to explore themselves in a safe and nonjudgemental space. Given that each person is unique with varying needs, the type of intervention and skills will vary. CBT, hypnosis, and client-centered approach are some of the modalities offered. It is essential that you feel safe; therefore, our relationship is an ongoing mutual exchange of clear communication and understanding.
(540) 923-0947 View (540) 923-0947
Photo of Riley Isom, MSW, LCSW-A
Riley Isom
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
I am an experienced child, adolescent, adult, and family therapist. I work with various diagnoses and specialties such as trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, social, emotional, and behavioral issues, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and school challenges. My approach is person-centered and understanding the importance of collaboration when it comes to clients reaching their goals. I use modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Flash, Motivational Interviewing, and Play Therapy. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my pets, going to the beach, and looking for sharks' teeth.
I am an experienced child, adolescent, adult, and family therapist. I work with various diagnoses and specialties such as trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, social, emotional, and behavioral issues, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and school challenges. My approach is person-centered and understanding the importance of collaboration when it comes to clients reaching their goals. I use modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Flash, Motivational Interviewing, and Play Therapy. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my pets, going to the beach, and looking for sharks' teeth.
(910) 387-4058 View (910) 387-4058
Photo of Julie Rihn, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Rihn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
I offer diverse, empathetic support and informed guidance to those experiencing trauma, depression, and grief. When you feel distressed, anxious, unable to focus, or struggle to find rest due to rumination or despair, you may begin to experience physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, or nausea. The ultimate goal is to help you learn how to cope in the present so that you can soon begin thriving and living a more content and healthier life. Together, we will delve deep to uncover the root cause of the issues, discuss and practice how to balance emotions, and then build resilience and goals for maintenance.
I offer diverse, empathetic support and informed guidance to those experiencing trauma, depression, and grief. When you feel distressed, anxious, unable to focus, or struggle to find rest due to rumination or despair, you may begin to experience physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, or nausea. The ultimate goal is to help you learn how to cope in the present so that you can soon begin thriving and living a more content and healthier life. Together, we will delve deep to uncover the root cause of the issues, discuss and practice how to balance emotions, and then build resilience and goals for maintenance.
(910) 996-2246 View (910) 996-2246
Photo of Daphne Kendricks, PhD, Psychologist
Daphne Kendricks
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405  (Online Only)
Now seeing North Carolina clients for virtual therapy. Are you looking for a therapist who has the experience and training to work with your child, teen, or family through their current difficulties? Welcome to your new beginning for you and your family. I provide evidenced-based interventions that can meet your family or child's emotional, mental, social, and behavioral needs and foster healthy development and growth. Together we can create a better quality of life for you and your family.
Now seeing North Carolina clients for virtual therapy. Are you looking for a therapist who has the experience and training to work with your child, teen, or family through their current difficulties? Welcome to your new beginning for you and your family. I provide evidenced-based interventions that can meet your family or child's emotional, mental, social, and behavioral needs and foster healthy development and growth. Together we can create a better quality of life for you and your family.
(786) 481-3904 View (786) 481-3904
Photo of Kate Carleton Washburn - Kate Carleton Washburn, MSW, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Carleton Washburn, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
I bring over 25 years of clinical experience in both inpatient psychiatric settings and outpatient settings that have included mental health agencies and an expanding private practice. I have a specialty in the spectrum of Addiction, Codependency, and Recovery, as well as Dual Diagnosis clients who struggle with mood disorders, or a traumatic event history while seeking sobriety. I offer treatment using insight enhancing, behavioral and cognitive therapies; as well as spirituality and systems theory approaches to address mood, situational, self-esteem, loss, and relationship problems. I see clients in individual, couple, and family modalties, and am available to faciltate interventions for significant others.
I bring over 25 years of clinical experience in both inpatient psychiatric settings and outpatient settings that have included mental health agencies and an expanding private practice. I have a specialty in the spectrum of Addiction, Codependency, and Recovery, as well as Dual Diagnosis clients who struggle with mood disorders, or a traumatic event history while seeking sobriety. I offer treatment using insight enhancing, behavioral and cognitive therapies; as well as spirituality and systems theory approaches to address mood, situational, self-esteem, loss, and relationship problems. I see clients in individual, couple, and family modalties, and am available to faciltate interventions for significant others.
(910) 665-7684 View (910) 665-7684

See more therapy options for Castle Hayne

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.