Depression Therapists in Chapel Hill, NC

Photo of Christopher Stephens, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Psychotherapy is a collaborative experience in which you take an in-depth look at your life, perspectives and behaviors and explore what may or may not be working with a trained professional. Each individual experiences life in one's own unique way, with one's own set of personal values and goals. Sometimes life circumstances can create a conflict with a person's values. Sometimes people try their best and cannot change the way they feel. "Good people" can experience depression, anxiety, anger, grief, substance abuse, trauma and other circumstances, which, with the assistance of a trained professional, can be resolved.
Psychotherapy is a collaborative experience in which you take an in-depth look at your life, perspectives and behaviors and explore what may or may not be working with a trained professional. Each individual experiences life in one's own unique way, with one's own set of personal values and goals. Sometimes life circumstances can create a conflict with a person's values. Sometimes people try their best and cannot change the way they feel. "Good people" can experience depression, anxiety, anger, grief, substance abuse, trauma and other circumstances, which, with the assistance of a trained professional, can be resolved.
(919) 249-7217 View (919) 249-7217
Photo of Diane R Dolan-Soto, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane R Dolan-Soto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I can help you move beyond daily stress, worry, depression, anxiety or trauma to enjoy life, to nurture yourself and your goals. I provide solution focused, strength based, cognitive behavioral, insight oriented, mindfulness and mind body stress reduction skill approaches. CALL for counseling.
I can help you move beyond daily stress, worry, depression, anxiety or trauma to enjoy life, to nurture yourself and your goals. I provide solution focused, strength based, cognitive behavioral, insight oriented, mindfulness and mind body stress reduction skill approaches. CALL for counseling.
(919) 335-5155 View (919) 335-5155
Photo of Morgan L Barlow, MPH, SEP, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan L Barlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, SEP, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is one of collaboration, curiosity, humor and warmth, using an anti-oppression framework. As a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I bring empathy, skill and understanding with how to carefully engage and shift the effects of stress, grief, anxiety, depression and past traumas. Navigating relationships, identity questions and adjusting to life transitions is a significant part of this work. I welcome working with clients from all cultural, class, ethnic, racial and religious backgrounds; abilities; gender identities; and sexual orientations.
My approach is one of collaboration, curiosity, humor and warmth, using an anti-oppression framework. As a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I bring empathy, skill and understanding with how to carefully engage and shift the effects of stress, grief, anxiety, depression and past traumas. Navigating relationships, identity questions and adjusting to life transitions is a significant part of this work. I welcome working with clients from all cultural, class, ethnic, racial and religious backgrounds; abilities; gender identities; and sexual orientations.
(919) 752-3019 View (919) 752-3019
Photo of Zemzem Amme, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Zemzem Amme
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
My name is Zemzem Amme, I'm a licensed clinical mental health counselor associate. I have been working in the mental health field for ten years, with both adults and adolescents aged 12 and older. My area of expertise are individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, anger issues, developmental transitions, trauma, OCD, and substance abuse.
My name is Zemzem Amme, I'm a licensed clinical mental health counselor associate. I have been working in the mental health field for ten years, with both adults and adolescents aged 12 and older. My area of expertise are individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, anger issues, developmental transitions, trauma, OCD, and substance abuse.
(919) 642-1418 View (919) 642-1418
Photo of Jonora Jones, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Jonora Jones
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Waitlist for new clients
Is your past getting in the way of creating a better future? I’m a potential sherpa on your therapy journey. You are the expert on your life! My work is to teach, ask the right questions, and probe so that your wisdom becomes accessible to you. My trauma- and mindfulness-informed, culturally responsive approach to counseling is primarily based upon CBT, EMDR, Somatic Therapy, DBT. I am an EMDR Certified (EMDRIA) therapist. I work with adults with diagnoses such as post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety, among others. I work with clients from various backgrounds, including BIPOC and LGBTQ+.
Is your past getting in the way of creating a better future? I’m a potential sherpa on your therapy journey. You are the expert on your life! My work is to teach, ask the right questions, and probe so that your wisdom becomes accessible to you. My trauma- and mindfulness-informed, culturally responsive approach to counseling is primarily based upon CBT, EMDR, Somatic Therapy, DBT. I am an EMDR Certified (EMDRIA) therapist. I work with adults with diagnoses such as post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety, among others. I work with clients from various backgrounds, including BIPOC and LGBTQ+.
(919) 582-5838 View (919) 582-5838
Photo of Kevin Metz, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Kevin Metz
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
I provide individual, couples, and family counseling, and my work spans a variety of issues: depression, anxiety, marital/family challenges, substance abuse, social challenges, AD/HD, gender identity, phobias, and ASD.
My approach to psychotherapy is that of a humanist; that is, successful therapy results in your continued evolution into your true self. My therapeutic style is gentle and engaged, and I respect your intelligence. I strive to provide an atmosphere of care and compassion which allows you to curiously explore what events, past and present are contributing to your challenges. It's important to me to take the time to understand your values and desires so that our work is grounded in how you see yourself.
I provide individual, couples, and family counseling, and my work spans a variety of issues: depression, anxiety, marital/family challenges, substance abuse, social challenges, AD/HD, gender identity, phobias, and ASD.
My approach to psychotherapy is that of a humanist; that is, successful therapy results in your continued evolution into your true self. My therapeutic style is gentle and engaged, and I respect your intelligence. I strive to provide an atmosphere of care and compassion which allows you to curiously explore what events, past and present are contributing to your challenges. It's important to me to take the time to understand your values and desires so that our work is grounded in how you see yourself.
(919) 648-4087 View (919) 648-4087
Photo of Laura E Francis-Thorp, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura E Francis-Thorp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Sessions include opportunities to creatively and holistically address symptoms of depression and anxiety, work through trauma, grief and loss, and develop strong coping strategies (mental, physical, and spiritual) to move forward with hope.
Are you having difficulty with life circumstances, relationships, or your own emotions and reactions? Are some things tough to navigate with familiar ways of coping? Perhaps you're longing for a fresh perspective but needing space to sort out the subtle nuances. I offer a supportive listening environment that promotes safety, freedom of expression, compassion, and new possibilities. Together, we identify ways to recognize repeating patterns and reorient approaches. In this process, I seek to incorporate the mind-body-spirit connection, recognizing that each person is multifaceted, unique, wonderful, and full of potential.
Sessions include opportunities to creatively and holistically address symptoms of depression and anxiety, work through trauma, grief and loss, and develop strong coping strategies (mental, physical, and spiritual) to move forward with hope.
Are you having difficulty with life circumstances, relationships, or your own emotions and reactions? Are some things tough to navigate with familiar ways of coping? Perhaps you're longing for a fresh perspective but needing space to sort out the subtle nuances. I offer a supportive listening environment that promotes safety, freedom of expression, compassion, and new possibilities. Together, we identify ways to recognize repeating patterns and reorient approaches. In this process, I seek to incorporate the mind-body-spirit connection, recognizing that each person is multifaceted, unique, wonderful, and full of potential.
(919) 629-1445 View (919) 629-1445
Photo of Troy Lantz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Troy Lantz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Most people with anxiety or depression don’t realize how their negative self-talk keeps them down and actually deepens their anxiety or depression. After working with me, my clients identify and reverse the effects of their negative self-talk, start feeling energized and motivated to do the things they used to enjoy, and are able to experience the simple joys of being alive again.
Most people with anxiety or depression don’t realize how their negative self-talk keeps them down and actually deepens their anxiety or depression. After working with me, my clients identify and reverse the effects of their negative self-talk, start feeling energized and motivated to do the things they used to enjoy, and are able to experience the simple joys of being alive again.
(919) 336-2912 View (919) 336-2912
Photo of Zakiya Futrell, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Zakiya Futrell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, relational concerns, life transitions, or if you are wanting to explore your identity I am here to assist you.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!! Hello. My name is Zakiya Futrell and I am excited to become a part of your journey. My primary goal as your counselor is to ensure that as my client you feel safe, comfortable, and empowered. I work with late teens, young adults, and older adults utilizing person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches within my counseling practice.
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, relational concerns, life transitions, or if you are wanting to explore your identity I am here to assist you.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!! Hello. My name is Zakiya Futrell and I am excited to become a part of your journey. My primary goal as your counselor is to ensure that as my client you feel safe, comfortable, and empowered. I work with late teens, young adults, and older adults utilizing person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches within my counseling practice.
(919) 948-1335 View (919) 948-1335
Photo of Bradley S Manton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bradley S Manton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I specialize in depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
If you are struggling with relationships and life changing events, if you feel trapped in a never ending feeling of helplessness or anger, I can help you find your path back to a stable and safe place. For almost 20 years, I have guided patients to reflection and introspection, where I have empowered them to use the appropriate tools to manage, control and overcome their depression, their overwhelming feelings of loss or self destruction. Sadly enough, these are all to common life struggles arisen from work stress and/or abuse, life changes such as divorce and separation, or remains of a lost childhood.
I specialize in depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
If you are struggling with relationships and life changing events, if you feel trapped in a never ending feeling of helplessness or anger, I can help you find your path back to a stable and safe place. For almost 20 years, I have guided patients to reflection and introspection, where I have empowered them to use the appropriate tools to manage, control and overcome their depression, their overwhelming feelings of loss or self destruction. Sadly enough, these are all to common life struggles arisen from work stress and/or abuse, life changes such as divorce and separation, or remains of a lost childhood.
(919) 259-4554 View (919) 259-4554
Photo of Ashley Tucker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Tucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
Ashley Tucker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist with 8 years experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Ashley specializes in working with clients to manage their depression, anxiety, substance use concerns, and grief/loss/trauma, as well as help adults overcome major life transitions. Ashley is originally from Panama City, FL but grew up in Morehead City, NC, completing her Bachelor of Social Work at North Carolina State University and her Master of Social Work at East Carolina University.
Ashley Tucker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist with 8 years experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Ashley specializes in working with clients to manage their depression, anxiety, substance use concerns, and grief/loss/trauma, as well as help adults overcome major life transitions. Ashley is originally from Panama City, FL but grew up in Morehead City, NC, completing her Bachelor of Social Work at North Carolina State University and her Master of Social Work at East Carolina University.
(919) 336-1613 View (919) 336-1613
Photo of Mackenzie Gibson, LCSWA
Mackenzie Gibson
LCSW Associate, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I work with individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidal ideation, self-harm, stress, anger as well as other mental health problems.
Welcome! I commend you for taking the step to seek therapy as it is an act of courage and self-care. By reaching out for support, you are prioritizing your well-being and demonstrating a commitment to your self-development. As a therapist, I am dedicated to supporting individuals like you on their journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I aim to create a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences freely.
I work with individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidal ideation, self-harm, stress, anger as well as other mental health problems.
Welcome! I commend you for taking the step to seek therapy as it is an act of courage and self-care. By reaching out for support, you are prioritizing your well-being and demonstrating a commitment to your self-development. As a therapist, I am dedicated to supporting individuals like you on their journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I aim to create a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences freely.
(984) 266-2267 View (984) 266-2267
Photo of Rachel Marshall, LCMHC, NCC
Rachel Marshall
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Exposure Therapy, Seeking Safety, Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy (children ages 3-12), Anxiety, Depression, and Related Disorders, Systemic Family and Couples Therapy, Co-parenting and Blended Families, Sports and Executive Performance, ADHD/Executive Functioning Training.
Rachel has been working with adults, children, couples,and adolescents in a mental health capacity since 2003. She tries to meet people where they are at and maintain a nonjudgmental approach to helping each person she serves in a unique and supportive way. She has been licensed since 2010 and in private practice since 2012. She has had the opportunity to train with world renowned experts in her field. In addition to creating her own personalized approach to treating trauma Rachel is also trained in the following evidence based treatment modalities:
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Exposure Therapy, Seeking Safety, Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy (children ages 3-12), Anxiety, Depression, and Related Disorders, Systemic Family and Couples Therapy, Co-parenting and Blended Families, Sports and Executive Performance, ADHD/Executive Functioning Training.
Rachel has been working with adults, children, couples,and adolescents in a mental health capacity since 2003. She tries to meet people where they are at and maintain a nonjudgmental approach to helping each person she serves in a unique and supportive way. She has been licensed since 2010 and in private practice since 2012. She has had the opportunity to train with world renowned experts in her field. In addition to creating her own personalized approach to treating trauma Rachel is also trained in the following evidence based treatment modalities:
(919) 343-9726 View (919) 343-9726
Photo of Kendra A. Surmitis, PhD, LPC, NCC
Kendra A. Surmitis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I am suited to treat a variety of personal and relational concerns including: anxiety, personality issues, depression, relationship concerns, and the impact of trauma.
My name is Dr. Kendra A. Surmitis, and I provide a comfortable, private space for individuals seeking personalized counseling, mindfulness, dream work, and psychoanalysis. Do you wonder about the impact of your early relationships on your ability to enjoy your life and relationships today? Are you interested to learn more about your personality and avenues for greater life fulfillment? We will work together to find meaningful answers to your deepest questions while supporting your quality of life. I invite you to visit my private practice website for information and to contact me for a complimentary consultation.
I am suited to treat a variety of personal and relational concerns including: anxiety, personality issues, depression, relationship concerns, and the impact of trauma.
My name is Dr. Kendra A. Surmitis, and I provide a comfortable, private space for individuals seeking personalized counseling, mindfulness, dream work, and psychoanalysis. Do you wonder about the impact of your early relationships on your ability to enjoy your life and relationships today? Are you interested to learn more about your personality and avenues for greater life fulfillment? We will work together to find meaningful answers to your deepest questions while supporting your quality of life. I invite you to visit my private practice website for information and to contact me for a complimentary consultation.
(984) 207-3191 View (984) 207-3191
Photo of Stephanie M Bittle - Stephanie Bittle, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Bittle, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Are you a woman ages 22- 80 who struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Parenting issues, Grief/Loss, Relationship and Body Image Issues? I enjoy working with women in a safe and comforting space, guiding them through their feelings of self-doubt and insecurity. Our emotions are complex, and carrying this weight alone can lead to burnout or depression. Let’s work together to grow your relationship with yourself, feel empowered, and heal childhood wounds.
Are you a woman ages 22- 80 who struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Parenting issues, Grief/Loss, Relationship and Body Image Issues? I enjoy working with women in a safe and comforting space, guiding them through their feelings of self-doubt and insecurity. Our emotions are complex, and carrying this weight alone can lead to burnout or depression. Let’s work together to grow your relationship with yourself, feel empowered, and heal childhood wounds.
(919) 551-3337 View (919) 551-3337
Photo of Lisa Dumain, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Dumain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I'm comfortable working with issues such as depression, anxiety, life transitions, values clarification, domestic violence, trauma history, parenting issues, and other family or relationship dynamics.
I believe therapy should be a collaborative effort between client and therapist. While I may share some evidenced-based ideas during our sessions, only you are the expert on what works for you. My sessions will generally follow a cognitive behavioral approach, meaning that we will examine, and possibly shift, your thoughts and perspectives on life situations that are causing you enough distress to want to pursue change. Together we will form a plan of action that is the right fit for you at this point in time.
I'm comfortable working with issues such as depression, anxiety, life transitions, values clarification, domestic violence, trauma history, parenting issues, and other family or relationship dynamics.
I believe therapy should be a collaborative effort between client and therapist. While I may share some evidenced-based ideas during our sessions, only you are the expert on what works for you. My sessions will generally follow a cognitive behavioral approach, meaning that we will examine, and possibly shift, your thoughts and perspectives on life situations that are causing you enough distress to want to pursue change. Together we will form a plan of action that is the right fit for you at this point in time.
(919) 436-2122 View (919) 436-2122
Photo of Greg Welikson, PhD, Psychologist
Greg Welikson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I feel privileged to help clients become more connected with themselves and others, experience symptom reduction, and develop more satisfying relationships. A caring, understanding, and empathetic therapeutic relationship is the foundation of my work with clients, and I am proud that past clients have expressed feeling safe, cared for, and accepted when working with me. I have extensive experience working with clients who have or are currently experiencing, anxiety, depression, relationship distress, loneliness, trauma, academic or career distress, identity development, and/or difficult life transitions.
I feel privileged to help clients become more connected with themselves and others, experience symptom reduction, and develop more satisfying relationships. A caring, understanding, and empathetic therapeutic relationship is the foundation of my work with clients, and I am proud that past clients have expressed feeling safe, cared for, and accepted when working with me. I have extensive experience working with clients who have or are currently experiencing, anxiety, depression, relationship distress, loneliness, trauma, academic or career distress, identity development, and/or difficult life transitions.
(919) 887-9547 View (919) 887-9547
Photo of Lauren Cardwell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Cardwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
She has a special interest in people experiencing chronic illness, grief and loss, medical professional burn out, perinatal and postpartum depression, and the special needs population.
****Not accepting new clients***Lauren Cardwell, MSW, LCSW is a clinical therapist.. She believes that being a human is hard and messy, but that people have the capability to be resilient. She is passionate about helping others make positive changes in their own timing. Her approach to therapy is strengths-based and a collaborative experience between her and her clients. Her goal of therapy is to help clients feel seen and heard in their experiences. She utilizes Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is trauma-focused. She is LBGTQ+ affirming and works with individuals, children, adults, couples, and families.
She has a special interest in people experiencing chronic illness, grief and loss, medical professional burn out, perinatal and postpartum depression, and the special needs population.
****Not accepting new clients***Lauren Cardwell, MSW, LCSW is a clinical therapist.. She believes that being a human is hard and messy, but that people have the capability to be resilient. She is passionate about helping others make positive changes in their own timing. Her approach to therapy is strengths-based and a collaborative experience between her and her clients. Her goal of therapy is to help clients feel seen and heard in their experiences. She utilizes Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is trauma-focused. She is LBGTQ+ affirming and works with individuals, children, adults, couples, and families.
(919) 679-9691 View (919) 679-9691
Photo of Larron Lee - Lee Consulting Group of NC, PLLC, MS, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lee Consulting Group of NC, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD, and relational discord).
Life happens to all of us, unfortunately, what to do when it does is a question that stumps many of us. Sometimes it's an unexpected phone call or experience that alters the trajectory of life, leaving us gripped by defeat, anxiety, and despair. Other times, it's the pain of past wounds (or sometimes present)/trauma caused by someone who was supposed to love and protect us that weighs on us like a ton of bricks, stifling our ability to move forward. At LCG of NC, we hear you, feel you, and we believe that with the right support, you can achieve, overcome, improve, defy, and ultimately win in life.
depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD, and relational discord).
Life happens to all of us, unfortunately, what to do when it does is a question that stumps many of us. Sometimes it's an unexpected phone call or experience that alters the trajectory of life, leaving us gripped by defeat, anxiety, and despair. Other times, it's the pain of past wounds (or sometimes present)/trauma caused by someone who was supposed to love and protect us that weighs on us like a ton of bricks, stifling our ability to move forward. At LCG of NC, we hear you, feel you, and we believe that with the right support, you can achieve, overcome, improve, defy, and ultimately win in life.
(984) 409-9009 View (984) 409-9009
Photo of Rachael Lark Revelle, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachael Lark Revelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Professionally, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My specialties include issues of abuse/trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief and spiritual issues involving women, adolescents, families, and individuals. I also have a heart for integrating faith in the counseling process, working with clients in crisis, and seeing clients understand their true identities and thrive in their current life situations. My goal, through counseling is to provide a safe environment for individuals, allowing them to identify with themselves and reach maximum potential through changing their thoughts and behaviors. My work experience includes time at Carolina Outreach, providing assessments and counseling.
Professionally, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My specialties include issues of abuse/trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief and spiritual issues involving women, adolescents, families, and individuals. I also have a heart for integrating faith in the counseling process, working with clients in crisis, and seeing clients understand their true identities and thrive in their current life situations. My goal, through counseling is to provide a safe environment for individuals, allowing them to identify with themselves and reach maximum potential through changing their thoughts and behaviors. My work experience includes time at Carolina Outreach, providing assessments and counseling.
(919) 374-3049 View (919) 374-3049

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.