Depression Therapists in Cherokee, NC

Photo of Christina Earley, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Earley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Cherokee, NC 28719
Warm welcome! Would you like to soothe overwhelming thoughts or feelings? Feel more calm and present in the now? My purpose is to help you find relief from anxiety, depression, or trauma that prevents you from experiencing a life worth living. We would collaborate together to treat whatever is on your list of priorities; examples include helping with anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Autism, school issues, depression, mood, low self-esteem or career goals. I work with children, teenagers, and adults from all walks of life. My style is evidence-based, non-judgmental, and sincere.
Warm welcome! Would you like to soothe overwhelming thoughts or feelings? Feel more calm and present in the now? My purpose is to help you find relief from anxiety, depression, or trauma that prevents you from experiencing a life worth living. We would collaborate together to treat whatever is on your list of priorities; examples include helping with anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Autism, school issues, depression, mood, low self-esteem or career goals. I work with children, teenagers, and adults from all walks of life. My style is evidence-based, non-judgmental, and sincere.
(828) 540-2641 View (828) 540-2641
Photo of Brooklynn Ledford, MSW, LCSWA
Brooklynn Ledford
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cherokee, NC 28719
Areas of Specialization include: grounding, boundaries, mindfulness, depression, trauma, anxiety, coping skills, and PTSD.
Currently taking new clients! Is life feeling difficult right now and hard to manage? You're in the right place and I'm so glad you're taking this step! I specialize in working with youth of all ages, from elementary age to teenagers. I take a casual, fun and relatable approach to therapy that allows youth to feel more comfortable in the space. I enjoy helping youth find their voice, improving communication and the quality of their relationships, becoming more mindful in daily practices, etc. I'm passionate about collaborating with kids and their families to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other challenging life phases.
Areas of Specialization include: grounding, boundaries, mindfulness, depression, trauma, anxiety, coping skills, and PTSD.
Currently taking new clients! Is life feeling difficult right now and hard to manage? You're in the right place and I'm so glad you're taking this step! I specialize in working with youth of all ages, from elementary age to teenagers. I take a casual, fun and relatable approach to therapy that allows youth to feel more comfortable in the space. I enjoy helping youth find their voice, improving communication and the quality of their relationships, becoming more mindful in daily practices, etc. I'm passionate about collaborating with kids and their families to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other challenging life phases.
(828) 761-7516 View (828) 761-7516
Photo of Kelly “Zoe” Pruitt, LCMHC, Counselor
Kelly “Zoe” Pruitt
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cherokee, NC 28719  (Online Only)
I consider my therapeutic approach as “eclectic” and draws upon multiple theoretical orientations and techniques, including behavioral and person-centered therapy. This therapeutic approach can help patients in dealing with anxiety, depression, eating & personality disorders, trauma, and many other issues. My relatable and “non-judgmental” approach includes developing a trusting clinical alliance early on in the treatment process with clients.
I consider my therapeutic approach as “eclectic” and draws upon multiple theoretical orientations and techniques, including behavioral and person-centered therapy. This therapeutic approach can help patients in dealing with anxiety, depression, eating & personality disorders, trauma, and many other issues. My relatable and “non-judgmental” approach includes developing a trusting clinical alliance early on in the treatment process with clients.
(984) 300-3936 View (984) 300-3936
Photo of Tom Wilmot, MS, LPC, Counselor
Tom Wilmot
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cherokee, NC 28719
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS (Telehealth - available) Discussing personal challenges can often be difficult. The fact is that "life can be difficult", and there are times we all requre help "aligning our compass". Finding a therapist can be an important step in one's search for a "life worth living". For 10 years I have worked to develop compassion and empathy in assisting individuals and the families that have solicited my support in meeting the challenges and stressful situations that seems to be an unavoidable part of life.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS (Telehealth - available) Discussing personal challenges can often be difficult. The fact is that "life can be difficult", and there are times we all requre help "aligning our compass". Finding a therapist can be an important step in one's search for a "life worth living". For 10 years I have worked to develop compassion and empathy in assisting individuals and the families that have solicited my support in meeting the challenges and stressful situations that seems to be an unavoidable part of life.
(678) 984-7676 View (678) 984-7676
Photo of Melanie Norman, MS, LPC, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melanie Norman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Cherokee, NC 28719  (Online Only)
You are doing life--going to work, to school--but it's not easy! And it's exhausting presenting as if all's OK all the time: to put on the smile, to muster the energy. But that little voice still whispers negativity in the back of your head: All. The. Damn. Time. You don't know how to take appreciation, much less see it in yourself. You don't know how to say no. And you just want some peace and the sense that you exist outside the needs of others.
You are doing life--going to work, to school--but it's not easy! And it's exhausting presenting as if all's OK all the time: to put on the smile, to muster the energy. But that little voice still whispers negativity in the back of your head: All. The. Damn. Time. You don't know how to take appreciation, much less see it in yourself. You don't know how to say no. And you just want some peace and the sense that you exist outside the needs of others.
(828) 705-3498 View (828) 705-3498

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brooke Leann Coggins, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Brooke Leann Coggins
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bryson City, NC 28713  (Online Only)
My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Grief, Self Esteem, Trauma, and mood related disorders.
Fun and empathetic therapist here to help you navigate life's challenges. My goal is to provide you with a space free of judgment and full of support no matter what you are going through. If it is processing grief, needing someone to vent too, or learning new skills, I am here for you. I am here to support you as a team finding ways you can live the happy, healthy, and fulfilling life that you deserve. I help facilitate healing while also getting to the root of what's bringing chaos in your life. I meet my clients where they are at mentally and emotionally. You are individual and unique and I tailor each session to meet your needs.
My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Grief, Self Esteem, Trauma, and mood related disorders.
Fun and empathetic therapist here to help you navigate life's challenges. My goal is to provide you with a space free of judgment and full of support no matter what you are going through. If it is processing grief, needing someone to vent too, or learning new skills, I am here for you. I am here to support you as a team finding ways you can live the happy, healthy, and fulfilling life that you deserve. I help facilitate healing while also getting to the root of what's bringing chaos in your life. I meet my clients where they are at mentally and emotionally. You are individual and unique and I tailor each session to meet your needs.
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Photo of Eric Buell, LMHC
Eric Buell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bryson City, NC 28713
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with six years of experience. I specialize in the areas of depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship issues, trauma, and PTSD. I utilize a range of modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, interpersonal therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy. My purpose is to provide a place to show up exactly as you are, feeling welcome to share and process your experiences.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with six years of experience. I specialize in the areas of depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship issues, trauma, and PTSD. I utilize a range of modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, interpersonal therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy. My purpose is to provide a place to show up exactly as you are, feeling welcome to share and process your experiences.
(980) 295-1332 View (980) 295-1332
Photo of Lauren Roth, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bryson City, NC 28713
I work with couples and individuals and support relationship concerns, trauma, depression, anxiety, etc. I have found effective growth and change is rooted in a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. In my holistic approach, I evaluate and challenge the mind, body and emotions. This provides external skills and internal growth that makes for lasting effects in relationship and within self. I truly believe that people are resilient. When someone is motivated to change, given the opportunity to be understood, validated and compassionately challenged, they can meet their therapy goals.
I work with couples and individuals and support relationship concerns, trauma, depression, anxiety, etc. I have found effective growth and change is rooted in a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. In my holistic approach, I evaluate and challenge the mind, body and emotions. This provides external skills and internal growth that makes for lasting effects in relationship and within self. I truly believe that people are resilient. When someone is motivated to change, given the opportunity to be understood, validated and compassionately challenged, they can meet their therapy goals.
(828) 770-8652 View (828) 770-8652
Photo of Sandy Salter Mahar - Dayspring International Counseling , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dayspring International Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Whittier, NC 28789
I work with adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, grief (particularly child loss and infertility), relational issues, life transitions and spiritual direction.
Hello! I am glad that you are seeking help at this time; I respect your courage to reach out. I believe that you have a very unique and precious life story. Sometimes life takes unexpected, unwanted turns that can be challenging, and, at times, overwhelming or even devastating. For different reasons, it can sometimes be difficult to fully share all that you’re experiencing with those around you, including close family members. My desire is to be a safe place for you to experience acceptance, understanding and comfort so that you may begin a new, hopeful chapter that includes healing and growth.
I work with adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, grief (particularly child loss and infertility), relational issues, life transitions and spiritual direction.
Hello! I am glad that you are seeking help at this time; I respect your courage to reach out. I believe that you have a very unique and precious life story. Sometimes life takes unexpected, unwanted turns that can be challenging, and, at times, overwhelming or even devastating. For different reasons, it can sometimes be difficult to fully share all that you’re experiencing with those around you, including close family members. My desire is to be a safe place for you to experience acceptance, understanding and comfort so that you may begin a new, hopeful chapter that includes healing and growth.
(828) 807-9334 View (828) 807-9334
Photo of Nancy J Marts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy J Marts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bryson City, NC 28713
I see life as a journey. Sometimes we get in a rut and have difficulty getting out, or sometimes we think we are on the right road and things turn out differently than expected, leaving us devastated and not knowing how or what to change. At times, we are unaware of our repeated patterns or how early life experiences have affected us. We usually do the best we can with what skills we have. Sometimes, we have to change our unhelpful coping skills and develop strategies and skills that will help us be happier and more functional people. Life is a journey, let's take it one step at a time.
I see life as a journey. Sometimes we get in a rut and have difficulty getting out, or sometimes we think we are on the right road and things turn out differently than expected, leaving us devastated and not knowing how or what to change. At times, we are unaware of our repeated patterns or how early life experiences have affected us. We usually do the best we can with what skills we have. Sometimes, we have to change our unhelpful coping skills and develop strategies and skills that will help us be happier and more functional people. Life is a journey, let's take it one step at a time.
(828) 492-3207 View (828) 492-3207
Photo of Paula Anderson Demonet, MS, LCMHCS, NCC, Counselor
Paula Anderson Demonet
Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryson City, NC 28713
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy meeting people right where they are in this wild and wonderful experience, we call life. It is important that you feel heard, understood, and accepted for who you are and what you have already experienced. I work to help you resolve underlying negative beliefs and patterns that are getting in the way of who you were always meant to be. Your authentic self. Whether your pain stems from traumatic experiences, attachment wounds, or emotional needs that aren’t being met, therapy can help you sit with the pain while still building a meaningful and rich life.
I enjoy meeting people right where they are in this wild and wonderful experience, we call life. It is important that you feel heard, understood, and accepted for who you are and what you have already experienced. I work to help you resolve underlying negative beliefs and patterns that are getting in the way of who you were always meant to be. Your authentic self. Whether your pain stems from traumatic experiences, attachment wounds, or emotional needs that aren’t being met, therapy can help you sit with the pain while still building a meaningful and rich life.
(828) 622-4643 View (828) 622-4643
Photo of Elizabeth Littlefield, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Littlefield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bryson City, NC 28713
Not accepting new clients
I work with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, and attachment disorders.
Life can sometimes be overwhelming and we just don’t know how to move forward. Therapy provides a safe, supportive place to regroup, experience nonjudgmental support, and take back the control you have been searching for. While talking to someone can be uncomfortable and sometimes daunting, finding the right therapist that can guide and encourage you will help make lasting transformation in your life.
I work with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, and attachment disorders.
Life can sometimes be overwhelming and we just don’t know how to move forward. Therapy provides a safe, supportive place to regroup, experience nonjudgmental support, and take back the control you have been searching for. While talking to someone can be uncomfortable and sometimes daunting, finding the right therapist that can guide and encourage you will help make lasting transformation in your life.
(828) 662-3258 View (828) 662-3258
Photo of Jessica Chastain Tewell, MSW, MDiv, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Chastain Tewell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MDiv, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bryson City, NC 28713  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I understand that life can take us through some tough and unexpected turns. My goal is to support you as you navigate these challenges, whether you're going through a big life change, managing stress, or just looking to understand yourself better.
I understand that life can take us through some tough and unexpected turns. My goal is to support you as you navigate these challenges, whether you're going through a big life change, managing stress, or just looking to understand yourself better.
(828) 492-3653 View (828) 492-3653

Online Therapists

Photo of Toya Hauf, MSW, LCSW, TLS-CP, TLHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toya Hauf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, TLS-CP, TLHT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with mood, confidence, relationship, or productivity concerns, I bring a compassionate, results-oriented approach to help you experience a higher quality of life. I specialize in personal achievement, while addressing anxiety, depression, maladaptive habits and behaviors, and interpersonal situations that may be keeping you from your fullest potential. With decades of experience creating change and positive outcomes as a business owner and life coach, now as a psychotherapist I provide you an environment to confidently and comfortably reach your best self.
If you are struggling with mood, confidence, relationship, or productivity concerns, I bring a compassionate, results-oriented approach to help you experience a higher quality of life. I specialize in personal achievement, while addressing anxiety, depression, maladaptive habits and behaviors, and interpersonal situations that may be keeping you from your fullest potential. With decades of experience creating change and positive outcomes as a business owner and life coach, now as a psychotherapist I provide you an environment to confidently and comfortably reach your best self.
(828) 826-1418 View (828) 826-1418
Photo of Ron Whicker, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ron Whicker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28792
In my experience, I find that I am a good fit for clients who are interested in exploring their own internal processes, are at least mildly self-driven, and are into exploring existential truths. I've been helpful to those who deal with depression, anxiety, self-image issues/negative self beliefs, trauma, grief, and other needs.
In my experience, I find that I am a good fit for clients who are interested in exploring their own internal processes, are at least mildly self-driven, and are into exploring existential truths. I've been helpful to those who deal with depression, anxiety, self-image issues/negative self beliefs, trauma, grief, and other needs.
(828) 373-2680 View (828) 373-2680
Photo of Tina Okpych, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Tina Okpych
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28791
I primarily work with young adults, adults, and adolescents and provide individual counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, and many additional concerns.
I enjoy working with individuals as they navigate their way through challenging life experiences. I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients are able to develop a better understanding of themselves and their world. I feel it is imperative to form relationships built on trust, and believe that real progress can only be achieved when such a relationship exists.
I primarily work with young adults, adults, and adolescents and provide individual counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, and many additional concerns.
I enjoy working with individuals as they navigate their way through challenging life experiences. I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients are able to develop a better understanding of themselves and their world. I feel it is imperative to form relationships built on trust, and believe that real progress can only be achieved when such a relationship exists.
(828) 501-0918 View (828) 501-0918
Photo of Mary Edson, MA, LCMHC
Mary Edson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with a variety of people and specialize in complex trauma, attachment wounding, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, PTSD, and identity exploration.
Welcome! I offer telehealth to individuals, couples and groups in NC, SC and FL. Counseling offers a safe, nonjudgmental, space for exploring the psyche, finding meaning in challenging life events, and experiencing a sense of hope. The counseling process can be creative and exciting, and at times, it can be difficult. I seek to be open, supportive, curious, and responsive to my clients as they navigate their journey. I lean toward a psychodynamic psychotherapy model, exploring how our attachment styles, family stories, coping mechanisms, and unconscious layers of thoughts and feelings influence our present day life.
I enjoy working with a variety of people and specialize in complex trauma, attachment wounding, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, PTSD, and identity exploration.
Welcome! I offer telehealth to individuals, couples and groups in NC, SC and FL. Counseling offers a safe, nonjudgmental, space for exploring the psyche, finding meaning in challenging life events, and experiencing a sense of hope. The counseling process can be creative and exciting, and at times, it can be difficult. I seek to be open, supportive, curious, and responsive to my clients as they navigate their journey. I lean toward a psychodynamic psychotherapy model, exploring how our attachment styles, family stories, coping mechanisms, and unconscious layers of thoughts and feelings influence our present day life.
(828) 457-8853 View (828) 457-8853
Photo of Audrey Tanner, LCMHC, LCAS
Audrey Tanner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with folks struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem or self-worth, substance abuse or addiction, and trauma.
Hi, I’m Audrey! I’m so glad you’re considering therapy. Self-exploration and healing is important and courageous work, and finding the right therapist makes all the difference. I am warm and compassionate yet direct in my approach. There may be days where you need me to listen and help untangle your thoughts and feelings, and there may be other days where you need more dialogue, suggestions, or feedback. I am here for all of it! I am client-centered and attachment-focused in my work: I value the goals you want to set for yourself and believe the therapeutic relationship is most important in how counseling can help you heal.
I enjoy working with folks struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem or self-worth, substance abuse or addiction, and trauma.
Hi, I’m Audrey! I’m so glad you’re considering therapy. Self-exploration and healing is important and courageous work, and finding the right therapist makes all the difference. I am warm and compassionate yet direct in my approach. There may be days where you need me to listen and help untangle your thoughts and feelings, and there may be other days where you need more dialogue, suggestions, or feedback. I am here for all of it! I am client-centered and attachment-focused in my work: I value the goals you want to set for yourself and believe the therapeutic relationship is most important in how counseling can help you heal.
(828) 373-6102 View (828) 373-6102
Photo of Bobby D Messer, MA, LCMHC
Bobby D Messer
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I offer a focused approach on male gender issues, especially male type depression and life transition.
I focus on helping people with ADHD retake control of their lives. It can take a lot of courage to ask for help when struggling or feeling hopeless. I believe in the ability and potential of all persons to live happy and fulfilling lives. I promote holistic health and wellness through the components of both mind and body. I work to aid you in fostering hope and meaning in your life, now and for the future. I encourage clients to set attainable goals and work closely with my clients to find value and meaning in life and gain greater life satisfaction and happiness through addressing cognitive, emotional and behavioral factors.
I offer a focused approach on male gender issues, especially male type depression and life transition.
I focus on helping people with ADHD retake control of their lives. It can take a lot of courage to ask for help when struggling or feeling hopeless. I believe in the ability and potential of all persons to live happy and fulfilling lives. I promote holistic health and wellness through the components of both mind and body. I work to aid you in fostering hope and meaning in your life, now and for the future. I encourage clients to set attainable goals and work closely with my clients to find value and meaning in life and gain greater life satisfaction and happiness through addressing cognitive, emotional and behavioral factors.
(828) 622-4086 View (828) 622-4086
Photo of Victoria Baxter, LCMHC, Counselor
Victoria Baxter
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I am Victoria "Vicky" Baxter, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with 7 years of experience providing services to individuals of all ages—children, adolescents, and adults—as well as couples and families. My clinical background includes working at the Charlie Norwood VA, where I treated veterans of all ages facing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. I also served low SES populations at a Community Service Board in Georgia, treating severe and persistent mental health issues.
I am Victoria "Vicky" Baxter, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with 7 years of experience providing services to individuals of all ages—children, adolescents, and adults—as well as couples and families. My clinical background includes working at the Charlie Norwood VA, where I treated veterans of all ages facing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. I also served low SES populations at a Community Service Board in Georgia, treating severe and persistent mental health issues.
(984) 203-9639 View (984) 203-9639

See more therapy options for Cherokee

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.