Depression Therapists in Durham, NC

Photo of Remisha Jones, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Remisha Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I specialize in helping individuals with anxiety, depression, self esteem, family conflict etc.
Everyone thinks you have it all together but in reality, you’re exhausted. Life is weighing you down and you desire peace & balance within but it seems unobtainable. The fear of judgment forces you to suppress your feelings. It seems like there's no one you can trust and feel vulnerable with and share your deepest thoughts and fears out loud. You manage to push through every day and find yourself feeling tired, alone, and frustrated because no one understands and shows up for you when you need it the most. It's time for a change, but figuring out where to start is a challenge for you.
I specialize in helping individuals with anxiety, depression, self esteem, family conflict etc.
Everyone thinks you have it all together but in reality, you’re exhausted. Life is weighing you down and you desire peace & balance within but it seems unobtainable. The fear of judgment forces you to suppress your feelings. It seems like there's no one you can trust and feel vulnerable with and share your deepest thoughts and fears out loud. You manage to push through every day and find yourself feeling tired, alone, and frustrated because no one understands and shows up for you when you need it the most. It's time for a change, but figuring out where to start is a challenge for you.
(919) 918-0982 View (919) 918-0982
Photo of Ella Smith, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ella Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27703  (Online Only)
I’m Ella Smith, a licensed therapist with a focus on grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and PTSD. My clients often come to me facing a range of emotional challenges, including overwhelming sadness, intense worry, or difficulties adjusting to major life changes. They are seeking relief from their struggles and a safe space to explore their feelings, aiming to regain a sense of balance and well-being in their lives. Many of my clients want to understand their emotions more deeply and find effective ways to manage them. They seek support in navigating their personal journeys and achieving a more fulfilling and stable life.
I’m Ella Smith, a licensed therapist with a focus on grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and PTSD. My clients often come to me facing a range of emotional challenges, including overwhelming sadness, intense worry, or difficulties adjusting to major life changes. They are seeking relief from their struggles and a safe space to explore their feelings, aiming to regain a sense of balance and well-being in their lives. Many of my clients want to understand their emotions more deeply and find effective ways to manage them. They seek support in navigating their personal journeys and achieving a more fulfilling and stable life.
(984) 217-5275 View (984) 217-5275
Photo of Ping-Tzu Lee, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ping-Tzu Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704
Changes often raise fear and curiosity. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are full of curiosities and who are willing to explore unknowns and perceive unknowns as gifts. I am interested in supporting clients’ fear related to changes, and helping clients work on variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, traumas, identity development (e.g., sexual orientation and cultural identities), etc. Prior to arriving in the US, I was a mental health provider in Taiwan. In my early career, I practiced child play therapy and animal-assisted psychotherapy.
Changes often raise fear and curiosity. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are full of curiosities and who are willing to explore unknowns and perceive unknowns as gifts. I am interested in supporting clients’ fear related to changes, and helping clients work on variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, traumas, identity development (e.g., sexual orientation and cultural identities), etc. Prior to arriving in the US, I was a mental health provider in Taiwan. In my early career, I practiced child play therapy and animal-assisted psychotherapy.
(919) 752-3997 View (919) 752-3997
Photo of Marita Malm Morgan, PhD, MA, LCMHC
Marita Malm Morgan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
Life is not easy; it might feel that sometimes you are in a swirl of negative emotions that you cannot find a way to get out of it. Because of this, you might have been struggling with depression, anxiety, and stress. You might feel that past experiences are interfering with your current life, not allowing you to feel joy, have healthy relationships, and develop a healthy self. You might be wondering, how can I feel better? What can I do? Well, this is your first step, seeking help.
Life is not easy; it might feel that sometimes you are in a swirl of negative emotions that you cannot find a way to get out of it. Because of this, you might have been struggling with depression, anxiety, and stress. You might feel that past experiences are interfering with your current life, not allowing you to feel joy, have healthy relationships, and develop a healthy self. You might be wondering, how can I feel better? What can I do? Well, this is your first step, seeking help.
(919) 635-1006 View (919) 635-1006
Photo of Portia Kresse, LCMHC
Portia Kresse
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
I believe everyone deserves love, respect, and acceptance simply for who they are. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients, allowing them to explore their concerns and work toward personal growth. I specialize in adjustment disorders, relationship challenges, marriage counseling, mood disorders, anxiety, and depression.
I believe everyone deserves love, respect, and acceptance simply for who they are. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients, allowing them to explore their concerns and work toward personal growth. I specialize in adjustment disorders, relationship challenges, marriage counseling, mood disorders, anxiety, and depression.
(984) 370-5258 View (984) 370-5258
Photo of Cessel Jewon Boyd - C.J. Boyd Christian Counseling Services, PLLC, Counselor
C.J. Boyd Christian Counseling Services, PLLC
Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701  (Online Only)
Specialties: Divorce Recovery, Grief and Bereavement, Depression, Anxiety, Couples Issues, Parenting Concerns, Substance Use Disorders and Recovery, Blended Family Issues, Stress Management and Women's Issues.
As a group practice we are honored to provide Mental Health and Substance Abuse Recovery Services with a Christ centered worldview, because it takes Faith and Courage to believe your life can be transformed! The basis of our counseling perspective is a spiritual one and is first mentioned in Leviticus 19:18 of the Bible; it tells us to "love thy neighbor as thy self". This principle is the basis for our counseling perspective. With this frame-work, it is our desire to improve one's Biological, Psychological, Social and Spiritual functioning through partnership, as individuals navigate life's challenges.
Specialties: Divorce Recovery, Grief and Bereavement, Depression, Anxiety, Couples Issues, Parenting Concerns, Substance Use Disorders and Recovery, Blended Family Issues, Stress Management and Women's Issues.
As a group practice we are honored to provide Mental Health and Substance Abuse Recovery Services with a Christ centered worldview, because it takes Faith and Courage to believe your life can be transformed! The basis of our counseling perspective is a spiritual one and is first mentioned in Leviticus 19:18 of the Bible; it tells us to "love thy neighbor as thy self". This principle is the basis for our counseling perspective. With this frame-work, it is our desire to improve one's Biological, Psychological, Social and Spiritual functioning through partnership, as individuals navigate life's challenges.
(984) 204-6596 View (984) 204-6596
Pat B Webster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I work with people who suffer with depression, anxiety, life transition issues, want help in their marital or couples relationship, some sexual issues and other areas of needed support.
The goal of Psychotherapy is to feel and function better in the world. That's what I help my clients do. I have been in practice for 40+ years, and have trained broadly and deeply in experiential, interpersonal and couples therapy. Before I was a psychologist, I was a nurse, and offer that background in helping as well. I bring the wisdom and insight of years of practice and life experience.
I work with people who suffer with depression, anxiety, life transition issues, want help in their marital or couples relationship, some sexual issues and other areas of needed support.
The goal of Psychotherapy is to feel and function better in the world. That's what I help my clients do. I have been in practice for 40+ years, and have trained broadly and deeply in experiential, interpersonal and couples therapy. Before I was a psychologist, I was a nurse, and offer that background in helping as well. I bring the wisdom and insight of years of practice and life experience.
(919) 323-8015 View (919) 323-8015
Photo of Orlando Dowdy, DMin, MDiv, Pastoral Counselor
Orlando Dowdy
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, MDiv
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704
Of particular interest are, cultural, family and systemic concerns, those suffering with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship crisis, changes in life, anger management, crossroads in one's faith and clergy in crisis.
I am a therapist who believes in the authenticity of each person's struggles as they encounter them in their journey through life. I seek to help others in the curing of their souls through psychotherapy. I make every effort to provide a therapeutic environment that is non-judgmental, supportive, safe, nurturing and empathic. Making the decision to come to counseling can be difficult and overwhelming. It's a privilege for me to be present with you in this process. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to email or call.
Of particular interest are, cultural, family and systemic concerns, those suffering with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship crisis, changes in life, anger management, crossroads in one's faith and clergy in crisis.
I am a therapist who believes in the authenticity of each person's struggles as they encounter them in their journey through life. I seek to help others in the curing of their souls through psychotherapy. I make every effort to provide a therapeutic environment that is non-judgmental, supportive, safe, nurturing and empathic. Making the decision to come to counseling can be difficult and overwhelming. It's a privilege for me to be present with you in this process. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to email or call.
(919) 975-5892 View (919) 975-5892
Photo of Kristin Huang, EdD, Psychologist
Kristin Huang
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist who works to help clients overcome adversity, cope with emotional difficulties, and achieve important life goals. My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, flexible, and informed by evidence-based practices. I provide individual psychotherapy for adults and adolescents to address a range of issues, including trauma- and stress-related difficulties, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
I am a clinical psychologist who works to help clients overcome adversity, cope with emotional difficulties, and achieve important life goals. My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, flexible, and informed by evidence-based practices. I provide individual psychotherapy for adults and adolescents to address a range of issues, including trauma- and stress-related difficulties, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
(919) 842-5272 View (919) 842-5272
Photo of Katie da Luz, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie da Luz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults, persons experiencing substance use and addiction, dual-diagnosis, general life stressors, and anxiety and depression.
I believe the relationship between you and your therapist is fundamental to the therapeutic process. I focus on concepts of trust and creating a safe environment so you feel free to process thoughts, develop healthy coping skills, and focus on reducing, managing and eliminating symptoms. I emphasize open and honest communication while maintaining a non-judgmental approach throughout treatment. I will create and support an individualized experience for you and center the therapeutic process on your personal goals.
I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults, persons experiencing substance use and addiction, dual-diagnosis, general life stressors, and anxiety and depression.
I believe the relationship between you and your therapist is fundamental to the therapeutic process. I focus on concepts of trust and creating a safe environment so you feel free to process thoughts, develop healthy coping skills, and focus on reducing, managing and eliminating symptoms. I emphasize open and honest communication while maintaining a non-judgmental approach throughout treatment. I will create and support an individualized experience for you and center the therapeutic process on your personal goals.
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Photo of Sophia Dorton Caudle, PhD, LCMHC-S, CSAT-S, CST, CTCT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sophia Dorton Caudle
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, CSAT-S, CST, CTCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
I specialize in relationship & intimacy issues, sex and porn addiction, partners of addicts, couples counseling, substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, and compulsive behaviors.
In my clinical practice, I work with adults regarding a wide range of life's emotional and behavioral challenges, and provide services in the areas of trauma, attachment, sex addiction, love addiction, internet and pornography addiction, sex therapy, couples therapy, problematic compulsive behaviors, grief/loss, and more. I offer a highly personalized approach and utilize research based and effective techniques tailored to each of my clients' individual needs to support their personal growth and overall peace and well-being.
I specialize in relationship & intimacy issues, sex and porn addiction, partners of addicts, couples counseling, substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, and compulsive behaviors.
In my clinical practice, I work with adults regarding a wide range of life's emotional and behavioral challenges, and provide services in the areas of trauma, attachment, sex addiction, love addiction, internet and pornography addiction, sex therapy, couples therapy, problematic compulsive behaviors, grief/loss, and more. I offer a highly personalized approach and utilize research based and effective techniques tailored to each of my clients' individual needs to support their personal growth and overall peace and well-being.
(919) 382-0288 View (919) 382-0288
Photo of Tasha Cadet, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tasha Cadet
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
I aim to provide a welcoming and non-judgmental environment as we work together to help you challenge unhelpful patterns, develop self-compassion, and address underlying elements that contribute to anxiety, depression, grief, and more.
Do you ever feel like you're losing yourself amidst the seasons of life, such as new parenthood, changing careers, or adjusting to college? Perhaps you're feeling stuck and overwhelmed with daily tasks or struggling to cope with a recent loss. Whatever your reason for being here, I'm glad that you're taking the first step towards finding support and regaining your confidence. My expertise lies in assisting motivated adults and couples navigate significant life changes by empowering them to be more attuned to their emotions and develop supportive skills towards self-acceptance and "wholeness".
I aim to provide a welcoming and non-judgmental environment as we work together to help you challenge unhelpful patterns, develop self-compassion, and address underlying elements that contribute to anxiety, depression, grief, and more.
Do you ever feel like you're losing yourself amidst the seasons of life, such as new parenthood, changing careers, or adjusting to college? Perhaps you're feeling stuck and overwhelmed with daily tasks or struggling to cope with a recent loss. Whatever your reason for being here, I'm glad that you're taking the first step towards finding support and regaining your confidence. My expertise lies in assisting motivated adults and couples navigate significant life changes by empowering them to be more attuned to their emotions and develop supportive skills towards self-acceptance and "wholeness".
(984) 646-5642 View (984) 646-5642
Photo of Daniel T Perry, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel T Perry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
I am a counselor who understands how it feels to sit in front of a therapist, that is why compassion is important to me. Vulnerability can be difficult, but we can create a safe space so when you're ready, we can change the difficulties interfering with your wants. That is therapy, getting what you need to get what you want. For example, depression has different flavors, but it keeps us from engaging fully in life and/or losing focus on what our dreams are. Whatever you are seeking to make life better and better, I am here to help. In person sessions can be scheduled on a limited basis but Telehealth with be offered on going.
I am a counselor who understands how it feels to sit in front of a therapist, that is why compassion is important to me. Vulnerability can be difficult, but we can create a safe space so when you're ready, we can change the difficulties interfering with your wants. That is therapy, getting what you need to get what you want. For example, depression has different flavors, but it keeps us from engaging fully in life and/or losing focus on what our dreams are. Whatever you are seeking to make life better and better, I am here to help. In person sessions can be scheduled on a limited basis but Telehealth with be offered on going.
(919) 584-8684 View (919) 584-8684
Photo of Dr. William Rodriguez Psy. D, PsyD
Dr. William Rodriguez Psy. D
PsyD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
People come to therapy because they want to feel better. Maybe it's relationship problems or anxiety/ depression, but whatever the reason, life has become uncomfortable or painfull. Most people want more understanding of themselves and their situation. That being said change is what we all seek in therapy.Making your life work better is the goal. My therapy will help you alter self-defeating ways, get a more realistic and accurate perspective, gain insight that leads to improving the quality of your life.
People come to therapy because they want to feel better. Maybe it's relationship problems or anxiety/ depression, but whatever the reason, life has become uncomfortable or painfull. Most people want more understanding of themselves and their situation. That being said change is what we all seek in therapy.Making your life work better is the goal. My therapy will help you alter self-defeating ways, get a more realistic and accurate perspective, gain insight that leads to improving the quality of your life.
(919) 648-0455 View (919) 648-0455
Photo of Dr. Audrina Jones Bunton, MA, LCMHCS, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Audrina Jones Bunton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, PhD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
My specialties include depression, anxiety and trauma.
Do you experience hopelessness, feeling that your circumstances will never get better? Do you feel sad and down, longing to experience joy and happiness? Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed, longing for the day to find emotional relief? Have you experienced a traumatic life event, and feel stuck, unable to move forward in your life? Born number seven of eight children, to parents committed to helping others, I knew that I too was called as a helper. A compassionate, empathetic Licensed Professional Counselor and Christian Counselor with over 20 years' experience, my desire is to provide you with hope, healing, and restoration.
My specialties include depression, anxiety and trauma.
Do you experience hopelessness, feeling that your circumstances will never get better? Do you feel sad and down, longing to experience joy and happiness? Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed, longing for the day to find emotional relief? Have you experienced a traumatic life event, and feel stuck, unable to move forward in your life? Born number seven of eight children, to parents committed to helping others, I knew that I too was called as a helper. A compassionate, empathetic Licensed Professional Counselor and Christian Counselor with over 20 years' experience, my desire is to provide you with hope, healing, and restoration.
(919) 246-8585 View (919) 246-8585
Photo of Kelly “Zoe” Pruitt, LCMHC, Counselor
Kelly “Zoe” Pruitt
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713  (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 Brenda Mullis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Mullis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
With 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker, I specialize in treating mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other behavioral health issues. Patients seek a supportive and understanding environment where they can address their struggles and work towards improving their overall well-being and I tent to provide them with this space. My main focus is to manage their symptoms, understand and process their emotions, develop healthier coping mechanisms, achieve a sense of well-being, and increase their self-esteem so that they can lead happier, healthier lives.
With 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker, I specialize in treating mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and other behavioral health issues. Patients seek a supportive and understanding environment where they can address their struggles and work towards improving their overall well-being and I tent to provide them with this space. My main focus is to manage their symptoms, understand and process their emotions, develop healthier coping mechanisms, achieve a sense of well-being, and increase their self-esteem so that they can lead happier, healthier lives.
(919) 261-7186 View (919) 261-7186
Photo of Stephanie Nilsen, PhD, Psychologist
Stephanie Nilsen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I help with a variety of concerns, including managing life overwhelm, anxiety and depression, improving relationships and setting boundaries, building self-esteem, life transitions and personal growth.
Sometimes we all need extra support to navigate life’s ups and downs. As a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I provide a safe and caring space where you can talk openly and begin to make the changes in your life that you desire. Therapy can help you see patterns in your life that may be causing you pain or holding you back and discover new ways to move forward. My style is warm, empathic, and interactive—I believe in providing honest feedback and practical strategies that empower you to make meaningful changes.
I help with a variety of concerns, including managing life overwhelm, anxiety and depression, improving relationships and setting boundaries, building self-esteem, life transitions and personal growth.
Sometimes we all need extra support to navigate life’s ups and downs. As a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I provide a safe and caring space where you can talk openly and begin to make the changes in your life that you desire. Therapy can help you see patterns in your life that may be causing you pain or holding you back and discover new ways to move forward. My style is warm, empathic, and interactive—I believe in providing honest feedback and practical strategies that empower you to make meaningful changes.
(919) 351-8816 View (919) 351-8816
Photo of Amelia Diane Glenn- Research Triangle Counseling, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Amelia Diane Glenn- Research Triangle Counseling
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27709  (Online Only)
I work with individual adults, adolescents, children, and couples, addressing a wide range of challenges, including but not limited to trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other emotional and behavioral concerns.
My life is a testament that where you start doesn't determine your destiny. Driven by a deep commitment to person-centered care, I’m here to help you uncover and embrace your true, authentic self. The work ahead may be challenging, but it’s a crucial step toward healing and overcoming your past. I’ll support you every step of the way, offering a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable and understood. Let's embark on this important work together.
I work with individual adults, adolescents, children, and couples, addressing a wide range of challenges, including but not limited to trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other emotional and behavioral concerns.
My life is a testament that where you start doesn't determine your destiny. Driven by a deep commitment to person-centered care, I’m here to help you uncover and embrace your true, authentic self. The work ahead may be challenging, but it’s a crucial step toward healing and overcoming your past. I’ll support you every step of the way, offering a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable and understood. Let's embark on this important work together.
(704) 837-1292 View (704) 837-1292
Photo of Alex Lowrie, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Lowrie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27703
I’m Alex Lowrie (she/her), and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. I am an LGBTQIA+ identifying and affirming clinician and am passionate about providing folx of all genders and identities a safe place to land while building comfort, confidence, and safety. I really enjoy exploring gender and sexual identity, working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and folx experiencing trauma, depression, and anxiety. My goal as a therapist in this work is to help make self-exploration feel like the exciting process it is, while being mindful of and honoring that there is often religious, familial, or other trauma linked to identity work.
I’m Alex Lowrie (she/her), and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. I am an LGBTQIA+ identifying and affirming clinician and am passionate about providing folx of all genders and identities a safe place to land while building comfort, confidence, and safety. I really enjoy exploring gender and sexual identity, working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and folx experiencing trauma, depression, and anxiety. My goal as a therapist in this work is to help make self-exploration feel like the exciting process it is, while being mindful of and honoring that there is often religious, familial, or other trauma linked to identity work.
(984) 203-7605 View (984) 203-7605
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Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

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

What happens in therapy for depression?

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

What therapy types help with depression?

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

Can therapy for depression be done online?

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

How effective is therapy for depression?

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