Depression Therapists in Erwin, NC
![Photo of Christa G Reid, MSW, LCSW-A, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f74ce2a8-5025-4c96-819c-f6c2a15e6dd8/2/320x400.png)
Christa G Reid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Erwin, NC 28339
Areas of strength include diagnosing and treating trauma due to abuse and neglect, helping children overcome anxiety and depression, and working with children and families affected by divorce.
Life can knock you down and keep you there if you let it. I have been a social worker for 18 years, working alongside children and families to preserve wholeness and solidity while providing coping skills, intervention, and case management. I believe for every storm in our life, there is a bright rainbow at the end. Sometimes, we need a nonjudgmental person to lend an ear while discussing our past traumas, hurt, and issues we have endured. Therapy should be focusing on the healing of the past and moving forward to become the best version of ourselves, find our purpose and live it to the fullest.
Areas of strength include diagnosing and treating trauma due to abuse and neglect, helping children overcome anxiety and depression, and working with children and families affected by divorce.
Life can knock you down and keep you there if you let it. I have been a social worker for 18 years, working alongside children and families to preserve wholeness and solidity while providing coping skills, intervention, and case management. I believe for every storm in our life, there is a bright rainbow at the end. Sometimes, we need a nonjudgmental person to lend an ear while discussing our past traumas, hurt, and issues we have endured. Therapy should be focusing on the healing of the past and moving forward to become the best version of ourselves, find our purpose and live it to the fullest.
![Photo of Amy Beasley, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/568b5c88-c392-465f-8cc6-be3206389399/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with depression? Don’t know how to deal with anxiety? Experienced a trauma that you don’t know how to process? Experiencing burn out from life in general? Looking for someone to vent to? If you said yes to any of these questions, message me to see if I can help! I have experience working with all ages with a variety of circumstances. Don’t suffer alone. Let me help you.
Are you struggling with depression? Don’t know how to deal with anxiety? Experienced a trauma that you don’t know how to process? Experiencing burn out from life in general? Looking for someone to vent to? If you said yes to any of these questions, message me to see if I can help! I have experience working with all ages with a variety of circumstances. Don’t suffer alone. Let me help you.
![Photo of Terri Proctor, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae601c5a-6848-4a12-89d0-4cc373d1ae9f/1/320x400.png)
I enjoy working with college students and adult individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions (college, relocation, divorce, retirement, etc.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, it is an honor to provide a warm, nurturing and safe environment for clients looking for answers and hope. Living life is a journey, and the healing process during difficult and challenging times is made easier when it is shared with a trusted person. I am passionate about walking alongside others, providing a non-judgmental presence and offering therapeutic support to work towards a better sense of peace and well-being. If you're looking for understanding, compassion, and practical, evidence-based help, it would be a privilege to work together with you.
I enjoy working with college students and adult individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions (college, relocation, divorce, retirement, etc.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, it is an honor to provide a warm, nurturing and safe environment for clients looking for answers and hope. Living life is a journey, and the healing process during difficult and challenging times is made easier when it is shared with a trusted person. I am passionate about walking alongside others, providing a non-judgmental presence and offering therapeutic support to work towards a better sense of peace and well-being. If you're looking for understanding, compassion, and practical, evidence-based help, it would be a privilege to work together with you.
![Photo of Richard Beasley, MA, BCPC, BCLC, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e54e961-067c-4a0a-bc20-d09dad7f758e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing a sense of disconnection from yourself and those around you? Do you often prioritize others' needs over your own? Are you questioning why life doesn't feel as fulfilling or joyful as you hoped? In today's uncertain times, many people are grappling with feelings of anxiety and overwhelm, unsure of how to navigate their relationships, careers, and overall well-being. Ignoring your own needs and neglecting self-care can have lasting consequences on your mental and physical health. I believe that achieving a better quality of life shouldn't feel like an uphill battle.
Are you experiencing a sense of disconnection from yourself and those around you? Do you often prioritize others' needs over your own? Are you questioning why life doesn't feel as fulfilling or joyful as you hoped? In today's uncertain times, many people are grappling with feelings of anxiety and overwhelm, unsure of how to navigate their relationships, careers, and overall well-being. Ignoring your own needs and neglecting self-care can have lasting consequences on your mental and physical health. I believe that achieving a better quality of life shouldn't feel like an uphill battle.
![Photo of Donald Jackson - New Direction YFS, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cdc2b57-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
New Direction YFS
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erwin, NC 28339 (Online Only)
Hello and thank you for visiting our page. New Direction YFS is a specialty practice dedicated to serving children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Our focus is to deliver high-quality therapy treatment, testing, and consultations from our team. Ahora aceptamos nuevos clientes! Llame hoy para programar su cita.
Hello and thank you for visiting our page. New Direction YFS is a specialty practice dedicated to serving children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Our focus is to deliver high-quality therapy treatment, testing, and consultations from our team. Ahora aceptamos nuevos clientes! Llame hoy para programar su cita.
![Photo of Amber B Benton, MA, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dff8126-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amber B Benton
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erwin, NC 28339
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be difficult and challenging. My commitment as your therapist is to create a safe and supportive space to develop trust and maintain confidentiality. Through my training and experience, my hope is to empower and encourage you to channel your internal resources in an effort to better cope with the struggles you are facing. I see you as the real "expert" of your life, and believe you have the capabilities necessary for change. I believe in a holistic approach to growth and healing that takes into consideration our relationships, social and cultural backgrounds, physical health, and spirituality.
Life can be difficult and challenging. My commitment as your therapist is to create a safe and supportive space to develop trust and maintain confidentiality. Through my training and experience, my hope is to empower and encourage you to channel your internal resources in an effort to better cope with the struggles you are facing. I see you as the real "expert" of your life, and believe you have the capabilities necessary for change. I believe in a holistic approach to growth and healing that takes into consideration our relationships, social and cultural backgrounds, physical health, and spirituality.
![Photo of Alexandra (Alexa) Barth, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/091095ff-0d4a-42cb-954d-b921e2018bc4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra (Alexa) Barth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Erwin, NC 28339 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are like many of my clients, you’ve been through a lot; you've fought to get to this point in life, are driven, and consider yourself a hard-earned-version of personal success in continuous process. Having already done a lot of personal work on yourself, you’ve begun to realize there are some things that you thought you dealt with and put to bed, but for some reason they have started popping up again. You may have an established meditation or self care practice and are noticing some new emotional static. Your established skills don’t seem to be doing the trick and you need help navigating how to move forward.
If you are like many of my clients, you’ve been through a lot; you've fought to get to this point in life, are driven, and consider yourself a hard-earned-version of personal success in continuous process. Having already done a lot of personal work on yourself, you’ve begun to realize there are some things that you thought you dealt with and put to bed, but for some reason they have started popping up again. You may have an established meditation or self care practice and are noticing some new emotional static. Your established skills don’t seem to be doing the trick and you need help navigating how to move forward.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Tiffany Rogers, LCMHCS, NCC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45b23d1f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
Ever felt alone, rejected or misunderstood? Or simply just felt overwhelmed with many obstacles coming at once? If you have, you are not the only one, nor are you in this by yourself. In fact, I believe that it is my duty and my obligation to give you support and help you realize that there is a way to get your life back, to become a better you! Regardless if it is addiction, depression, anxiety or just overall life- you can overcome whatever you are facing with the right tools , skills and support.
![Photo of Kristin Hammond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a8e048e-f72c-4b52-96e8-4392035ef0b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
There are times when life can really throw us some nasty curveballs. It's hard some days to even put one foot in front of another. Our joy can quickly vanish and be replaced by fear and sadness. I know that struggle. I was diagnosed with a significant health issue three years ago which led to horrible depression and anxiety . Now, I truly have a better understanding of where my clients are coming from and just how heavy depression and anxiety can be to carry. I also know it's possible to get your joy and peace of mind back. Whatever your struggles are, they can improve and I would be honored to help guide your path.
There are times when life can really throw us some nasty curveballs. It's hard some days to even put one foot in front of another. Our joy can quickly vanish and be replaced by fear and sadness. I know that struggle. I was diagnosed with a significant health issue three years ago which led to horrible depression and anxiety . Now, I truly have a better understanding of where my clients are coming from and just how heavy depression and anxiety can be to carry. I also know it's possible to get your joy and peace of mind back. Whatever your struggles are, they can improve and I would be honored to help guide your path.
![Photo of Robin West Ambrosini, MA, EdS, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0714df8-a1ab-4c75-8ebb-929bf7c0ecfa/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer culturally sensitive counseling for adults who are searching for healing in their lives. My passion driven specialized focus is prenatal and postpartum distress. Another major focus of my work is on generalized anxiety, depression, OCD, and life transitions.
I offer culturally sensitive counseling for adults who are searching for healing in their lives. My passion driven specialized focus is prenatal and postpartum distress. Another major focus of my work is on generalized anxiety, depression, OCD, and life transitions.
![Photo of Charlene J Baca, MSW, ASW, LCSWA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b71292cf-0a22-48f0-a72f-fb40c92b09a0/4/320x400.jpeg)
Charlene J Baca
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dunn, NC 28334
Other areas: Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unable to cope with life? Zoom right in, and I will reserve a space for you. I am prepared to listen, motivate, and help you resolve the difficult challenges in your life. Whatever struggles you are going through, I am here to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to take back your life. The first step is to get to know you and your current needs so that I can help you accomplish your life goals.
Other areas: Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unable to cope with life? Zoom right in, and I will reserve a space for you. I am prepared to listen, motivate, and help you resolve the difficult challenges in your life. Whatever struggles you are going through, I am here to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to take back your life. The first step is to get to know you and your current needs so that I can help you accomplish your life goals.
![Photo of James Adkins - TriCare Counseling & Consulting, Inc.](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9e9215-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We help clients with relationship difficulties, Spirituality, emerging adults, boundary issues, communication challenges, Grief, Depression, Self-esteem difficulties, Issues with food and body image, Family counseling, Play therapy, School-related issues, behaviour issues ADHD.
TriCare Counseling and Consulting started accepting clients in 2010 as a practice that partners with professionals to form a caring team dedicated to improving the qualify of life for children, adolescents, and adults who deal with mental health disorders. Our therapists are available for individual, couples, and family therapy. We have a culturally competent staff and have had great success working with clients regardless of background or lifestyle orientation. We address issues of spirituality, identity formation, and self-actualization. We accept clients ages 4 and up. Psychological Evaluations are available. We have offices in Raleigh, Dunn, and Fayetteville in NC.
We help clients with relationship difficulties, Spirituality, emerging adults, boundary issues, communication challenges, Grief, Depression, Self-esteem difficulties, Issues with food and body image, Family counseling, Play therapy, School-related issues, behaviour issues ADHD.
TriCare Counseling and Consulting started accepting clients in 2010 as a practice that partners with professionals to form a caring team dedicated to improving the qualify of life for children, adolescents, and adults who deal with mental health disorders. Our therapists are available for individual, couples, and family therapy. We have a culturally competent staff and have had great success working with clients regardless of background or lifestyle orientation. We address issues of spirituality, identity formation, and self-actualization. We accept clients ages 4 and up. Psychological Evaluations are available. We have offices in Raleigh, Dunn, and Fayetteville in NC.
![Photo of Taria Bonaparte, MA, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89f29350-10b1-4469-8186-ed8cc4b8ab69/3/320x400.jpeg)
Taria Bonaparte
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Benson, NC 27504
Making the decision to seek therapy can be hard and can take time. I’m here to say you are doing well today by taking this step. If you allow, my staff and I can be a guide for you to address what has led you here. We can help you learn how to manage emotions you are struggling with, decisions you are afraid to make, and work through other barriers you decide to share. We work with adults that experience depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal/marital conflict, and anger. Therapy can become an essential part of your life, whether short-term or long-term. Follow the link to schedule an intake. www.therapyportal.com/p/mindful27577/
Making the decision to seek therapy can be hard and can take time. I’m here to say you are doing well today by taking this step. If you allow, my staff and I can be a guide for you to address what has led you here. We can help you learn how to manage emotions you are struggling with, decisions you are afraid to make, and work through other barriers you decide to share. We work with adults that experience depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal/marital conflict, and anger. Therapy can become an essential part of your life, whether short-term or long-term. Follow the link to schedule an intake. www.therapyportal.com/p/mindful27577/
![Photo of Dawn K Clark, MS, LMHC, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a73258d-7483-44d9-932f-2f254726cb02/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn K Clark
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Godwin, NC 28344 (Online Only)
My name is Dawn Clark, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 27 years of clinical experience. My primary focal point is adults and couples with Anxiety, Depression, Women's Issues, Sexual Orientation, Trauma, and PTSD. I focus on helping and encouraging individuals., not treating a disorder. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, Coaching, Couples Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapies during treatments with my clients. I believe that I am very direct and open-minded, and no one should ever feel out of place in a relationship.
My name is Dawn Clark, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 27 years of clinical experience. My primary focal point is adults and couples with Anxiety, Depression, Women's Issues, Sexual Orientation, Trauma, and PTSD. I focus on helping and encouraging individuals., not treating a disorder. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, Coaching, Couples Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapies during treatments with my clients. I believe that I am very direct and open-minded, and no one should ever feel out of place in a relationship.
![Photo of Payton Austin, LCMHCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e8bc841-e6d3-4689-8cbf-44f19c9faa87/2/320x400.jpeg)
Payton Austin
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bunnlevel, NC 28323 (Online Only)
Are depression, anxiety, or stress clouding your days? You are not alone, and there's a path toward relief. I offer personalized support to help you navigate these challenges. I understand how these difficulties you experience can take a toll on your life. With tailored strategies and empathetic guidance, I aim to empower you to reclaim joy and peace. Through virtual sessions, we'll work together to unravel the complexities, provide coping mechanisms, and foster resilience. You deserve a brighter tomorrow, and I'm here to walk this journey with you.
Are depression, anxiety, or stress clouding your days? You are not alone, and there's a path toward relief. I offer personalized support to help you navigate these challenges. I understand how these difficulties you experience can take a toll on your life. With tailored strategies and empathetic guidance, I aim to empower you to reclaim joy and peace. Through virtual sessions, we'll work together to unravel the complexities, provide coping mechanisms, and foster resilience. You deserve a brighter tomorrow, and I'm here to walk this journey with you.
![Photo of Meagan Blews, MA, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a34c1b0-257b-4c58-9dc2-09e8f1ec383b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meagan Blews
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Dunn, NC 28335 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Meagan Blews, and I am a trauma-informed licensed clinical therapist dedicated to helping you overcome obstacles in your life preventing you from reaching your full potential, whether it be anxiety, depression, low self esteem or just feeling stuck. With extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), I provide comprehensive and empathetic care. My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in trauma-informed principles, ensuring you feel safe, seen, and supported throughout you healing journey.
Welcome! My name is Meagan Blews, and I am a trauma-informed licensed clinical therapist dedicated to helping you overcome obstacles in your life preventing you from reaching your full potential, whether it be anxiety, depression, low self esteem or just feeling stuck. With extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), I provide comprehensive and empathetic care. My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in trauma-informed principles, ensuring you feel safe, seen, and supported throughout you healing journey.
![Photo of Rachel Hewitt, MSW, LCSW-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5168722-0d23-4522-8c4a-caa73269cb2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide support to individuals facing various challenges, including life transitions, stressful family dynamics, divorce, chronic illness, as well as, emotional struggles such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss.
I provide support to individuals, children & families facing various challenges, including life transitions, stressful family dynamics, divorce, chronic illness, as well as, emotional struggles such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss. A personalized approach is used, combining various evidence based methods to fit each client’s unique needs. My approach also integrates body based somatic techniques and expressive art therapies to address these concerns holistically. I also provide Christian counseling based on Biblical values based on client preferences.
I provide support to individuals facing various challenges, including life transitions, stressful family dynamics, divorce, chronic illness, as well as, emotional struggles such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss.
I provide support to individuals, children & families facing various challenges, including life transitions, stressful family dynamics, divorce, chronic illness, as well as, emotional struggles such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss. A personalized approach is used, combining various evidence based methods to fit each client’s unique needs. My approach also integrates body based somatic techniques and expressive art therapies to address these concerns holistically. I also provide Christian counseling based on Biblical values based on client preferences.
![Photo of Dana Washington, LCMHCA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/474d9d54-9b0d-49cb-8c51-9381423a8a66/1/320x400.png)
Now accepting clients. Please check your email after submitting your counseling inquiry. At my practice, I welcome a diverse client population, each seeking compassionate guidance for a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, binge eating, and stress-related conditions. I believe it is important that clients find new motivations to understand themselves better, acquire new skills, and work towards holistic well-being. Together, we can explore these needs and goals, fostering a collaborative journey toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Now accepting clients. Please check your email after submitting your counseling inquiry. At my practice, I welcome a diverse client population, each seeking compassionate guidance for a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, binge eating, and stress-related conditions. I believe it is important that clients find new motivations to understand themselves better, acquire new skills, and work towards holistic well-being. Together, we can explore these needs and goals, fostering a collaborative journey toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Donna Marie Rogers, LCMHC-S, NCC, CCTP, CCMC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d14b85f1-bee1-4e00-aa51-b47c29c273d9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donna Marie Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC-S, NCC, CCTP, CCMC
Verified Verified
Lillington, NC 27546 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, National Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Military Counselor, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have been trained through UNC TEACCH to work with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. I am trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Human Givens. I have been trained to work with individuals with ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, autism, etc. Sessions tend to run 45-53 minutes, once a week. I will provide coping skills, symptom management, and ways to work through the life issues bringing clients in for help.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, National Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Military Counselor, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have been trained through UNC TEACCH to work with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. I am trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Human Givens. I have been trained to work with individuals with ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, autism, etc. Sessions tend to run 45-53 minutes, once a week. I will provide coping skills, symptom management, and ways to work through the life issues bringing clients in for help.
![Photo of Alysann Whitley Price, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17a47ec1-2120-4552-a5d2-90df7444e07e/1/320x400.png)
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
See more therapy options for Erwin
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Erwin
- Angier
- Benson
- Broadway
- Dunn
- Fayetteville
- Fort Bragg
- Fuquay Varina
- Holly Springs
- Lillington
- Smithfield
- Spring Lake
- Willow Spring
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.