Depression Therapists in Garner, NC

Photo of Atosha McLean - Sacred Spaces Counseling Collective, LCMHC, Counselor
Sacred Spaces Counseling Collective
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
The days of less worry, anxiety, depression and trauma triggers- could be right around the corner! If you show up- I will too.
Hi! My name is Atosha, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and I want you to know that - I see you and I want to help! I understand what it feels like to feel overwhelmed while searching for the answers to help your life FEEL and BE better. I know you have aspirations, desires to know and be your best authentic self. You've read books, listened to podcasts, make promises to yourself and - broke them! You know in your heart that you were made for more, but don't know exactly how to make it happen. You're the reason I became a therapist! I would love to come along side you and help you figure it all out.
The days of less worry, anxiety, depression and trauma triggers- could be right around the corner! If you show up- I will too.
Hi! My name is Atosha, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and I want you to know that - I see you and I want to help! I understand what it feels like to feel overwhelmed while searching for the answers to help your life FEEL and BE better. I know you have aspirations, desires to know and be your best authentic self. You've read books, listened to podcasts, make promises to yourself and - broke them! You know in your heart that you were made for more, but don't know exactly how to make it happen. You're the reason I became a therapist! I would love to come along side you and help you figure it all out.
(984) 265-7668 View (984) 265-7668
Photo of Maurice Edward Fairley, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Maurice Edward Fairley
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Maurice Fairley is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) for the state of North Carolina and National Certified Counselor (NCC). Maurice’s experience includes working with adolescents and adults treating symptoms of trauma, depression, anger and anxiety. Maurice also has over 20 years working with the juvenile justice population at Wake Juvenile Detention Center.
Maurice Fairley is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) for the state of North Carolina and National Certified Counselor (NCC). Maurice’s experience includes working with adolescents and adults treating symptoms of trauma, depression, anger and anxiety. Maurice also has over 20 years working with the juvenile justice population at Wake Juvenile Detention Center.
(919) 849-3561 View (919) 849-3561
Photo of Amy Murray, MSW, LCSW, RYT200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT200
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing difficulties related to depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship problems, work-related stress, or adjusting to a life change? I will work with you to help you to develop skills for coping with these difficulties. I believe that each individual has the strength, wisdom, and ability to heal and to thrive. I will encourage you to embrace and rely on your own inner strength and wisdom and will also guide you in developing new approaches to handling life's stressors.
Are you experiencing difficulties related to depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship problems, work-related stress, or adjusting to a life change? I will work with you to help you to develop skills for coping with these difficulties. I believe that each individual has the strength, wisdom, and ability to heal and to thrive. I will encourage you to embrace and rely on your own inner strength and wisdom and will also guide you in developing new approaches to handling life's stressors.
(919) 249-7216 View (919) 249-7216
Photo of Rebecca Smith, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor
Rebecca Smith
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
Hi! Thanks for visiting my page! There are many reasons you might be looking for a therapist. Maybe you've been feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed. It could be that your relationships or friendships are not what you want them to be. You may be trying to figure out who you are, struggling with something that has happened in your life, or adjusting to a big change. Maybe you simply need to talk to someone you can trust, who won't judge you and will accept you for who you are. Life is full of challenges, especially for young people. Whatever is going on for you, I will support you through it.
Hi! Thanks for visiting my page! There are many reasons you might be looking for a therapist. Maybe you've been feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed. It could be that your relationships or friendships are not what you want them to be. You may be trying to figure out who you are, struggling with something that has happened in your life, or adjusting to a big change. Maybe you simply need to talk to someone you can trust, who won't judge you and will accept you for who you are. Life is full of challenges, especially for young people. Whatever is going on for you, I will support you through it.
(919) 276-8252 View (919) 276-8252
Photo of Diane Spell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Spell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
Dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma or family struggles can be incredibly difficult.
Hello! In case no one has said this to you today or ever: YOU matter. YOU are worthy of moments of joy. YOU have been strong enough to get through 100% of your worst moments. YOU can conquer what comes next. Thank you for considering me to be a part of your journey! How do we know if we are a good match? Here is a snapshot: If you’re dealing with persistent anxiety or depression that’s impacting your daily life, mood, & relationships, I’m here to help. Maybe you are facing trauma-related stress, mood disorders, or the challenges of major life transitions.
Dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma or family struggles can be incredibly difficult.
Hello! In case no one has said this to you today or ever: YOU matter. YOU are worthy of moments of joy. YOU have been strong enough to get through 100% of your worst moments. YOU can conquer what comes next. Thank you for considering me to be a part of your journey! How do we know if we are a good match? Here is a snapshot: If you’re dealing with persistent anxiety or depression that’s impacting your daily life, mood, & relationships, I’m here to help. Maybe you are facing trauma-related stress, mood disorders, or the challenges of major life transitions.
(984) 464-8204 View (984) 464-8204
Photo of Carin Parker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carin Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Solutions-Focused Therapy, and psychotherapy in addition to other treatment modalities in order to assist in decreasing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, behavioral and emotional dysregulation, poor self-esteem, relationship conflict, poor stress management, and severe and persistent mental illness. I aim to assist patients with building effective coping skills. I believe that my skills and kind personality allow the people I serve to feel supported, hopeful, empowered and more capable of addressing and reducing their symptoms.
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Solutions-Focused Therapy, and psychotherapy in addition to other treatment modalities in order to assist in decreasing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, behavioral and emotional dysregulation, poor self-esteem, relationship conflict, poor stress management, and severe and persistent mental illness. I aim to assist patients with building effective coping skills. I believe that my skills and kind personality allow the people I serve to feel supported, hopeful, empowered and more capable of addressing and reducing their symptoms.
(919) 529-5557 View (919) 529-5557
Photo of Emily Chambliss, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Chambliss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults. My experience is primarily with depression, anxiety, and severe and persistent mental illness diagnoses, along with working with folks who are LGBTQIA+ identified. I believe that therapy should be individualized, and encourage clients to be open about what they hope to get out of their experience. I utilizes components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness, while also incorporating a strengths-based lens.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults. My experience is primarily with depression, anxiety, and severe and persistent mental illness diagnoses, along with working with folks who are LGBTQIA+ identified. I believe that therapy should be individualized, and encourage clients to be open about what they hope to get out of their experience. I utilizes components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness, while also incorporating a strengths-based lens.
(984) 206-3678 View (984) 206-3678
Photo of Kathy Elias - Kathy Elias, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Kathy Elias, MA
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
Do you struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, grief or loss, fear, shame or guilt? Do you feel withdrawn or go against your own values to please others, or even lash out sometimes because you don’t know what to do with how you feel? Holding feelings inside can lead to many problems including depression, anxiety, physical illness or ailments, and disconnection from friends and family. Are you your own worst critic and condemn yourself? Do you feel stuck, or lost in life and sometimes wonder who you are? You want to feel better but don't know how to get there.
(919) 443-5817 View (919) 443-5817
Photo of Nicole Kilpatrick - Selah Wellness, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Selah Wellness, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
I've heard it said that it's not the load that breaks you down, but how you carry it. Are you feeling broken down and weary? Are you feeling stuck? Are you feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin and overloaded? What are you carrying? Family conflict, relationship issues, past traumas, grief, life adjustments, anxiety or depression? Your load may have gotten too heavy. I'm Nicole Kilpatrick, owner and primary therapist at Selah Wellness, PLLC, and I am here for you. I'm here to help you set healthy boundaries, develop coping skills and navigate life's challenges. I'm here to help you achieve the life you desire.
I've heard it said that it's not the load that breaks you down, but how you carry it. Are you feeling broken down and weary? Are you feeling stuck? Are you feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin and overloaded? What are you carrying? Family conflict, relationship issues, past traumas, grief, life adjustments, anxiety or depression? Your load may have gotten too heavy. I'm Nicole Kilpatrick, owner and primary therapist at Selah Wellness, PLLC, and I am here for you. I'm here to help you set healthy boundaries, develop coping skills and navigate life's challenges. I'm here to help you achieve the life you desire.
(919) 849-8157 View (919) 849-8157
Photo of George A Tabb - Life Without Limits Inc, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Without Limits Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
If you need help with your anxiety or depression right now, and you don’t want to spend months in the traditional weekly model of therapy treatment.
I am accepting new clients that are looking for Intensive EMDR. Why choose intensive work? The traditional model of weekly psychotherapy is shifting to meet your needs. Now more than ever, we need flexibility in how we get support. EMDR intensives are personalized treatment plans that allow you to skip the waitlist by giving you faster access to select spots, and are designed to support your preferred schedule and timeline for your treatment goals. Perhaps, you need more efficient support as the busy parent with kids doing virtual learning and/or the working professional who has even more on their plate since the pandemic.
If you need help with your anxiety or depression right now, and you don’t want to spend months in the traditional weekly model of therapy treatment.
I am accepting new clients that are looking for Intensive EMDR. Why choose intensive work? The traditional model of weekly psychotherapy is shifting to meet your needs. Now more than ever, we need flexibility in how we get support. EMDR intensives are personalized treatment plans that allow you to skip the waitlist by giving you faster access to select spots, and are designed to support your preferred schedule and timeline for your treatment goals. Perhaps, you need more efficient support as the busy parent with kids doing virtual learning and/or the working professional who has even more on their plate since the pandemic.
(984) 237-2974 View (984) 237-2974
Photo of Julia Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
My name is Julia Smith. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and full time a tele-health therapist who is dedicated to helping individuals enhance their emotional well-being. My areas of clinical expertise include, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I have a wealth of experience treating emotional and behavioral issues affecting teens, parents, and young adults. I possess specialized training in evidenced based practices including: Brainspotting Phase I & II (pursuing certification), Trauma Focused-CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
My name is Julia Smith. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and full time a tele-health therapist who is dedicated to helping individuals enhance their emotional well-being. My areas of clinical expertise include, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I have a wealth of experience treating emotional and behavioral issues affecting teens, parents, and young adults. I possess specialized training in evidenced based practices including: Brainspotting Phase I & II (pursuing certification), Trauma Focused-CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
(919) 769-6377 View (919) 769-6377
Photo of You-Turn Counseling - YOU-Turn Counseling, PLLC
YOU-Turn Counseling, PLLC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Treatment areas include anxiety, depression, life transitions, child behavioral problems, family of origin issues, disordered eating, divorce, grief/loss, PTSD/trauma exposure.
YOU-Turn Counseling is here to help YOU! Our practice has proudly served our community for ten years. Our counselors have extensive training and experience to help treat individuals of all ages: adults, teens, and children. We offer online counseling or in person sessions. Our professional staff are all licensed and excel in treating a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, phase of life or adjustment difficulties; parenting. We conduct ADHD evaluations. Our counselors are genuine in cultivating authentic therapeutic connections to help promote change. Let us help YOU to be your best version of yourself!
Treatment areas include anxiety, depression, life transitions, child behavioral problems, family of origin issues, disordered eating, divorce, grief/loss, PTSD/trauma exposure.
YOU-Turn Counseling is here to help YOU! Our practice has proudly served our community for ten years. Our counselors have extensive training and experience to help treat individuals of all ages: adults, teens, and children. We offer online counseling or in person sessions. Our professional staff are all licensed and excel in treating a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, phase of life or adjustment difficulties; parenting. We conduct ADHD evaluations. Our counselors are genuine in cultivating authentic therapeutic connections to help promote change. Let us help YOU to be your best version of yourself!
(919) 879-2292 View (919) 879-2292
Photo of Ronald J Valentine, PhD, HSP-P, Psychologist
Ronald J Valentine
Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
With over 29 years of post doctoral experience, Dr. Ronald J. Valentine and Associates, P.A. is a comprehensive psychological practice offering outpatient care for adults. Patients often deal with issues of anxiety, depression and grief. He also works with bipolar disorder, panic disorders and stress. Patients may also seek assistance with their spouse or family relationships. Dr. Valentine helps patients make positive changes in their quest for a happier life.
With over 29 years of post doctoral experience, Dr. Ronald J. Valentine and Associates, P.A. is a comprehensive psychological practice offering outpatient care for adults. Patients often deal with issues of anxiety, depression and grief. He also works with bipolar disorder, panic disorders and stress. Patients may also seek assistance with their spouse or family relationships. Dr. Valentine helps patients make positive changes in their quest for a happier life.
(919) 344-0909 View (919) 344-0909
Photo of Tiffany Summers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
You deserve peace and happiness! If you are struggling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to go this alone. Taking the first step towards seeking support is an act of courage and self-care. As a dedicated clinical social worker with a passion for empowering individuals, I am here to support you on your journey toward improved mental well-being and emotional strength.
You deserve peace and happiness! If you are struggling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to go this alone. Taking the first step towards seeking support is an act of courage and self-care. As a dedicated clinical social worker with a passion for empowering individuals, I am here to support you on your journey toward improved mental well-being and emotional strength.
(919) 899-2040 View (919) 899-2040
Photo of Rich McNulty, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Rich McNulty
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
In my practice, I specialize in treating obsessive compulsive and anxiety related disorders, and also enjoy collaborating with youth and adults in the treatment of emotional concerns (depression, anxiety, social anxiety), management of ADHD, or adjustment issues.
Welcome! As a licensed psychologist, I am focused on providing a safe, collaborative space where we can work together to explore concerns, bolster strengths, identify the things that are most important to you, and experience the freedom, courage, and skills to get unstuck from the things that can hook us all. As an evidence-based clinician, I am a strong believer in the benefits of research and seek to tailor the skills of psychological science to your own unique experience.
In my practice, I specialize in treating obsessive compulsive and anxiety related disorders, and also enjoy collaborating with youth and adults in the treatment of emotional concerns (depression, anxiety, social anxiety), management of ADHD, or adjustment issues.
Welcome! As a licensed psychologist, I am focused on providing a safe, collaborative space where we can work together to explore concerns, bolster strengths, identify the things that are most important to you, and experience the freedom, courage, and skills to get unstuck from the things that can hook us all. As an evidence-based clinician, I am a strong believer in the benefits of research and seek to tailor the skills of psychological science to your own unique experience.
(984) 230-9701 View (984) 230-9701
Photo of Lori M. DeBlaker - DeBlaker Counseling , LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DeBlaker Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529  (Online Only)
Is everyone telling you its ok to be a little blue? Do you feel depressed, disappointed in the way life is going? Infertility, becoming a mom, being a mom of young children, even approaching an empty nest all can cause stress and anxiety. Or is your relationship or marriage troubled and you don't know how to fix it? Even life transitions such as a career change, loss of a job, diagnosis of a chronic illness or chronic pain can cause you to be stressed or anxious. Appointments available for telehealth services in NC and FL.
Is everyone telling you its ok to be a little blue? Do you feel depressed, disappointed in the way life is going? Infertility, becoming a mom, being a mom of young children, even approaching an empty nest all can cause stress and anxiety. Or is your relationship or marriage troubled and you don't know how to fix it? Even life transitions such as a career change, loss of a job, diagnosis of a chronic illness or chronic pain can cause you to be stressed or anxious. Appointments available for telehealth services in NC and FL.
(919) 629-9045 View (919) 629-9045
Photo of Prof. Alphonsus Ekele Ngwadom - Almarch Family Care, LLC , PhD, MS, MAED, LCMHC
Almarch Family Care, LLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, MS, MAED, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
Mentor and Precept Masters and PhD degree students on Psychotherapy of Nursing, Psychiatric Nurses. Offer counseling using Cognitive behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Eclectic Strategies for clients with Immigration and adjustment issues, Court Ordered Assessment, Physical and sexual abuse therapy, Domestic Violence, Anxiety/emotional difficulty, Posttraumatic Stress disorder(PTSD), Depression, Anger Management, Conflict Resolution, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, Teen Pregnancy prevention, Low Self Esteem, School suspension/skipping, Juvenile Justice/foster care counseling etc.
Mentor and Precept Masters and PhD degree students on Psychotherapy of Nursing, Psychiatric Nurses. Offer counseling using Cognitive behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Eclectic Strategies for clients with Immigration and adjustment issues, Court Ordered Assessment, Physical and sexual abuse therapy, Domestic Violence, Anxiety/emotional difficulty, Posttraumatic Stress disorder(PTSD), Depression, Anger Management, Conflict Resolution, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, Teen Pregnancy prevention, Low Self Esteem, School suspension/skipping, Juvenile Justice/foster care counseling etc.
(252) 424-6142 View (252) 424-6142
Photo of Nejla deLambert, MEd, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nejla deLambert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garner, NC 27529
I treat anxiety, depression, and different types of trauma - stemming from childhood to the workplace.
I provide trauma-informed therapy in a warm, engaging way. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe & heard. I invite you to show up just as you are - express your real unfiltered thoughts & feelings. High-functioning, even over-functioning trauma survivors are my people. You've experienced trauma and despite what's happened, you just kept moving forward. Maybe you're exhausted from masking & saying, "I'm fine" when you're not. Now you're ready for a deeper understanding of how certain experiences impact your life. I'll get to know all those parts and offer effective strategies to support your journey towards healing.
I treat anxiety, depression, and different types of trauma - stemming from childhood to the workplace.
I provide trauma-informed therapy in a warm, engaging way. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe & heard. I invite you to show up just as you are - express your real unfiltered thoughts & feelings. High-functioning, even over-functioning trauma survivors are my people. You've experienced trauma and despite what's happened, you just kept moving forward. Maybe you're exhausted from masking & saying, "I'm fine" when you're not. Now you're ready for a deeper understanding of how certain experiences impact your life. I'll get to know all those parts and offer effective strategies to support your journey towards healing.
(984) 400-9208 View (984) 400-9208
Photo of Jamie Grisham, PsyD, MPH, Psychologist
Jamie Grisham
Psychologist, PsyD, MPH
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
As a clinical psychologist, I help clients gain clarity and to find resolution to seemingly insurmountable issues and problems. I specialize in treating adults throughout the life cycle who have anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and/or relationship issues. By providing a compassionate and validating environment, clients are empowered to identify their needs and the means to get those needs met. I believe that each individual has their own voice and that therapy can facilitate its strengthening and emergence as a guiding force.
As a clinical psychologist, I help clients gain clarity and to find resolution to seemingly insurmountable issues and problems. I specialize in treating adults throughout the life cycle who have anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and/or relationship issues. By providing a compassionate and validating environment, clients are empowered to identify their needs and the means to get those needs met. I believe that each individual has their own voice and that therapy can facilitate its strengthening and emergence as a guiding force.
(984) 207-0921 View (984) 207-0921
Photo of Jenny Compton, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CFNC
Jenny Compton
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CFNC
Verified Verified
Garner, NC 27529
I see people for a range of issues, but I have developed a special interest and focus in the following areas: depression, anxiety and trauma.
Many of us have gone through experiences that leave us feeling stuck, unmotivated, or without hope. The promise of counseling is that it offers us a framework where insight becomes possible and the opportunity for a relationship that is dedicated to knowing you deeply. In this sense, I believe we are partners working to understand your motivations, fears, and hopes so that you can feel a greater sense of freedom and empowerment in your life and future.
I see people for a range of issues, but I have developed a special interest and focus in the following areas: depression, anxiety and trauma.
Many of us have gone through experiences that leave us feeling stuck, unmotivated, or without hope. The promise of counseling is that it offers us a framework where insight becomes possible and the opportunity for a relationship that is dedicated to knowing you deeply. In this sense, I believe we are partners working to understand your motivations, fears, and hopes so that you can feel a greater sense of freedom and empowerment in your life and future.
(919) 939-2501 View (919) 939-2501
1
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.