Depression Therapists in Gastonia, NC

Photo of Morgan Kinney, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Kinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
Waitlist for new clients
Now accepting new clients ages 12+ in-person and virtually! I specialize in providing counseling services to teens and young adults struggling with school performance, self-harm, anxiety, and depression. Over the past 5 years I have worked closely with all populations including children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have extensive experience with anxiety, depression, adhd, trauma, family conflict, behavioral issues, and crisis intervention. I draw from multiple therapeutic techniques and tailor my approach to what each individual client needs.
Now accepting new clients ages 12+ in-person and virtually! I specialize in providing counseling services to teens and young adults struggling with school performance, self-harm, anxiety, and depression. Over the past 5 years I have worked closely with all populations including children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have extensive experience with anxiety, depression, adhd, trauma, family conflict, behavioral issues, and crisis intervention. I draw from multiple therapeutic techniques and tailor my approach to what each individual client needs.
(980) 400-3291 View (980) 400-3291
Photo of April Dawn Grimes, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
April Dawn Grimes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
I have experience helping clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and PTSD.
Trying to juggle marriage, kids, work, home and so much more leaves very little time for yourself. Trying to balance it all when it all seems to be falling apart can be difficult. It can feel like you are being pulled in all directions. But all hope is not lost….
I have experience helping clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and PTSD.
Trying to juggle marriage, kids, work, home and so much more leaves very little time for yourself. Trying to balance it all when it all seems to be falling apart can be difficult. It can feel like you are being pulled in all directions. But all hope is not lost….
(704) 208-1865 View (704) 208-1865
Photo of Jarae D McSwain, LCMHC, MA, Counselor
Jarae D McSwain
Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
I offer experience in counseling those who struggle with anxiety, depression, and grief.
I will collaborate with my clients in order to develop a suitable plan to began their healing process. I'll listen with an attentive ear and is impartial to all individuals. I believe everyone's story is important. I work with all ages; children, adolescents and adults. Whether it's learning how to deal with past issues or changing behaviors, my desire is to help clients see life in a new perspective.
I offer experience in counseling those who struggle with anxiety, depression, and grief.
I will collaborate with my clients in order to develop a suitable plan to began their healing process. I'll listen with an attentive ear and is impartial to all individuals. I believe everyone's story is important. I work with all ages; children, adolescents and adults. Whether it's learning how to deal with past issues or changing behaviors, my desire is to help clients see life in a new perspective.
(704) 764-1513 View (704) 764-1513
Photo of Dr. Scott Hammontree, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Scott Hammontree
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
Hammontree has published and presented papers in anger management, conflict resolution, depression, problem-solving, human-centered design, program evaluation, and business/practice consultation.
Dr. Scott Hammontree has been a clinical counselor, administrator, business consultant/coach, and clinician training supervisor over 30 years. He has spent his entire career helping children, teens, adults, couples, and families lead more fulfilling and happier lives. Dr. Hammontree has trained numerous mental health professionals to be more effective therapists, and he has consulted and coached many businesses to be more productive and more profitable. He provides intensive treatment and is consistently rated as an extremely effective therapist and consultant. If you are motivated for change and want more in your life, call me!
Hammontree has published and presented papers in anger management, conflict resolution, depression, problem-solving, human-centered design, program evaluation, and business/practice consultation.
Dr. Scott Hammontree has been a clinical counselor, administrator, business consultant/coach, and clinician training supervisor over 30 years. He has spent his entire career helping children, teens, adults, couples, and families lead more fulfilling and happier lives. Dr. Hammontree has trained numerous mental health professionals to be more effective therapists, and he has consulted and coached many businesses to be more productive and more profitable. He provides intensive treatment and is consistently rated as an extremely effective therapist and consultant. If you are motivated for change and want more in your life, call me!
(704) 538-4963 View (704) 538-4963
Photo of Tawana Cherise Walker - Rize Counseling Services PLLC, LCMHC, NCC
Rize Counseling Services PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28052  (Online Only)
Let me help you with developing coping skills to assist with Depression, Anxiety and Grief.
I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy. We all have days that we might feel that we cannot get through but knowing that we have someone to talk to and walk us through it makes it all easier. I believe that people do not go through therapy to fix themselves because people are not broken. People have issues that at times they need assistance to deal with. I love working with all types of people both young and seasoned but I truly love working with women. I relate to how we as women try to be that “superwoman”, trying to be everything to everyone. I am an advocate of self-care and encourage it on a daily basis.
Let me help you with developing coping skills to assist with Depression, Anxiety and Grief.
I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy. We all have days that we might feel that we cannot get through but knowing that we have someone to talk to and walk us through it makes it all easier. I believe that people do not go through therapy to fix themselves because people are not broken. People have issues that at times they need assistance to deal with. I love working with all types of people both young and seasoned but I truly love working with women. I relate to how we as women try to be that “superwoman”, trying to be everything to everyone. I am an advocate of self-care and encourage it on a daily basis.
(704) 464-0517 View (704) 464-0517
Photo of Carla Gray, LCMHC, Counselor
Carla Gray
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28056  (Online Only)
I have battled anxiety and depression during my cancer journey and know what it is like in the storm, and how to fight for a more balanced life.
About me I am licensed in North Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience in clinical counseling and am working on my doctoral research in psychology. I grew up in Waynesville, NC so I am a mountain girl. For now, I live near Charlotte, NC with my husband and 16-year-old son. We have a 7-acre working farm that we share with my retired showhorse, three rescue dogs, and a rescue cat.
I have battled anxiety and depression during my cancer journey and know what it is like in the storm, and how to fight for a more balanced life.
About me I am licensed in North Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience in clinical counseling and am working on my doctoral research in psychology. I grew up in Waynesville, NC so I am a mountain girl. For now, I live near Charlotte, NC with my husband and 16-year-old son. We have a 7-acre working farm that we share with my retired showhorse, three rescue dogs, and a rescue cat.
(704) 850-6930 View (704) 850-6930
Photo of Veronda Bellamy Supervisor, LCMHCS, NCC, MS, LPC
Veronda Bellamy Supervisor
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28056
I have also been afforded the opportunity to treat diagnosis including: depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorder, TBI, schizophrenia, PTSD, and ADD.
I am honored to be of service to you. I know that trauma and substance abuse and addiction can wreak havoc in one's life. Many of client's find themselves faced with challenges of having to restart their lives during mental challenges and addiction; some may have to fight to regain custody of their children; many of them have co-occurring mental illness that has lead to substance abuse and/or addiction. For some, addiction comes by way of biological, environmental, and social influences, but from my experience, I have learned that mental illness was present before addiction became a factor. Take Control Today!
I have also been afforded the opportunity to treat diagnosis including: depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorder, TBI, schizophrenia, PTSD, and ADD.
I am honored to be of service to you. I know that trauma and substance abuse and addiction can wreak havoc in one's life. Many of client's find themselves faced with challenges of having to restart their lives during mental challenges and addiction; some may have to fight to regain custody of their children; many of them have co-occurring mental illness that has lead to substance abuse and/or addiction. For some, addiction comes by way of biological, environmental, and social influences, but from my experience, I have learned that mental illness was present before addiction became a factor. Take Control Today!
(704) 243-9316 View (704) 243-9316
Photo of Jeremy Massey - Carolina Behavioral Health Solutions, MS, LCMHC
Carolina Behavioral Health Solutions
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
Carolina Behavioral Health Solutions (CBHS) offers mental health counseling for individuals, families, and groups of various ages and backgrounds. CBHS assist individuals and families with learning to better manage symptoms related to depression, anxiety, oppositional behaviors, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity (ADHD), and anger management. Our team is adept at working with diverse families and individuals to help them develop strategies and techniques to manage life's transitions. CBHS is committed to work to assist individuals and families to uncover healthy solutions to life challenges.
Carolina Behavioral Health Solutions (CBHS) offers mental health counseling for individuals, families, and groups of various ages and backgrounds. CBHS assist individuals and families with learning to better manage symptoms related to depression, anxiety, oppositional behaviors, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity (ADHD), and anger management. Our team is adept at working with diverse families and individuals to help them develop strategies and techniques to manage life's transitions. CBHS is committed to work to assist individuals and families to uncover healthy solutions to life challenges.
(704) 459-2218 View (704) 459-2218
Photo of Jasmine Goode, MEd, LCMHCA
Jasmine Goode
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
I work with adolescents and adults with varying issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, relationships, self-esteem and many other mental health issues.
My passion for counseling started when one of my loved ones was diagnosed with an Anxiety Disorder. Seeing a family member suffer on a daily basis made me want to help other individuals facing similar struggles. I know that when times get hard, you may start to feel alone, but you no longer have to feel that way. As a therapist, I hope to guide and support you through the challenges that you may be facing. My role is to assist you in reaching your therapy goals by providing non-judgmental support and helping to facilitate your journey.
I work with adolescents and adults with varying issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, relationships, self-esteem and many other mental health issues.
My passion for counseling started when one of my loved ones was diagnosed with an Anxiety Disorder. Seeing a family member suffer on a daily basis made me want to help other individuals facing similar struggles. I know that when times get hard, you may start to feel alone, but you no longer have to feel that way. As a therapist, I hope to guide and support you through the challenges that you may be facing. My role is to assist you in reaching your therapy goals by providing non-judgmental support and helping to facilitate your journey.
(704) 237-6533 View (704) 237-6533
Photo of Mary Jean Elder, MA, Ed S, LCMHC
Mary Jean Elder
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, Ed S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28056
I have helped those suffering with depression and anxiety to gain happiness and peace in their life.
Depression, anxiety, or trauma can stop you from enjoying your day-to-day life! It is not easy dealing with all the thoughts and emotions that are always stirred up. My hope is that together we can work to find balance and peace in your life. We cannot change the past but we can change how we think, cope and manage it today! Many struggle alone unable to truly move forward and find that freedom of internal happiness. Give me a call and together we can find your happy place!
I have helped those suffering with depression and anxiety to gain happiness and peace in their life.
Depression, anxiety, or trauma can stop you from enjoying your day-to-day life! It is not easy dealing with all the thoughts and emotions that are always stirred up. My hope is that together we can work to find balance and peace in your life. We cannot change the past but we can change how we think, cope and manage it today! Many struggle alone unable to truly move forward and find that freedom of internal happiness. Give me a call and together we can find your happy place!
(704) 326-7636 View (704) 326-7636
Photo of Elizabeth Davis Clements, MA, LCMHC
Elizabeth Davis Clements
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
I am happy to be able to provide family and individual therapy for all ages. I have a passion for working with people who acknowledge the imperfections that make us human and are open to discovering truth and working towards positive change. I have worked with clients on issues such as anxiety, depression/mood disorders, ADHD, various forms of abuse, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, anger management, social skills, grief, marital relationships and parenting skills. I look forward to working with clients to help them find the health, healing, and truth that awaits.
I am happy to be able to provide family and individual therapy for all ages. I have a passion for working with people who acknowledge the imperfections that make us human and are open to discovering truth and working towards positive change. I have worked with clients on issues such as anxiety, depression/mood disorders, ADHD, various forms of abuse, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, anger management, social skills, grief, marital relationships and parenting skills. I look forward to working with clients to help them find the health, healing, and truth that awaits.
(704) 879-3121 View (704) 879-3121
Photo of LaTonja Pickett, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaTonja Pickett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
I will teach you how to navigate fear, anxiety, and depression, deconstruct the lies that you tell yourself, and help you cultivate a positive sense of self so that generational patterns, trauma, and self-sabotage will no longer hold your authentic self hostage.
Have you ever thought to yourself, “something has to change?” - I know I have! My name is LaTonja Pickett, and I help clients discover why their inner child is getting in the way of their progress. I also help clients identify and overcome unhealthy patterns and stuck points that prevent them from living their healthiest lives. If you need guidance, support, or a listening ear, I'm here to provide a nonjudgemental and therapeutic atmosphere to aid you on your healing journey. It's time to get UNSTUCK and embark on a transformational journey to healing and self-discovery. I will also incorporate Christian concepts at your request.
I will teach you how to navigate fear, anxiety, and depression, deconstruct the lies that you tell yourself, and help you cultivate a positive sense of self so that generational patterns, trauma, and self-sabotage will no longer hold your authentic self hostage.
Have you ever thought to yourself, “something has to change?” - I know I have! My name is LaTonja Pickett, and I help clients discover why their inner child is getting in the way of their progress. I also help clients identify and overcome unhealthy patterns and stuck points that prevent them from living their healthiest lives. If you need guidance, support, or a listening ear, I'm here to provide a nonjudgemental and therapeutic atmosphere to aid you on your healing journey. It's time to get UNSTUCK and embark on a transformational journey to healing and self-discovery. I will also incorporate Christian concepts at your request.
(704) 389-3516 View (704) 389-3516
Photo of Poletta ' Shay' Cunningham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Poletta ' Shay' Cunningham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
My focus is family preservation, however, I do handle more specific needs such as depression, anxiety, extensive trauma care, ADHD, systems work, behavioral concerns, and women's/men's health.
I've practiced in mental health for more than 15 years and I still have the same passion I did when I started. I trust that part of the reason that I remain committed to this work is because I practice what I preach. I constantly have to remind myself that I can do hard things and I wake up every day manifesting my purpose. The most rewarding part of my job is watching you grow into the person you've set out to be. I pride myself on true social work values; which include integrity, ethical practices, and quality services. I have specialized certification and training in trauma and a long work history in family systems therapy.
My focus is family preservation, however, I do handle more specific needs such as depression, anxiety, extensive trauma care, ADHD, systems work, behavioral concerns, and women's/men's health.
I've practiced in mental health for more than 15 years and I still have the same passion I did when I started. I trust that part of the reason that I remain committed to this work is because I practice what I preach. I constantly have to remind myself that I can do hard things and I wake up every day manifesting my purpose. The most rewarding part of my job is watching you grow into the person you've set out to be. I pride myself on true social work values; which include integrity, ethical practices, and quality services. I have specialized certification and training in trauma and a long work history in family systems therapy.
(704) 480-3437 View (704) 480-3437
Photo of Laura Gundel, MDiv, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Gundel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
My interests in therapy include: * Adult individual/couples counseling, * Relationship and parenting concerns, * Grief and loss, * Transitions, * Depression and Anxiety, * Questions about spirituality and religion.
People who seek help through the stresses and traumas of life instead of succumbing to them are the bravest people I know. Although therapy may not feel courageous, at some point, we all need the presence and compassionate care of someone committed to our healing process. This is my passion. I work with courageous people who choose to move toward wholeness while continuing to live and care for the responsibilities of their lives. A large part of my work is devoted to helping men and women work through traumatic experiences in the present and those remembered from the past.
My interests in therapy include: * Adult individual/couples counseling, * Relationship and parenting concerns, * Grief and loss, * Transitions, * Depression and Anxiety, * Questions about spirituality and religion.
People who seek help through the stresses and traumas of life instead of succumbing to them are the bravest people I know. Although therapy may not feel courageous, at some point, we all need the presence and compassionate care of someone committed to our healing process. This is my passion. I work with courageous people who choose to move toward wholeness while continuing to live and care for the responsibilities of their lives. A large part of my work is devoted to helping men and women work through traumatic experiences in the present and those remembered from the past.
(980) 243-4149 x2 View (980) 243-4149 x2
Photo of McKenzie Huggins Wheeler, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
McKenzie Huggins Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054  (Online Only)
I provide telehealth services to adults coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, self esteem issues, or general life stressors and transitions.
If you are wanting to make a change and wondering where to begin, it may be time to reach out for help. As your therapist, I will work alongside you and take a collaborative approach to identify the steps necessary to achieving your desired outcomes. My goal is to create a compassionate, authentic, and comfortable environment for individuals to explore their current circumstances and build the life they want to live.
I provide telehealth services to adults coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, self esteem issues, or general life stressors and transitions.
If you are wanting to make a change and wondering where to begin, it may be time to reach out for help. As your therapist, I will work alongside you and take a collaborative approach to identify the steps necessary to achieving your desired outcomes. My goal is to create a compassionate, authentic, and comfortable environment for individuals to explore their current circumstances and build the life they want to live.
(205) 336-6654 View (205) 336-6654
Photo of Alexandria D. (The Transparent Therapist), MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandria D. (The Transparent Therapist)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
I specialize in providing counseling to women who deal with depression and anxiety that flares up at random times.
You have been struggling with your feelings lately. It feels like they are messing up your life; some days you even feel crazy. You've been feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Your family and friends are starting to notice, but they haven't been as supportive as you would hope. This has been a difficult season, and you are tired of feeling like this. Although these feelings are confusing and you may feel alone with them, I want to let you know you are not alone. I can help you rebalance your life.
I specialize in providing counseling to women who deal with depression and anxiety that flares up at random times.
You have been struggling with your feelings lately. It feels like they are messing up your life; some days you even feel crazy. You've been feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Your family and friends are starting to notice, but they haven't been as supportive as you would hope. This has been a difficult season, and you are tired of feeling like this. Although these feelings are confusing and you may feel alone with them, I want to let you know you are not alone. I can help you rebalance your life.
(704) 800-3684 View (704) 800-3684
Photo of Melanie L Edwards, MSW, MIA, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie L Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MIA, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28056  (Online Only)
I believe that we have the capacity to grow, to heal, and to experience joy. I support clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, as well as life stressors such as parenting, life transitions, and career changes. I also specialize in working with survivors of religious trauma and spiritual abuse.
I believe that we have the capacity to grow, to heal, and to experience joy. I support clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, as well as life stressors such as parenting, life transitions, and career changes. I also specialize in working with survivors of religious trauma and spiritual abuse.
(704) 870-3758 View (704) 870-3758
Photo of Susan Shull Bowling, MA, MDiv, EdS, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Susan Shull Bowling
Counselor, MA, MDiv, EdS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28052
My experiences include engaging with individuals (children and adults), couples and groups who are experiencing depression, anxiety, relational struggles, grief, and those seeking clarity for a specific perspective in order to gain peace in their life.
The ideal client for me would be a child, adult, couple, family or group that desires an inner peace that is lacking in their life. This client has a great degree of motivation with the understanding that their wellbeing is achievable. As a Christian counselor, relying on the Holy Spirit is imperative in being able to help clients.
My experiences include engaging with individuals (children and adults), couples and groups who are experiencing depression, anxiety, relational struggles, grief, and those seeking clarity for a specific perspective in order to gain peace in their life.
The ideal client for me would be a child, adult, couple, family or group that desires an inner peace that is lacking in their life. This client has a great degree of motivation with the understanding that their wellbeing is achievable. As a Christian counselor, relying on the Holy Spirit is imperative in being able to help clients.
(704) 326-9372 View (704) 326-9372
Photo of Jane Copper Patterson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Copper Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28052
Are you looking to solve a personal or relationship problem, to manage depression or anxiety, or to heal the hurt of a loss? My practical, and positive approach has helped hundreds of people like you. I have 30 years of social work experience and a calm, gentle personality that will put you at ease.
Are you looking to solve a personal or relationship problem, to manage depression or anxiety, or to heal the hurt of a loss? My practical, and positive approach has helped hundreds of people like you. I have 30 years of social work experience and a calm, gentle personality that will put you at ease.
(704) 240-5122 View (704) 240-5122
Photo of Rachel Kitson, PhD, Psychologist
Rachel Kitson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28052
Specific diagnostic specialty areas include Asperger's, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and trauma.
I work with teens, young adults, and adults who are struggling with meeting their goals, maintaining healthy relationships, identity issues, and navigating the transitions and stressors life throws. I also enjoy working with couples who have hit road blocks and need guidance and a third party perspective. My approach is interpersonal and I offer a space for clients to gain feedback and accountability through the development of a strong therapeutic alliance. I lead an adult Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) group and incorporate skills training into my practice.
Specific diagnostic specialty areas include Asperger's, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and trauma.
I work with teens, young adults, and adults who are struggling with meeting their goals, maintaining healthy relationships, identity issues, and navigating the transitions and stressors life throws. I also enjoy working with couples who have hit road blocks and need guidance and a third party perspective. My approach is interpersonal and I offer a space for clients to gain feedback and accountability through the development of a strong therapeutic alliance. I lead an adult Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) group and incorporate skills training into my practice.
(704) 325-4763 View (704) 325-4763
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.