Depression Therapists in Holly Springs, NC

Photo of Renee Landtroop, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Renee Landtroop
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients are able to express their thoughts, feelings, and emotions. I place heavy importance on developing a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship to encourage clients to develop better coping skills that empower them to reach their therapeutic goals. I enjoy working with individuals ages 16 and up, in all stages of life. My areas of focus include grief and loss, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, attachment issues, stress management and coping techniques, social issues/peer pressure, adjustment and transition issues, body image and self-esteem issues.
I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients are able to express their thoughts, feelings, and emotions. I place heavy importance on developing a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship to encourage clients to develop better coping skills that empower them to reach their therapeutic goals. I enjoy working with individuals ages 16 and up, in all stages of life. My areas of focus include grief and loss, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, attachment issues, stress management and coping techniques, social issues/peer pressure, adjustment and transition issues, body image and self-esteem issues.
(919) 635-4094 View (919) 635-4094
Photo of Lloyd 'loyda' Osterhout, LCMHC-A
Lloyd 'loyda' Osterhout
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Life's complexities can be overwhelming, and beginning therapy is a commendable step in tackling your challenges. Congratulations on taking this crucial first step toward self-improvement. I'm here to support you in your healing journey, helping you re-frame your perspective and overcome obstacles. I provide a safe, secure, and non-judgmental environment to work towards healthy solutions. My areas of focus include individual and couples counseling , stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, and self-care.
Life's complexities can be overwhelming, and beginning therapy is a commendable step in tackling your challenges. Congratulations on taking this crucial first step toward self-improvement. I'm here to support you in your healing journey, helping you re-frame your perspective and overcome obstacles. I provide a safe, secure, and non-judgmental environment to work towards healthy solutions. My areas of focus include individual and couples counseling , stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, and self-care.
(540) 565-5342 x739 View (540) 565-5342 x739
Photo of Diane Myers, LCMHC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
My focus is to come alongside individual's 18 years and older that are struggling with anxiety, depression, pornography addictions, infidelity, anger, relational issues, loss, grief and trauma.
Need more balance in your life? I love to help people reconnect with life, to find that inner peace and calm in the day to day. I offer services that are faith-based or secular in theory. I use a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, along with Mindfulness, EMDR and Dialectical Behavior Therapy approaches (DBT). I am a board certified Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in NC. I enjoy working with individuals and couples. I specialize in working with those suffering with depression, anger management issues, anxiety, trauma-big or small, and marital, parenting and other relationship issues.
My focus is to come alongside individual's 18 years and older that are struggling with anxiety, depression, pornography addictions, infidelity, anger, relational issues, loss, grief and trauma.
Need more balance in your life? I love to help people reconnect with life, to find that inner peace and calm in the day to day. I offer services that are faith-based or secular in theory. I use a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, along with Mindfulness, EMDR and Dialectical Behavior Therapy approaches (DBT). I am a board certified Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in NC. I enjoy working with individuals and couples. I specialize in working with those suffering with depression, anger management issues, anxiety, trauma-big or small, and marital, parenting and other relationship issues.
(919) 729-5343 View (919) 729-5343
Photo of Courtney Guess, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Guess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I have worked with clients who have struggled with a wide range of challenges including stress, anxiety, depression,  relational issues, grief, loss, abuse, trauma, dissociation, PTSD, family of origin issues and low self esteem.
Life can easily become overwhelming as we strive to balance careers, families, finances, and future goals. The therapy space offers an opportunity to slow down and address the barriers preventing you from reaching your highest potential. My approach is both compassionate and direct. I aim to create a warm, open, and judgment-free therapeutic environment where you can be your true self, exploring your fears and aspirations for the future. Together, we will identify your goals and uncover your inner wisdom, empowering you to live a more fulfilling and authentic life.
I have worked with clients who have struggled with a wide range of challenges including stress, anxiety, depression,  relational issues, grief, loss, abuse, trauma, dissociation, PTSD, family of origin issues and low self esteem.
Life can easily become overwhelming as we strive to balance careers, families, finances, and future goals. The therapy space offers an opportunity to slow down and address the barriers preventing you from reaching your highest potential. My approach is both compassionate and direct. I aim to create a warm, open, and judgment-free therapeutic environment where you can be your true self, exploring your fears and aspirations for the future. Together, we will identify your goals and uncover your inner wisdom, empowering you to live a more fulfilling and authentic life.
(512) 730-0181 View (512) 730-0181
Photo of Hannah Whisler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Whisler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540  (Online Only)
My desire as your counselor is to come alongside you and provide the support you need as you gain a deeper understanding of who you are, what core desires you have, and what brought you here. Support looks different for each individual, which is why I allow clients to share their stories at their own pace in a safe atmosphere while equipping them with tools to help manage life stressors. I work with adolescents and adult women who are experiencing difficulty, whether that be anxiety, depression, life transitions, prenatal/postpartum stress, family conflict, or relationship issues.
My desire as your counselor is to come alongside you and provide the support you need as you gain a deeper understanding of who you are, what core desires you have, and what brought you here. Support looks different for each individual, which is why I allow clients to share their stories at their own pace in a safe atmosphere while equipping them with tools to help manage life stressors. I work with adolescents and adult women who are experiencing difficulty, whether that be anxiety, depression, life transitions, prenatal/postpartum stress, family conflict, or relationship issues.
(919) 887-8569 View (919) 887-8569
Photo of Turiya D Powell, MA, LCMHC
Turiya D Powell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who is not perfect or doing their best, but someone who is experiencing a difficult time in their life and is willing and motivated. Motivated in the sense of taking the necessary steps to work through any difficulties that you are experiencing. Experiencing depression or anxiety or difficulties with work or anything else, let's work through the issues together.
My ideal client is someone who is not perfect or doing their best, but someone who is experiencing a difficult time in their life and is willing and motivated. Motivated in the sense of taking the necessary steps to work through any difficulties that you are experiencing. Experiencing depression or anxiety or difficulties with work or anything else, let's work through the issues together.
(919) 912-5423 View (919) 912-5423
Photo of Marilee VanVolkenburgh, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Marilee VanVolkenburgh
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I often work with clients facing anxiety, life transitions, depression, relational conflict, and self-image/esteem issues.
Through counseling, I aim to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to feel heard and understood. I believe that every person has intrinsic value and is worthy of love and healing. My goal in counseling is for the client to feel empowered to make meaningful, lasting change in their lives and confident to overcome any challenges they may face.
I often work with clients facing anxiety, life transitions, depression, relational conflict, and self-image/esteem issues.
Through counseling, I aim to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to feel heard and understood. I believe that every person has intrinsic value and is worthy of love and healing. My goal in counseling is for the client to feel empowered to make meaningful, lasting change in their lives and confident to overcome any challenges they may face.
(984) 217-4948 View (984) 217-4948
Photo of Ryan Chriscoe, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Ryan Chriscoe
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
These might include marital and family issues, anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, grief, and others.
Where in the sacred story of your life do you find yourself today? If this season feels overwhelming, heartbreaking, stagnant, or confusing, there is hope in endless abundance for you. It is my joy to join you in discovering that hope within a safe, non-judgmental counseling relationship.
These might include marital and family issues, anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, grief, and others.
Where in the sacred story of your life do you find yourself today? If this season feels overwhelming, heartbreaking, stagnant, or confusing, there is hope in endless abundance for you. It is my joy to join you in discovering that hope within a safe, non-judgmental counseling relationship.
(919) 628-4724 View (919) 628-4724
Photo of Bethany Lindemuth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Lindemuth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Now accepting new clients for in-person and video sessions. I work with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, life transitions, and borderline personality disorder. You’re tired of being depressed or anxious all the time. On the outside, you look put together; on the inside, you feel like it’s all falling apart. You want to make changes, but you’re not sure where to start. And everything feels difficult. Therapy can help.
Now accepting new clients for in-person and video sessions. I work with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, life transitions, and borderline personality disorder. You’re tired of being depressed or anxious all the time. On the outside, you look put together; on the inside, you feel like it’s all falling apart. You want to make changes, but you’re not sure where to start. And everything feels difficult. Therapy can help.
(919) 343-9895 View (919) 343-9895
Photo of Madelyn Harvey - Integrity Counseling & Wellness, PLLC, PhD, LCMHC
Integrity Counseling & Wellness, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression.
Are you experiencing past or recent trauma that is causing anxiety and/or depression? If you are considering talking with a therapist and want to talk to someone who listens attentively, who is non-judgmental, and who is empathetic, I am that person. There are many people in our society who have experienced trauma. Learning how to cope and heal requires skills and techniques from a qualified mental health professional. My goal is to assist clients with developing new perspectives on their lives and fostering change so that they can live a much more fulfilling life.
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression.
Are you experiencing past or recent trauma that is causing anxiety and/or depression? If you are considering talking with a therapist and want to talk to someone who listens attentively, who is non-judgmental, and who is empathetic, I am that person. There are many people in our society who have experienced trauma. Learning how to cope and heal requires skills and techniques from a qualified mental health professional. My goal is to assist clients with developing new perspectives on their lives and fostering change so that they can live a much more fulfilling life.
(336) 439-1530 View (336) 439-1530
Photo of Kim Nelson Bovee, MA, LCMHC-S, NCC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Nelson Bovee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I am an experienced, caring Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, National Certified Counselor with a Certification in Perinatal Mental Health. I have been practicing in the Triangle since 1998. I have a passion for working with children (aged 10 and older), adolescents, and adults with concerns that include: depression, anxiety, oppositional/acting out behaviors, self-harm, stress and anger management, coping with life transitions, trauma; parenting concerns, women's issues including pregnancy and infant loss; grief; and marital & relationship issues.
I am an experienced, caring Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, National Certified Counselor with a Certification in Perinatal Mental Health. I have been practicing in the Triangle since 1998. I have a passion for working with children (aged 10 and older), adolescents, and adults with concerns that include: depression, anxiety, oppositional/acting out behaviors, self-harm, stress and anger management, coping with life transitions, trauma; parenting concerns, women's issues including pregnancy and infant loss; grief; and marital & relationship issues.
(919) 432-4245 View (919) 432-4245
Photo of Shanna N Reyes - Integrity Counseling & Wellness, PLLC, LCMHCS
Integrity Counseling & Wellness, PLLC
LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Accepting New Patients Immediately! Our counselors utilize an integrative approach to therapy and strive to create a trusting and open counseling environment. We are experienced in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and many other concerns. Your comfort with self-expression is a top priority, so you will find our counselors are inviting and non-judgmental with those whom they serve. We enjoy providing new insight and guidance and prove to be individualized in meeting each client's needs.
Accepting New Patients Immediately! Our counselors utilize an integrative approach to therapy and strive to create a trusting and open counseling environment. We are experienced in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and many other concerns. Your comfort with self-expression is a top priority, so you will find our counselors are inviting and non-judgmental with those whom they serve. We enjoy providing new insight and guidance and prove to be individualized in meeting each client's needs.
(919) 372-0850 View (919) 372-0850
Photo of Heather Ferreira, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Ferreira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
My twenty years of experience has led me to work with many clients who are navigating different stressors in their life. These stressors can lead to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, etc. My main areas of speciality include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues. Together, we share the responsibility for progress and improved ways of coping. Ultimately, you will be able to build a sense of personal satisfaction in knowing that when future challenges arise they will be less overwhelming.
My twenty years of experience has led me to work with many clients who are navigating different stressors in their life. These stressors can lead to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, etc. My main areas of speciality include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues. Together, we share the responsibility for progress and improved ways of coping. Ultimately, you will be able to build a sense of personal satisfaction in knowing that when future challenges arise they will be less overwhelming.
(919) 885-0185 View (919) 885-0185
Photo of Stonebridge Counseling - Stonebridge Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stonebridge Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PLLC
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Issues including, but not limited to: stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, behavioral issues, divorce, anger, eating disorders/disordered eating, self esteem, relationship issues, teen issues, chronic illness, family conflict, and life transitions.
Asking for help is the first step towards feeling better and leading a happier, healthier life. Mental health is an important part of overall well-being. Most of us, at one time or another, are impacted by mental health concerns. We have therapists that treat adults, children, and teens. If you don't even know where to start call or e-mail the office and we will help guide you in choosing the right therapist and check your insurance benefits. To learn more about each of our therapists and their individual specialties, please visit our website www.sbcounseling.com/therapists
Issues including, but not limited to: stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, behavioral issues, divorce, anger, eating disorders/disordered eating, self esteem, relationship issues, teen issues, chronic illness, family conflict, and life transitions.
Asking for help is the first step towards feeling better and leading a happier, healthier life. Mental health is an important part of overall well-being. Most of us, at one time or another, are impacted by mental health concerns. We have therapists that treat adults, children, and teens. If you don't even know where to start call or e-mail the office and we will help guide you in choosing the right therapist and check your insurance benefits. To learn more about each of our therapists and their individual specialties, please visit our website www.sbcounseling.com/therapists
(919) 434-6398 View (919) 434-6398
Photo of Claudine B Langdon, MA, LCMHCS, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudine B Langdon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Waitlist for new clients
My experience involves working with individuals who come to counseling for depression and anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma, and other areas of concern.
Individuals come to counseling for various reasons. As your therapist we will work together to clarify your unique challenges and strengths and develop a renewed sense of wellbeing. I believe that we all have the answers within. Counseling will offer you support and insight and promote personal growth. Whether you are struggling with depression or trying to manage other symptoms, counseling may be the treatment for you. I can help with depression, anxiety and Panic, Couples, adjustment and life transition issues and other concerns not mentioned.
My experience involves working with individuals who come to counseling for depression and anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma, and other areas of concern.
Individuals come to counseling for various reasons. As your therapist we will work together to clarify your unique challenges and strengths and develop a renewed sense of wellbeing. I believe that we all have the answers within. Counseling will offer you support and insight and promote personal growth. Whether you are struggling with depression or trying to manage other symptoms, counseling may be the treatment for you. I can help with depression, anxiety and Panic, Couples, adjustment and life transition issues and other concerns not mentioned.
(919) 429-7957 View (919) 429-7957
Photo of Sherry Horowitz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherry Horowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Special interests include eating disorders, body image concerns, ADHD in girls and women, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and grief and loss concerns.
Do you struggle with feelings, thoughts, or behaviors that make life feel overwhelming? I can partner with you on your journey toward improved health and happiness. I offer a supportive, compassionate, non judgmental space where we will explore your needs and identify solutions. Together, we will work toward strengthening coping skills and healthy behaviors. I believe that better emotional health is achieved through developing a stronger sense of self!
Special interests include eating disorders, body image concerns, ADHD in girls and women, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and grief and loss concerns.
Do you struggle with feelings, thoughts, or behaviors that make life feel overwhelming? I can partner with you on your journey toward improved health and happiness. I offer a supportive, compassionate, non judgmental space where we will explore your needs and identify solutions. Together, we will work toward strengthening coping skills and healthy behaviors. I believe that better emotional health is achieved through developing a stronger sense of self!
(919) 887-1100 View (919) 887-1100
Photo of Brett Maher, PsyD, Psychologist
Brett Maher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, life transitions, divorce, grief, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, trauma, abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, insomnia, and all personality disorders.
Are you feeling like your life needs a change but you are not sure where to start? It seems, as life becomes more complex, more and more people are suffering from the devastating effects of stress, depression and anxiety and can benefit from the support and insight that therapy provides. I am a NC Licensed Psychologist working clinically with a wide range of ages and issues. I've worked in the field for 20 years, in schools, day treatment, and the private practice setting with adults, families, couples and children; focusing on adjustment difficulties, relationship problems, childhood abuse and maladaptive coping.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, life transitions, divorce, grief, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, trauma, abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, insomnia, and all personality disorders.
Are you feeling like your life needs a change but you are not sure where to start? It seems, as life becomes more complex, more and more people are suffering from the devastating effects of stress, depression and anxiety and can benefit from the support and insight that therapy provides. I am a NC Licensed Psychologist working clinically with a wide range of ages and issues. I've worked in the field for 20 years, in schools, day treatment, and the private practice setting with adults, families, couples and children; focusing on adjustment difficulties, relationship problems, childhood abuse and maladaptive coping.
(919) 429-8751 View (919) 429-8751
Photo of Connie Horne - Crocus Counseling and Life Coaching, PLLC, MA, LCMHCS
Crocus Counseling and Life Coaching, PLLC
MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+, people in non traditional relationships, families, individuals with depression, anxiety, stress management, work conflicts, life transitions, ADHD and grief/loss. I use a combination of several theoretical approaches along with humor to assist people/families with working through many of life's difficult transitions. I have a very honest and direct approach which includes at times therapeutic self-disclosure that some people find refreshing. I am here to help you on your journey to a new positive you. I would love to welcome you into a environment that helps you feel accepted and not judged.
I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+, people in non traditional relationships, families, individuals with depression, anxiety, stress management, work conflicts, life transitions, ADHD and grief/loss. I use a combination of several theoretical approaches along with humor to assist people/families with working through many of life's difficult transitions. I have a very honest and direct approach which includes at times therapeutic self-disclosure that some people find refreshing. I am here to help you on your journey to a new positive you. I would love to welcome you into a environment that helps you feel accepted and not judged.
(919) 948-3093 View (919) 948-3093
Photo of Bria Day, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bria Day
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I take a strengths based approach to working with clients managing life stressors, relationships, anxiety, ADHD, and depression. I have worked in various settings with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in Clinical assessments, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing. Life can be tough and I want to be able to help my clients through any challenges they may be going through. I hope to connect and get to know my clients so that I can tailor treatment to your needs. ​
I take a strengths based approach to working with clients managing life stressors, relationships, anxiety, ADHD, and depression. I have worked in various settings with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in Clinical assessments, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing. Life can be tough and I want to be able to help my clients through any challenges they may be going through. I hope to connect and get to know my clients so that I can tailor treatment to your needs. ​
(984) 538-9265 View (984) 538-9265
Photo of Natasha Corley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natasha Corley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I work with ADHD, Autism, Family Conflict, Marital Conflict, Parenting, Anxiety, Trauma, and Depression.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years of experience. I specialize in children, teenagers, young adults, and families. I understand the trust parents place in me and I take that responsibility seriously. I use humor and games to help kids feel more comfortable. I enjoy helping clients navigate the challenges in their lives. I believe in a person-centered approach and will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique needs and goals.
I work with ADHD, Autism, Family Conflict, Marital Conflict, Parenting, Anxiety, Trauma, and Depression.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years of experience. I specialize in children, teenagers, young adults, and families. I understand the trust parents place in me and I take that responsibility seriously. I use humor and games to help kids feel more comfortable. I enjoy helping clients navigate the challenges in their lives. I believe in a person-centered approach and will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique needs and goals.
(984) 206-3211 View (984) 206-3211

See more therapy options for Holly Springs

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.