Photo of Samantha Coleman - At-Home Counseling Services, Inc., PhD, MAC, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
At-Home Counseling Services, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MAC, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Oxford, NC 27565
"WE COME TO YOU" For adults & children at their home, school, via telehealth, or in our office. Our therapists work with children with behavioral challenges and adults with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, parenting issues, family therapy, stress, marital problems, PTSD, and more. AHCS has served clients since 2009. We serve over 400 clients across the state for Medicaid, private insurance, and self pay services.
"WE COME TO YOU" For adults & children at their home, school, via telehealth, or in our office. Our therapists work with children with behavioral challenges and adults with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, parenting issues, family therapy, stress, marital problems, PTSD, and more. AHCS has served clients since 2009. We serve over 400 clients across the state for Medicaid, private insurance, and self pay services.
(252) 302-2419 View (252) 302-2419
Photo of Marlon Bynum, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marlon Bynum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oxford, NC 27565
I work with adults and children who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, attention deficits, and other mental health issues.
In 2007, I entered the mental health field. That was the beginning of a journey that has led me to my life’s passion, empowering people to reach their full potential. My endeavor is to meet the clients where they are at. I seek to promote a collaborative environment with clients using strengths-based and evidence-based approaches such as CBT, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and psychoeducation.
I work with adults and children who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, attention deficits, and other mental health issues.
In 2007, I entered the mental health field. That was the beginning of a journey that has led me to my life’s passion, empowering people to reach their full potential. My endeavor is to meet the clients where they are at. I seek to promote a collaborative environment with clients using strengths-based and evidence-based approaches such as CBT, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and psychoeducation.
(984) 207-3808 View (984) 207-3808
Photo of Jody (Jonathan) Youmans, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jody (Jonathan) Youmans
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Oxford, NC 27565
I have extensive experience with a diverse range of emotional and behavioral issues, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief, adjustment disorder, ADHD, self-esteem, parenting, and peer relationships while working with individuals, couples and families.
My theoretical orientation is from an eclectic approach which provides a balance of the different types of therapies to meet the client where they are at. I also have acquired special training, which provides an opportunity for me to work with children and adults dealing with different traumas they have experienced. I ascribe to treating the whole person and to helping the individual to become his or her own best therapist. It is my belief that as an individual becomes more aware of their thoughts, actions, emotions and beliefs that they have increased ability to face challenges and overcome difficult situations more successfully.
I have extensive experience with a diverse range of emotional and behavioral issues, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief, adjustment disorder, ADHD, self-esteem, parenting, and peer relationships while working with individuals, couples and families.
My theoretical orientation is from an eclectic approach which provides a balance of the different types of therapies to meet the client where they are at. I also have acquired special training, which provides an opportunity for me to work with children and adults dealing with different traumas they have experienced. I ascribe to treating the whole person and to helping the individual to become his or her own best therapist. It is my belief that as an individual becomes more aware of their thoughts, actions, emotions and beliefs that they have increased ability to face challenges and overcome difficult situations more successfully.
(919) 323-4048 View (919) 323-4048
Photo of Mary Edith Watkins, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Mary Edith Watkins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Oxford, NC 27565  (Online Only)
Throughout my forty (40) years as a therapist in Private Practice, I have provided empathy, insight, information, validation and a confidential, non-judgmental and listening ear to hundreds of clients. My clients sought counseling to gain strategies for: anxiety/ depression, assertive communication skills, grief/loss, trauma, lack of self-esteem, relationship issues and change on life situations. My clients need to be heard without being judged, to be understood, to be offered realistic and workable options to issues they have, and to know that they are valued and have worth as a person.
Throughout my forty (40) years as a therapist in Private Practice, I have provided empathy, insight, information, validation and a confidential, non-judgmental and listening ear to hundreds of clients. My clients sought counseling to gain strategies for: anxiety/ depression, assertive communication skills, grief/loss, trauma, lack of self-esteem, relationship issues and change on life situations. My clients need to be heard without being judged, to be understood, to be offered realistic and workable options to issues they have, and to know that they are valued and have worth as a person.
(252) 888-5906 View (252) 888-5906
Photo of Shawtay Reese - People's Network, DSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
People's Network
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Oxford, NC 27565  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am responsible for helping individuals, families, and groups of people to cope with problems they’re facing to improve their patients’ lives. Trauma affects the individual, families, and communities by disrupting healthy development, adversely affecting relationships, and contributing to mental health issues, including substance abuse, domestic violence, and child abuse. In schools, I address problems such as truancy, disruptive behavior, teenage pregnancy, drug use, and poor grades. I also advise teachers and act as liaisons between students, homes, schools, courts, protective services, and other institutions.
I am responsible for helping individuals, families, and groups of people to cope with problems they’re facing to improve their patients’ lives. Trauma affects the individual, families, and communities by disrupting healthy development, adversely affecting relationships, and contributing to mental health issues, including substance abuse, domestic violence, and child abuse. In schools, I address problems such as truancy, disruptive behavior, teenage pregnancy, drug use, and poor grades. I also advise teachers and act as liaisons between students, homes, schools, courts, protective services, and other institutions.
(919) 899-7121 View (919) 899-7121

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Richard McDonald, LCMHC
Richard McDonald
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Stem, NC 27581  (Online Only)
These models have demonstrated efficacy in producing positive outcomes for persons that are predisposed to a myriad of disorders including Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Major life adjustments, and Addiction.
I have a Bachelor's in Economics and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling. I am licensed by the state of North Carolina as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and as a Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). I am also a Nationally Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and I belong to the American Counseling Association, The National Board of Certified Counselors, and the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC).
These models have demonstrated efficacy in producing positive outcomes for persons that are predisposed to a myriad of disorders including Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Major life adjustments, and Addiction.
I have a Bachelor's in Economics and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling. I am licensed by the state of North Carolina as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and as a Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). I am also a Nationally Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and I belong to the American Counseling Association, The National Board of Certified Counselors, and the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC).
(980) 372-4734 View (980) 372-4734
Photo of Debra Bergman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra Bergman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Henderson, NC 27537
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
(678) 257-3426 View (678) 257-3426

Online Therapists

Photo of Shanna N Reyes - Integrity Counseling & Wellness, PLLC, LCMHCS
Integrity Counseling & Wellness, PLLC
LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
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 Jazmyn Jones, MSW, LCSWA
Jazmyn Jones
LCSW Associate , MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I enjoy working with clients that present with a full range of behavioral, emotional, family, and life skills difficulties they seek to change in their lives. Areas I work with include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, social isolation, social skills, interpersonal relationship skills, and emotional regulation skills. I help clients to navigate through different stages of life and how they affect their presenting concerns. I work with individuals who have dual/differential diagnosis using empirically validated techniques. This approach allows me to take a focused, action-oriented approach to help clients elicit change.
I enjoy working with clients that present with a full range of behavioral, emotional, family, and life skills difficulties they seek to change in their lives. Areas I work with include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, social isolation, social skills, interpersonal relationship skills, and emotional regulation skills. I help clients to navigate through different stages of life and how they affect their presenting concerns. I work with individuals who have dual/differential diagnosis using empirically validated techniques. This approach allows me to take a focused, action-oriented approach to help clients elicit change.
(919) 626-8238 View (919) 626-8238
Photo of Mandy Anglemyer, MA, LCMHCA
Mandy Anglemyer
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
I have experience working with eating disorders, life transitions, anxiety, emotion regulation, depression, body image, and self-esteem.
At times navigating life can be difficult and feel overwhelming. My passion lies in walking with you to gain insight, understand and solve problems, clarify values, and find more balance in life. I value the uniqueness of each person, which helps build on your strengths, self-acceptance, and healing. I strive to empower you to be self-compassionate as you journey through vulnerability and discomfort to reach a more fulfilling and meaningful life experience.
I have experience working with eating disorders, life transitions, anxiety, emotion regulation, depression, body image, and self-esteem.
At times navigating life can be difficult and feel overwhelming. My passion lies in walking with you to gain insight, understand and solve problems, clarify values, and find more balance in life. I value the uniqueness of each person, which helps build on your strengths, self-acceptance, and healing. I strive to empower you to be self-compassionate as you journey through vulnerability and discomfort to reach a more fulfilling and meaningful life experience.
(919) 374-3032 View (919) 374-3032
Photo of Jennifer Keast - Anchor Counseling Services, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anchor Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
I have extensive experience with all age groups and challenges ranging from anxiety/ depression, chronic stress, trauma/PTSD and much more.
Currently accepting new clients for daytime appointments (10 AM - 2 PM virtual or in person). I believe that everyone is unique and has their own distinctive journey. You can expect treatment with me to be person-centered and non-judgmental. I feel treating the person as a whole is important and look at all aspects of life and how they intermingle. I work form a biopsychosocial perspective and pull from multiple modalities of treatment to utilize a therapeutic approach tailored specifically for each client and their unique needs.
I have extensive experience with all age groups and challenges ranging from anxiety/ depression, chronic stress, trauma/PTSD and much more.
Currently accepting new clients for daytime appointments (10 AM - 2 PM virtual or in person). I believe that everyone is unique and has their own distinctive journey. You can expect treatment with me to be person-centered and non-judgmental. I feel treating the person as a whole is important and look at all aspects of life and how they intermingle. I work form a biopsychosocial perspective and pull from multiple modalities of treatment to utilize a therapeutic approach tailored specifically for each client and their unique needs.
(919) 770-1860 View (919) 770-1860
Photo of Kimberly Knight, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701
That’s where I come in to provide the support and resources for anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or clinical sex therapy.
When you find yourself not on the same page as your partner or you have challenges with finding a work/life balance, I’m here to support you. Sometimes talking about challenges in life can help us rediscover our strengths. That’s where I come in to provide the support and resources that may help you along the way. When you notice that you are having difficulties coming up with a solution, there are therapists like me here to support you along the way. Therapy can provide educational resources, insight on what you may not see, and a confidential safe space where you can be yourself.
That’s where I come in to provide the support and resources for anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or clinical sex therapy.
When you find yourself not on the same page as your partner or you have challenges with finding a work/life balance, I’m here to support you. Sometimes talking about challenges in life can help us rediscover our strengths. That’s where I come in to provide the support and resources that may help you along the way. When you notice that you are having difficulties coming up with a solution, there are therapists like me here to support you along the way. Therapy can provide educational resources, insight on what you may not see, and a confidential safe space where you can be yourself.
(919) 301-9576 View (919) 301-9576
Photo of Verna Dority - Carolina Counseling Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolina Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330
If you are feeling held back by intrusive symptoms, life changes, depression, anxiety, extreme worry, mood changes, trauma or grief to name a few, let us help.
Engaging in counseling with a trusted Licensed Professionals can not only improve your emotional health, but your physical health as well! Finding resolution can result in an overall healthier you!
If you are feeling held back by intrusive symptoms, life changes, depression, anxiety, extreme worry, mood changes, trauma or grief to name a few, let us help.
Engaging in counseling with a trusted Licensed Professionals can not only improve your emotional health, but your physical health as well! Finding resolution can result in an overall healthier you!
(919) 897-5111 View (919) 897-5111
Photo of Charleen Enns - Scout Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scout Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working with children and families. I have successfully treated a wide range of issues including traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, and parenting challenges. I provide individual counseling for adolescents and adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working with children and families. I have successfully treated a wide range of issues including traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, and parenting challenges. I provide individual counseling for adolescents and adults.
(919) 283-4961 View (919) 283-4961
Photo of Elaine Sanford-Sawyer, LCSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Sanford-Sawyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
Counseling should be a conversation in a private, peaceful setting where you can explore issues that are impacting your life. In a private peaceful therapeutic environment I will listen to you without judgment, provide support, insight and feedback to help you address current or long standing issues that are impacting your life and possibly interfering with your emotional well-being. I have years of experience working with individual and families to address mood instability, depression, anxiety, personal trauma, grief/loss, relationships and interpersonal problems due to, chronic illness, substance abuse and spiritual concerns.
Counseling should be a conversation in a private, peaceful setting where you can explore issues that are impacting your life. In a private peaceful therapeutic environment I will listen to you without judgment, provide support, insight and feedback to help you address current or long standing issues that are impacting your life and possibly interfering with your emotional well-being. I have years of experience working with individual and families to address mood instability, depression, anxiety, personal trauma, grief/loss, relationships and interpersonal problems due to, chronic illness, substance abuse and spiritual concerns.
(984) 224-7849 View (984) 224-7849
Photo of Mandi Cooke, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mandi Cooke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Farmville, NC 27828  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults on a variety of issues, with an emphasis on self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I often work with individuals struggling with motivation, lack of purpose, and overwhelming negative emotions that prevent them from fully enjoying or participating in life and who strive to find a sense of direction, self-acceptance, and fulfillment.
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults on a variety of issues, with an emphasis on self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I often work with individuals struggling with motivation, lack of purpose, and overwhelming negative emotions that prevent them from fully enjoying or participating in life and who strive to find a sense of direction, self-acceptance, and fulfillment.
(252) 460-2131 View (252) 460-2131
Photo of Mona Nour - Nour Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Nour Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
We address a wide array of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, racial trauma, oppression and discrimination, career counseling, career conflict, PTSD, life transitions, relationship conflict, ADHD, substance use, bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and more.
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
We address a wide array of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, racial trauma, oppression and discrimination, career counseling, career conflict, PTSD, life transitions, relationship conflict, ADHD, substance use, bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and more.
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
(919) 587-8394 View (919) 587-8394
Photo of Christopher Everhart, LPC, LCMHC, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Everhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
I provide individual, couple's, and family counseling. I am also qualified to provide clinical supervision to LPC / LCMHC associates. I am qualified to work with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Personality Disorders, Adjustment and Attachment Issues, Emotional Regulation, Grief and Loss/Trauma. I have 10+ years experience working with children, adolescence, adults.
I provide individual, couple's, and family counseling. I am also qualified to provide clinical supervision to LPC / LCMHC associates. I am qualified to work with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Personality Disorders, Adjustment and Attachment Issues, Emotional Regulation, Grief and Loss/Trauma. I have 10+ years experience working with children, adolescence, adults.
(984) 384-6802 View (984) 384-6802
Photo of Meghan Sabba Hall Rauen, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Meghan Sabba Hall Rauen
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Waitlist for new clients
My experience ranges from trauma, grief, behavior/academic issues, PTSD, PPD, anxiety, depression, life adjustments, PTSD, gender/sexuality issues, and health/medical issues.
I have clinical experience working with children, teens, adults, multicultural, and LGBTQ+ population struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, behavioral issues, academic/school problems, ADD/ADHD, sexual/gender identity issues, personality issues, domestic issues, adjustment issues, and health/medical issues. I also have expertise working multiculturally and with individuals of the Abrahamic traditions, folks from Jewish, Christian and Islamic faith traditions, and counseling for these faiths.
My experience ranges from trauma, grief, behavior/academic issues, PTSD, PPD, anxiety, depression, life adjustments, PTSD, gender/sexuality issues, and health/medical issues.
I have clinical experience working with children, teens, adults, multicultural, and LGBTQ+ population struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, behavioral issues, academic/school problems, ADD/ADHD, sexual/gender identity issues, personality issues, domestic issues, adjustment issues, and health/medical issues. I also have expertise working multiculturally and with individuals of the Abrahamic traditions, folks from Jewish, Christian and Islamic faith traditions, and counseling for these faiths.
(919) 551-6390 View (919) 551-6390
Photo of Anne Mauldin, PhD, Psychologist
Anne Mauldin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
Such issues include: Depression, anxiety, health issues (stress, pain management, smoking cessation, obesity), divorce recovery (for adults and children), adoption, low self-esteem, abuse survivors, PTSD, ADHD, grief, couples problems and psychological testing.
My goal as a psychologist is to increase self-awareness and create positive change in a nonjudgmental environment. Psychotherapy can relieve emotional distress, improve one's quality of life, help process painful events and increase self-awareness. Unfortunately many people are conflicted about the decision to get help and may see psychotherapy as a sign of weakness. It has been my experience that people who are unhappy for whatever reason and choose to go to psychotherapy are being assertive, healthy, and courageous in the handling of their problems.
(252) 455-9998 View (252) 455-9998

See more therapy options for Oxford

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.