Photo of Alicia Kayley Snell, LCMHCA, Counselor
Alicia Kayley Snell
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed by life's complexities, or are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, or a sense of unfulfillment? Perhaps you're seeking a delicate balance between your true self and who you aspire to be, longing for harmony and wellness amidst a world that often seems to pull you in different directions. You're not just looking to cope; you're aiming to thrive, seeking a compassionate counselor who understands your journey and can skillfully navigate you through the rough waters to reach your goals of inner peace, resilience, and joy.
Do you feel overwhelmed by life's complexities, or are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, or a sense of unfulfillment? Perhaps you're seeking a delicate balance between your true self and who you aspire to be, longing for harmony and wellness amidst a world that often seems to pull you in different directions. You're not just looking to cope; you're aiming to thrive, seeking a compassionate counselor who understands your journey and can skillfully navigate you through the rough waters to reach your goals of inner peace, resilience, and joy.
(910) 335-2955 View (910) 335-2955
Photo of Eve Cribbs - Finding Enough, Eve Cribbs, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Finding Enough, Eve Cribbs, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
If depression and anxiety have affected your interactions with food or you have experienced depression and anxiety as a result, will find help in my practice.
Do you obsess about food, dieting, body image and exercise? Are you feeling ashamed and depressed despite your attempts to stop this behavior? If you can relate, help is available. I have been working with adults who have eating disorders, anxiety and depression for over 30 years and would love to work with you. If you are motivated and have had enough of your struggle with food, body and exercise then getting to the heart of the problem with my help will surely bring about the changes you are looking for.
If depression and anxiety have affected your interactions with food or you have experienced depression and anxiety as a result, will find help in my practice.
Do you obsess about food, dieting, body image and exercise? Are you feeling ashamed and depressed despite your attempts to stop this behavior? If you can relate, help is available. I have been working with adults who have eating disorders, anxiety and depression for over 30 years and would love to work with you. If you are motivated and have had enough of your struggle with food, body and exercise then getting to the heart of the problem with my help will surely bring about the changes you are looking for.
(919) 299-0251 View (919) 299-0251
Photo of Socorro Miles - Solace Counseling & Consulting, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Solace Counseling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Solace specializes in treating women dealing with crippling anxiety, depression and trauma. We know the effects of overthinking, constant worrying and overwhelming sadness that stops you from living a full life. Sleepless nights do not have to be your norm. Constant disagreements with people special to you can be a thing of the past. We think its important to build a good relationship with your therapist so we help pair you with the perfect fit because feeling supported in your mental health journey makes all the difference to you feeling better.
Solace specializes in treating women dealing with crippling anxiety, depression and trauma. We know the effects of overthinking, constant worrying and overwhelming sadness that stops you from living a full life. Sleepless nights do not have to be your norm. Constant disagreements with people special to you can be a thing of the past. We think its important to build a good relationship with your therapist so we help pair you with the perfect fit because feeling supported in your mental health journey makes all the difference to you feeling better.
(919) 887-4341 View (919) 887-4341
Photo of Tasia Hawkins, LCMHC
Tasia Hawkins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Reiki Energy Healing Practitioner who loves working with teens, adults and couples on issues such as identity; anxiety, depression and stress management; coping skills; emotion regulation; self-esteem; and improving relationships.
Everything you need to improve and transform your life you already possess inside of you. My job as your therapist is to empower you to use your strengths to achieve your goals and change your life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Reiki Energy Healing Practitioner who loves working with teens, adults and couples on issues such as identity; anxiety, depression and stress management; coping skills; emotion regulation; self-esteem; and improving relationships.
Everything you need to improve and transform your life you already possess inside of you. My job as your therapist is to empower you to use your strengths to achieve your goals and change your life.
(919) 759-6443 View (919) 759-6443
Photo of Zena Chase, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Zena Chase
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
I have worked with children and adults from all walks of life who struggle with chronic illnesses, loss, Adjustment Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, Eating Disorders, Substance Use, Couples & Family therapies.
I’m very passionate about helping people, and celebrating their courageous strides. It takes courage to seek counseling, and courage to trust the process. I strive to create a partnership that is therapeutic in nature, and intentional in effort. It is with that intention, courage, and partnership that I assist my clients’ in reaching therapeutic goals, accepting and achieving growth, increasing awareness, and fostering resilience.
I have worked with children and adults from all walks of life who struggle with chronic illnesses, loss, Adjustment Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, Eating Disorders, Substance Use, Couples & Family therapies.
I’m very passionate about helping people, and celebrating their courageous strides. It takes courage to seek counseling, and courage to trust the process. I strive to create a partnership that is therapeutic in nature, and intentional in effort. It is with that intention, courage, and partnership that I assist my clients’ in reaching therapeutic goals, accepting and achieving growth, increasing awareness, and fostering resilience.
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Photo of LaTia Guyton, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
LaTia Guyton
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27616  (Online Only)
I can help you resolve the core conflict of your anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and silent pain.
If you feel that talk therapy has not helped you, keep reading... There is a point in life when we get tired of not thriving. Trauma. Overwhelming anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem are robbing you of the life that you see. You can see a better life for you in the distance but you have no idea how to get there. Striving for perfectionism, people pleasing, feeling like you are always the problem, that you are not enough. I was an educator for almost 20 years so I know the stressors that teachers experience. No one knows what teachers go through better than a teacher. I offer a 100% judgment-free zone.
I can help you resolve the core conflict of your anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and silent pain.
If you feel that talk therapy has not helped you, keep reading... There is a point in life when we get tired of not thriving. Trauma. Overwhelming anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem are robbing you of the life that you see. You can see a better life for you in the distance but you have no idea how to get there. Striving for perfectionism, people pleasing, feeling like you are always the problem, that you are not enough. I was an educator for almost 20 years so I know the stressors that teachers experience. No one knows what teachers go through better than a teacher. I offer a 100% judgment-free zone.
(252) 818-5210 View (252) 818-5210
Photo of Jessica Garcia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606  (Online Only)
In life we have a wave of experiences. These waves can challenge and inspire us. Throughout life, it can be valuable to have a space that is your own. A space where you feel safe and uplifted. This is why it is important to find a therapist that meets your needs. I am a Latinx bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed clinical social worker. I specialize in working with individuals who are facing challenges related to self-worth, difficulty with life transitions, family of origin experiences, family conflict, and interpersonal difficulties. As well as depression, anxiety, and trauma.
In life we have a wave of experiences. These waves can challenge and inspire us. Throughout life, it can be valuable to have a space that is your own. A space where you feel safe and uplifted. This is why it is important to find a therapist that meets your needs. I am a Latinx bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed clinical social worker. I specialize in working with individuals who are facing challenges related to self-worth, difficulty with life transitions, family of origin experiences, family conflict, and interpersonal difficulties. As well as depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(984) 324-9482 View (984) 324-9482
Photo of Jessica Fuller - Jessica Fuller Therapy, PLLC., LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Fuller Therapy, PLLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27611
I am a licensed clinical social worker and trauma specialist who works with adults and adolescence (16+) with trauma (PTSD), addiction, depression, anxiety, and other diagnosis. I am trained in providing brainspotting as a progressive form of therapy intervention to treat all things from PTSD to mental blocks with sports. I integrate other trauma informed approaches as each individual has unique goals and complex needs. I use the best training to provide the highest quality of therapy possible to my clients in a calming and relaxed atmosphere.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and trauma specialist who works with adults and adolescence (16+) with trauma (PTSD), addiction, depression, anxiety, and other diagnosis. I am trained in providing brainspotting as a progressive form of therapy intervention to treat all things from PTSD to mental blocks with sports. I integrate other trauma informed approaches as each individual has unique goals and complex needs. I use the best training to provide the highest quality of therapy possible to my clients in a calming and relaxed atmosphere.
(252) 336-9692 View (252) 336-9692
Photo of Aysia Allen - Cedar Tree Empowerment Center LLC , MSW, LCSW, TF-CBT, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cedar Tree Empowerment Center LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, TF-CBT, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610
"I'm okay. Everything's alright". You tell yourself this repetitively while withholding tears and smiling for everyone else. You secretly struggle to believe what God says about you. Some days you feel so alone. You battle to feel loved and good enough to be the person God created you to be. Anxiety, depression, fear, grief, loss, shame and trauma have become emotional strongholds. Life seems to keep coming and you feel depleted. You ultimately want to live in freedom in your mind, no longer enslaved by the pain of the past, comparison, and even fear that your future will be failure. You desire to sense hope and fulfillment again.
"I'm okay. Everything's alright". You tell yourself this repetitively while withholding tears and smiling for everyone else. You secretly struggle to believe what God says about you. Some days you feel so alone. You battle to feel loved and good enough to be the person God created you to be. Anxiety, depression, fear, grief, loss, shame and trauma have become emotional strongholds. Life seems to keep coming and you feel depleted. You ultimately want to live in freedom in your mind, no longer enslaved by the pain of the past, comparison, and even fear that your future will be failure. You desire to sense hope and fulfillment again.
(980) 291-9311 View (980) 291-9311
Photo of Alicia Orlopp, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Alicia Orlopp
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing therapy to adults in areas of perinatal/maternal mental health, depression, anxiety, and trauma using evidence-based approaches including rational-emotive cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and brainspotting.
Ah, the wonderful world of parenthood, the best time of your life! But what if it's not right now? Are you pregnant, recently post-partum, or experiencing a subsequent pregnancy/birth and struggling with feelings of overwhelm, isolation, stress, or nervousness? Maybe you're feeling numb, detached or having difficulty connecting with your baby, or having a hard time engaging in your own self-care. You are not alone. The transition to parenthood is complex; together we can navigate the nuances of parenthood and get you back to enjoying this new chapter of your life.
I specialize in providing therapy to adults in areas of perinatal/maternal mental health, depression, anxiety, and trauma using evidence-based approaches including rational-emotive cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and brainspotting.
Ah, the wonderful world of parenthood, the best time of your life! But what if it's not right now? Are you pregnant, recently post-partum, or experiencing a subsequent pregnancy/birth and struggling with feelings of overwhelm, isolation, stress, or nervousness? Maybe you're feeling numb, detached or having difficulty connecting with your baby, or having a hard time engaging in your own self-care. You are not alone. The transition to parenthood is complex; together we can navigate the nuances of parenthood and get you back to enjoying this new chapter of your life.
(910) 994-4367 View (910) 994-4367
Photo of George A Tabb - Life Without Limits Inc, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Without Limits Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
If you need help with your anxiety or depression right now, and you don’t want to spend months in the traditional weekly model of therapy treatment.
I am accepting new clients that are looking for Intensive EMDR. Why choose intensive work? The traditional model of weekly psychotherapy is shifting to meet your needs. Now more than ever, we need flexibility in how we get support. EMDR intensives are personalized treatment plans that allow you to skip the waitlist by giving you faster access to select spots, and are designed to support your preferred schedule and timeline for your treatment goals. Perhaps, you need more efficient support as the busy parent with kids doing virtual learning and/or the working professional who has even more on their plate since the pandemic.
If you need help with your anxiety or depression right now, and you don’t want to spend months in the traditional weekly model of therapy treatment.
I am accepting new clients that are looking for Intensive EMDR. Why choose intensive work? The traditional model of weekly psychotherapy is shifting to meet your needs. Now more than ever, we need flexibility in how we get support. EMDR intensives are personalized treatment plans that allow you to skip the waitlist by giving you faster access to select spots, and are designed to support your preferred schedule and timeline for your treatment goals. Perhaps, you need more efficient support as the busy parent with kids doing virtual learning and/or the working professional who has even more on their plate since the pandemic.
(984) 237-2974 View (984) 237-2974
Photo of Kelly K Jerome, MS, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly K Jerome
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients - I believe we all possess an innate wisdom that allows us to live in a state of flow, safety and healthy relationships. Life challenges, trauma, loss, and stressful transitions can often dampen our flow, showing up as anxious thoughts, panic attacks, depressed mood, or feeling unsafe or alone. During these seasons, we may feel highly activated or impulsive, or alternately listless, numb, or disconnected from ourselves and others. Sometimes reaching out for support during such moments feels immensely difficult, and yet I believe the power of connection can help return us to our inherent wisdom and flow.
Accepting New Clients - I believe we all possess an innate wisdom that allows us to live in a state of flow, safety and healthy relationships. Life challenges, trauma, loss, and stressful transitions can often dampen our flow, showing up as anxious thoughts, panic attacks, depressed mood, or feeling unsafe or alone. During these seasons, we may feel highly activated or impulsive, or alternately listless, numb, or disconnected from ourselves and others. Sometimes reaching out for support during such moments feels immensely difficult, and yet I believe the power of connection can help return us to our inherent wisdom and flow.
(919) 642-3408 View (919) 642-3408
Photo of Irang Kim, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Irang Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
My specialty includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, addictions.
Everyone needs some moments to be heard without judgement. I believe therapy can offer that unconditional space for people. All we need to do is to invest time and effort to come to the space to explore the stories inside of us. Nothing is wrong and everything teaches us something. I am here to witness the process and support self-determination within a safe space where the client and I build together. I take insight oriented indirective approach to help clients to find connections to themselves.
My specialty includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, addictions.
Everyone needs some moments to be heard without judgement. I believe therapy can offer that unconditional space for people. All we need to do is to invest time and effort to come to the space to explore the stories inside of us. Nothing is wrong and everything teaches us something. I am here to witness the process and support self-determination within a safe space where the client and I build together. I take insight oriented indirective approach to help clients to find connections to themselves.
(919) 694-4361 View (919) 694-4361
Photo of Brittany Deann Schopler, MA, LCMHCA
Brittany Deann Schopler
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
Accepting New Clients-Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile! I like to follow a person-centered and eclectic approach which lets me tailor your therapy to your unique needs. I like working with people of ALL backgrounds and ages including young adults and those with self-esteem issues. I enjoy helping people overcome their anxiety, depression, and other stress or trauma-induced issues. Further, I believe that a lot of emotional turmoil is stored in our bodies and exploring this turmoil is essential to healing from it.
Accepting New Clients-Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile! I like to follow a person-centered and eclectic approach which lets me tailor your therapy to your unique needs. I like working with people of ALL backgrounds and ages including young adults and those with self-esteem issues. I enjoy helping people overcome their anxiety, depression, and other stress or trauma-induced issues. Further, I believe that a lot of emotional turmoil is stored in our bodies and exploring this turmoil is essential to healing from it.
(984) 249-3788 View (984) 249-3788
Photo of Virginia D Hill - Therapeutic Arts Center / Sharing Dance, LCMHC, BC-DMT, CRC
Therapeutic Arts Center / Sharing Dance
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, BC-DMT, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Experiencing ongoing, underlying anger? Having difficulty concentrating at times? Or problems sleeping? Overly anxious or feeling depressed? Or, is life a bit overwhelming at this time? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, know I understand that living life with these issues saps your joy, making it hard to move forward. As a dance/movement therapist, I use movement to provide a physical dimension to traditional “talk” therapies. Dance therapy allows clients to embody their thoughts and feelings, as well as to practice “walking-through” potential solutions.
Experiencing ongoing, underlying anger? Having difficulty concentrating at times? Or problems sleeping? Overly anxious or feeling depressed? Or, is life a bit overwhelming at this time? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, know I understand that living life with these issues saps your joy, making it hard to move forward. As a dance/movement therapist, I use movement to provide a physical dimension to traditional “talk” therapies. Dance therapy allows clients to embody their thoughts and feelings, as well as to practice “walking-through” potential solutions.
(984) 203-7406 View (984) 203-7406
Photo of Keturah Y Beckham, LCSW, LCAS, CHC, CCA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keturah Y Beckham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CHC, CCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am a clinical social worker with a passion for helping individuals overcome challenges related to anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I understand that these issues can be deeply impactful and can affect every aspect of our lives. Therefore, my goal as a therapist is to provide a compassionate and supportive environment where we can work together to find healing, growth, and resilience.
I am a clinical social worker with a passion for helping individuals overcome challenges related to anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I understand that these issues can be deeply impactful and can affect every aspect of our lives. Therefore, my goal as a therapist is to provide a compassionate and supportive environment where we can work together to find healing, growth, and resilience.
(984) 363-2667 View (984) 363-2667
Photo of Jordan Fagan, LCSW-A, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Fagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I am passionate about helping adults with trauma, addiction, depression, or anxiety.
I am passionate about helping adults with trauma, addiction, depression, or anxiety.
(919) 336-0357 View (919) 336-0357
Photo of Christina M Minoguchi, MSW, LISW-S, CCTP, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina M Minoguchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, CCTP, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR and Brainspotting therapist, specializing in trauma, anxiety and depression.
Hello! I understand you may be facing numerous challenges in your life that have led you here. Whether something occurred in your past or more recently, it has likely triggered flashbacks, anxiety, depression, stress, relational difficulties, work-related issues, or an overall sense of being overwhelmed. You might have sought therapy previously without finding lasting relief, finding yourself inundated once again with memories and negative thoughts. I teach each client in their 1st session how to control their symptoms through amazing neuroscience techniques. If traditional talk therapy didn't help, I can!
I am an EMDR and Brainspotting therapist, specializing in trauma, anxiety and depression.
Hello! I understand you may be facing numerous challenges in your life that have led you here. Whether something occurred in your past or more recently, it has likely triggered flashbacks, anxiety, depression, stress, relational difficulties, work-related issues, or an overall sense of being overwhelmed. You might have sought therapy previously without finding lasting relief, finding yourself inundated once again with memories and negative thoughts. I teach each client in their 1st session how to control their symptoms through amazing neuroscience techniques. If traditional talk therapy didn't help, I can!
(614) 328-5079 View (614) 328-5079
Photo of James A Barbour, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
James A Barbour
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
Drawing from these theoretical perspectives I have successfully worked with individuals, couples and families in healing patterns of thought and behavior leading to anxieties, phobias, depression, substance abuse, couple's issues and other life challenges.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
Drawing from these theoretical perspectives I have successfully worked with individuals, couples and families in healing patterns of thought and behavior leading to anxieties, phobias, depression, substance abuse, couple's issues and other life challenges.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
(252) 585-5186 View (252) 585-5186
Photo of Amelia Kelley, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR,  RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amelia Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR, RYT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Reiki, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling & Wellness we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. I specialize in treating teens, adults and couples who suffer from; addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Reiki, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling & Wellness we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. I specialize in treating teens, adults and couples who suffer from; addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
(919) 794-8350 View (919) 794-8350
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.