Depression Therapists in Warrenton, NC

Photo of Cessel Jewon Boyd - C.J. Boyd Christian Counseling Services, PLLC, Counselor
C.J. Boyd Christian Counseling Services, PLLC
Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrenton, NC 27589  (Online Only)
Specialties: Divorce Recovery, Grief and Bereavement, Depression, Anxiety, Couples Issues, Parenting Concerns, Substance Use Disorders and Recovery, Blended Family Issues, Stress Management and Women's Issues.
As a group practice we are honored to provide Mental Health and Substance Abuse Recovery Services with a Christ centered worldview, because it takes Faith and Courage to believe your life can be transformed! The basis of our counseling perspective is a spiritual one and is first mentioned in Leviticus 19:18 of the Bible; it tells us to "love thy neighbor as thy self". This principle is the basis for our counseling perspective. With this frame-work, it is our desire to improve one's Biological, Psychological, Social and Spiritual functioning through partnership, as individuals navigate life's challenges.
Specialties: Divorce Recovery, Grief and Bereavement, Depression, Anxiety, Couples Issues, Parenting Concerns, Substance Use Disorders and Recovery, Blended Family Issues, Stress Management and Women's Issues.
As a group practice we are honored to provide Mental Health and Substance Abuse Recovery Services with a Christ centered worldview, because it takes Faith and Courage to believe your life can be transformed! The basis of our counseling perspective is a spiritual one and is first mentioned in Leviticus 19:18 of the Bible; it tells us to "love thy neighbor as thy self". This principle is the basis for our counseling perspective. With this frame-work, it is our desire to improve one's Biological, Psychological, Social and Spiritual functioning through partnership, as individuals navigate life's challenges.
(984) 204-6596 View (984) 204-6596
Photo of Aimee Jenkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aimee Jenkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, NC 27589
My belief is that in order to create and sustain a happy, well-balanced life, we must first define what "happy" looks like, then figure out how to obtain it! This can oftentimes be daunting when experiencing the challenges of mental health, and significant life transitions. I have dedicated my entire career to partnering with individuals and families and meeting them where they are to work on achieving this goal. I regularly use mindfulness skills and always promote a trauma-informed approach to all we work on. Regardless, I work to meet you where you are and utilize appropriate interventions. My focus
My belief is that in order to create and sustain a happy, well-balanced life, we must first define what "happy" looks like, then figure out how to obtain it! This can oftentimes be daunting when experiencing the challenges of mental health, and significant life transitions. I have dedicated my entire career to partnering with individuals and families and meeting them where they are to work on achieving this goal. I regularly use mindfulness skills and always promote a trauma-informed approach to all we work on. Regardless, I work to meet you where you are and utilize appropriate interventions. My focus
(984) 206-3619 View (984) 206-3619
Photo of Shalonda Alston - Worth the Work Therapy, PLLC, LCSW, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Worth the Work Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenton, NC 27589  (Online Only)
My name is Shalonda. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I specialize in helping adults who have self-esteem, relationship, and life adjustment issues resulting from childhood trauma thrive fully. Life is full of surprises and transitions but you don’t have to handle them alone. My goal is to allow you to have a nonjudgmental space to focus on the issues you’re facing and be the best version of yourself. I work to help collaborate to create a plan to help address your individual needs.
My name is Shalonda. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I specialize in helping adults who have self-esteem, relationship, and life adjustment issues resulting from childhood trauma thrive fully. Life is full of surprises and transitions but you don’t have to handle them alone. My goal is to allow you to have a nonjudgmental space to focus on the issues you’re facing and be the best version of yourself. I work to help collaborate to create a plan to help address your individual needs.
(252) 572-1899 View (252) 572-1899
Photo of Jonathan R. Ricks, PhD, LCMHCS, RPT
Jonathan R. Ricks
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHCS, RPT
Verified Verified
Warrenton, NC 27589
Not accepting new clients
We all need help sometimes when life gets difficult. I create a caring, therapeutic environment where new strategies can be learned, difficult issues can be addressed, distress can be reduced, and self-worth can grow. Your goal may be to learn more insight into yourself, find new directions for success, or to have difficult feelings improve. Perhaps your child needs support to be successful in school with academics and behavior. Let's work together to reach success and growth!
We all need help sometimes when life gets difficult. I create a caring, therapeutic environment where new strategies can be learned, difficult issues can be addressed, distress can be reduced, and self-worth can grow. Your goal may be to learn more insight into yourself, find new directions for success, or to have difficult feelings improve. Perhaps your child needs support to be successful in school with academics and behavior. Let's work together to reach success and growth!
(252) 376-5865 View (252) 376-5865

Online Therapists

Photo of Jeff Georgi, MDiv, MAH, LCAS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jeff Georgi
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MDiv, MAH, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
My philosophy: I work together with patients to identify their goals, discover underlying issues and create a treatment plan driven by the patient’s desired outcome. Whether you, or a loved one, is struggling with substance use, depression or a combination of mental health problems, we will work together to create a plan that will help you reach your full potential.
My philosophy: I work together with patients to identify their goals, discover underlying issues and create a treatment plan driven by the patient’s desired outcome. Whether you, or a loved one, is struggling with substance use, depression or a combination of mental health problems, we will work together to create a plan that will help you reach your full potential.
(984) 465-7511 View (984) 465-7511
Photo of Kathy W Honeyman, MSW, LCSW, AANE, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy W Honeyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, AANE, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Adults with Aspergers (a/k/a Autism Spectrum Disorder) have extraordinary challenges coping with everyday life. This is a result of neurological differences in emotional wiring, communications, social interaction, sensory and executive functioning. Living life with these differences can result in depression and anxiety. It can also cause havoc within a marriage, educational pursuits, and careers. I offer a validating environment to better understand the "typical world," and develop coping skills to manage everyday life--as well as a creative space for couples to learn about their differences and work towards acceptance.
Adults with Aspergers (a/k/a Autism Spectrum Disorder) have extraordinary challenges coping with everyday life. This is a result of neurological differences in emotional wiring, communications, social interaction, sensory and executive functioning. Living life with these differences can result in depression and anxiety. It can also cause havoc within a marriage, educational pursuits, and careers. I offer a validating environment to better understand the "typical world," and develop coping skills to manage everyday life--as well as a creative space for couples to learn about their differences and work towards acceptance.
(919) 283-5734 View (919) 283-5734
Photo of Daphne C Wiggins, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, MA, MDiv
Daphne C Wiggins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
I counsel persons with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship stress, etc.
Do you have a habit that is holding you back? Are you struggling with a mood disorder, failure to achieve your goals or imposter syndrome? Has the pandemic or societal upheaval caused you anxiety? Do you practice your faith, but nothing changes? If these questions resonate with you or you're seeking more balance in your life, counseling may be appropriate for you. Counseling is not about being "broken" and having an expert fix you. Instead, it is a process that helps you identify your strengths and realize you are the expert on you. My work is to help you clarify issues and chart a path for change in a safe space.
I counsel persons with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship stress, etc.
Do you have a habit that is holding you back? Are you struggling with a mood disorder, failure to achieve your goals or imposter syndrome? Has the pandemic or societal upheaval caused you anxiety? Do you practice your faith, but nothing changes? If these questions resonate with you or you're seeking more balance in your life, counseling may be appropriate for you. Counseling is not about being "broken" and having an expert fix you. Instead, it is a process that helps you identify your strengths and realize you are the expert on you. My work is to help you clarify issues and chart a path for change in a safe space.
(984) 305-3744 View (984) 305-3744
Photo of Brandy Gainor, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Brandy Gainor
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I love helping clients that have been through trauma or are currently struggling through anxiety, depression, or other struggles which may not even be clear what is going on just yet! We can work together to determine what are your issues, your needs, and what kind of goals we can make together to help you get better. Life transition, moving, living in another culture some of your hardships? I am your girl - your counselor! I love working with expatriates, cross-cultural workers, missionaries, and others that move around. I also love bringing in faith, spirituality, prayer, and the Bible into counseling.
I love helping clients that have been through trauma or are currently struggling through anxiety, depression, or other struggles which may not even be clear what is going on just yet! We can work together to determine what are your issues, your needs, and what kind of goals we can make together to help you get better. Life transition, moving, living in another culture some of your hardships? I am your girl - your counselor! I love working with expatriates, cross-cultural workers, missionaries, and others that move around. I also love bringing in faith, spirituality, prayer, and the Bible into counseling.
(984) 983-5477 View (984) 983-5477
Photo of Dr. Dorrance Kennedy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Dorrance Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, ptsd, and a variety of other issues I can assist you.
Hello, I appreciate your interest in pursuing your best life. I am here to help you navigate this process. My focus is to help you discover your inner strengths and redirect unhealthy patterns that affect your progress, peace, and happiness.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, ptsd, and a variety of other issues I can assist you.
Hello, I appreciate your interest in pursuing your best life. I am here to help you navigate this process. My focus is to help you discover your inner strengths and redirect unhealthy patterns that affect your progress, peace, and happiness.
(984) 217-5086 View (984) 217-5086
Photo of Corey Michael Ellis, MA, BS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Corey Michael Ellis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I am focused in clinically informed therapy for ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational conflict, and marriage.
Life can be challenging at times, can't it? There are many things that can cause instability, sadness, or a number of other problems. But, there are also numerous sources of stability, joy, and health within our reach. Sometimes, the situations we find ourselves in make it difficult to see any hope, happiness, or a way out. I would love to join you in your current moment and walk alongside you. We can work together to find stability and rediscover the joy of life that may have been lost or feels out of reach. It doesn't have to remain in the past or be a dream in the future; let's work together to experience it in the present.
I am focused in clinically informed therapy for ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational conflict, and marriage.
Life can be challenging at times, can't it? There are many things that can cause instability, sadness, or a number of other problems. But, there are also numerous sources of stability, joy, and health within our reach. Sometimes, the situations we find ourselves in make it difficult to see any hope, happiness, or a way out. I would love to join you in your current moment and walk alongside you. We can work together to find stability and rediscover the joy of life that may have been lost or feels out of reach. It doesn't have to remain in the past or be a dream in the future; let's work together to experience it in the present.
(984) 314-3903 View (984) 314-3903
Photo of Keith Davis, LCMHCA, Counselor
Keith Davis
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
Some (but not all) of the mental health issues that I help with are domestic violence issues, PTSD, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, bipolar and others.
As a counselor, I believe the road to a better you starts with building a respectful and meaningful relationship with my clients. I feel the client is their own expert when it comes to their life. This is why the client is the guiding force in their mental health happiness. In order for happiness to be achieved, the client and counselor must work together. I provide an empathetic, caring and respectful environment that allows the client a safe place to start their positive mental health journey.
Some (but not all) of the mental health issues that I help with are domestic violence issues, PTSD, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, bipolar and others.
As a counselor, I believe the road to a better you starts with building a respectful and meaningful relationship with my clients. I feel the client is their own expert when it comes to their life. This is why the client is the guiding force in their mental health happiness. In order for happiness to be achieved, the client and counselor must work together. I provide an empathetic, caring and respectful environment that allows the client a safe place to start their positive mental health journey.
(984) 367-1684 View (984) 367-1684
Photo of Rochelle Hise, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rochelle Hise
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or relationship difficulties? Do you at times feel hopeless? When we experience life stressors, it is not uncommon to feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to go next. I have a passion for guiding people through these obstacles. My approach to therapy is warm, nonjudgmental, and compassionate. I am led by the belief that everyone is capable of growth and that our connections with others bring us great healing. By providing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, I aim to help you uncover your true potential and feel more empowered to live your life authentically.
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or relationship difficulties? Do you at times feel hopeless? When we experience life stressors, it is not uncommon to feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to go next. I have a passion for guiding people through these obstacles. My approach to therapy is warm, nonjudgmental, and compassionate. I am led by the belief that everyone is capable of growth and that our connections with others bring us great healing. By providing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship, I aim to help you uncover your true potential and feel more empowered to live your life authentically.
(919) 887-9261 View (919) 887-9261
Photo of Christine Schneider, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Schneider
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I work with other specific issues including but not limited to PTSD, depression, anxiety & addiction.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I offer a warm safe and non-judgmental space where you can openly explore your struggles, heal and improve the quality of your life. My passion lies in helping individuals & couples heal, grow and rediscover the beauty of their true selves. With a trauma-informed approach, I will guide you in rewiring old thought patterns that have held you captive, so you can break free from the cycle of pain holding you back. Feeling stuck as a couple? Often, we repeat patterns rooted in past hurts and fears. Together we can peel back these layers and work toward the connection and peace you deserve.
I work with other specific issues including but not limited to PTSD, depression, anxiety & addiction.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I offer a warm safe and non-judgmental space where you can openly explore your struggles, heal and improve the quality of your life. My passion lies in helping individuals & couples heal, grow and rediscover the beauty of their true selves. With a trauma-informed approach, I will guide you in rewiring old thought patterns that have held you captive, so you can break free from the cycle of pain holding you back. Feeling stuck as a couple? Often, we repeat patterns rooted in past hurts and fears. Together we can peel back these layers and work toward the connection and peace you deserve.
(984) 217-8460 View (984) 217-8460
Photo of Kelty-Brooke Bailey, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelty-Brooke Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I was trained to provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing, specifically for the treatment of individuals with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma/PTSD.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor serving clients in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. My practice is focused on work with adult women throughout the lifespan. I offer psychotherapy services and comprehensive clinical consultations and assessments. My approach to psychotherapy combines practical, solution focused work with warmth, compassion, and humor. I provide a safe and supportive environment where we can work together. I offer you my observations and thoughts and encourage you to be an active participant in clarifying concerns, setting goals, and evaluating progress.
I was trained to provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing, specifically for the treatment of individuals with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma/PTSD.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor serving clients in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. My practice is focused on work with adult women throughout the lifespan. I offer psychotherapy services and comprehensive clinical consultations and assessments. My approach to psychotherapy combines practical, solution focused work with warmth, compassion, and humor. I provide a safe and supportive environment where we can work together. I offer you my observations and thoughts and encourage you to be an active participant in clarifying concerns, setting goals, and evaluating progress.
(984) 355-8447 View (984) 355-8447
Photo of Elizabeth Brenneman, LCMHCA, Counselor
Elizabeth Brenneman
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
I also enjoy supporting individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational conflict, and identity exploration.
I’m so glad you’re here! My name is Elizabeth, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate at Three Oaks Behavioral Health & Wellness. I believe that everyone deserves a space to feel safe, heard, and supported. My therapeutic approach embraces all aspects of who you are. I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults experiencing grief and loss. I understand that grief is a deeply personal experience, and I will tailor my approach to meet each client’s experience. My goal is to support you in finding a way to move forward while honoring the significance of what you have lost.
I also enjoy supporting individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational conflict, and identity exploration.
I’m so glad you’re here! My name is Elizabeth, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate at Three Oaks Behavioral Health & Wellness. I believe that everyone deserves a space to feel safe, heard, and supported. My therapeutic approach embraces all aspects of who you are. I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults experiencing grief and loss. I understand that grief is a deeply personal experience, and I will tailor my approach to meet each client’s experience. My goal is to support you in finding a way to move forward while honoring the significance of what you have lost.
(984) 646-0347 View (984) 646-0347
Photo of Dr. Ellie Gottstein, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Ellie Gottstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
My primary clinical interests include anxiety, depression, stress management, and perfectionism.
As the whirlwind of life continually evolves, it can be tricky to find yourself and align your personal growth amidst the chaos. If you're ready to embrace your future, overcome your fears, and step into the confident, empowered version of yourself you’ve always envisioned, I’m here to support you. My goal is to create a space where you feel both challenged and uplifted. Together, we'll explore your aspirations, tackle the obstacles in your way, and develop practical strategies to help you thrive, all while sharing some laughs along the way. Let’s embark on this journey together toward your best self, one step at a time.
My primary clinical interests include anxiety, depression, stress management, and perfectionism.
As the whirlwind of life continually evolves, it can be tricky to find yourself and align your personal growth amidst the chaos. If you're ready to embrace your future, overcome your fears, and step into the confident, empowered version of yourself you’ve always envisioned, I’m here to support you. My goal is to create a space where you feel both challenged and uplifted. Together, we'll explore your aspirations, tackle the obstacles in your way, and develop practical strategies to help you thrive, all while sharing some laughs along the way. Let’s embark on this journey together toward your best self, one step at a time.
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Photo of Kelly Jo Hart - The Hart of the Matter, Inc, LCMHCS, LPCMHSP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Hart of the Matter, Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LPCMHSP, LPC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301
My clinical specializations include working with individuals who are experiencing ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, parenting issues, &codependency.
I believe that taking the first step towards healing & growth takes tremendous strength & courage. My goal is to provide hope, healing, and encouragement throughout the most challenging seasons of life & at various life stages. I believe in providing children, individuals & families sound clinical knowledge, compassionate truth, & guidance as they move forward on their journey. I believe that the client-therapist relationship involves ongoing collaboration to ensure mutual understanding & progress. I enjoy helping people understand the connections between their somatic responses and harmful negative core beliefs.
My clinical specializations include working with individuals who are experiencing ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, parenting issues, &codependency.
I believe that taking the first step towards healing & growth takes tremendous strength & courage. My goal is to provide hope, healing, and encouragement throughout the most challenging seasons of life & at various life stages. I believe in providing children, individuals & families sound clinical knowledge, compassionate truth, & guidance as they move forward on their journey. I believe that the client-therapist relationship involves ongoing collaboration to ensure mutual understanding & progress. I enjoy helping people understand the connections between their somatic responses and harmful negative core beliefs.
(629) 206-7124 View (629) 206-7124
Photo of Amie Hanson, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Amie Hanson
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling "stuck" in your journey, or maybe frustrated with where you are in your life? When you add in anxiety, depression, frustration from being unable to focus, trauma, or any other mental health struggle, it can add to the whirlwind you feel like you're stuck in. Maybe you've been told "it could be worse," but this didn't make you feel any better. There are (usually) many different ways to look at a situation, but sometimes when you're in the thick of it, it's hard to see clearly. An outside perspective can help!
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling "stuck" in your journey, or maybe frustrated with where you are in your life? When you add in anxiety, depression, frustration from being unable to focus, trauma, or any other mental health struggle, it can add to the whirlwind you feel like you're stuck in. Maybe you've been told "it could be worse," but this didn't make you feel any better. There are (usually) many different ways to look at a situation, but sometimes when you're in the thick of it, it's hard to see clearly. An outside perspective can help!
(910) 898-4300 View (910) 898-4300
Photo of Christen Smith, MA, LCMHC
Christen Smith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Counseling is collaborative relationship that explores all areas impacting overall well-being. My goal is to empower clients to face their struggles and take intentionally guided steps toward healthy change. I work with clients facing various struggles, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, infertility, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, eating disorders, self-harm, domestic violence, and family relational problems. I have extensive experience and passion for working with adolescent girls and adult women and the unique issues that they face.
Counseling is collaborative relationship that explores all areas impacting overall well-being. My goal is to empower clients to face their struggles and take intentionally guided steps toward healthy change. I work with clients facing various struggles, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, infertility, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, eating disorders, self-harm, domestic violence, and family relational problems. I have extensive experience and passion for working with adolescent girls and adult women and the unique issues that they face.
(984) 205-9113 View (984) 205-9113
Photo of Katie Goldsmith, MS,  LCMHCA, Counselor
Katie Goldsmith
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27455
Katie Goldsmith, LCMHCA, is a dedicated therapist serving North Carolina, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients manage anxiety, depression, ADHD, and personality disorders. She works with adults and adolescents, focusing on building emotional resilience and healthier relationships. Katie also addresses childhood behavioral issues, couples’ concerns, traumarelated symptoms, and midlife transitions. She has a strong background working with the LGBTQ+ community, individuals with developmental disabilities, and those navigating adoption or foster care.
Katie Goldsmith, LCMHCA, is a dedicated therapist serving North Carolina, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients manage anxiety, depression, ADHD, and personality disorders. She works with adults and adolescents, focusing on building emotional resilience and healthier relationships. Katie also addresses childhood behavioral issues, couples’ concerns, traumarelated symptoms, and midlife transitions. She has a strong background working with the LGBTQ+ community, individuals with developmental disabilities, and those navigating adoption or foster care.
(855) 982-0380 View (855) 982-0380

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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.