Depression Therapists in Waynesville, NC

Photo of Lori Clancy, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Lori Clancy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Waitlist for new clients
There are seasons of life that challenge us, define us, inspire us and some that cripple us. We all experience hard things in life, my goal is to support and help the hurting through the difficult seasons of life. I see counseling as a journey. I get the privilege of walking with people through some of the struggles on their journey to go from places of surviving to thriving. Working with people who sincerely want to resolve their hurt, focus on growth and overcome past struggles is my passion. Whether it is trauma, addiction, depression, ADHD, I work with a variety of people in a variety of settings.
There are seasons of life that challenge us, define us, inspire us and some that cripple us. We all experience hard things in life, my goal is to support and help the hurting through the difficult seasons of life. I see counseling as a journey. I get the privilege of walking with people through some of the struggles on their journey to go from places of surviving to thriving. Working with people who sincerely want to resolve their hurt, focus on growth and overcome past struggles is my passion. Whether it is trauma, addiction, depression, ADHD, I work with a variety of people in a variety of settings.
(828) 373-3401 View (828) 373-3401
Photo of Lynn P Burrough, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn P Burrough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Most patients come to me suffering with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, anger, and loneliness.
My ideal client is one who is interested in finding happiness in love, work and community. My reward during my 30 years in practice is to experience, with individuals and couples, their growth towards these goals. Years in private practice and a major medical setting in New York have given me a broad background in helping people cope with the many challenges life hands them and to help them regain their feelings of hope. Additional focus is placed on life transitions including divorce, retirement, and bereavement. Additionally, I offer guidance in helping your children and teens navigate those challenging years.
Most patients come to me suffering with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, anger, and loneliness.
My ideal client is one who is interested in finding happiness in love, work and community. My reward during my 30 years in practice is to experience, with individuals and couples, their growth towards these goals. Years in private practice and a major medical setting in New York have given me a broad background in helping people cope with the many challenges life hands them and to help them regain their feelings of hope. Additional focus is placed on life transitions including divorce, retirement, and bereavement. Additionally, I offer guidance in helping your children and teens navigate those challenging years.
(828) 627-8744 View (828) 627-8744
Photo of Lynne Finger, MSW, LCSW, PA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynne Finger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PA
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
You have the ability to reinvent yourself, endlessly. It isn't too late. Your life is here and now. If you have found yourself at this site, you must be going through something pretty tough and are looking for a solution. Perhaps you are feeling lost and uncertain, and don't know where to begin. Whether it be a relationship issue or a personal struggle, the strain of it all can be overwhelming and can cause a mix of emotions...loneliness, sadness, grief, anger, anxiety, depression. It may feel as if your life is spiraling out of control. All you want is to find peace, happiness, and to change your current situation.
You have the ability to reinvent yourself, endlessly. It isn't too late. Your life is here and now. If you have found yourself at this site, you must be going through something pretty tough and are looking for a solution. Perhaps you are feeling lost and uncertain, and don't know where to begin. Whether it be a relationship issue or a personal struggle, the strain of it all can be overwhelming and can cause a mix of emotions...loneliness, sadness, grief, anger, anxiety, depression. It may feel as if your life is spiraling out of control. All you want is to find peace, happiness, and to change your current situation.
(828) 539-4538 View (828) 539-4538
Photo of Dr. Robin Winters, LCMHC, Ph D, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Robin Winters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, Ph D
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786  (Online Only)
Anxiety and depression can be overwhelming and interfere with reaching your highest potential. It’s incredibly uncomfortable to feel your heart and mind race or to have shortness of breath. You worry about when a panic attack will happen again and the worry makes matters even worse. You just want to slow your mind down and quit thinking. Your relationships and work performance may be suffering as you lie in bed dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. You've tried everything to control your thoughts and feelings but can't.
Anxiety and depression can be overwhelming and interfere with reaching your highest potential. It’s incredibly uncomfortable to feel your heart and mind race or to have shortness of breath. You worry about when a panic attack will happen again and the worry makes matters even worse. You just want to slow your mind down and quit thinking. Your relationships and work performance may be suffering as you lie in bed dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. You've tried everything to control your thoughts and feelings but can't.
(844) 445-7375 View (844) 445-7375
Photo of Cailey Erin Clarke, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cailey Erin Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28785
Everyone has the potential to build resilience, communicate their needs effectively and to connect with themselves and others in a more intentional way. I specialize in treating anxiety and depression, PPD, BDD, Eating disorders, trauma, sexual trauma/violence, gender identity, sexual orientation concerns, stress management skills, sleep, major life transitions and much more. My practice allows you to build practical skills and connect mind, body and spirit to help reduce distress and increase feelings of security in self.
Everyone has the potential to build resilience, communicate their needs effectively and to connect with themselves and others in a more intentional way. I specialize in treating anxiety and depression, PPD, BDD, Eating disorders, trauma, sexual trauma/violence, gender identity, sexual orientation concerns, stress management skills, sleep, major life transitions and much more. My practice allows you to build practical skills and connect mind, body and spirit to help reduce distress and increase feelings of security in self.
(828) 532-3592 View (828) 532-3592
Photo of Kimberly Pearce, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CI, Counselor
Kimberly Pearce
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CI
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28785  (Online Only)
I have worked with children as young as five, teens, adults and families to build healthy relationships, improve communication, reduce stress, anxiety and depression, build self-efficacy, process trauma/grief/loss, clarify educational/career goals, improve professional and athletic performance, and build effective and loving parenting skills.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) in North Carolina with certification in Grief and Loss and Trauma and Crisis. I am also a fully-trained EMDR clinician. I have over 20 years of professional clinical experience providing direct behavioral health services and educational/career counseling and parenting skills in private practice, educational institutions, and in the community. My approach to therapy is grounded in Adlerian theory with an emphasis on encouragement and improving relationships in our lives and with ourselves.
I have worked with children as young as five, teens, adults and families to build healthy relationships, improve communication, reduce stress, anxiety and depression, build self-efficacy, process trauma/grief/loss, clarify educational/career goals, improve professional and athletic performance, and build effective and loving parenting skills.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) in North Carolina with certification in Grief and Loss and Trauma and Crisis. I am also a fully-trained EMDR clinician. I have over 20 years of professional clinical experience providing direct behavioral health services and educational/career counseling and parenting skills in private practice, educational institutions, and in the community. My approach to therapy is grounded in Adlerian theory with an emphasis on encouragement and improving relationships in our lives and with ourselves.
(828) 672-3526 View (828) 672-3526
Photo of Katie L Neiswonger, LCMHC
Katie L Neiswonger
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Now I am fulfilling my dream of private practice, specializing in trauma, depression, and relationship issues.
Sometimes we feel 'stuck.' Sometimes we experience negative emotions which we feel conflict with our values, morals, ideals. Sometimes we feel an emptiness. Like our inner flame...the one which burns inside, pushing us to set & pursue goals, dream, live life with a sense of anticipation...has dimmed, until just an ember. Sometimes our negative life experiences get us caught up in the lies of guilt and shame. Paralyzing us. Keeping us from moving forward. Perhaps it's more than 'just' feelings and emotions. Maybe symptoms of mental illness make life hard. And navigating through life, each day, each moment, feels like tedious work.
Now I am fulfilling my dream of private practice, specializing in trauma, depression, and relationship issues.
Sometimes we feel 'stuck.' Sometimes we experience negative emotions which we feel conflict with our values, morals, ideals. Sometimes we feel an emptiness. Like our inner flame...the one which burns inside, pushing us to set & pursue goals, dream, live life with a sense of anticipation...has dimmed, until just an ember. Sometimes our negative life experiences get us caught up in the lies of guilt and shame. Paralyzing us. Keeping us from moving forward. Perhaps it's more than 'just' feelings and emotions. Maybe symptoms of mental illness make life hard. And navigating through life, each day, each moment, feels like tedious work.
(828) 457-7950 View (828) 457-7950
Photo of Erin Iraggi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Iraggi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Many of us struggle with patterns of distressing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I believe it is not what is wrong with you, but what has happened to you that causes emotional difficulty in life. If you are a human being alive today, then you have experienced some type of trauma or ongoing stress that therapy can help address. I work with adults 18+ struggling with any of the symptoms caused by trauma or chronic stress. These symptoms may include depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, chronic pain or health conditions, difficulty in relationships or parenting, and addictive behaviors to name a few.
Many of us struggle with patterns of distressing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I believe it is not what is wrong with you, but what has happened to you that causes emotional difficulty in life. If you are a human being alive today, then you have experienced some type of trauma or ongoing stress that therapy can help address. I work with adults 18+ struggling with any of the symptoms caused by trauma or chronic stress. These symptoms may include depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, insomnia, chronic pain or health conditions, difficulty in relationships or parenting, and addictive behaviors to name a few.
(828) 522-9278 View (828) 522-9278
Photo of Jessica Gruber, MA, LPA, LCAS, Psychological Associate
Jessica Gruber
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, LCAS
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786  (Online Only)
I work with adults seeking to change their lives. I have considerable experience helping people alleviate anxiety and depression, as well as, other mood disorders. I find creative ways to help people heal from trauma they have experienced and to connect with the present. I enjoy helping people who need help to tackle substance use issues such as alcohol or other drugs. I also work with couples using EFT to rebuild the bond between partners and create a healthier relationship with emotions.
I work with adults seeking to change their lives. I have considerable experience helping people alleviate anxiety and depression, as well as, other mood disorders. I find creative ways to help people heal from trauma they have experienced and to connect with the present. I enjoy helping people who need help to tackle substance use issues such as alcohol or other drugs. I also work with couples using EFT to rebuild the bond between partners and create a healthier relationship with emotions.
(910) 601-8547 View (910) 601-8547
Photo of Nicole Conner, MAEd, LCMHC, LCAS
Nicole Conner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping people choose a more fulfilling life! This could mean processing trauma, gaining an understanding of unhealthy family patterns or learning skills for managing anxiety and depression.
You are not alone! Many folks today are feeling stuck... or overwhelmed by anxiety, loss, and confusion. Others are trying to make meaning of early life events or current relational strife with partners, children, or parents. I enjoy working with a variety of populations including: helping parents navigate difficulties with children who are struggling with anxiety or possible neurodivergence, adolescents struggling to belong or with unhealthy coping skills, young adults balancing college and work, adults navigating transitions such as divorce, retirement, and grief, and those who are in recovery.
I am passionate about helping people choose a more fulfilling life! This could mean processing trauma, gaining an understanding of unhealthy family patterns or learning skills for managing anxiety and depression.
You are not alone! Many folks today are feeling stuck... or overwhelmed by anxiety, loss, and confusion. Others are trying to make meaning of early life events or current relational strife with partners, children, or parents. I enjoy working with a variety of populations including: helping parents navigate difficulties with children who are struggling with anxiety or possible neurodivergence, adolescents struggling to belong or with unhealthy coping skills, young adults balancing college and work, adults navigating transitions such as divorce, retirement, and grief, and those who are in recovery.
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Photo of Pablo Javier Averza, MA, NCC, LCMHCA, Counselor
Pablo Javier Averza
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28786
I will guide you to address your thoughts, relationship issues, stress, anxiety, or depression.
Thank you for taking the time to seek counseling. This is a huge step to activate the change you want with your current situation. I do believe there is hope and answers. Congratulations on taking the first step! At Mind-Body Connection Counseling I offer individual, group, and couples therapy. We start with a free friendly initial consultation. If you are looking for something different, look no further.
I will guide you to address your thoughts, relationship issues, stress, anxiety, or depression.
Thank you for taking the time to seek counseling. This is a huge step to activate the change you want with your current situation. I do believe there is hope and answers. Congratulations on taking the first step! At Mind-Body Connection Counseling I offer individual, group, and couples therapy. We start with a free friendly initial consultation. If you are looking for something different, look no further.
(828) 283-0614 View (828) 283-0614
Photo of Janet J. Zander, LCMHC, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janet J. Zander
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28786
Are you looking to improve health in mind, body and spirit? I believe healing comes from dimensions including physical, mental and emotional health, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, relationships and spiritual life. My approach is strength based, empathic and interactive. My training has been in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, trauma, PTSD, grief/loss, relationships and family issues. My aim is to provide a supportive and safe space where we can collaborate and work at your own pace to help you reach your goals.
Are you looking to improve health in mind, body and spirit? I believe healing comes from dimensions including physical, mental and emotional health, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, relationships and spiritual life. My approach is strength based, empathic and interactive. My training has been in the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, trauma, PTSD, grief/loss, relationships and family issues. My aim is to provide a supportive and safe space where we can collaborate and work at your own pace to help you reach your goals.
(828) 618-4684 View (828) 618-4684
Photo of Leslie Y Badalucca, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Y Badalucca
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
My goal is to provide the support necessary to working through feelings of anxiety, depression, loss or transition, and addressing issues associated with family and relationship conflicts.
...Life often involves challenges effecting the journey toward personal and professional objectives. There are times when it is only the support of genuine listening, empathy, and guidance that desired outcomes are achieved. Whether you are trying to cope with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/confidence, relationship challenges, communication skills, impulse control concerns, life-transition issues (e.g., military/vet, divorce, job loss, retirement), trauma, grief, physical/sexual abuse, or other life challenges. Life is difficult and requires growth and change that are not always easy or comfortable.
My goal is to provide the support necessary to working through feelings of anxiety, depression, loss or transition, and addressing issues associated with family and relationship conflicts.
...Life often involves challenges effecting the journey toward personal and professional objectives. There are times when it is only the support of genuine listening, empathy, and guidance that desired outcomes are achieved. Whether you are trying to cope with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/confidence, relationship challenges, communication skills, impulse control concerns, life-transition issues (e.g., military/vet, divorce, job loss, retirement), trauma, grief, physical/sexual abuse, or other life challenges. Life is difficult and requires growth and change that are not always easy or comfortable.
(828) 268-3822 View (828) 268-3822
Photo of Timothy Hussey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Timothy Hussey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
For many years I owned and operated a very busy clinic in South Florida where I specialized in treating those with addiction-related issues, children with issues such as ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and the general confusion of divorcing or separating parents, and adults with relationship problems, anxiety and depression.
For 30 years I've provided a listening ear to my clients. Sometimes, that's all one needs. Other times, we may need a little more direction, a new insight, a gentle push. I strive to recognize and respect the uniqueness of each individual. If you have a child with ADHD or other behavioral or adjustment issues, are an adult having relationship issues, depression or anxiety, or are someone struggling with the pain and confusion of addiction, my experience has prepared me to help you.
For many years I owned and operated a very busy clinic in South Florida where I specialized in treating those with addiction-related issues, children with issues such as ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and the general confusion of divorcing or separating parents, and adults with relationship problems, anxiety and depression.
For 30 years I've provided a listening ear to my clients. Sometimes, that's all one needs. Other times, we may need a little more direction, a new insight, a gentle push. I strive to recognize and respect the uniqueness of each individual. If you have a child with ADHD or other behavioral or adjustment issues, are an adult having relationship issues, depression or anxiety, or are someone struggling with the pain and confusion of addiction, my experience has prepared me to help you.
(828) 523-9070 View (828) 523-9070
Photo of Kayla Brehm, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Brehm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28786  (Online Only)
Welcome & thanks for being here! I value a strengths-based approach in meeting folks wherever they are in pursuing growth & recovery. I believe we all thrive in open & authentic relationships & it is important to accept people as they are. True healing is fostered through trusting relationships without judgment or shame. Through community mental health settings and now my own private practice, I have spent the last 9 years supporting adolescents, families, & adults with mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and mood disturbances, life transitions and stress, trauma related distress, & substance use issues.
Welcome & thanks for being here! I value a strengths-based approach in meeting folks wherever they are in pursuing growth & recovery. I believe we all thrive in open & authentic relationships & it is important to accept people as they are. True healing is fostered through trusting relationships without judgment or shame. Through community mental health settings and now my own private practice, I have spent the last 9 years supporting adolescents, families, & adults with mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and mood disturbances, life transitions and stress, trauma related distress, & substance use issues.
(814) 527-3849 View (814) 527-3849
Photo of Mary Monaghan, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Monaghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28785
Stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and fear can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself turning to drugs or alcohol, harmful eating patterns, self-harm, or fall back on other old habits to cope with your emotions. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or fear. Maybe you are in recovery from addiction or an eating disorder, and are having trouble maintaining your progress. You may be navigating your gender and sexual identify. Or perhaps you are concerned that your teenager is dealing with some of these issues. Whatever you are facing, you are not alone! I am here to provide support, guidance, and encouragement.
Stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and fear can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself turning to drugs or alcohol, harmful eating patterns, self-harm, or fall back on other old habits to cope with your emotions. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or fear. Maybe you are in recovery from addiction or an eating disorder, and are having trouble maintaining your progress. You may be navigating your gender and sexual identify. Or perhaps you are concerned that your teenager is dealing with some of these issues. Whatever you are facing, you are not alone! I am here to provide support, guidance, and encouragement.
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Photo of Deborah Barnett, PhD, Psychologist
Deborah Barnett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786  (Online Only)
You are creative, live life consciously, and have enjoyed success in many areas of life. You juggle your career, family, and friends. But it's not easy, is it? In fact, it's impossible when you feel stressed out and the imbalance is contributing to anxiety or depression that you may be experiencing. I'll help you find more balance and experience greater joy and harmony in your life. For couples, I will help you feel more deeply respected and honored by one another. Together, we'll reduce the conflict and tension in your relationship and bring back the fun and romance.
You are creative, live life consciously, and have enjoyed success in many areas of life. You juggle your career, family, and friends. But it's not easy, is it? In fact, it's impossible when you feel stressed out and the imbalance is contributing to anxiety or depression that you may be experiencing. I'll help you find more balance and experience greater joy and harmony in your life. For couples, I will help you feel more deeply respected and honored by one another. Together, we'll reduce the conflict and tension in your relationship and bring back the fun and romance.
(828) 649-6071 View (828) 649-6071
Photo of Michael Fagan, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Michael Fagan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28785
Clear, Resolve, Transform. I help clients discover and resolve subconscious causes for emotionaI and behavioral difficulties. The Subconscious controls emotions, desires, memory, habits, thoughts, dreams, and automatic responses. One may consciously understand the value of eliminating problematic emotions, thoughts or behaviors but unless the Subconscious Mind is reached, enduring change is unlikely. I address the underlying subconscious blocks to living a clear and free life. I have effectively treated sexual abuse, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions and more. Issues are cleared, clients report being able to function with more energy and clarity. Relationships thrive and lives are transformed.
Clear, Resolve, Transform. I help clients discover and resolve subconscious causes for emotionaI and behavioral difficulties. The Subconscious controls emotions, desires, memory, habits, thoughts, dreams, and automatic responses. One may consciously understand the value of eliminating problematic emotions, thoughts or behaviors but unless the Subconscious Mind is reached, enduring change is unlikely. I address the underlying subconscious blocks to living a clear and free life. I have effectively treated sexual abuse, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, phobias, addictions and more. Issues are cleared, clients report being able to function with more energy and clarity. Relationships thrive and lives are transformed.
(828) 348-4154 View (828) 348-4154
Photo of N. Diane Stamey, MA, LMFT, LFBPC, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
N. Diane Stamey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LFBPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28785
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook, Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook, Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
(828) 348-6863 View (828) 348-6863
Photo of Aundrea Collebrusco, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aundrea Collebrusco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28785  (Online Only)
Welcome to Psychology Today! You've taken a huge step being here today, and I'm sure you're wondering where to begin. My name is Aundrea and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over eight years of experience providing therapy services. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families with an array of needs such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, relationship support and specializing in Autism/IDD services.
Welcome to Psychology Today! You've taken a huge step being here today, and I'm sure you're wondering where to begin. My name is Aundrea and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over eight years of experience providing therapy services. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families with an array of needs such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, relationship support and specializing in Autism/IDD services.
(828) 330-9633 View (828) 330-9633
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.