Photo of Jamie Howard, LCSW, MSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weaverville, NC 28787  (Online Only)
Your struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, shame, relationship problems.
In our first session we will discuss working together on-line. I use a combination of IFS (Internal Family Systems) and EMDR. IFS is an extraordinary therapy. In safe, gentle, respectful ways, IFS accesses and TRANSFORMS that which is the cause of your problems: your hidden and not-so-hidden fears, shame, anger, hurt… why you have negative thinking (I’m not good enough, things are not the way I want them to be), as well as the negative ways you may be acting (in anger, critical, impatient, abusing substances). I use a special on-line platform for EMDR which I am finding works well.
Your struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, shame, relationship problems.
In our first session we will discuss working together on-line. I use a combination of IFS (Internal Family Systems) and EMDR. IFS is an extraordinary therapy. In safe, gentle, respectful ways, IFS accesses and TRANSFORMS that which is the cause of your problems: your hidden and not-so-hidden fears, shame, anger, hurt… why you have negative thinking (I’m not good enough, things are not the way I want them to be), as well as the negative ways you may be acting (in anger, critical, impatient, abusing substances). I use a special on-line platform for EMDR which I am finding works well.
(828) 471-7800 View (828) 471-7800
Photo of Vanessa Guerrero, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Vanessa Guerrero
LCMHC Associate, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Weaverville, NC 28787  (Online Only)
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth Only)-My name is Vanessa Guerero and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness. Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
I work primarily with female adolescents and young adults with a history of chronic illness, trauma, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.
Currently Accepting Clients ( Telehealth Only)-My name is Vanessa Guerero and I am a clinical therapist with Winter to Spring Wellness. Prior to being in Asheville for almost a decade, I originally hail from Miami, Fl. I am a proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and a first-generation college student. As a teen I had my own battles with physical and mental wellness, difficulties with acculturation as well as struggled with cultural stigma in regard to mental health care. Through my own work, I have been able to find healing and am now honored to support others who struggle with their own mental wellness and similar issues.
(828) 382-8550 View (828) 382-8550
Photo of Casey Schoenauer, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casey Schoenauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Weaverville, NC 28787
Not accepting new clients
Mending your heart and soul, healing fully and thriving in the present is possible. I invite you to share your story and ideals with me. In time, we can safely lean into past pains, transform the suffering and restore your spirited heart. You can be exactly who you are - our meetings will be sacred space. You don't have to be enthusiastic about the work, we can tailor each session to meet you where you are. We are ALL resilient and can Face Everything And Recover! I have being engaged in recovery from addiction work for over 20 years. I believe in the connection we need to heal.
Mending your heart and soul, healing fully and thriving in the present is possible. I invite you to share your story and ideals with me. In time, we can safely lean into past pains, transform the suffering and restore your spirited heart. You can be exactly who you are - our meetings will be sacred space. You don't have to be enthusiastic about the work, we can tailor each session to meet you where you are. We are ALL resilient and can Face Everything And Recover! I have being engaged in recovery from addiction work for over 20 years. I believe in the connection we need to heal.
(828) 705-3938 View (828) 705-3938

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Justin D'Avella, PsyD, Psychologist
Justin D'Avella
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28806
My specialities include: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, men’s issues, LGBTQIA+, and ‘people pleasers’.
Are you ready to slow down? To get unstuck? To discover a deeper sense of well-being? Transformational change is possible but healing is not a solo journey. I am passionate about supporting my clients to unlock a more genuine experience of themselves. Together, we will work to cultivate awareness, courage, confidence and steadiness in your life. I work with people who want to find clarity, a sense of aliveness, and to heal from both the bruises and scars that life sometimes creates. I can help you discover a deeper understanding of yourself, your relationships, and your purpose in the world.
My specialities include: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, men’s issues, LGBTQIA+, and ‘people pleasers’.
Are you ready to slow down? To get unstuck? To discover a deeper sense of well-being? Transformational change is possible but healing is not a solo journey. I am passionate about supporting my clients to unlock a more genuine experience of themselves. Together, we will work to cultivate awareness, courage, confidence and steadiness in your life. I work with people who want to find clarity, a sense of aliveness, and to heal from both the bruises and scars that life sometimes creates. I can help you discover a deeper understanding of yourself, your relationships, and your purpose in the world.
(415) 707-0434 View (415) 707-0434
Photo of Luz Koser, MS, LCMHC
Luz Koser
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805  (Online Only)
By exploring thought patterns, challenging negative beliefs, and validating your feelings, we'll work together to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma, fostering emotional well-being and resilience.
Do you feel anxious, sad, confused, or angry lately? When asked, "How are you doing?" can you honestly say "well"? We live in challenging times, and it can be hard to adapt. Deciding to start therapy can be hard, but I am here to support you. My role is to provide understanding, encouragement, and empathy as we work together to identify your strengths, build coping skills, and increase self-awareness. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
By exploring thought patterns, challenging negative beliefs, and validating your feelings, we'll work together to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma, fostering emotional well-being and resilience.
Do you feel anxious, sad, confused, or angry lately? When asked, "How are you doing?" can you honestly say "well"? We live in challenging times, and it can be hard to adapt. Deciding to start therapy can be hard, but I am here to support you. My role is to provide understanding, encouragement, and empathy as we work together to identify your strengths, build coping skills, and increase self-awareness. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
(919) 858-2177 View (919) 858-2177
Photo of Diana Parra, LCMHCA, NCC
Diana Parra
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I love working with both adults and adolescents 13 years and up, especially folks who identify as BIPOC, queer, and trans, and individuals in non-traditional, non-monogamous relationship structures. I am LGBTQ+ affirming, gender celebratory, poly affirming, kink and BDSM affirming, and sex-work positive. My specialities are trauma work, depression, anxiety, and supporting folks who are moving through difficult transition, who are exploring their gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation, or who would like to get clarity on their life path.
I love working with both adults and adolescents 13 years and up, especially folks who identify as BIPOC, queer, and trans, and individuals in non-traditional, non-monogamous relationship structures. I am LGBTQ+ affirming, gender celebratory, poly affirming, kink and BDSM affirming, and sex-work positive. My specialities are trauma work, depression, anxiety, and supporting folks who are moving through difficult transition, who are exploring their gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation, or who would like to get clarity on their life path.
(828) 374-8839 View (828) 374-8839
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My specialties are: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief and loss, relationship problems, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD, child behavioral issues, child abuse victims, domestic abuse victims, bipolar disorder and stress management.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. Many years of experience counseling children, teens and adults. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. My experience includes working with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture from all over the world in a psychiatric hospital, outpatient clinic work, being a clinical supervisor, school based therapist work, counseling for military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
My specialties are: anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, illness, grief and loss, relationship problems, parenting skills, anger management, work conflicts, ADHD, child behavioral issues, child abuse victims, domestic abuse victims, bipolar disorder and stress management.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. Many years of experience counseling children, teens and adults. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. My experience includes working with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture from all over the world in a psychiatric hospital, outpatient clinic work, being a clinical supervisor, school based therapist work, counseling for military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
(828) 360-8820 View (828) 360-8820
Photo of Lynette Davis, LCMHC
Lynette Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Exploring the stuck places of your life with someone who is nonjudgmental and goal-focused can be a real game changer, moving you forward toward your hopes and dreams. I not only listen, but help you to solve problems. I am a psychotherapist working with individuals and families to reduce mood, relationship conflicts, and parenting concerns. We target specific goals of change and identify steps toward those goals. I use science-based interventions exploring past and current patterns that hold you back from making progress. Most of my clinical experience has been treating depression, anxiety, grief, bipolar, trauma, and PTSD.
Exploring the stuck places of your life with someone who is nonjudgmental and goal-focused can be a real game changer, moving you forward toward your hopes and dreams. I not only listen, but help you to solve problems. I am a psychotherapist working with individuals and families to reduce mood, relationship conflicts, and parenting concerns. We target specific goals of change and identify steps toward those goals. I use science-based interventions exploring past and current patterns that hold you back from making progress. Most of my clinical experience has been treating depression, anxiety, grief, bipolar, trauma, and PTSD.
(910) 387-4393 View (910) 387-4393
Photo of Pablo Javier Averza, MA, NCC, LCMHCA, Counselor
Pablo Javier Averza
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
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 Raynal Cherenfant, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Raynal Cherenfant
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
Whether you are experiencing complex trauma, depression, a difficult life transition, or anxiety, my goal is to help you deepen your understanding of yourself and your situation.
You're not alone. Many of us who come from marginalized backgrounds experience a healthcare system that doesn’t believe us, take us seriously, or understand us. We can feel isolated in our pain, and the very system that is supposed to provide healing instead causes us more harm. This is why I approach therapy through a racial justice, feminist, disability justice, LGBQIA+ and TGNC affirming, and intersectional lens to ensure that your lived experience is validated and respected.
Whether you are experiencing complex trauma, depression, a difficult life transition, or anxiety, my goal is to help you deepen your understanding of yourself and your situation.
You're not alone. Many of us who come from marginalized backgrounds experience a healthcare system that doesn’t believe us, take us seriously, or understand us. We can feel isolated in our pain, and the very system that is supposed to provide healing instead causes us more harm. This is why I approach therapy through a racial justice, feminist, disability justice, LGBQIA+ and TGNC affirming, and intersectional lens to ensure that your lived experience is validated and respected.
(828) 567-3507 View (828) 567-3507
Photo of Sarah Bliss, LCMHCA, LPC, CTP
Sarah Bliss
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LPC, CTP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28802
Hi there, I'm Sarah. Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or past experiences? You're not alone. You may feel like you're treading water, or even drowning. Mental health issues impact our relationships, sense of self, and our daily lives, but healing and recovery are absolutely possible with the right support. I'm here to match your energy and provide resources to help you cope, and ultimately, thrive! What do you want for yourself in the next year? Close your eyes if that feels comfortable - envision it, embody it. I'll help you get there.
Hi there, I'm Sarah. Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or past experiences? You're not alone. You may feel like you're treading water, or even drowning. Mental health issues impact our relationships, sense of self, and our daily lives, but healing and recovery are absolutely possible with the right support. I'm here to match your energy and provide resources to help you cope, and ultimately, thrive! What do you want for yourself in the next year? Close your eyes if that feels comfortable - envision it, embody it. I'll help you get there.
(828) 521-0214 View (828) 521-0214
Photo of Deborah Barnett, PhD, Psychologist
Deborah Barnett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804  (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 T.j. Stiers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
T.j. Stiers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
The process of therapy is about removing your personal blocks to healing and helping you to remember all that is good, right, and well within you. The path to achieving this can be varied and uniquely personal. I use a variety of methods including traditional psychotherapy and EMDR to assist you in your process. I have helped clients process traumatic memories, cope with grief, and move from anxiety and depression to states of mindful calmness and well being.
The process of therapy is about removing your personal blocks to healing and helping you to remember all that is good, right, and well within you. The path to achieving this can be varied and uniquely personal. I use a variety of methods including traditional psychotherapy and EMDR to assist you in your process. I have helped clients process traumatic memories, cope with grief, and move from anxiety and depression to states of mindful calmness and well being.
(828) 597-0638 View (828) 597-0638
Photo of Susan J Foster, PhD, Psychologist
Susan J Foster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Do you want to change something in your life that isn't working for you? Perhaps you've been struggling with anxiety or depression, a relationship that isn't fulfilling, or a lack of purpose for your life. You may have gotten help before but found that it didn't last, or merely removed the symptoms. I will help you get relief by working to resolve your problem at its root cause.
Do you want to change something in your life that isn't working for you? Perhaps you've been struggling with anxiety or depression, a relationship that isn't fulfilling, or a lack of purpose for your life. You may have gotten help before but found that it didn't last, or merely removed the symptoms. I will help you get relief by working to resolve your problem at its root cause.
(978) 386-3052 View (978) 386-3052
Photo of Nia Avila, LCMHCA, Counselor
Nia Avila
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
You're here because you desperately need something to change in your life. Every day you wake up and check your social media and it feels like the world is crumbling around you. You're angry that the world is so unfair and unjust, and that you have to live in it any way. Some days you don't even get out of bed in the morning. You're constantly battling negative thoughts about yourself, others, and the world around you, and you feel weighed down. You're just hoping that you can find a therapist that can help you feel lighter, freer, happier, and more centered.
You're here because you desperately need something to change in your life. Every day you wake up and check your social media and it feels like the world is crumbling around you. You're angry that the world is so unfair and unjust, and that you have to live in it any way. Some days you don't even get out of bed in the morning. You're constantly battling negative thoughts about yourself, others, and the world around you, and you feel weighed down. You're just hoping that you can find a therapist that can help you feel lighter, freer, happier, and more centered.
(828) 622-5093 View (828) 622-5093
Photo of Travis Edwards, LCMHCA, Counselor
Travis Edwards
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806
Sometimes life can be overwhelming and it can feel like we are stuck. At times our attempts to deal with challenging situations, thoughts, and feelings don't work and can even work against us. The things we do that help in the short-term can backfire in the long run and get in the way of living with purpose. If you would like to learn science-backed methods that help you respond effectively to challenging thoughts, feelings, and situations, and move towards what you determine to be a meaningful life, my approach to therapy will be helpful.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming and it can feel like we are stuck. At times our attempts to deal with challenging situations, thoughts, and feelings don't work and can even work against us. The things we do that help in the short-term can backfire in the long run and get in the way of living with purpose. If you would like to learn science-backed methods that help you respond effectively to challenging thoughts, feelings, and situations, and move towards what you determine to be a meaningful life, my approach to therapy will be helpful.
(828) 554-7272 View (828) 554-7272
Photo of Carla Rivera, MSW, LCSW, CSTIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carla Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSTIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28816  (Online Only)
Do negative thoughts & behaviors hinder your life, career, or relationships by keeping you stuck? Is your inner critic too loud and making you feel like you're not enough or telling you that you can't? If you're struggling with sadness, guilt, anxiety, anger, or numbness, (I understand!) life's demands can be tough to keep up with. Change, though intimidating, is possible with empathetic, nonjudgmental support. Let's explore what resonates with you and find your path to growth and true life fulfillment. If you're not ready or unsure where to start, let's talk & discover what truly inspires & drives you forward. I'm here for you.
Do negative thoughts & behaviors hinder your life, career, or relationships by keeping you stuck? Is your inner critic too loud and making you feel like you're not enough or telling you that you can't? If you're struggling with sadness, guilt, anxiety, anger, or numbness, (I understand!) life's demands can be tough to keep up with. Change, though intimidating, is possible with empathetic, nonjudgmental support. Let's explore what resonates with you and find your path to growth and true life fulfillment. If you're not ready or unsure where to start, let's talk & discover what truly inspires & drives you forward. I'm here for you.
(910) 405-8481 View (910) 405-8481
Photo of Brittany Briceño, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Brittany Briceño
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Does it feel like you keep hitting the same wall of anxiety, doubt, and self-criticism? Maybe you’re generally satisfied with where you’re at in life but can’t seem to stop that nagging feeling that you “should” be doing more. Despite being adaptive, intelligent, and insightful, you still never quite feel "good enough". I want to support you in freeing yourself from the traps of family pressure, cultural expectations, and societal demands while stepping into your inherent worth and self-trust. As your counselor, I'll help you sort through your conflicting feelings, make peace with your past, and embrace your truth.
Does it feel like you keep hitting the same wall of anxiety, doubt, and self-criticism? Maybe you’re generally satisfied with where you’re at in life but can’t seem to stop that nagging feeling that you “should” be doing more. Despite being adaptive, intelligent, and insightful, you still never quite feel "good enough". I want to support you in freeing yourself from the traps of family pressure, cultural expectations, and societal demands while stepping into your inherent worth and self-trust. As your counselor, I'll help you sort through your conflicting feelings, make peace with your past, and embrace your truth.
(828) 373-8717 View (828) 373-8717
Photo of Alice Perez Blackburn, MA, LCMHC
Alice Perez Blackburn
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Many of my clients find that people pleasing and trying to be perfect all the time are no longer working for them. They struggle to set boundaries, communicate assertively and get in touch with how they feel and what they need. Maybe you're tired and confused by conflicting mental health tips on social media? You need a safe and compassionate environment to dig into some of the trauma you've experienced without being overwhelmed by it. Or maybe you're a millennial parent navigating reparenting yourself while parenting your children and you need some support. My clients prefer a therapist who is warm, real and uses humor in session.
Many of my clients find that people pleasing and trying to be perfect all the time are no longer working for them. They struggle to set boundaries, communicate assertively and get in touch with how they feel and what they need. Maybe you're tired and confused by conflicting mental health tips on social media? You need a safe and compassionate environment to dig into some of the trauma you've experienced without being overwhelmed by it. Or maybe you're a millennial parent navigating reparenting yourself while parenting your children and you need some support. My clients prefer a therapist who is warm, real and uses humor in session.
(828) 532-6520 View (828) 532-6520
Photo of Carla J Carballo, LCMHC, NCC
Carla J Carballo
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Do you want to find a safe space to get clarity and be able to hear your inner voice again? Would you like to be understood and not judged, and simply have a space where you can be YOU in this process? Well, then, welcome for having taken the first step and being here. I am a Latina bilingual therapist who is passionate about mental health. It would be my honor to join you on this journey as you find your path again.
Do you want to find a safe space to get clarity and be able to hear your inner voice again? Would you like to be understood and not judged, and simply have a space where you can be YOU in this process? Well, then, welcome for having taken the first step and being here. I am a Latina bilingual therapist who is passionate about mental health. It would be my honor to join you on this journey as you find your path again.
(828) 677-2181 View (828) 677-2181

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.