Photo of Jody (Jonathan) Youmans, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jody (Jonathan) Youmans
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Youngsville, NC 27596
I have extensive experience with a diverse range of emotional and behavioral issues, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief, adjustment disorder, ADHD, self-esteem, parenting, and peer relationships while working with individuals, couples and families.
My theoretical orientation is from an eclectic approach which provides a balance of the different types of therapies to meet the client where they are at. I also have acquired special training, which provides an opportunity for me to work with children and adults dealing with different traumas they have experienced. I ascribe to treating the whole person and to helping the individual to become his or her own best therapist. It is my belief that as an individual becomes more aware of their thoughts, actions, emotions and beliefs that they have increased ability to face challenges and overcome difficult situations more successfully.
I have extensive experience with a diverse range of emotional and behavioral issues, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief, adjustment disorder, ADHD, self-esteem, parenting, and peer relationships while working with individuals, couples and families.
My theoretical orientation is from an eclectic approach which provides a balance of the different types of therapies to meet the client where they are at. I also have acquired special training, which provides an opportunity for me to work with children and adults dealing with different traumas they have experienced. I ascribe to treating the whole person and to helping the individual to become his or her own best therapist. It is my belief that as an individual becomes more aware of their thoughts, actions, emotions and beliefs that they have increased ability to face challenges and overcome difficult situations more successfully.
(919) 323-4048 View (919) 323-4048

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Samantha Coleman - At-Home Counseling Services, Inc., PhD, MAC, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
At-Home Counseling Services, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MAC, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Louisburg, NC 27549
"WE COME TO YOU" For adults & children at their home, school, via telehealth, or in our office. Our therapists work with children with behavioral challenges and adults with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, parenting issues, family therapy, stress, marital problems, PTSD, and more. AHCS has served clients since 2009. We serve over 400 clients across the state for Medicaid, private insurance, and self pay services.
"WE COME TO YOU" For adults & children at their home, school, via telehealth, or in our office. Our therapists work with children with behavioral challenges and adults with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, parenting issues, family therapy, stress, marital problems, PTSD, and more. AHCS has served clients since 2009. We serve over 400 clients across the state for Medicaid, private insurance, and self pay services.
(252) 302-2419 View (252) 302-2419
Photo of Florence U Mazi - Caring Heart Counseling, MSW, LCSW, LCAS-A, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caring Heart Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS-A, CCM
Verified Verified
Rolesville, NC 27571
I specialized in working with adult, children, adolescent and families who are struggling with stress, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues and addiction.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who is passionate and truly care about the individuals that I serve, with the goal of collaborating with you in solving those life challenges that may hinder your ability to function adequately. my professional experiences have prepared me to understand individual unique needs, cultural sensitivity, dignity and respect of the person, and obstacles that present in managing life stressors. I will explore options that will enable you to deal with life challenges with the aim of enhancing self-growth.
I specialized in working with adult, children, adolescent and families who are struggling with stress, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues and addiction.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who is passionate and truly care about the individuals that I serve, with the goal of collaborating with you in solving those life challenges that may hinder your ability to function adequately. my professional experiences have prepared me to understand individual unique needs, cultural sensitivity, dignity and respect of the person, and obstacles that present in managing life stressors. I will explore options that will enable you to deal with life challenges with the aim of enhancing self-growth.
(984) 265-7899 View (984) 265-7899
Photo of Terrill James - Insight Family Center, LLC, MA, LPC, LCAS-A
Insight Family Center, LLC
MA, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
We Specialize In: Depression / Anxiety / ADHD / Addiction/ Schizophrenia / Stress Bullying / Parenting Skills / Anger Management / Life Coaching.
At Insight Family Center, LLC we provide premium psychiatry,mental health and substance abuse services. Our priority is to provide our clients with techniques that will assist them in obtaining their desired outcomes to reach their personal goals.
We Specialize In: Depression / Anxiety / ADHD / Addiction/ Schizophrenia / Stress Bullying / Parenting Skills / Anger Management / Life Coaching.
At Insight Family Center, LLC we provide premium psychiatry,mental health and substance abuse services. Our priority is to provide our clients with techniques that will assist them in obtaining their desired outcomes to reach their personal goals.
(919) 626-3979 View (919) 626-3979
Photo of Dr. Timothy Rainey, LCMHCQS, LCASA
Dr. Timothy Rainey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCQS, LCASA
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587  (Online Only)
The process of working with a new client is to gather pertinent information about the client's psychosocial, environment, and past family history to help accurately diagnose the client. Once a diagnosis is made then a treatment plan would be developed conjointly between the client and me utilizing S.M.A.R.T. goals. S.M.A.R.T. goals are​ specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based goals that would help the client be successful in treatment. If you are looking for a counselor who is genuine, compassionate, authentic, and who will listen and care about your concerns. Then I am here to help you restore your self-worth.
The process of working with a new client is to gather pertinent information about the client's psychosocial, environment, and past family history to help accurately diagnose the client. Once a diagnosis is made then a treatment plan would be developed conjointly between the client and me utilizing S.M.A.R.T. goals. S.M.A.R.T. goals are​ specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based goals that would help the client be successful in treatment. If you are looking for a counselor who is genuine, compassionate, authentic, and who will listen and care about your concerns. Then I am here to help you restore your self-worth.
(919) 480-2570 View (919) 480-2570
Photo of Lifecare Counseling And Coaching - LifeCare Counseling and Coaching, PC, LCMHCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, MD, PA, NPs
LifeCare Counseling and Coaching, PC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, MD, PA, NPs
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
At LifeCare Counseling & Coaching, we are passionate about serving others by integrating the best psychiatric and mental health practices as well as spiritual care for the soul. Our team of licensed practitioners provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families of all kinds. We are a multi-site practice located at the Raleigh/Cary border, Wake Forest, Brier Creek, Holly Springs, Chapel Hill, the Triad area and Wilmington. In addition, many of our providers offer online therapy and we have interns who offer counseling on a sliding scale.
At LifeCare Counseling & Coaching, we are passionate about serving others by integrating the best psychiatric and mental health practices as well as spiritual care for the soul. Our team of licensed practitioners provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families of all kinds. We are a multi-site practice located at the Raleigh/Cary border, Wake Forest, Brier Creek, Holly Springs, Chapel Hill, the Triad area and Wilmington. In addition, many of our providers offer online therapy and we have interns who offer counseling on a sliding scale.
(984) 205-8702 View (984) 205-8702
Photo of Pamela S Perkins - Perkins Counseling & Psychological Services, PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Perkins Counseling & Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Perkins Counseling & Psychological Services is a large group practice that serves Wake Forest, North Raleigh, and counties north of Raleigh. The clinicians working at our office are experienced in all avenues of mental health and psychological treatment and testing. We offer comprehensive psychological services across the lifespan - from preschoolers to older adults. Because we treat all ages and all types of problems, we often see multiple family members under the same roof making it convenient to receive help.
Perkins Counseling & Psychological Services is a large group practice that serves Wake Forest, North Raleigh, and counties north of Raleigh. The clinicians working at our office are experienced in all avenues of mental health and psychological treatment and testing. We offer comprehensive psychological services across the lifespan - from preschoolers to older adults. Because we treat all ages and all types of problems, we often see multiple family members under the same roof making it convenient to receive help.
(919) 680-1588 View (919) 680-1588
Photo of Domonique Blackmon, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Domonique Blackmon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587  (Online Only)
Are you feeling sad, down, anxious, stressed, or just overwhelmed with alot of things going on in your life? Do you feel alone and need some guidance or direction to meet your ultimate goals? Do you often struggle with staying on track towards your goal of recovery? Just because your feeling down today or got off track from your path/ purpose does not mean you failed or have to start over. Every ones journey towards healing and recovery will be different and unique. I am here to help support you during that process.
Are you feeling sad, down, anxious, stressed, or just overwhelmed with alot of things going on in your life? Do you feel alone and need some guidance or direction to meet your ultimate goals? Do you often struggle with staying on track towards your goal of recovery? Just because your feeling down today or got off track from your path/ purpose does not mean you failed or have to start over. Every ones journey towards healing and recovery will be different and unique. I am here to help support you during that process.
(919) 739-3446 View (919) 739-3446
Photo of Shawtay Reese - People's Network, DSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
People's Network
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Franklinton, NC 27525  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am responsible for helping individuals, families, and groups of people to cope with problems they’re facing to improve their patients’ lives. Trauma affects the individual, families, and communities by disrupting healthy development, adversely affecting relationships, and contributing to mental health issues, including substance abuse, domestic violence, and child abuse. In schools, I address problems such as truancy, disruptive behavior, teenage pregnancy, drug use, and poor grades. I also advise teachers and act as liaisons between students, homes, schools, courts, protective services, and other institutions.
I am responsible for helping individuals, families, and groups of people to cope with problems they’re facing to improve their patients’ lives. Trauma affects the individual, families, and communities by disrupting healthy development, adversely affecting relationships, and contributing to mental health issues, including substance abuse, domestic violence, and child abuse. In schools, I address problems such as truancy, disruptive behavior, teenage pregnancy, drug use, and poor grades. I also advise teachers and act as liaisons between students, homes, schools, courts, protective services, and other institutions.
(919) 899-7121 View (919) 899-7121

Online Therapists

Photo of Shanika Johnson - Innovative Lifestyle Network, MS, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Innovative Lifestyle Network
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
Areas of expertise are: anxiety, depression, anger management, relationship and family issues, grief and loss and life transition issues.
Life can be extremely overwhelming and stressful at times and there will be tough situations where support will be needed. We have a team of therapists who specialize in helping individuals cope with the real stressors of balancing work, relationships, family demands and personal life. We understand how easy it is to lose yourself while trying to conquer all of life's challenges. With a team of therapists having five or more years of transforming lives, we provide successful and effective counseling, coaching, and educational workshops for all individuals.
Areas of expertise are: anxiety, depression, anger management, relationship and family issues, grief and loss and life transition issues.
Life can be extremely overwhelming and stressful at times and there will be tough situations where support will be needed. We have a team of therapists who specialize in helping individuals cope with the real stressors of balancing work, relationships, family demands and personal life. We understand how easy it is to lose yourself while trying to conquer all of life's challenges. With a team of therapists having five or more years of transforming lives, we provide successful and effective counseling, coaching, and educational workshops for all individuals.
(704) 504-7274 View (704) 504-7274
Photo of Rachael Lark Revelle, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachael Lark Revelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Professionally, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My specialties include issues of abuse/trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief and spiritual issues involving women, adolescents, families, and individuals. I also have a heart for integrating faith in the counseling process, working with clients in crisis, and seeing clients understand their true identities and thrive in their current life situations. My goal, through counseling is to provide a safe environment for individuals, allowing them to identify with themselves and reach maximum potential through changing their thoughts and behaviors. My work experience includes time at Carolina Outreach, providing assessments and counseling.
Professionally, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My specialties include issues of abuse/trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief and spiritual issues involving women, adolescents, families, and individuals. I also have a heart for integrating faith in the counseling process, working with clients in crisis, and seeing clients understand their true identities and thrive in their current life situations. My goal, through counseling is to provide a safe environment for individuals, allowing them to identify with themselves and reach maximum potential through changing their thoughts and behaviors. My work experience includes time at Carolina Outreach, providing assessments and counseling.
(919) 374-3049 View (919) 374-3049
Photo of Renee Best, LCMHC, QS
Renee Best
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I specialize in trauma, grief, depression and anxiety.
My ideal client is someone who may have been hesitant about starting therapy, but has decided to take a chance. I want to remove the negative stigma attached to therapy and support my clients on their journey to growth and healing. I am passionate about helping clients find ways to process their emotions and learns ways to handle everyday stress. I tend to gravitate towards clients dealing with past trauma, depression, anxiety and grief. I want people to feel empowered and realize their current struggles don't define them. I want to bring out the best in my clients and encourage them to not be afraid of their feelings.
I specialize in trauma, grief, depression and anxiety.
My ideal client is someone who may have been hesitant about starting therapy, but has decided to take a chance. I want to remove the negative stigma attached to therapy and support my clients on their journey to growth and healing. I am passionate about helping clients find ways to process their emotions and learns ways to handle everyday stress. I tend to gravitate towards clients dealing with past trauma, depression, anxiety and grief. I want people to feel empowered and realize their current struggles don't define them. I want to bring out the best in my clients and encourage them to not be afraid of their feelings.
(984) 205-3750 View (984) 205-3750
Photo of Kim Harris, MS, LCMHC, CRC, Counselor
Kim Harris
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
Feeling overwhelmed by life circumstances? Having difficulty adjusting to change? Life often presents challenges that can seem impossible and I would love to help you navigate through the storm. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health counselor who enjoys working with teens, college students, and adults. I work those experiencing issues related to depression and anxiety, mood disorders, as well as problems related to adjusting to life changes. I can also help with issues related to substance abuse and dependence. I am available for both virtual and in person sessions and would love the opportunity to help!
Feeling overwhelmed by life circumstances? Having difficulty adjusting to change? Life often presents challenges that can seem impossible and I would love to help you navigate through the storm. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health counselor who enjoys working with teens, college students, and adults. I work those experiencing issues related to depression and anxiety, mood disorders, as well as problems related to adjusting to life changes. I can also help with issues related to substance abuse and dependence. I am available for both virtual and in person sessions and would love the opportunity to help!
(252) 656-2008 View (252) 656-2008
Photo of Kelsie Adkisson - Parr Therapeutic Solutions, MS, LCMHC
Parr Therapeutic Solutions
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Life is full of challenges, unexpected twists, and difficult decisions. Facing these things alone can be overwhelming. Therapy can be a great place to sort through life's challenges as well as explore core beliefs and develop healthy coping mechanisms to not only get through life, but enjoy it. As a therapist, I enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, dealing with past trauma, life transitions, identity issues, and self-worth. I like to work with others to create meaningful change in their lives.
Life is full of challenges, unexpected twists, and difficult decisions. Facing these things alone can be overwhelming. Therapy can be a great place to sort through life's challenges as well as explore core beliefs and develop healthy coping mechanisms to not only get through life, but enjoy it. As a therapist, I enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, dealing with past trauma, life transitions, identity issues, and self-worth. I like to work with others to create meaningful change in their lives.
(919) 642-1159 View (919) 642-1159
Photo of Anju Verma, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anju Verma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Depression, anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, attention deficit disorder, relationship issues, stress management and coping skills, low self esteem, communication, couples counseling, parenting guidance and support, are just some of the areas I provide treatment in.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker /Therapist (LCSW) Board Certified in NC. I have over 20 years of experience in the fields of Mental Health and Substance Abuse. I provide Individual and Family Counseling and work with all populations such as children, adolescents and adults. My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs, discuss behavioral issues and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and strengths based approach in my work with individuals and families
Depression, anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, attention deficit disorder, relationship issues, stress management and coping skills, low self esteem, communication, couples counseling, parenting guidance and support, are just some of the areas I provide treatment in.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker /Therapist (LCSW) Board Certified in NC. I have over 20 years of experience in the fields of Mental Health and Substance Abuse. I provide Individual and Family Counseling and work with all populations such as children, adolescents and adults. My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs, discuss behavioral issues and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and strengths based approach in my work with individuals and families
(919) 415-0299 View (919) 415-0299
Photo of Sheneika Alford - License 2 Heal, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
License 2 Heal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
I have experience working with a wide variety of mental health and substance abuse issues to include, Trauma, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, substance abuse, and everyday life stressors.
One of the most important things we can do is take care of ourselves and each other. I'm so glad you are taking a step towards doing so. YOU are the most important person in your life, and my goal is to help you uncover the best version of yourself. Whether it self discovery or rediscovery, that best version is inside of us all. I like to use a person centered approach and identify what style of therapy works best for the person I am working with.
I have experience working with a wide variety of mental health and substance abuse issues to include, Trauma, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, substance abuse, and everyday life stressors.
One of the most important things we can do is take care of ourselves and each other. I'm so glad you are taking a step towards doing so. YOU are the most important person in your life, and my goal is to help you uncover the best version of yourself. Whether it self discovery or rediscovery, that best version is inside of us all. I like to use a person centered approach and identify what style of therapy works best for the person I am working with.
(336) 932-8370 View (336) 932-8370
Photo of Michael Lamont Headen - Simplicity Counseling Services, PLLC, LCMHC , LCAS, CCS
Simplicity Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534
**Immediate openings for any and all clients**. Struggling from time to time with anxiety, depressed moods, anger outburst, unsure of self worth, identity issues, marital conflict, communication issues. Personal growth and enhancing self-worth, overcoming doubt of one's abilities. Developing a more healthy outlook in life and striving to be a more fully functioning caring human being. Trying to recover or not relapse back to a previous addiction. Issues with trauma or trauma related issues I can help. Recently completed training in EMDR (Dec 2023) which could help address these concerns.
**Immediate openings for any and all clients**. Struggling from time to time with anxiety, depressed moods, anger outburst, unsure of self worth, identity issues, marital conflict, communication issues. Personal growth and enhancing self-worth, overcoming doubt of one's abilities. Developing a more healthy outlook in life and striving to be a more fully functioning caring human being. Trying to recover or not relapse back to a previous addiction. Issues with trauma or trauma related issues I can help. Recently completed training in EMDR (Dec 2023) which could help address these concerns.
(919) 351-8222 View (919) 351-8222
Photo of Yolanda N McLemore, LCSW, MSW, BSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yolanda N McLemore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knightdale, NC 27545  (Online Only)
My training has also included: Teen Pregnancy and other needs, Grief/Loss, Life Transitions, issues pertaining to mental health diagnosis’ such as Depression and Anxiety.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience. I believe that everyone has the ability to change and improve themselves and their circumstances given the right opportunity and the right support. My goal is to provide a safe and trusting environment for my clients to grow while at the same time improving their mental health and their relationships with the people around them.
My training has also included: Teen Pregnancy and other needs, Grief/Loss, Life Transitions, issues pertaining to mental health diagnosis’ such as Depression and Anxiety.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience. I believe that everyone has the ability to change and improve themselves and their circumstances given the right opportunity and the right support. My goal is to provide a safe and trusting environment for my clients to grow while at the same time improving their mental health and their relationships with the people around them.
(984) 231-9312 View (984) 231-9312
Photo of Wake Counseling Mediation - Wake Counseling & Mediation, PLLC, MS, NCC, LPCS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wake Counseling & Mediation, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, NCC, LPCS
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
We have specialists who treat Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Trauma, Substance use/abuse and relationship issues.
Welcome to Wake Counseling & Mediation! We provide the professional guidance you need to resolve wide variety of life issues. Our therapists are experienced & well trained to listen, guide, and respectfully challenge you. We have a team of passionate clinicians who has the expertise in different areas related to mental health & family issues. We are guiding individuals, couples and families make needed lifestyle adjustments that resulted in healthier coping skills, improved communication, and happiness. We also couples & families with adjustment, parenting issues, marital issues and substance use/abuse related issues.
We have specialists who treat Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Trauma, Substance use/abuse and relationship issues.
Welcome to Wake Counseling & Mediation! We provide the professional guidance you need to resolve wide variety of life issues. Our therapists are experienced & well trained to listen, guide, and respectfully challenge you. We have a team of passionate clinicians who has the expertise in different areas related to mental health & family issues. We are guiding individuals, couples and families make needed lifestyle adjustments that resulted in healthier coping skills, improved communication, and happiness. We also couples & families with adjustment, parenting issues, marital issues and substance use/abuse related issues.
(919) 514-2316 x1 View (919) 514-2316 x1
Photo of Claire Wilson, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Claire Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27617
I have experience working with anxiety, panic, depression, anger management.
Are you not sure what to do? Well, Im here to help! My name is Claire. I am a big dog lover, enjoy the great outdoors, including going on hikes, yoga, arts & crafts, natural teas. I specialize in co-disorders, working with any and all clients struggling with mental health and substance abuse.
I have experience working with anxiety, panic, depression, anger management.
Are you not sure what to do? Well, Im here to help! My name is Claire. I am a big dog lover, enjoy the great outdoors, including going on hikes, yoga, arts & crafts, natural teas. I specialize in co-disorders, working with any and all clients struggling with mental health and substance abuse.
(984) 310-2044 View (984) 310-2044

See more therapy options for Youngsville

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.