Depression Therapists in Gates Mills, OH

Photo of Michael Accardo, PhD, Psychologist
Michael Accardo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
My extensive clinical experience includes the successful treatment of individuals grappling with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD-spectrum, and PTSD.
I have crafted a career working with Transgender and Gender Diverse individuals, recognizing their unique challenges, providing specialized care that validates their identities, and receiving specialty training and support through WPATH. Additionally, my expertise extends to working with Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals, building an accommodating environment to optimize therapeutic outcomes and enhance a sense of identity. I have a particular focus on addressing Racial Stress and Trauma, ensuring culturally competent care. We all have unique perspectives and strengths that can be cultivated to overcome any challenge.
My extensive clinical experience includes the successful treatment of individuals grappling with Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD-spectrum, and PTSD.
I have crafted a career working with Transgender and Gender Diverse individuals, recognizing their unique challenges, providing specialized care that validates their identities, and receiving specialty training and support through WPATH. Additionally, my expertise extends to working with Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals, building an accommodating environment to optimize therapeutic outcomes and enhance a sense of identity. I have a particular focus on addressing Racial Stress and Trauma, ensuring culturally competent care. We all have unique perspectives and strengths that can be cultivated to overcome any challenge.
(844) 287-4228 View (844) 287-4228
Photo of Isabel A Sanchez-Cummings, LISW-S, MSSA, MPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Isabel A Sanchez-Cummings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSSA, MPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040
I focus on depression, anxiety, and parenting (especially when caring for individuals w/special needs).
It is my pleasure and privilege to engage clients one-to-one to explore patterns and identify desired changes. Typical areas of concern are emotional well-being, managing stress, relationship or family issues, and making desired changes in behavior. My goals are to assist individuals in the areas of 1) Decision-making, 2) Developing and implementing coping skills, 3) Identifying and using internal and external resources, and 4) Self-Empowerment and Acceptance.
I focus on depression, anxiety, and parenting (especially when caring for individuals w/special needs).
It is my pleasure and privilege to engage clients one-to-one to explore patterns and identify desired changes. Typical areas of concern are emotional well-being, managing stress, relationship or family issues, and making desired changes in behavior. My goals are to assist individuals in the areas of 1) Decision-making, 2) Developing and implementing coping skills, 3) Identifying and using internal and external resources, and 4) Self-Empowerment and Acceptance.
(440) 276-3665 View (440) 276-3665
Photo of Steve Cartell, LISW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Cartell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
As a strengths and solution focused therapist, I believe we each have the power to process our issues and find the key to unlock often untapped potential; taking care of one’s mental health is vital to living a peaceful and fulfilling life. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and men’s issues. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand the struggles many encounter and work to create a safe and welcoming space for all!
As a strengths and solution focused therapist, I believe we each have the power to process our issues and find the key to unlock often untapped potential; taking care of one’s mental health is vital to living a peaceful and fulfilling life. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and men’s issues. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand the struggles many encounter and work to create a safe and welcoming space for all!
(614) 796-4179 View (614) 796-4179
Photo of Dr. Angela Capuano-Fant, PhD, MFT, LPC, Psychologist
Dr. Angela Capuano-Fant
Psychologist, PhD, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
All of us can feel stuck and need help to get up and move forward. I am a psychologist who can help you work through these times and any existing anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also coach people to help them reach the next level in their career and/or life. I use a holistic approach to help you explore your strengths and things that prevent you from living your best life. I match my approach to fit you. Examples include solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (ACT, DBT, CBT), couple/marriage/family counseling, career and life coaching, emotion focused therapy, and exposure response therapy.
All of us can feel stuck and need help to get up and move forward. I am a psychologist who can help you work through these times and any existing anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also coach people to help them reach the next level in their career and/or life. I use a holistic approach to help you explore your strengths and things that prevent you from living your best life. I match my approach to fit you. Examples include solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (ACT, DBT, CBT), couple/marriage/family counseling, career and life coaching, emotion focused therapy, and exposure response therapy.
(216) 616-7386 View (216) 616-7386
Photo of Justin Richard Parsley, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Richard Parsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship or career issues, or if you just feel like you need someone to talk to, please don't hesitate to reach out via phone, text, or email.
I am a licensed independent social worker (LISW) who is passionate about helping clients work through the issues they are struggling with and improve their mental health and overall well-being. I believe in providing a safe, judgment free environment of compassion, support, and unconditional positive regard to help my clients overcome obstacles in their lives so that they can move forward and thrive.
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship or career issues, or if you just feel like you need someone to talk to, please don't hesitate to reach out via phone, text, or email.
I am a licensed independent social worker (LISW) who is passionate about helping clients work through the issues they are struggling with and improve their mental health and overall well-being. I believe in providing a safe, judgment free environment of compassion, support, and unconditional positive regard to help my clients overcome obstacles in their lives so that they can move forward and thrive.
(614) 953-6489 View (614) 953-6489
Photo of Marissa Pelsozy, LISW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marissa Pelsozy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Verified Verified
Gates Mills, OH 44040
My specialties are : Marital/Couples, Life Coaching, Depression/ Mood Disorders,, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Phobias, Adjustment Disorders, ADHD/ ADD, PTSD, Trauma Recovery, Anger Management, Grief.
Marissa earned her Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s degree in Social Work at Cleveland State University. She is currently licensed as an Independent Social Worker in the State of Ohio and has been practicing for 15 + years working with adolescents, adults and families. Marissa has several years working in the psychiatric hospital setting addressing the needs of adults who are in an immediate crisis, and those who are seeking outpatient services. She has done therapeutic programming in high schools regarding self esteem and depression. Marissa also has experience working with couples to promote healthier relationships.
My specialties are : Marital/Couples, Life Coaching, Depression/ Mood Disorders,, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Phobias, Adjustment Disorders, ADHD/ ADD, PTSD, Trauma Recovery, Anger Management, Grief.
Marissa earned her Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s degree in Social Work at Cleveland State University. She is currently licensed as an Independent Social Worker in the State of Ohio and has been practicing for 15 + years working with adolescents, adults and families. Marissa has several years working in the psychiatric hospital setting addressing the needs of adults who are in an immediate crisis, and those who are seeking outpatient services. She has done therapeutic programming in high schools regarding self esteem and depression. Marissa also has experience working with couples to promote healthier relationships.
(440) 291-2010 View (440) 291-2010
Photo of Jye Breckenridge, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jye Breckenridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
Many people turn to psychotherapy or counseling for help with anxiety, depression, trauma, painful relationship patterns, feeling stuck, or sometimes just the feeling that something is missing from life. Sometimes we may not have the words to describe our feelings, struggles or suffering. However, with insight into past relationships and experiences, many people can make progress immediately towards overcoming these difficulties and becoming more effective in their work and relationships.
Many people turn to psychotherapy or counseling for help with anxiety, depression, trauma, painful relationship patterns, feeling stuck, or sometimes just the feeling that something is missing from life. Sometimes we may not have the words to describe our feelings, struggles or suffering. However, with insight into past relationships and experiences, many people can make progress immediately towards overcoming these difficulties and becoming more effective in their work and relationships.
(614) 953-5994 View (614) 953-5994
Photo of Greg Stewart - Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting, PhD, MDiv, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
Gates Mills, OH 44040
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, marriage & family; & am certified in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing).
Virtual only! I live in TX. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. However, if we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives. If you have a Christian background, I can help you become stronger in your faith. Executive Coaching available. I just published a book: I3 (cubed): Unlock the Inner Strength Behind Your Negative Emotions. Google my name on Amazon!
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, marriage & family; & am certified in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing).
Virtual only! I live in TX. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. However, if we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives. If you have a Christian background, I can help you become stronger in your faith. Executive Coaching available. I just published a book: I3 (cubed): Unlock the Inner Strength Behind Your Negative Emotions. Google my name on Amazon!
(614) 825-3763 View (614) 825-3763
Photo of Patrick Scanlan, CT, Counselor
Patrick Scanlan
Counselor, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
I work with young adults, adults and seniors who are experiencing depression, trauma and anxiety to help them build resilience in a judgment-free setting. I work with the formerly incarcerated. The work that we do in prison to help us survive is different than the skills needed to thrive when we are back home. Lets work together to accept who we were, we are and who we might yet be. I work with couples to help them understand the conflict patterns in their relationship and identify new ways of meeting their needs.
I work with young adults, adults and seniors who are experiencing depression, trauma and anxiety to help them build resilience in a judgment-free setting. I work with the formerly incarcerated. The work that we do in prison to help us survive is different than the skills needed to thrive when we are back home. Lets work together to accept who we were, we are and who we might yet be. I work with couples to help them understand the conflict patterns in their relationship and identify new ways of meeting their needs.
(440) 276-6839 View (440) 276-6839
Photo of Jennifer Dzugan, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Dzugan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
Welcome to DeNovo Counseling and Wellness, LLC, where a new beginning is just around the corner. Life can be full of many challenges, uncertainties, and scariness these days. Finding a way to weather the storm with peace and contentment has been my life's work for the past 17 years. I specialize in treating trauma and Reactive Attachment Disorder. Other interests include depression, anxiety, PTSD, and family issues. By fostering a strong relationship together, I work with you and alongside you to heal old wounds.
Welcome to DeNovo Counseling and Wellness, LLC, where a new beginning is just around the corner. Life can be full of many challenges, uncertainties, and scariness these days. Finding a way to weather the storm with peace and contentment has been my life's work for the past 17 years. I specialize in treating trauma and Reactive Attachment Disorder. Other interests include depression, anxiety, PTSD, and family issues. By fostering a strong relationship together, I work with you and alongside you to heal old wounds.
(440) 294-4993 View (440) 294-4993
Photo of Matthew Tull, PhD, Psychologist
Matthew Tull
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gates Mills, OH 44040
I have expertise in the delivery of the following evidence-based treatments: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Behavioral Activation for Depression, Prolonged Exposure, Exposure Therapy and Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotion Regulation Group Therapy, and Mindfulness-based Therapy.
I believe that long-lasting and meaningful change is most likely to occur in the context of validation and acceptance. I approach my clients with openness, compassion, and curiosity. This stance ensures that any treatment plan we develop is comprehensive, culturally-sensitive, personalized, and effectively considers the unique experiences and situations that contribute to the challenges you face. Moreover, although it is important that you experience relief from your symptoms, it is even more important that this relief is in service of helping you build the meaningful and fulfilling life you want to live.
I have expertise in the delivery of the following evidence-based treatments: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Behavioral Activation for Depression, Prolonged Exposure, Exposure Therapy and Response Prevention, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotion Regulation Group Therapy, and Mindfulness-based Therapy.
I believe that long-lasting and meaningful change is most likely to occur in the context of validation and acceptance. I approach my clients with openness, compassion, and curiosity. This stance ensures that any treatment plan we develop is comprehensive, culturally-sensitive, personalized, and effectively considers the unique experiences and situations that contribute to the challenges you face. Moreover, although it is important that you experience relief from your symptoms, it is even more important that this relief is in service of helping you build the meaningful and fulfilling life you want to live.
(844) 287-4228 View (844) 287-4228
Photo of Beth Mishkind Roth, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Mishkind Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040
I specialize in evidenced-based treatments for children, adolescents, and families. My approach to treatment is heavily skill-based, goal oriented, and highly collaborative. I view the parents/guardians as experts in their child, and feel that together, we form a unified team. My practice includes: Anxiety, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, OCD, Parent-Child Conflict/Skill Development, Phobias, and Self-Esteem Enhancement. I also specialize in working with the siblings of children with special needs, including developmental disabilities and special healthcare needs, to address family dynamics and coping skills development.
I specialize in evidenced-based treatments for children, adolescents, and families. My approach to treatment is heavily skill-based, goal oriented, and highly collaborative. I view the parents/guardians as experts in their child, and feel that together, we form a unified team. My practice includes: Anxiety, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, OCD, Parent-Child Conflict/Skill Development, Phobias, and Self-Esteem Enhancement. I also specialize in working with the siblings of children with special needs, including developmental disabilities and special healthcare needs, to address family dynamics and coping skills development.
(216) 868-7258 View (216) 868-7258
Photo of Ann-Marie Miglionico, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann-Marie Miglionico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040
Whether you're struggling with stress, depression, or relationship issues, I'm here to help.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I understand the profound impact that past experiences can have on your life today. My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and rooted in a deep respect for your unique journey. I provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore and process difficult emotions at your own pace. Together, we’ll work to build resilience, foster healing, and empower you to regain control of your life. Trust is earned, and I am committed to walking beside you, honoring your story, and helping you find a path toward lasting peace and wellbeing.
Whether you're struggling with stress, depression, or relationship issues, I'm here to help.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I understand the profound impact that past experiences can have on your life today. My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and rooted in a deep respect for your unique journey. I provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore and process difficult emotions at your own pace. Together, we’ll work to build resilience, foster healing, and empower you to regain control of your life. Trust is earned, and I am committed to walking beside you, honoring your story, and helping you find a path toward lasting peace and wellbeing.
(513) 822-2840 View (513) 822-2840
Photo of Dr. Dina Karvounides, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Dina Karvounides
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist who is passionate about my work in supporting youth, young adults and their families to address life’s challenges. Over the past 16 years, I have worked with diverse patients who are coping with anxiety, depression, adjustment to chronic illness-particularly chronic pain conditions, challenges related to gender and sexual identity, as well as difficulties faced with peer and family relationships.
I am a clinical psychologist who is passionate about my work in supporting youth, young adults and their families to address life’s challenges. Over the past 16 years, I have worked with diverse patients who are coping with anxiety, depression, adjustment to chronic illness-particularly chronic pain conditions, challenges related to gender and sexual identity, as well as difficulties faced with peer and family relationships.
(215) 883-8949 View (215) 883-8949
Photo of Lanaya McDonald, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lanaya McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I have a passion for helping people. I became a therapist to help and encourage people. I have a wide variety of experience. I worked in community health for several years. During that time, I saw a multitude up clients with a variety of issues to include but not limited to addiction, depression, bi - polar disorder, and many others. I provided care inpatient and outpatient and ran many different types of groups for adults and children. I worked with children and families on our juvenile unit as well.
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I have a passion for helping people. I became a therapist to help and encourage people. I have a wide variety of experience. I worked in community health for several years. During that time, I saw a multitude up clients with a variety of issues to include but not limited to addiction, depression, bi - polar disorder, and many others. I provided care inpatient and outpatient and ran many different types of groups for adults and children. I worked with children and families on our juvenile unit as well.
(216) 284-1471 View (216) 284-1471
Photo of Ashley Schwartzman, PsyD, Psychologist
Ashley Schwartzman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040
I provide evidence-based cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) to treat anxiety and depression, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to treat chronic emotional dysregulation and self-harming behaviors, dialectical behavior therapy prolonged exposure (DBT PE) to treat PTSD, and I use the Gottman Method in providing couples therapy.
I work with adolescents (14+ y/o) and adults who are seeking individual, family, and couples therapy. Many of the adolescents and adults I work with experience general and social anxiety, grief, depression, PTSD, and may engage in self-harming behaviors or have suicidal ideation. I provide parent/ caregiver coaching to parents who want to improve the quality of their relationship with their children and learn skills of effective conflict management and limit setting. The couples I work with want to learn skills to improve their communication, manage conflict effectively, and rebuild trust and intimacy within their relationship.
I provide evidence-based cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) to treat anxiety and depression, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to treat chronic emotional dysregulation and self-harming behaviors, dialectical behavior therapy prolonged exposure (DBT PE) to treat PTSD, and I use the Gottman Method in providing couples therapy.
I work with adolescents (14+ y/o) and adults who are seeking individual, family, and couples therapy. Many of the adolescents and adults I work with experience general and social anxiety, grief, depression, PTSD, and may engage in self-harming behaviors or have suicidal ideation. I provide parent/ caregiver coaching to parents who want to improve the quality of their relationship with their children and learn skills of effective conflict management and limit setting. The couples I work with want to learn skills to improve their communication, manage conflict effectively, and rebuild trust and intimacy within their relationship.
(234) 348-3858 View (234) 348-3858
Photo of Ashley Stotesbery, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Stotesbery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040
Many of my clients struggle with dread, shame, anxiety, trauma, existential thoughts, as well as negative expectations for themselves and the world around them. Through a combination of evidence-based techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches and a person-centered approach, I walk with my clients on the journey of overcoming these obstacles, toward achieving both their emotional and behavioral goals.
Many of my clients struggle with dread, shame, anxiety, trauma, existential thoughts, as well as negative expectations for themselves and the world around them. Through a combination of evidence-based techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches and a person-centered approach, I walk with my clients on the journey of overcoming these obstacles, toward achieving both their emotional and behavioral goals.
(440) 644-3657 View (440) 644-3657
Photo of Meaghan White - The Mindful Life, LLC, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Mindful Life, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients in KY and OH. Therapy can be challenging and emotionally draining but we are here to work alongside you as an equal partner/team member. This is and will always be a judgement free zone. Keep in mind that therapy is not a "quick fix." Our Clinicians can offer skills that you can implement immediately but lasting change involves a deeper exploration of issues and commitment to self.
Accepting New Clients in KY and OH. Therapy can be challenging and emotionally draining but we are here to work alongside you as an equal partner/team member. This is and will always be a judgement free zone. Keep in mind that therapy is not a "quick fix." Our Clinicians can offer skills that you can implement immediately but lasting change involves a deeper exploration of issues and commitment to self.
(859) 695-5234 View (859) 695-5234
Photo of Rachel Phillips, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gates Mills, OH 44040  (Online Only)
I am a mother of four, within a special needs household, and a retired Marine spouse of 20+ years, I have experienced and overcome a distinct set of challenges throughout my personal and professional life that makes me a therapist who can relate to my clients. I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with complex mental health issues. Whatever the challenge you are facing, I will be by your side!
I am a mother of four, within a special needs household, and a retired Marine spouse of 20+ years, I have experienced and overcome a distinct set of challenges throughout my personal and professional life that makes me a therapist who can relate to my clients. I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with complex mental health issues. Whatever the challenge you are facing, I will be by your side!
(330) 632-8874 View (330) 632-8874
Photo of Rachel Trego - Oak and Anchor Counseling, LISW-S, LPCC-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Oak and Anchor Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040
At Oak and Anchor Counseling, we specialize in the following areas: abuse, alcohol and drug use, anger management, Christian counseling, coaching, codependency, conflict resolution, family conflict, grief counseling, life transitions, school behavior problems, educational stress management, self-esteem, spiritual direction and trauma. Our team of holistic counselors specialize in a variety of evidence-based treatments.
At Oak and Anchor Counseling, we specialize in the following areas: abuse, alcohol and drug use, anger management, Christian counseling, coaching, codependency, conflict resolution, family conflict, grief counseling, life transitions, school behavior problems, educational stress management, self-esteem, spiritual direction and trauma. Our team of holistic counselors specialize in a variety of evidence-based treatments.
(614) 963-2788 View (614) 963-2788
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Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.