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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Ohio below.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ryan L Dunn - New Life Counseling, PhD, Psychologist
New Life Counseling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dover, OH 44622
Dr. Dunn is a licensed clinical psychologist with experience and expertise in providing treatment to adults. He was born and raised in Holmes County, Ohio. He served as a U.S. Air Force Psychologist for four years before establishing a private practice in Columbus, and then in 1998 opened New Life Counseling in Dover. In addition to treatment of depression, anxiety, and marital and family problems, he provides more specialized treatment in pain management. He lives with his wife and two children near Dover, and they are active in a local church.
Dr. Dunn is a licensed clinical psychologist with experience and expertise in providing treatment to adults. He was born and raised in Holmes County, Ohio. He served as a U.S. Air Force Psychologist for four years before establishing a private practice in Columbus, and then in 1998 opened New Life Counseling in Dover. In addition to treatment of depression, anxiety, and marital and family problems, he provides more specialized treatment in pain management. He lives with his wife and two children near Dover, and they are active in a local church.
(330) 529-8999 View (330) 529-8999

Online Therapists

Photo of Janaye Guess, MSW , LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janaye Guess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LISW
Verified Verified
Delaware, OH 43015
I enjoy working with people who struggle with depression and/or anxiety. Ideally, their goals would be to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. My ideal client would be able to put in the necessary work to accomplish their goals. My therapy style is authentic, empathetic, and validating. I believe in incorporating various treatment modalities that are based on the individual needs of my clients.
I enjoy working with people who struggle with depression and/or anxiety. Ideally, their goals would be to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. My ideal client would be able to put in the necessary work to accomplish their goals. My therapy style is authentic, empathetic, and validating. I believe in incorporating various treatment modalities that are based on the individual needs of my clients.
(740) 276-3212 View (740) 276-3212
Photo of Athena McCaman - Kindred Harbor Behavioral Health LLC., MSW, LISW-S, LICDC, CCTP, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kindred Harbor Behavioral Health LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LICDC, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44109
I have over 10 years experience working with individuals and groups that are experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, PTSD and substance use addiction problems.
We accept new clients from anywhere in Ohio for telehealth sessions. Asking for help with mental wellness or addiction issues takes courage. Remember that seeking support during difficult times is actually a sign of strength. It's also a step toward improving your mental and emotional well-being. I can empathize with the vulnerability and courage it takes to begin this journey...when your ready to get started just reach out.
I have over 10 years experience working with individuals and groups that are experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, PTSD and substance use addiction problems.
We accept new clients from anywhere in Ohio for telehealth sessions. Asking for help with mental wellness or addiction issues takes courage. Remember that seeking support during difficult times is actually a sign of strength. It's also a step toward improving your mental and emotional well-being. I can empathize with the vulnerability and courage it takes to begin this journey...when your ready to get started just reach out.
(216) 290-0524 View (216) 290-0524
Photo of Christine Rager, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Rager
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
In our sessions you will find freedom from anxiety, depression, and negative self talk.
Whatever struggles you may be dealing with in your life, therapy can help you. I provide a safe and compassionate space to facilitate your growth and healing, while focusing on you as an individual. My approach is one of non-judgement, empathy and warmth. My goal is for you to leave therapy with a sense of relief from your struggles and learn new skills for living a resilient, satisfying life.
In our sessions you will find freedom from anxiety, depression, and negative self talk.
Whatever struggles you may be dealing with in your life, therapy can help you. I provide a safe and compassionate space to facilitate your growth and healing, while focusing on you as an individual. My approach is one of non-judgement, empathy and warmth. My goal is for you to leave therapy with a sense of relief from your struggles and learn new skills for living a resilient, satisfying life.
(380) 333-6015 View (380) 333-6015
Photo of Dr. Kearisten Gaines, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kearisten Gaines
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Youngstown, OH 44512
My specialties include treating trauma, depression, anxiety, identity issues, relationship difficulties, sexual assault survivors, grief, perinatal/postpartum mental health, and substance abuse.
Hello and welcome, I am so glad you are here! I am Dr. Kearisten Gaines, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Ohio. Taking the first step towards therapy can be difficult. That is why when working with clients my goal is to always create a compassionate, safe, and judgement free atmosphere. This allows me to work in collaboration with my clients, as I believe they are the experts of their lives. Through the therapeutic process we will work together to address the difficulties you are facing, create meaningful change, and help you to feel empowered and in control of your life!
My specialties include treating trauma, depression, anxiety, identity issues, relationship difficulties, sexual assault survivors, grief, perinatal/postpartum mental health, and substance abuse.
Hello and welcome, I am so glad you are here! I am Dr. Kearisten Gaines, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Ohio. Taking the first step towards therapy can be difficult. That is why when working with clients my goal is to always create a compassionate, safe, and judgement free atmosphere. This allows me to work in collaboration with my clients, as I believe they are the experts of their lives. Through the therapeutic process we will work together to address the difficulties you are facing, create meaningful change, and help you to feel empowered and in control of your life!
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Photo of Tracy Wheeler, MSW, LISW-S, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
Pickerington, OH 43147
I assist clients who struggle with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression and want to bring about change in their lives. I help clients who want to find a balance and stability within themselves to learn and reconnect to a more desired life.
I assist clients who struggle with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression and want to bring about change in their lives. I help clients who want to find a balance and stability within themselves to learn and reconnect to a more desired life.
(380) 205-2154 View (380) 205-2154
Photo of Stephanie Purdom - Wild Hope Therapy - Cleveland , LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wild Hope Therapy - Cleveland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
Our therapists specialize in anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health, self esteem, relationships, body image, life transitions, emerging young adults, eating disorders and grief.
At Wild Hope Therapy, we believe that therapy can be impactful and enriching while still feeling down-to-earth and accessible. We value collaboration, cultural humility, and seeing you as the expert of your own experience. Our style is warm and relaxed, but we will always be working diligently with you to develop the tools you need to meet your self-defined goals. We intend to create a space where you feel like you can be yourself, and trust us to hold you to whatever values and objectives we uncover.
Our therapists specialize in anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health, self esteem, relationships, body image, life transitions, emerging young adults, eating disorders and grief.
At Wild Hope Therapy, we believe that therapy can be impactful and enriching while still feeling down-to-earth and accessible. We value collaboration, cultural humility, and seeing you as the expert of your own experience. Our style is warm and relaxed, but we will always be working diligently with you to develop the tools you need to meet your self-defined goals. We intend to create a space where you feel like you can be yourself, and trust us to hold you to whatever values and objectives we uncover.
(216) 677-6886 View (216) 677-6886
Photo of Shawna Young - Theodicies Support LLC, LICDC, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theodicies Support LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICDC, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Theodicies Support LLC provides marriage, adult, family, and children's counseling for anger, trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, military trauma, and family/behavioral conflicts.
We have little control over life's challenges, however we do have control over how we chose to deal with them. I have over sixteen years of social service experience with adults, adolescents, and children in the fields of education, child welfare, delinquent youth, and mental health services. I have two master’s degrees in both Social Work and Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Psychology. As an Independently Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Chemical Dependency Counselor, I would love to help. Feel free to call 1 (440) 703-0486.
Theodicies Support LLC provides marriage, adult, family, and children's counseling for anger, trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, military trauma, and family/behavioral conflicts.
We have little control over life's challenges, however we do have control over how we chose to deal with them. I have over sixteen years of social service experience with adults, adolescents, and children in the fields of education, child welfare, delinquent youth, and mental health services. I have two master’s degrees in both Social Work and Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Psychology. As an Independently Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Chemical Dependency Counselor, I would love to help. Feel free to call 1 (440) 703-0486.
(440) 305-5643 View (440) 305-5643
Photo of Amanda Washel, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Washel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
Waitlist for new clients
At times, life can feel emotionally unmanageable. At Grace Recovery Counseling, I can help you find your way through. I believe that with good support and encouraging relationships, recovery and healing can happen. I earned my Master of Counseling in 2006 as well as a Master of Human Development and Family Science in 2004 from The Ohio State University. I have 17 years of experience in the treatment and recovery of disordered eating as well as body image related issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and mood disorders.
At times, life can feel emotionally unmanageable. At Grace Recovery Counseling, I can help you find your way through. I believe that with good support and encouraging relationships, recovery and healing can happen. I earned my Master of Counseling in 2006 as well as a Master of Human Development and Family Science in 2004 from The Ohio State University. I have 17 years of experience in the treatment and recovery of disordered eating as well as body image related issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and mood disorders.
(843) 350-0694 View (843) 350-0694
Photo of Carla J Penner, LPCC-S, Counselor
Carla J Penner
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
My work experience allowed me to advance my skills and gain experience in addiction, anxiety/depression, panic, trauma (PTSD), mood disorders, and anger.
Every journey begins with taking your first step towards your destination. This first step may be your most difficult. It is important that you feel comfortable and safe in a non-judgmental environment with taking this first step. You may be experiencing anxiety, sadness, anger, or highs and lows because of chemical dependency, trauma, a mood disorder, or relationship issues. You may feel that you just need to be heard and your feelings validated. Whatever you are experiencing, you may feel that you just want to be a better you and be able to function more effectively.
My work experience allowed me to advance my skills and gain experience in addiction, anxiety/depression, panic, trauma (PTSD), mood disorders, and anger.
Every journey begins with taking your first step towards your destination. This first step may be your most difficult. It is important that you feel comfortable and safe in a non-judgmental environment with taking this first step. You may be experiencing anxiety, sadness, anger, or highs and lows because of chemical dependency, trauma, a mood disorder, or relationship issues. You may feel that you just need to be heard and your feelings validated. Whatever you are experiencing, you may feel that you just want to be a better you and be able to function more effectively.
(440) 291-3180 View (440) 291-3180
Photo of Audra Popik - AGAPE Counseling and Consulting LLC, LPCC, LICDC, LSW, Counselor
AGAPE Counseling and Consulting LLC
Counselor, LPCC, LICDC, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
I specialize in mood disorders, addictions, dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders (life transitions), ADHD/ADD, eating disorders, Bi-polar/manic depressive, spiritual issues, perinatal/maternal depression, infertility, pre-marital, couples/marriage.
My motto in life and in counseling is to meet people where they are at and walk alongside them on the journey through a path of healing. I am grateful and honored to work in this field and strive to provide the best possible therapy to each and every client.
I specialize in mood disorders, addictions, dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders (life transitions), ADHD/ADD, eating disorders, Bi-polar/manic depressive, spiritual issues, perinatal/maternal depression, infertility, pre-marital, couples/marriage.
My motto in life and in counseling is to meet people where they are at and walk alongside them on the journey through a path of healing. I am grateful and honored to work in this field and strive to provide the best possible therapy to each and every client.
(440) 294-8878 View (440) 294-8878
Photo of Jessica Shedron, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Shedron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, OH 44721  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping youth overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking a safe and supportive space to explore their emotions and experiences. They are often feeling overwhelmed by challenges such as anxiety, depression, anger management, or difficulty building relationships. Perhaps they've experienced trauma or are struggling with low self-esteem. They might be a child, teen, or adult who is looking for guidance and tools to navigate life's ups and downs. They want to feel understood, validated, and empowered. They want to develop healthy coping mechanisms, improve their relationships, and increase their overall life satisfaction.
I specialize in helping youth overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking a safe and supportive space to explore their emotions and experiences. They are often feeling overwhelmed by challenges such as anxiety, depression, anger management, or difficulty building relationships. Perhaps they've experienced trauma or are struggling with low self-esteem. They might be a child, teen, or adult who is looking for guidance and tools to navigate life's ups and downs. They want to feel understood, validated, and empowered. They want to develop healthy coping mechanisms, improve their relationships, and increase their overall life satisfaction.
(234) 423-4717 View (234) 423-4717
Photo of Esam Joshua Pietras, LPC, STS, PMP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Esam Joshua Pietras
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, STS, PMP
Verified Verified
Richfield, OH 44286
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who treats a wide range of issues and has an expertise in: marital therapy, trauma, anxiety/depression, social anxiety, phobias, personality disorders and Christian counseling. I am trained as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist as well as in EMDR with a focus on Trauma. Your treatment plan will be tailored to fit your individual needs while working in a non-judgemental empethetic setting where you will be encouraged and given the knowledge to heal. We also offer a social anxiety support group free to adults on Sat Mornings 8am-9am.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who treats a wide range of issues and has an expertise in: marital therapy, trauma, anxiety/depression, social anxiety, phobias, personality disorders and Christian counseling. I am trained as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist as well as in EMDR with a focus on Trauma. Your treatment plan will be tailored to fit your individual needs while working in a non-judgemental empethetic setting where you will be encouraged and given the knowledge to heal. We also offer a social anxiety support group free to adults on Sat Mornings 8am-9am.
(234) 222-4030 View (234) 222-4030
Photo of Joseph A Humphries, MSEd, NCC, LSW, LPCC, Counselor
Joseph A Humphries
Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Youngstown, OH 44514
My name is Joe Humphries. I am an LPCC and have been practicing in the Youngstown area for the past 18 years. I work with all ages and can help you address problems with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment problems, and grief. Other areas of focus in my practice include: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, parenting skills training, anger management, behavior management, and Attention Deficit Disorder.
My name is Joe Humphries. I am an LPCC and have been practicing in the Youngstown area for the past 18 years. I work with all ages and can help you address problems with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment problems, and grief. Other areas of focus in my practice include: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, parenting skills training, anger management, behavior management, and Attention Deficit Disorder.
(330) 680-5264 View (330) 680-5264
Photo of Amanda Lynn Jennings, MSSW, LSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Lynn Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenford, OH 43739  (Online Only)
My scope of practice covers a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including mental health, substance use, depression, trauma, anxiety.
Have you seen other therapists?  It’s important to find someone you click with.  I take pride in being a down-to-earth therapist who believes that all people have to capacity to change and make improvements in their lives. I believe in meeting people where they are and helping each person meet the goals they want to accomplish. I am receptive to hearing what is on your mind and working together to get through it. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, races and genders including clients who identify as non binary and the LGBTQ community. I also enjoy working with teens and children and have experience with family therapy.
My scope of practice covers a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including mental health, substance use, depression, trauma, anxiety.
Have you seen other therapists?  It’s important to find someone you click with.  I take pride in being a down-to-earth therapist who believes that all people have to capacity to change and make improvements in their lives. I believe in meeting people where they are and helping each person meet the goals they want to accomplish. I am receptive to hearing what is on your mind and working together to get through it. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, races and genders including clients who identify as non binary and the LGBTQ community. I also enjoy working with teens and children and have experience with family therapy.
(220) 200-6621 View (220) 200-6621
Photo of Laura Lee Townsend - Trauma Therapist, LMFT, IMFT, LPCC, CHHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Lee Townsend - Trauma Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IMFT, LPCC, CHHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gahanna, OH 43230
I specialize in EMDR therapy, which is an evidence-based approach to work through a variety of problems – complex trauma, traumatic events, addictions, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders to name a few.
You just want to feel better. Trauma has turned you into someone you don’t even recognize. You’re constantly on edge and can’t sleep. If sleep does come, it’s often restless and filled with nightmares. Your creativity, performance, and professionalism is suffering. You often feel tremendous guilt and shame; no one understands what it's like. Or maybe you stuff the hurt, pain, and disappointment down deep inside so no one sees it. You know how to put on a good, happy face for others. The emptiness and loneliness seem unbearable. Or maybe this describes your loved one who you can’t seem to reach no matter how hard you try.
I specialize in EMDR therapy, which is an evidence-based approach to work through a variety of problems – complex trauma, traumatic events, addictions, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders to name a few.
You just want to feel better. Trauma has turned you into someone you don’t even recognize. You’re constantly on edge and can’t sleep. If sleep does come, it’s often restless and filled with nightmares. Your creativity, performance, and professionalism is suffering. You often feel tremendous guilt and shame; no one understands what it's like. Or maybe you stuff the hurt, pain, and disappointment down deep inside so no one sees it. You know how to put on a good, happy face for others. The emptiness and loneliness seem unbearable. Or maybe this describes your loved one who you can’t seem to reach no matter how hard you try.
(220) 270-0021 View (220) 270-0021
Photo of Darlene R Herron - Arbor Counseling, PhD, LPCC-S, LPCC, LPC
Arbor Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Arbor Counseling is a group practice with several providers equipped to see people with a variety of needs across the lifespan. We treat children, adolescents, adults and families for anxiety, depression, relational issues, trauma, panic attacks, transition, grief, burnout, etc. Each of our providers have their own specialty but we all have a passion and respect for the healing potential of a person's faith and relationship with God that can be incorporated in treatment based on the requests of each person. We are usually able to accommodate whoever calls or will assist in finding someone who can help.
Arbor Counseling is a group practice with several providers equipped to see people with a variety of needs across the lifespan. We treat children, adolescents, adults and families for anxiety, depression, relational issues, trauma, panic attacks, transition, grief, burnout, etc. Each of our providers have their own specialty but we all have a passion and respect for the healing potential of a person's faith and relationship with God that can be incorporated in treatment based on the requests of each person. We are usually able to accommodate whoever calls or will assist in finding someone who can help.
(614) 808-4124 x3 View (614) 808-4124 x3
Photo of Grace Crawley, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Grace Crawley
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am passionate about helping clients learn to love themselves in their current space. Life is hard and unpredictable and all of us come to points in our life where we need some extra help. Maybe you are finding yourself at a crossroad in life and are struggling to identify where to turn. Maybe you are wrestling with ongoing depression and anxiety that is beginning to feel debilitating. Maybe you are grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, a dream, or an old way of thinking. Wherever you are, if you have found yourself here, you have identified that you need support and I would love to meet you in that space.
I am passionate about helping clients learn to love themselves in their current space. Life is hard and unpredictable and all of us come to points in our life where we need some extra help. Maybe you are finding yourself at a crossroad in life and are struggling to identify where to turn. Maybe you are wrestling with ongoing depression and anxiety that is beginning to feel debilitating. Maybe you are grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, a dream, or an old way of thinking. Wherever you are, if you have found yourself here, you have identified that you need support and I would love to meet you in that space.
(380) 207-0521 View (380) 207-0521
Photo of Emily King, MSEd, LPCC
Emily King
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43219
I have experience in treating: mood disorders (such as anxiety or depression), trauma disorders, issues related to self-esteem, body-image & media consumption, as well as working with LBGTQIA+ individuals.
"There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." --Maya Angelou. Suffering is often silent. We hold back our sadness, loneliness, resentment & shame. We think that pushing these feelings aside will allow us to live the life we desire. Yet, if you find yourself unable to move forward, I would be honored to sit alongside you as you process your story. Your pain. Your joy. Your sorrow, self-doubt and hatred. It is my goal that through my nonjudgmental ear you feel seen, heard, accepted & cared for. It is in this space that we can overcome the hardships of your past or future, & embrace the light that is within you.
I have experience in treating: mood disorders (such as anxiety or depression), trauma disorders, issues related to self-esteem, body-image & media consumption, as well as working with LBGTQIA+ individuals.
"There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." --Maya Angelou. Suffering is often silent. We hold back our sadness, loneliness, resentment & shame. We think that pushing these feelings aside will allow us to live the life we desire. Yet, if you find yourself unable to move forward, I would be honored to sit alongside you as you process your story. Your pain. Your joy. Your sorrow, self-doubt and hatred. It is my goal that through my nonjudgmental ear you feel seen, heard, accepted & cared for. It is in this space that we can overcome the hardships of your past or future, & embrace the light that is within you.
(614) 782-8749 View (614) 782-8749
Photo of Hunter Tomlinson, MS, LMFT, IMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hunter Tomlinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, IMFT
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43210  (Online Only)
Life is hard. It can be filled with transitions, challenges, anxieties, grief, depression, a past that just doesn't seem to leave you alone - just to name a few. These things can cause us to live a life that is inauthentic and make decisions that aren't in alignment with the values and hopes that we have. As a therapist, I see it as my role to come alongside you and be with you as you navigate life's challenges, with the goal of living an authentic, fulfilling life marked by joy. I see clients all over Ohio and California!
Life is hard. It can be filled with transitions, challenges, anxieties, grief, depression, a past that just doesn't seem to leave you alone - just to name a few. These things can cause us to live a life that is inauthentic and make decisions that aren't in alignment with the values and hopes that we have. As a therapist, I see it as my role to come alongside you and be with you as you navigate life's challenges, with the goal of living an authentic, fulfilling life marked by joy. I see clients all over Ohio and California!
(614) 762-9251 View (614) 762-9251

See more therapy options for New Philadelphia

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.