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Photo of Phil Phillips, EdD,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Phil Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97006
Anxiety and depression are common in our society.
Dr. Phil Phillips is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon who has been practicing since 1995. He has a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and a Doctoral Degree in Pastoral Community Counseling from Argosy University. Dr. Phil (No, not the other guy! lol) is the kindest and most compassionate therapist you will ever meet! His experience of more than 30 years of counseling enables him to offer effective outpatient, individualized psychological care. Dr. Phil treats most mental health disorders, and provides a safe and neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples.
Anxiety and depression are common in our society.
Dr. Phil Phillips is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon who has been practicing since 1995. He has a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and a Doctoral Degree in Pastoral Community Counseling from Argosy University. Dr. Phil (No, not the other guy! lol) is the kindest and most compassionate therapist you will ever meet! His experience of more than 30 years of counseling enables him to offer effective outpatient, individualized psychological care. Dr. Phil treats most mental health disorders, and provides a safe and neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Angelie Karabatsos, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angelie Karabatsos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97007
Specializations include anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, mood disorders, marriage counseling, couples counseling, pre-marital counseling, overcoming infidelity, and support for life transitions, such retirement, divorce, separation, or recovery from a major illness.
Does life feel overwhelming like being trapped in a never-ending maze? Having these feelings are perfectly normal. Talking through the life concerns or worries can help but it’s hard to share deep personal concerns with family or friends. The pressure of family, work, or past trauma's can cause anxiety, stress, even depression. Whether dealing with a difficult relationship, career, or life challenges talking with a trained professional, who is caring and compassionate can help you find freedom and start enjoying life. Think about how great it would be living life instead of just making it through each day.
Specializations include anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, mood disorders, marriage counseling, couples counseling, pre-marital counseling, overcoming infidelity, and support for life transitions, such retirement, divorce, separation, or recovery from a major illness.
Does life feel overwhelming like being trapped in a never-ending maze? Having these feelings are perfectly normal. Talking through the life concerns or worries can help but it’s hard to share deep personal concerns with family or friends. The pressure of family, work, or past trauma's can cause anxiety, stress, even depression. Whether dealing with a difficult relationship, career, or life challenges talking with a trained professional, who is caring and compassionate can help you find freedom and start enjoying life. Think about how great it would be living life instead of just making it through each day.
(503) 564-1858 View (503) 564-1858
Photo of Dionne Etta Mitchell - Dionne-Etta Mitchell Agency Has Immediate Openings, MSW, QMHA-R, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dionne-Etta Mitchell Agency Has Immediate Openings
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, QMHA-R
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97006  (Online Only)
Welcome! Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma? Feeling burnt out? Wanting to build new skills? I am here for you! During our sessions, we will work to develop a strong connection that allows us to grow towards your best self. No matter who you are or where you come from, you deserve the highest quality care. My Practice Offers Telehealth Sessions All Across The State Of Oregon!
Welcome! Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma? Feeling burnt out? Wanting to build new skills? I am here for you! During our sessions, we will work to develop a strong connection that allows us to grow towards your best self. No matter who you are or where you come from, you deserve the highest quality care. My Practice Offers Telehealth Sessions All Across The State Of Oregon!
(971) 396-1672 View (971) 396-1672
Photo of Melisa Ho, MA, BSN, RN, CDCES, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melisa Ho
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, BSN, RN, CDCES
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Are you feeling discouraged? Are you at a point which you feel your hope may be GONE! For example, are you a young adult who has lost hope in finding a soulmate? Are you a couple who is on the edge of getting a divorce? Are you a parent who can’t see hope in your child with health issues? There are many different circumstances that cause us to feel hopeless. Unfortunately, depression, anxiety and even anger often come alongside with a sense of hopelessness. My passion is to help you find hope through compassionate counseling.
Are you feeling discouraged? Are you at a point which you feel your hope may be GONE! For example, are you a young adult who has lost hope in finding a soulmate? Are you a couple who is on the edge of getting a divorce? Are you a parent who can’t see hope in your child with health issues? There are many different circumstances that cause us to feel hopeless. Unfortunately, depression, anxiety and even anger often come alongside with a sense of hopelessness. My passion is to help you find hope through compassionate counseling.
(503) 782-9374 View (503) 782-9374
Photo of Michael Makinster, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Makinster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
My therapy dog is trained to comfort clients with anxiety, depression and trauma.
I have worked as a counselor for over 25 years and have a wide range of experience with marriage, depression and anxiety issues. I have also developed a sub-specialty in pornography addiction. I take time to integrate Biblical faith with practical guidance for all of my clients desiring to practice their faith in a manner consistent with their actions. I love to work with people who are ready to get to work and discover what emotions, behaviors and thinking keeps them from living the life they desire to live.
My therapy dog is trained to comfort clients with anxiety, depression and trauma.
I have worked as a counselor for over 25 years and have a wide range of experience with marriage, depression and anxiety issues. I have also developed a sub-specialty in pornography addiction. I take time to integrate Biblical faith with practical guidance for all of my clients desiring to practice their faith in a manner consistent with their actions. I love to work with people who are ready to get to work and discover what emotions, behaviors and thinking keeps them from living the life they desire to live.
(971) 803-3860 View (971) 803-3860
Photo of Rachel Brown, MA, PCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rachel Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PCA
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97007  (Online Only)
Are you feeling weighed down by the burdens of depression and anxiety, desperately in need of some relief and relaxation? You're not alone. In fact, many individuals are facing similar struggles and seeking a way to break free from the grip of these unsettling emotions. If you long to live a more fulfilling life, full of joy and purpose, then you are exactly the type of client I aim to assist.
Are you feeling weighed down by the burdens of depression and anxiety, desperately in need of some relief and relaxation? You're not alone. In fact, many individuals are facing similar struggles and seeking a way to break free from the grip of these unsettling emotions. If you long to live a more fulfilling life, full of joy and purpose, then you are exactly the type of client I aim to assist.
(971) 314-6106 View (971) 314-6106
Photo of Taylor Miller, MA, PCA, LPC Intern
Taylor Miller
LPC Intern, MA, PCA
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97007  (Online Only)
My specialties are anxiety, depression, men’s issues, sex/pornography addiction, life transitions, and emotional discovery.
Hello my name is Taylor, (He/Him) nice to meet you. I am currently accepting new patients in Oregon and Washington. My goal in our work is to help individuals increase self-awareness by providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I can also assist in clients developing a plan of action, and supporting them in implementing new behaviors and habits. I am trained in advanced trauma therapies, allowing clients to do the deeper work that they need to truly heal.
My specialties are anxiety, depression, men’s issues, sex/pornography addiction, life transitions, and emotional discovery.
Hello my name is Taylor, (He/Him) nice to meet you. I am currently accepting new patients in Oregon and Washington. My goal in our work is to help individuals increase self-awareness by providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I can also assist in clients developing a plan of action, and supporting them in implementing new behaviors and habits. I am trained in advanced trauma therapies, allowing clients to do the deeper work that they need to truly heal.
(971) 260-9746 View (971) 260-9746
Photo of Luann K. Wu, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Luann K. Wu
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Now OPEN two Saturday mornings a month! Has life led you to unforeseen circumstances? Are you feeling stuck in a relationship? Does trauma from your past keep showing up in your present life? Maybe you are considering a career change or are dealing with another major life transition that is confusing? It can make you feel isolated and alone. You might be feeling depressed or anxious over your life circumstances. You would like to feel happier, healthier, and more in control. I can provide support and help guide you into a more balanced and grounded self.
Now OPEN two Saturday mornings a month! Has life led you to unforeseen circumstances? Are you feeling stuck in a relationship? Does trauma from your past keep showing up in your present life? Maybe you are considering a career change or are dealing with another major life transition that is confusing? It can make you feel isolated and alone. You might be feeling depressed or anxious over your life circumstances. You would like to feel happier, healthier, and more in control. I can provide support and help guide you into a more balanced and grounded self.
(971) 299-3081 View (971) 299-3081
Photo of Beth James, MA,  CADC I,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth James
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CADC I, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97006
Beth believes in using a Cognitive Behavioral approach and is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. She believes these skills are helpful for anyone who is having difficulty managing life challenges. She also uses a family systems approach when working with couples and adolescents. Her main areas of focus include working with adolescents and young adults and their challenges, addiction issues and depression/anxiety disorders. In her spare time, Beth enjoys outdoor activities, reading & time with family, friends and her dog.
Beth believes in using a Cognitive Behavioral approach and is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. She believes these skills are helpful for anyone who is having difficulty managing life challenges. She also uses a family systems approach when working with couples and adolescents. Her main areas of focus include working with adolescents and young adults and their challenges, addiction issues and depression/anxiety disorders. In her spare time, Beth enjoys outdoor activities, reading & time with family, friends and her dog.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Tsz Yin Szeto-McNatt, MA, MEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tsz Yin Szeto-McNatt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97076
Waitlist for new clients
I come alongside adolescents, individuals, couples and families to uncover the hidden strengths that are not utilized. I enjoy working with the marginalized experience of People of Color, immigrants, refugees and those navigating a bi-cultural experience. I work with individuals and couples on issues related to anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationships, codependency, trauma, life transitions, infertility, self-worth/identity and communication skills. I also welcome conversations about spirituality and the integration of faith to facilitate growth.
I come alongside adolescents, individuals, couples and families to uncover the hidden strengths that are not utilized. I enjoy working with the marginalized experience of People of Color, immigrants, refugees and those navigating a bi-cultural experience. I work with individuals and couples on issues related to anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationships, codependency, trauma, life transitions, infertility, self-worth/identity and communication skills. I also welcome conversations about spirituality and the integration of faith to facilitate growth.
(503) 446-3777 View (503) 446-3777
Photo of Jenny Labrousse, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Labrousse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
My focus is in treating anxiety disorders, depression, and PTSD; however, I work with a wide range of concerns.
Current openings. Best reached by email. Does it feel like your anxiety or depression is interrupting your daily life? Do you feel keyed up, irritable, or on edge? Do you feel a sense of dread or impending doom? Do you experience unwanted thoughts, urges, or images? I strive to provide a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental, safe, and supportive therapeutic environment where we can work together to help you with your presenting concerns. I honor each client and their story and believe that the therapeutic relationship—built on openness, vulnerability, and trust—is necessary for success.
My focus is in treating anxiety disorders, depression, and PTSD; however, I work with a wide range of concerns.
Current openings. Best reached by email. Does it feel like your anxiety or depression is interrupting your daily life? Do you feel keyed up, irritable, or on edge? Do you feel a sense of dread or impending doom? Do you experience unwanted thoughts, urges, or images? I strive to provide a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental, safe, and supportive therapeutic environment where we can work together to help you with your presenting concerns. I honor each client and their story and believe that the therapeutic relationship—built on openness, vulnerability, and trust—is necessary for success.
(971) 273-5523 View (971) 273-5523
Photo of Arin Wallington - Willamette Wellness Center, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Willamette Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of OR and WA. We have a wide range of specialties including eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, pregnancy/post partum work, anxiety/ depression, Neurodivergency, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of OR and WA. We have a wide range of specialties including eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, pregnancy/post partum work, anxiety/ depression, Neurodivergency, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
(971) 803-4515 View (971) 803-4515
Photo of Christine Vea, CSWA
Christine Vea
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97003  (Online Only)
I bring specialized experience working with children, teenagers, and parents from working in schools and have worked with people who have experienced poverty, houselessness/housing insecurity, trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, ADHD, Autism, and other developmental/ intellectual disabilities.
I believe in empowering my clients to recognize their strengths and to find healing. I seek to create safe spaces for clients to feel accepted and understood. My experience in various clinical mental health settings has allowed me the honor to work with people from all walks of life and to learn from them. I seek to continually educate myself on the impact I have in society as an educated white woman with privilege. I am a lifelong learner searching for ways to use my power and privilege as a social worker to advocate for others and fight for justice on behalf of those marginalized by society. I am here to listen and learn from you.
I bring specialized experience working with children, teenagers, and parents from working in schools and have worked with people who have experienced poverty, houselessness/housing insecurity, trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, ADHD, Autism, and other developmental/ intellectual disabilities.
I believe in empowering my clients to recognize their strengths and to find healing. I seek to create safe spaces for clients to feel accepted and understood. My experience in various clinical mental health settings has allowed me the honor to work with people from all walks of life and to learn from them. I seek to continually educate myself on the impact I have in society as an educated white woman with privilege. I am a lifelong learner searching for ways to use my power and privilege as a social worker to advocate for others and fight for justice on behalf of those marginalized by society. I am here to listen and learn from you.
(541) 818-0009 x1 View (541) 818-0009 x1
Photo of Brian Longworth, MDiv, PhD, LPC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Longworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, PhD, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97006  (Online Only)
I have expertise in treating depression, sexual problems and relationship issues.
I believe therapy is about a therapist and clients collaborating together to address mental health issues and or deal with life problems. I believe the client (You) is the expert about themselves concerning strengths, weaknesses, and issues of concern. I believe it is my purpose as a therapist to build a therapeutic relationship which supports the development of your insights, and life skills; including the identification of strengths, and support systems that may aid in the reduction of negative symptoms and improve quality. I do tele-health and I am hoping to be in person by summer 2025 and joined by Mason my therapy dog.
I have expertise in treating depression, sexual problems and relationship issues.
I believe therapy is about a therapist and clients collaborating together to address mental health issues and or deal with life problems. I believe the client (You) is the expert about themselves concerning strengths, weaknesses, and issues of concern. I believe it is my purpose as a therapist to build a therapeutic relationship which supports the development of your insights, and life skills; including the identification of strengths, and support systems that may aid in the reduction of negative symptoms and improve quality. I do tele-health and I am hoping to be in person by summer 2025 and joined by Mason my therapy dog.
(971) 251-9482 View (971) 251-9482
Photo of Amy Zimmerman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97007
I am experienced working with those experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, caregiver burnout, trauma, and struggles with attachment patterns.
Many of us have found ourselves struggling to make sense of the unexpected in life. When we get overwhelmed, it can lead to struggles with anxiety, depression. connecting with others, and difficulty functioning after highly stressful or traumatic events. My role as a therapist is to come alongside you and support you in processing life's challenges and developing a path forward. Understanding yourself and the impacts of your experiences can give you the opportunity to build deeper connections with those you love and make peace with your journey. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or your child, I offer specialized support.
I am experienced working with those experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, caregiver burnout, trauma, and struggles with attachment patterns.
Many of us have found ourselves struggling to make sense of the unexpected in life. When we get overwhelmed, it can lead to struggles with anxiety, depression. connecting with others, and difficulty functioning after highly stressful or traumatic events. My role as a therapist is to come alongside you and support you in processing life's challenges and developing a path forward. Understanding yourself and the impacts of your experiences can give you the opportunity to build deeper connections with those you love and make peace with your journey. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or your child, I offer specialized support.
(503) 243-1296 View (503) 243-1296
Photo of Kei Kurosawa, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kei Kurosawa
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
I have had the opportunity to work primarily with children, teens, college students, and women through the struggles of life, while also navigating difficult feelings rooted in childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, and difficult relationships.
Do you ever feel stuck and confused in trying to understand why you or your child behave a certain way? Childhood trauma, difficult life experiences, relationships, thoughts, and feelings can impact an individual so deeply and can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, shame, guilt, and doubt. Everyone has their own unique story to tell and I am here to provide a safe space where children, teens, and individuals can process this unique story and walk into a space where understanding meets transformation. In this, my goal as a counselor is to help build healthy connections that foster well-being, change, and growth!
I have had the opportunity to work primarily with children, teens, college students, and women through the struggles of life, while also navigating difficult feelings rooted in childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, and difficult relationships.
Do you ever feel stuck and confused in trying to understand why you or your child behave a certain way? Childhood trauma, difficult life experiences, relationships, thoughts, and feelings can impact an individual so deeply and can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, shame, guilt, and doubt. Everyone has their own unique story to tell and I am here to provide a safe space where children, teens, and individuals can process this unique story and walk into a space where understanding meets transformation. In this, my goal as a counselor is to help build healthy connections that foster well-being, change, and growth!
(503) 966-2962 View (503) 966-2962
Photo of Kelly Salusova, MC,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Salusova
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97006
As a therapist, my approach is multifaceted and tailored to the client's needs. I want to help you develop an awareness of your values and beliefs, assist in guiding you to the path to heal your past wounds, provide you with tools to skillfully face life's challenges, and help you in developing the courage to live with authenticity and purpose. I bring a warm, genuine, and compassionate approach to the work I do with adults, couples, and adolescents. This life is your story, your journey. I recognize the importance in having a connection in order to create positive change.
As a therapist, my approach is multifaceted and tailored to the client's needs. I want to help you develop an awareness of your values and beliefs, assist in guiding you to the path to heal your past wounds, provide you with tools to skillfully face life's challenges, and help you in developing the courage to live with authenticity and purpose. I bring a warm, genuine, and compassionate approach to the work I do with adults, couples, and adolescents. This life is your story, your journey. I recognize the importance in having a connection in order to create positive change.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Karen Phillips, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Have you been to many different therapists and don’t feel it has helped? Or maybe you’ve never been to a therapist and have no idea what to expect. Do you feel stuck in relationships and situations where you feel miserable and can’t take the next step?
Have you been to many different therapists and don’t feel it has helped? Or maybe you’ve never been to a therapist and have no idea what to expect. Do you feel stuck in relationships and situations where you feel miserable and can’t take the next step?
(503) 912-7400 View (503) 912-7400
Photo of Danielle Biegler, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Biegler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97007
Excited. Persistent. Results oriented and good sense of humor. That's me! You’re not alone when you say, “I really don’t want to get out of bed today, just a little while longer,” as you pull the covers over your head. Today feels gray, you feel overwhelmed, even numb and the nagging “duties” of the day pull at your attention, one after another. You want to scream and hide under a rock to make it all go away for a minute, but you open your eyes to see the list of “should’s” just get longer. And worse yet, you feel alone in all of it.
Excited. Persistent. Results oriented and good sense of humor. That's me! You’re not alone when you say, “I really don’t want to get out of bed today, just a little while longer,” as you pull the covers over your head. Today feels gray, you feel overwhelmed, even numb and the nagging “duties” of the day pull at your attention, one after another. You want to scream and hide under a rock to make it all go away for a minute, but you open your eyes to see the list of “should’s” just get longer. And worse yet, you feel alone in all of it.
(503) 852-2516 View (503) 852-2516
Photo of Dillon L Robertson
Dillon L Robertson
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97007
Everyone could use support when things don't go as we expect. My main goal is to be the person sitting with you during your highest highs and lowest lows. You are not alone and you have what it takes. People of all ages need to be truly seen and heard which is what I am here for. We are all doing the best we can, yet we can desire to change and become better. We could all use a hand wading through challenging times. I will be the support you need, and we will work together to create better days ahead.
Everyone could use support when things don't go as we expect. My main goal is to be the person sitting with you during your highest highs and lowest lows. You are not alone and you have what it takes. People of all ages need to be truly seen and heard which is what I am here for. We are all doing the best we can, yet we can desire to change and become better. We could all use a hand wading through challenging times. I will be the support you need, and we will work together to create better days ahead.
(971) 251-2649 View (971) 251-2649

See more therapy options for Aloha

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.