Depression Therapists in Canonsburg, PA

Photo of Linda Jean Houston, LPC, NCC, MA, CGCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Jean Houston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, CGCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
I also have an extensive background in treating anxiety and depression.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Certified Trauma Specialist and a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist. I work with clients experiencing a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and grief. I am a client centered therapist which means I use a variety of counseling styles that suit my individual client. I am interested in assisting clients experiencing grief, depression, trauma, anxiety, family issues, and everyday life issues. We all experience loss but each type of loss is different and needs to be addressed individually.
I also have an extensive background in treating anxiety and depression.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Certified Trauma Specialist and a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist. I work with clients experiencing a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and grief. I am a client centered therapist which means I use a variety of counseling styles that suit my individual client. I am interested in assisting clients experiencing grief, depression, trauma, anxiety, family issues, and everyday life issues. We all experience loss but each type of loss is different and needs to be addressed individually.
(412) 515-8371 View (412) 515-8371
Photo of Shari Stranges, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shari Stranges
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Concerns I focus on include depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, coping skills, grief and loss, stress/balance, spiritual issues, codependency, and self-esteem.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, located in Canonsburg, PA. My background includes inpatient, outpatient, care coordination, primary care, and private practice settings. My style is warm and accepting, with a little humor mixed in. I am comfortable working with clients with a lot of faith, a little faith, seeking faith, or none at all. My focus is really on building a trusting relationship, thinking out loud together, adjusting perspectives, and building practical skills in order to make healthy lifestyle changes. Of course, we will celebrate your victories along the way.
Concerns I focus on include depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, coping skills, grief and loss, stress/balance, spiritual issues, codependency, and self-esteem.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, located in Canonsburg, PA. My background includes inpatient, outpatient, care coordination, primary care, and private practice settings. My style is warm and accepting, with a little humor mixed in. I am comfortable working with clients with a lot of faith, a little faith, seeking faith, or none at all. My focus is really on building a trusting relationship, thinking out loud together, adjusting perspectives, and building practical skills in order to make healthy lifestyle changes. Of course, we will celebrate your victories along the way.
(724) 573-8202 View (724) 573-8202
Photo of Suzie Ackerman, Pre-Licensed Professional
Suzie Ackerman
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Hello! My name is Suzie. I'm glad you're here. Life can be so complicated. We work so hard to earn a living, care for our families and take care of our households. We give so much of ourselves to our children, our employers and our communities. We try our best to be a good partner and friend, but often we find that despite all our hard work, life can take unexpected turns leaving us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, frustrated and hopeless. Relationships can become fractured, children can seem ungrateful, work is unfulfilling, and the thought of cooking one more meal or doing one more load of laundry can seem unbearable.
Hello! My name is Suzie. I'm glad you're here. Life can be so complicated. We work so hard to earn a living, care for our families and take care of our households. We give so much of ourselves to our children, our employers and our communities. We try our best to be a good partner and friend, but often we find that despite all our hard work, life can take unexpected turns leaving us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, frustrated and hopeless. Relationships can become fractured, children can seem ungrateful, work is unfulfilling, and the thought of cooking one more meal or doing one more load of laundry can seem unbearable.
(724) 558-6488 View (724) 558-6488
Photo of Elizabeth Skibinski-Bortman, PhD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Skibinski-Bortman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
I often help women who are struggling with hormonal issues, such as Postpartum Depression, PMS, miscarriage, Perimenopause and Menopause.
Are you confused and overwhelmed? Are you irritable, “cranky“ and prone to losing your temper? Are you having trouble concentrating or are you more forgetful than usual? Are you suffering from sleep problems or food cravings? Is stress affecting your daily functioning? I assure you that you can feel better. I teach my clients daily that there is a better way to live your life. If you’re willing to do the work, you can feel better and live better. Please call me so I can help you.
I often help women who are struggling with hormonal issues, such as Postpartum Depression, PMS, miscarriage, Perimenopause and Menopause.
Are you confused and overwhelmed? Are you irritable, “cranky“ and prone to losing your temper? Are you having trouble concentrating or are you more forgetful than usual? Are you suffering from sleep problems or food cravings? Is stress affecting your daily functioning? I assure you that you can feel better. I teach my clients daily that there is a better way to live your life. If you’re willing to do the work, you can feel better and live better. Please call me so I can help you.
(724) 765-0856 View (724) 765-0856
Photo of Claire Barber, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Claire Barber
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
Life is a delicate balance with moments of light and shadow shaping who we are. When life's complexities feel overwhelming, you don't have to navigate them alone. I believe in the power of seeking support and acknowledging that you're worthy of it. As a therapist, I work collaboratively with you to untangle the challenges you face—whether it's grief, depression, anxiety, or any other life hurdle—using holistic and integrated therapeutic approaches tailored to your unique journey.
Life is a delicate balance with moments of light and shadow shaping who we are. When life's complexities feel overwhelming, you don't have to navigate them alone. I believe in the power of seeking support and acknowledging that you're worthy of it. As a therapist, I work collaboratively with you to untangle the challenges you face—whether it's grief, depression, anxiety, or any other life hurdle—using holistic and integrated therapeutic approaches tailored to your unique journey.
(724) 948-1573 View (724) 948-1573
Photo of Annie Pichi, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annie Pichi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
I understand that today's world is uniquely challenging for young people. I am here to offer the support and guidance needed to navigate this environment and learn to thrive in it. My name is Annie Pichi, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) passionate about supporting individuals on their journey toward wellness. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, stress management, emotion regulation, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem & more. Together, we will foster essential skills and a new mindset to help you prevail through life’s ups and downs.
I understand that today's world is uniquely challenging for young people. I am here to offer the support and guidance needed to navigate this environment and learn to thrive in it. My name is Annie Pichi, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) passionate about supporting individuals on their journey toward wellness. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, stress management, emotion regulation, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem & more. Together, we will foster essential skills and a new mindset to help you prevail through life’s ups and downs.
(724) 750-6938 View (724) 750-6938
Photo of Jim LoPresti, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jim LoPresti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
The primary focus tends to be on treating anxiety/panic disorders, depression, grief and loss, family and peer relationships, life transitions, stress, trauma, autism spectrum, children, teens, and social skills.
“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” - Carl Jung. Does it feel like something doesn’t fit? Do you wonder if you’re heading in the right direction? Do you know what you want but you’re not sure how to there? I’d love to talk to you about it! I’m ready to listen to your experiences, challenges, thoughts, and feelings. Let’s go on a journey through your past, present, and into your future. We’re going to find answers within yourself; answers that you never knew you had all along because you are your own expert.
The primary focus tends to be on treating anxiety/panic disorders, depression, grief and loss, family and peer relationships, life transitions, stress, trauma, autism spectrum, children, teens, and social skills.
“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” - Carl Jung. Does it feel like something doesn’t fit? Do you wonder if you’re heading in the right direction? Do you know what you want but you’re not sure how to there? I’d love to talk to you about it! I’m ready to listen to your experiences, challenges, thoughts, and feelings. Let’s go on a journey through your past, present, and into your future. We’re going to find answers within yourself; answers that you never knew you had all along because you are your own expert.
(724) 538-7478 View (724) 538-7478
Photo of Kelsey Counihan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Counihan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Hello! Thanks for reaching out! Getting counseling may seem scary, but my counseling approach is designed to offer a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment. I offer individual therapy as well as couples therapy. I offer grief therapy and I am a Certified Advanced Grief Counseling Specialist. I also specialize in anxiety and depression in adults. I am trained in CBT, Grief therapy, Gottman Method and Motivational Interviewing. My counseling philosophy is designed to help you feel comfortable exploring difficult issues while creating new strategies to deal with life’s challenges. Can't wait to work with you!
Hello! Thanks for reaching out! Getting counseling may seem scary, but my counseling approach is designed to offer a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment. I offer individual therapy as well as couples therapy. I offer grief therapy and I am a Certified Advanced Grief Counseling Specialist. I also specialize in anxiety and depression in adults. I am trained in CBT, Grief therapy, Gottman Method and Motivational Interviewing. My counseling philosophy is designed to help you feel comfortable exploring difficult issues while creating new strategies to deal with life’s challenges. Can't wait to work with you!
(724) 200-8603 View (724) 200-8603
Photo of Sherry A Raineri, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherry A Raineri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Welcome to "We Talk Straight Counseling"! A place where incredible and sometimes surprising changes have happened. I have enjoyed helping to change the lives not only of my clients but also the lives of those they love for the past 29 years. It takes courage to be able to recognize that a change needs to be made and to be able to reach out for help. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, codependency, self-injury, marital or family conflict, grief and despair as well as other concerns, there is hope. When you are ready, I will be there to help you improve your life.
Welcome to "We Talk Straight Counseling"! A place where incredible and sometimes surprising changes have happened. I have enjoyed helping to change the lives not only of my clients but also the lives of those they love for the past 29 years. It takes courage to be able to recognize that a change needs to be made and to be able to reach out for help. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, codependency, self-injury, marital or family conflict, grief and despair as well as other concerns, there is hope. When you are ready, I will be there to help you improve your life.
(724) 580-1039 View (724) 580-1039
Photo of Dr. Terra Mauro, PhD, LPC, NCC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Terra Mauro
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CRC
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Mental Health counseling experience with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, adjustment disorders, and mood disorders.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, I have 20 + years experience combined in psychotherapy and rehabilitation counseling. Our busy world demands many tools for coping, problem-solving, and stress management. Personal wellness, positive thinking patterns, and effective self-talk make a difference. Learning to manage life's stressors provides an important base for happiness. Making good choices for yourself improves your quality of life, mental health, and personal wellness.
Mental Health counseling experience with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, adjustment disorders, and mood disorders.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, I have 20 + years experience combined in psychotherapy and rehabilitation counseling. Our busy world demands many tools for coping, problem-solving, and stress management. Personal wellness, positive thinking patterns, and effective self-talk make a difference. Learning to manage life's stressors provides an important base for happiness. Making good choices for yourself improves your quality of life, mental health, and personal wellness.
(724) 259-7149 View (724) 259-7149
Photo of Vanessa Alimario Meredith, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vanessa Alimario Meredith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
I also have experience facilitating various groups/workshops including Coping with Depression, Surviving Separation and Divorce, Stress Management, Helping Families Cope with Grief and Loss, and Codependency Groups.
I have 30 years experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, couple/marital problems, addictions, codependency, sexual assault and other emotional problems. I utilize a strength-based, eclectic approach which tailors the course of treatment around the individual's needs. For example, when working with individuals relating problems with anxiety or depression, cognitive behavioral principles may be introduced which examine thinking patterns. Couples experiencing discord may need to work on improving communication skills, rebuilding trust, and enhancing emotional and sexual intimacy.
I also have experience facilitating various groups/workshops including Coping with Depression, Surviving Separation and Divorce, Stress Management, Helping Families Cope with Grief and Loss, and Codependency Groups.
I have 30 years experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, couple/marital problems, addictions, codependency, sexual assault and other emotional problems. I utilize a strength-based, eclectic approach which tailors the course of treatment around the individual's needs. For example, when working with individuals relating problems with anxiety or depression, cognitive behavioral principles may be introduced which examine thinking patterns. Couples experiencing discord may need to work on improving communication skills, rebuilding trust, and enhancing emotional and sexual intimacy.
(724) 398-4433 View (724) 398-4433
Photo of Megan Navratil, MS, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Navratil
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317
"At any given moment you have the power to say: This is not how the story is going to end". My experience is in counseling individuals with depression and anxiety disorders while developing a positive, empathetic, non- judgmental and trusting therapeutic relationship. I have a background in working with youth and young adults with learning disabilities, ADHD, depression, and autism spectrum disorders, specifically individuals with Asperger's.
"At any given moment you have the power to say: This is not how the story is going to end". My experience is in counseling individuals with depression and anxiety disorders while developing a positive, empathetic, non- judgmental and trusting therapeutic relationship. I have a background in working with youth and young adults with learning disabilities, ADHD, depression, and autism spectrum disorders, specifically individuals with Asperger's.
(724) 291-8472 View (724) 291-8472
Photo of Sierra Roberts, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sierra Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! My name is Sierra Roberts. My approach to therapy is very laid back and conversational, with a touch of mindfulness. I believe therapy should feel comfortable and safe, because things get tough when we start to open up mental wounds. I spent the first half of my career working in community mental health as an Adult Outpatient Therapist where the majority of my clients were working on anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, among many other concerns. One common thread between all my clients was trauma. As humans, we tend to bury our emotions from those experiences, but eventually, it needs to be dealt with.
Hello! My name is Sierra Roberts. My approach to therapy is very laid back and conversational, with a touch of mindfulness. I believe therapy should feel comfortable and safe, because things get tough when we start to open up mental wounds. I spent the first half of my career working in community mental health as an Adult Outpatient Therapist where the majority of my clients were working on anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, among many other concerns. One common thread between all my clients was trauma. As humans, we tend to bury our emotions from those experiences, but eventually, it needs to be dealt with.
(724) 200-8373 View (724) 200-8373
Photo of Charles Cribben, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles Cribben
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317
I received my master’s degree from California University of Pennsylvania. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor that has spent my counseling career working with adolescents, children, adults, and families. I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, and family-based treatment settings. I have been able to incorporate life experience and my professional expertise to work with individuals and families. I have experience treating problematic interactions and relationships in the home, school, and community. I have experience treating grief and loss, family structures, traumatic events, depression, and anxiety to name a few.
I received my master’s degree from California University of Pennsylvania. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor that has spent my counseling career working with adolescents, children, adults, and families. I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, and family-based treatment settings. I have been able to incorporate life experience and my professional expertise to work with individuals and families. I have experience treating problematic interactions and relationships in the home, school, and community. I have experience treating grief and loss, family structures, traumatic events, depression, and anxiety to name a few.
(412) 312-5124 View (412) 312-5124
Photo of Olivia Leonard, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olivia Leonard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317
My areas of specialties include ADHD, anxiety, depression, family and relational issues, and life transitions.
Beginning your journey of self-growth can feel like an exciting yet daunting time, but I am glad you are here. I will aim to build a safe space through our trusted relationship so that you are able to gain better awareness of areas that are keeping you stuck. My hope is to guide you through that process, providing skills and support, all in effort to help you live a less stressful and more fulfilling life. Above all, I see you as human rather than a diagnosis and will meet you where you are each time we meet.
My areas of specialties include ADHD, anxiety, depression, family and relational issues, and life transitions.
Beginning your journey of self-growth can feel like an exciting yet daunting time, but I am glad you are here. I will aim to build a safe space through our trusted relationship so that you are able to gain better awareness of areas that are keeping you stuck. My hope is to guide you through that process, providing skills and support, all in effort to help you live a less stressful and more fulfilling life. Above all, I see you as human rather than a diagnosis and will meet you where you are each time we meet.
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Photo of Sandra Adkins-Coss, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Adkins-Coss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
I work with clients who live with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, grief, PTSD and relationship issues. I help motivate clients who feel stuck to start working on their goals and find healthy coping skills to manage their symptoms. I have training in Anger Management, LGBT+ and Trauma Informed Care.
I work with clients who live with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, grief, PTSD and relationship issues. I help motivate clients who feel stuck to start working on their goals and find healthy coping skills to manage their symptoms. I have training in Anger Management, LGBT+ and Trauma Informed Care.
(724) 200-3976 View (724) 200-3976
Photo of Alison Hess, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Hess
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
I work with clients with ADHD, anxiety, children and adolescents, depression, PTSD, and trauma.
The decision to seek counseling is highly personal and can feel overwhelming. My goal is to make the process as simple as possible. I strive to provide the type of sessions you need based on your individual situation and to provide tools and education that will be useful in your daily life. I take the time to listen to every client to create a personalized plan that focuses on your goals and values. All clients are given respect and attention, as you are the expert on your own life and experiences.
I work with clients with ADHD, anxiety, children and adolescents, depression, PTSD, and trauma.
The decision to seek counseling is highly personal and can feel overwhelming. My goal is to make the process as simple as possible. I strive to provide the type of sessions you need based on your individual situation and to provide tools and education that will be useful in your daily life. I take the time to listen to every client to create a personalized plan that focuses on your goals and values. All clients are given respect and attention, as you are the expert on your own life and experiences.
(724) 386-5022 View (724) 386-5022
Photo of Shawn Anthony Beard - New U by Design, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
New U by Design
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Others need assistance managing self-esteem, depression, anxiety, addictions, relationships, and creative blocks.
When our quality of life suffers, we suffer. We can feel pushed, pulled, stretched, judged, or used by people. We look away from that emotional pain and cope. We lose ourselves and our dreams. If this is you, therapy can help. We live by rules. Not all serve us well. Most likely there are patterns you are repeating. Even if people cause you stress, there's a reason you keep them in your life. There are ways you relate to them that you can change. In turn, perhaps they will treat you differently. You can feel better. I can help.
Others need assistance managing self-esteem, depression, anxiety, addictions, relationships, and creative blocks.
When our quality of life suffers, we suffer. We can feel pushed, pulled, stretched, judged, or used by people. We look away from that emotional pain and cope. We lose ourselves and our dreams. If this is you, therapy can help. We live by rules. Not all serve us well. Most likely there are patterns you are repeating. Even if people cause you stress, there's a reason you keep them in your life. There are ways you relate to them that you can change. In turn, perhaps they will treat you differently. You can feel better. I can help.
(855) 234-0626 View (855) 234-0626
Photo of Joelle Derr, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joelle Derr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
I have experience treating individuals from varied mental health backgrounds, including those with Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Substance Use Disorders.
I am trained in EMDR for the treatment and management of symptoms related to PTSD and C-PTSD. I utilize a person-centered approach to therapy and work to build a therapeutic relationship with clients to ensure that the individuals I work with feel supported and safe to make changes in their lives.
I have experience treating individuals from varied mental health backgrounds, including those with Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Substance Use Disorders.
I am trained in EMDR for the treatment and management of symptoms related to PTSD and C-PTSD. I utilize a person-centered approach to therapy and work to build a therapeutic relationship with clients to ensure that the individuals I work with feel supported and safe to make changes in their lives.
(724) 414-8119 View (724) 414-8119
Photo of Kimberly Lorraine Rodgers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Lorraine Rodgers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
I specialize in individuals with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression but have also worked with individuals with comorbid disorders, PSTD, bipolar and personality disorders.
Hello, my name is Kimberly Rodgers. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the past six years. I have worked in the mental health field for 17 years. I moved into outpatient therapy during 2019 and have had with clients of all ages and mental health diagnosis. I have worked with all ages groups from children as young as 3 years old to adult populations and everything in between. I am well versed in the challenges, the stress and the anxiety related to mental health care and accommodations. My previous work experience was involved with wraparound services as a behavior specialist, mobile therapist and therapeutic staff.
I specialize in individuals with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression but have also worked with individuals with comorbid disorders, PSTD, bipolar and personality disorders.
Hello, my name is Kimberly Rodgers. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the past six years. I have worked in the mental health field for 17 years. I moved into outpatient therapy during 2019 and have had with clients of all ages and mental health diagnosis. I have worked with all ages groups from children as young as 3 years old to adult populations and everything in between. I am well versed in the challenges, the stress and the anxiety related to mental health care and accommodations. My previous work experience was involved with wraparound services as a behavior specialist, mobile therapist and therapeutic staff.
(724) 213-3608 View (724) 213-3608
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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.