Depression Therapists in Aiken, SC
![Photo of Brad Hawkins, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbb7857c-8186-4607-9f6e-45e549c3b18f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I was trained as a scientist-practitioner and use empirically supported treatments to help people dealing with things like panic, OCD, PTSD, social anxiety, and depression.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your problems? Are you avoiding things you would otherwise like to do if it weren’t for your anxiety? Do you dread facing the day? You’re not alone. As many as twenty-five percent of people experience depression, anxiety, or other mental disorder in a given year. Working with a therapist can help you confront the things that are troubling you and find a way through to days you can actually look forward to.
I was trained as a scientist-practitioner and use empirically supported treatments to help people dealing with things like panic, OCD, PTSD, social anxiety, and depression.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your problems? Are you avoiding things you would otherwise like to do if it weren’t for your anxiety? Do you dread facing the day? You’re not alone. As many as twenty-five percent of people experience depression, anxiety, or other mental disorder in a given year. Working with a therapist can help you confront the things that are troubling you and find a way through to days you can actually look forward to.
![Photo of Erika Klipa - Therapy Garden, LLC, NCC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85340b6a-b47d-4334-8b57-501cabe706ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, our therapy sessions will be tailored to address your unique needs.
Life can sometimes feel like a turbulent journey, filled with ups and downs that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and lost. I believe that mental health is a fundamental pillar of overall well-being. I bring experience, empathy, and a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. In a warm and non-judgmental environment, I provide a safe space for you to express yourself openly and honestly.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, our therapy sessions will be tailored to address your unique needs.
Life can sometimes feel like a turbulent journey, filled with ups and downs that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and lost. I believe that mental health is a fundamental pillar of overall well-being. I bring experience, empathy, and a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. In a warm and non-judgmental environment, I provide a safe space for you to express yourself openly and honestly.
![Photo of Suze Maze - Suze Maze — Anxiety, depression, trauma, LCSW, CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6c067a6-a5ee-4b97-8ec6-2d3e14bcdb33/2/320x400.jpeg)
Suze Maze — Anxiety, depression, trauma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
Aiken, SC 29803 (Online Only)
In a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental atmosphere, you will get the help that you need to recover from anxiety, depression, emotional abuse, trauma, gambling, and other challenges.
Suze Maze, LCSW, offers online therapy for South Carolina and Georgia residents and in-person equine therapy with her horses. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, emotional abuse, and behavioral addictions like gambling, Suze provides compassionate support tailored to individual needs. With a holistic approach, she fosters a safe environment for growth and transformation. Suze is and dedicated to helping you improve your mental health and lifestyle. Whether you're in a toxic environment or just feel like you need positive change, reach out today for high-quality therapy and start your journey towards well-being.
In a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental atmosphere, you will get the help that you need to recover from anxiety, depression, emotional abuse, trauma, gambling, and other challenges.
Suze Maze, LCSW, offers online therapy for South Carolina and Georgia residents and in-person equine therapy with her horses. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, emotional abuse, and behavioral addictions like gambling, Suze provides compassionate support tailored to individual needs. With a holistic approach, she fosters a safe environment for growth and transformation. Suze is and dedicated to helping you improve your mental health and lifestyle. Whether you're in a toxic environment or just feel like you need positive change, reach out today for high-quality therapy and start your journey towards well-being.
![Photo of Lynn Rutland-Addy, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/042b3626-b8fa-401f-8a2e-119e62b5bb58/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynn Rutland-Addy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Aiken, SC 29803 (Online Only)
Sometimes life just gets a little harder than we expect. It is in those times where we then need a little extra support. No one person is the same. No one struggle is the same. Because of the many differences in every human, I take an eclectic treatment approach to therapy which integrates a variety of therapeutic principles and philosophies. This model allows me to create a customized treatment program for my clients that encourages healing and growth while meeting the unique needs of the individual. Whether you are suffering from depression, anxiety or interpersonal and relational issues, your treatment is about you and for you!
Sometimes life just gets a little harder than we expect. It is in those times where we then need a little extra support. No one person is the same. No one struggle is the same. Because of the many differences in every human, I take an eclectic treatment approach to therapy which integrates a variety of therapeutic principles and philosophies. This model allows me to create a customized treatment program for my clients that encourages healing and growth while meeting the unique needs of the individual. Whether you are suffering from depression, anxiety or interpersonal and relational issues, your treatment is about you and for you!
![Photo of Kristina Topp, LISW-CP, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd25d051-4c3d-4507-ba05-de2ea1793945/1/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking therapy can be difficult, and it can be hard to talk about issues with debilitating symptoms. As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, my goal is to meet you where you are, build a strong therapeutic relationship, and develop treatment plans that are specific to you as an individual. I work with adults (17+) who have anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, chronic pain and illnesses, grief, suicidal thoughts and self harm, with military and veteran populations, and transgender teens (15+). If you are struggling, I want to assist and support you in reaching your treatment goals.
Seeking therapy can be difficult, and it can be hard to talk about issues with debilitating symptoms. As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, my goal is to meet you where you are, build a strong therapeutic relationship, and develop treatment plans that are specific to you as an individual. I work with adults (17+) who have anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, chronic pain and illnesses, grief, suicidal thoughts and self harm, with military and veteran populations, and transgender teens (15+). If you are struggling, I want to assist and support you in reaching your treatment goals.
![Photo of Bethany Tschappat, MS, NCC, LPC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e171c5c-1a62-4c55-8c1b-4595cdb7dee0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bethany Tschappat
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Aiken, SC 29803 (Online Only)
Hi. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Provider (CCATP), and owner of Better Mind - Better You, LLC. Everyone experiences roadblocks from time to time and those blocks come in many forms (anxiety, trauma, depression, boundaries, grief, etc) and impact our lives in unhealthy ways. When we learn to understand those roadblocks and figure out ways to manage them and/or remove them we can move forward with the specific goals we have for our own lives. Figuring out roadblocks can feel overwhelming and you don't have to take the journey alone.
Hi. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Provider (CCATP), and owner of Better Mind - Better You, LLC. Everyone experiences roadblocks from time to time and those blocks come in many forms (anxiety, trauma, depression, boundaries, grief, etc) and impact our lives in unhealthy ways. When we learn to understand those roadblocks and figure out ways to manage them and/or remove them we can move forward with the specific goals we have for our own lives. Figuring out roadblocks can feel overwhelming and you don't have to take the journey alone.
![Photo of Carol Ardington, LISW-CP, CT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/452e1346-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carol Ardington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, CT
Verified Verified
Aiken, SC 29803 (Online Only)
It can be a hard decision to begin counseling, and it often takes a lot of courage to seek help. Feeling depressed, anxious or frightened is not a good way to go through life, so perhaps it is time to make some changes.
It can be a hard decision to begin counseling, and it often takes a lot of courage to seek help. Feeling depressed, anxious or frightened is not a good way to go through life, so perhaps it is time to make some changes.
![Photo of Stephanie A Alford - Gemini Counseling Services, LLC, EdS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, BCTMH, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f597d5f4-4c58-47ca-af39-80ddeae9eb50/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gemini Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, BCTMH
Verified Verified
Aiken, SC 29804 (Online Only)
Our specialities are: ADHD, Anxiety ,Career Counseling, Depression, Emotional Support Animal Coaching, Life Coaching, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem and Trauma.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. We can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through counseling and treatment, we are able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
Our specialities are: ADHD, Anxiety ,Career Counseling, Depression, Emotional Support Animal Coaching, Life Coaching, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem and Trauma.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. We can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through counseling and treatment, we are able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
![Photo of Helen S Wilson - Converge Counseling, LPC, LAPC, MHCA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e135a115-fbd5-48cb-96cd-57aea7a22c40/2/320x400.jpeg)
Converge Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAPC, MHCA
Verified Verified
Aiken, SC 29803
If you’re currently obtaining wisdom from social media quotes...we need to talk. Or do you ever feel like the problem isn’t you- that it’s other people? If you feel like it would be nice to have someone on your side for a change, allow me to be that person. My name is Helen and I am a LPC in South Carolina. Reach out to me through www.convergecounseling.com and schedule a time for us to speak. Let me help you navigate through anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues or any other uncertainties you may be dealing with.
If you’re currently obtaining wisdom from social media quotes...we need to talk. Or do you ever feel like the problem isn’t you- that it’s other people? If you feel like it would be nice to have someone on your side for a change, allow me to be that person. My name is Helen and I am a LPC in South Carolina. Reach out to me through www.convergecounseling.com and schedule a time for us to speak. Let me help you navigate through anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues or any other uncertainties you may be dealing with.
![Photo of Samantha Amses, MS, LPC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e83adf0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Amses
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aiken, SC 29803
Waitlist for new clients
Samantha enjoys working with adults, children, families, and couples of all ages, cultures, religions, and sexual orientations. She practices with an open mind and heart from an integrative approach that includes aspects of cognitive, behavioral, existential, mindfulness, and other modalities to ensure optimal results and symptom and stress reduction. Samantha can help you combat depression and anxiety, work through PTSD symptoms, navigate LGBTQ challenges so you can be true to yourself, assist with organization, life planning, making and meeting goals, and ultimately help you find your happiness.
Samantha enjoys working with adults, children, families, and couples of all ages, cultures, religions, and sexual orientations. She practices with an open mind and heart from an integrative approach that includes aspects of cognitive, behavioral, existential, mindfulness, and other modalities to ensure optimal results and symptom and stress reduction. Samantha can help you combat depression and anxiety, work through PTSD symptoms, navigate LGBTQ challenges so you can be true to yourself, assist with organization, life planning, making and meeting goals, and ultimately help you find your happiness.
![Photo of Tasha Wilder, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfee7f7f-570d-49cc-bc5b-b83408994047/1/320x400.jpeg)
My focus areas include, but are not limited to, behavioral problems such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, ODD, grief and couples counseling.
There’s a safe haven. A safe haven that doesn't contain judgement brought on by the world. This haven is yours, and I am just a part of it providing a warm, supportive environment. My mission is to guide you, whomever you may be: a child; an adolescent; or an adult. Regardless, I am here to help you live in greatness through the refreshing, renewing, and the regulating of your mind. I’m here to use therapeutic approaches that will be beneficial to you and your family situation. With me inside your safe haven, together we will promote positive and permanent change.
My focus areas include, but are not limited to, behavioral problems such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, ODD, grief and couples counseling.
There’s a safe haven. A safe haven that doesn't contain judgement brought on by the world. This haven is yours, and I am just a part of it providing a warm, supportive environment. My mission is to guide you, whomever you may be: a child; an adolescent; or an adult. Regardless, I am here to help you live in greatness through the refreshing, renewing, and the regulating of your mind. I’m here to use therapeutic approaches that will be beneficial to you and your family situation. With me inside your safe haven, together we will promote positive and permanent change.
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![Photo of Dawn M Jett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43dec01e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Believe it or not...this is a FUN process. The most important aspect of counseling is to attain the goals you identify. You are the expert in your own life. I am comfortable working with clients who have identified almost any problem area but specifically I am well trained in treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and problems in the social and family environment. I work on the goals you identify rather than my opinion of what you should work on. This makes me a very non-judgmental personal and I develop strong positive relationships with my clients.
Believe it or not...this is a FUN process. The most important aspect of counseling is to attain the goals you identify. You are the expert in your own life. I am comfortable working with clients who have identified almost any problem area but specifically I am well trained in treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and problems in the social and family environment. I work on the goals you identify rather than my opinion of what you should work on. This makes me a very non-judgmental personal and I develop strong positive relationships with my clients.
![Photo of Dr. Charlene Moore-Peterson, EdD, LPC, CPCS, LPCS Ca, GCDF, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/476c515b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Charlene Moore-Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS, LPCS Ca, GCDF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aiken, SC 29801 (Online Only)
Are you having trouble with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or general problems? I specialize in depression, child/adolescent, and relational challenges. I strive to provide a safe and open-minded environment as clients process their feelings and work towards their goals. I am passionate about helping clients gain insight to inner issues that are contributing to their external issues. I encourage clients to think outside the box and discover information toward changing their lives during their therapeutic journey. Together we will work to make changes that are healthy for the MIND, BODY, and SPIRIT!
Are you having trouble with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or general problems? I specialize in depression, child/adolescent, and relational challenges. I strive to provide a safe and open-minded environment as clients process their feelings and work towards their goals. I am passionate about helping clients gain insight to inner issues that are contributing to their external issues. I encourage clients to think outside the box and discover information toward changing their lives during their therapeutic journey. Together we will work to make changes that are healthy for the MIND, BODY, and SPIRIT!
![Photo of Megan Middleton, MS, LPCA, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25491366-5bd7-45ac-8bf4-a9f080bef294/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Middleton
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aiken, SC 29803
This journey of life is complex with highs and lows. Your experiences are unique to you and if you've found yourself in a place of uncertainty, feeling anxious, frustrated, angry, depressed, or even grieved in navigating life's challenges, I am here to help! I am passionate about helping people discover themselves in ways that will allow them to evolve and become the version they most want to see.
This journey of life is complex with highs and lows. Your experiences are unique to you and if you've found yourself in a place of uncertainty, feeling anxious, frustrated, angry, depressed, or even grieved in navigating life's challenges, I am here to help! I am passionate about helping people discover themselves in ways that will allow them to evolve and become the version they most want to see.
![Photo of Suzan Watt, LPC, S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acca17d8-8cb8-48d4-a793-f9535cf20cfc/1/320x400.png)
Suzan Watt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aiken, SC 29801 (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of South Carolina with 20+ years of experience. I have assisted clients with a wide range of concerns including Anxiety, Depression, Family/ Parenting Problems, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults and Children, Faith Based Concerns and Adolescent issues as well as Alcohol and other Drugs of Abuse/ Dependency Concerns.
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of South Carolina with 20+ years of experience. I have assisted clients with a wide range of concerns including Anxiety, Depression, Family/ Parenting Problems, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults and Children, Faith Based Concerns and Adolescent issues as well as Alcohol and other Drugs of Abuse/ Dependency Concerns.
![Photo of Alfred Jones - Jones Behavioral Health, Inc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c93b84a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our specialties include, but are not limited to the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, relationship problems, and grief counseling.
Our number one priority is to bring happiness and well-being to our patients' lives by restoring their mental balance. We want to help you break free from old habits, develop healthy coping skills and find new ways to respond to life's challenging situations. We provide individual psychotherapy for adolescents and adults, relationship counseling, group therapy and other services.
Our specialties include, but are not limited to the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, relationship problems, and grief counseling.
Our number one priority is to bring happiness and well-being to our patients' lives by restoring their mental balance. We want to help you break free from old habits, develop healthy coping skills and find new ways to respond to life's challenging situations. We provide individual psychotherapy for adolescents and adults, relationship counseling, group therapy and other services.
![Photo of Dr. Shanna A Jefferson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20e2961d-cc07-45d6-acf1-2b5904421934/1/320x400.png)
I help men and women experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, life stressors, or just feeling stuck regain their superpower to live their best life.
Now accepting new clients! If you are ready to experience greater in your life, let's connect. Schedule your 10-Minute Complimentary Phone Consultation today. Destination Greatness, PLLC strives to enrich each individual and family through greater self-awareness, focus on strengths, and belief in a greater destiny. My belief is that all clients can transcend adversity and achieve greatness. I utilize a holistic, strengths-based approach focusing on multiple life domains including mental health, physical health, financial health, and spiritual health. Journals and e-Books are now available! www.TherapyWithShanna.com
I help men and women experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, life stressors, or just feeling stuck regain their superpower to live their best life.
Now accepting new clients! If you are ready to experience greater in your life, let's connect. Schedule your 10-Minute Complimentary Phone Consultation today. Destination Greatness, PLLC strives to enrich each individual and family through greater self-awareness, focus on strengths, and belief in a greater destiny. My belief is that all clients can transcend adversity and achieve greatness. I utilize a holistic, strengths-based approach focusing on multiple life domains including mental health, physical health, financial health, and spiritual health. Journals and e-Books are now available! www.TherapyWithShanna.com
![Photo of Lauren Petro - Holly Counseling, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce4e84a3-11ff-4088-bd21-ba2d1a54a9f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges, we're here to support you in a safe and compassionate environment.
Holly Counseling is a clinical mental health counseling office that offers both in-person and telehealth therapy for clients seeking services in the Augusta, Georgia area. Our therapists provide personalized and compassionate care to help our clients overcome a range of mental health challenges. Our group of diverse and compassionate professionals are dedicated to supporting you on your journey to mental and emotional well-being. With a wide range of specialties and expertise, we are here to provide you with the highest quality care and guidance.
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges, we're here to support you in a safe and compassionate environment.
Holly Counseling is a clinical mental health counseling office that offers both in-person and telehealth therapy for clients seeking services in the Augusta, Georgia area. Our therapists provide personalized and compassionate care to help our clients overcome a range of mental health challenges. Our group of diverse and compassionate professionals are dedicated to supporting you on your journey to mental and emotional well-being. With a wide range of specialties and expertise, we are here to provide you with the highest quality care and guidance.
![Photo of Angel Carswell, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e57ecad6-2348-4f4c-b061-d8bb35e1fd1e/2/320x400.png)
Angel Carswell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Aiken, SC 29801 (Online Only)
I can help you overcome your crippling anxiety, define the chaotic emotions you are feeling, and take that first step out of bed when you are overwhelmed with depression.
Accepting New Clients! Dealing with life transitions such as starting college, changing jobs, or quitting a habit can feel miserable. It's hard to find someone who can help you through all the wild thoughts and emotions you are feeling. Sometimes family and friends have a hard time understanding why you think and feel the way you do. It's common to just need someone who will hear you without any judgement.
I can help you overcome your crippling anxiety, define the chaotic emotions you are feeling, and take that first step out of bed when you are overwhelmed with depression.
Accepting New Clients! Dealing with life transitions such as starting college, changing jobs, or quitting a habit can feel miserable. It's hard to find someone who can help you through all the wild thoughts and emotions you are feeling. Sometimes family and friends have a hard time understanding why you think and feel the way you do. It's common to just need someone who will hear you without any judgement.
![Photo of Vickie Conner, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bef1c258-f461-4c96-8634-e892a52f1fde/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vickie Conner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Aiken, SC 29801
Waitlist for new clients
I am skilled in working with clients with mental health issues that include addiction, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief, and relationship issues.
“Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen” Brene Brown. I believe reaching out for counseling support takes courage as it leads us out of our comfort zone. Finding a supportive counselor is an important first step in the counseling process and I base my practice on being a supportive and non-judgmental partner to help you navigate through difficult times. I wholeheartedly believe that making one or two small changes can free a person up to move toward the life they want to live. I love the work I do!
I am skilled in working with clients with mental health issues that include addiction, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief, and relationship issues.
“Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen” Brene Brown. I believe reaching out for counseling support takes courage as it leads us out of our comfort zone. Finding a supportive counselor is an important first step in the counseling process and I base my practice on being a supportive and non-judgmental partner to help you navigate through difficult times. I wholeheartedly believe that making one or two small changes can free a person up to move toward the life they want to live. I love the work I do!
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Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Aiken
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See More TherapistsDepression 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.