Depression Therapists in Greer, SC

Photo of Christina L Morrison, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina L Morrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greer, SC 29650
I'm trained to work with a variety of issues but I specialize in helping my clients work through anxiety, depression, self-harm, emotional distress, family problems, and self-esteem issues.
Heal -- Grow -- Thrive. Those are my goals for my clients to accomplish through the therapy process. I help clients use their strengths and experiences to reach their goals for healing and personal growth. I enjoy working with adolescents and their families, as well as adults who are struggling to cope with their daily lives. Change can be difficult, but you don't have to keep going on like this! As your therapist, I would like to come alongside you and help you take some positive steps to change!
I'm trained to work with a variety of issues but I specialize in helping my clients work through anxiety, depression, self-harm, emotional distress, family problems, and self-esteem issues.
Heal -- Grow -- Thrive. Those are my goals for my clients to accomplish through the therapy process. I help clients use their strengths and experiences to reach their goals for healing and personal growth. I enjoy working with adolescents and their families, as well as adults who are struggling to cope with their daily lives. Change can be difficult, but you don't have to keep going on like this! As your therapist, I would like to come alongside you and help you take some positive steps to change!
(864) 606-3553 View (864) 606-3553
Photo of Alexandra Eshenbaugh, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Eshenbaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Not Verified Not Verified
Greer, SC 29650
I have experience working with various mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and family issues, personality disorders, grief, codependency, spirituality/religious issues, and life transitions.
Hi there, I’m Alex! Starting therapy can be daunting experience. It’s important to find a therapist that you feel comfortable with and is the right fit for your needs. I believe that providing a safe, non-judgmental space for others to truly be themselves and explore their inner world is an authentically beautiful and healing experience. Life gets hard, and you don’t have to journey alone! I believe cultural sensitivity is crucial in a healthy therapeutic relationship. I thoroughly enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and other populations that may experience cultural impacts on their mental health.
I have experience working with various mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and family issues, personality disorders, grief, codependency, spirituality/religious issues, and life transitions.
Hi there, I’m Alex! Starting therapy can be daunting experience. It’s important to find a therapist that you feel comfortable with and is the right fit for your needs. I believe that providing a safe, non-judgmental space for others to truly be themselves and explore their inner world is an authentically beautiful and healing experience. Life gets hard, and you don’t have to journey alone! I believe cultural sensitivity is crucial in a healthy therapeutic relationship. I thoroughly enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and other populations that may experience cultural impacts on their mental health.
(864) 206-5468 View (864) 206-5468
Photo of Grace Jones, MMFT, LMFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grace Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Greer, SC 29650
Our goal is to help you identify effective coping skills and use your inner wisdom to find freedom from anxiety, shame, traumatic experiences, eating disorders, negative body image, or depression.
Do you wish you could just have a little peace while going about your normal day? Are you sick of feeling frustrated or ashamed with constantly thinking about whether you are good enough? Maybe you know that life could be different, but are not sure about how or who to reach out to for support. You are not alone. You, just like your friends, family, and every other person on the planet, are worthy of love, belonging, and freedom to live your life without basing your worth on how you look, past trauma, what you eat, or what you assume others think.
Our goal is to help you identify effective coping skills and use your inner wisdom to find freedom from anxiety, shame, traumatic experiences, eating disorders, negative body image, or depression.
Do you wish you could just have a little peace while going about your normal day? Are you sick of feeling frustrated or ashamed with constantly thinking about whether you are good enough? Maybe you know that life could be different, but are not sure about how or who to reach out to for support. You are not alone. You, just like your friends, family, and every other person on the planet, are worthy of love, belonging, and freedom to live your life without basing your worth on how you look, past trauma, what you eat, or what you assume others think.
(864) 898-9457 View (864) 898-9457
Photo of Turkessa D. Allen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Turkessa D. Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Greer, SC 29652  (Online Only)
Being able to manage every area of our lives is far from easy. In fact, it can be challenging & make you feel unsure of yourself. It can become overwhelming to feel that you have so much to do, all at one time. Are you ready for change? Are you tired of being frustrated or feeling stuck? I want to help you recognize that you don't have to do it all alone, & that you have what it takes to reach your desired goals or outcome. I empower individuals with effectively managing the following, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Self-esteem, Stress, Coping Skills, Occupational Stress, Family issues, and more. Contact me today.
Being able to manage every area of our lives is far from easy. In fact, it can be challenging & make you feel unsure of yourself. It can become overwhelming to feel that you have so much to do, all at one time. Are you ready for change? Are you tired of being frustrated or feeling stuck? I want to help you recognize that you don't have to do it all alone, & that you have what it takes to reach your desired goals or outcome. I empower individuals with effectively managing the following, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Self-esteem, Stress, Coping Skills, Occupational Stress, Family issues, and more. Contact me today.
(864) 754-0788 View (864) 754-0788
Photo of Henry Deas Boykin Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Henry Deas Boykin Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greer, SC 29650
I help clients with a variety of issues such as: overwhelming emotional experiences (anxiety, depression, anger, shame, etc.), traumatic pasts, confusion or aimlessness in life, compulsive behaviors, and other difficulties that somehow limit them from most fully living the lives they prefer. I am a trained mindfulness coach, and I utilize meditation training as a central part of my therapeutic process. I also maintain a person-centered attitude toward all clients, and I aim to establish and maintain a trusting relationship with clients.
I help clients with a variety of issues such as: overwhelming emotional experiences (anxiety, depression, anger, shame, etc.), traumatic pasts, confusion or aimlessness in life, compulsive behaviors, and other difficulties that somehow limit them from most fully living the lives they prefer. I am a trained mindfulness coach, and I utilize meditation training as a central part of my therapeutic process. I also maintain a person-centered attitude toward all clients, and I aim to establish and maintain a trusting relationship with clients.
(864) 468-2780 View (864) 468-2780
Photo of Suzanne Hagopian - J Suzanne Hagopian, Integrative Practitioner, LISW-CP, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J Suzanne Hagopian, Integrative Practitioner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29651  (Online Only)
Clients who work with me are seeking a collaborative effort for wellness, open to mind / body approaches and a healthful path. Clients may be dealing with Anxiety or Depression or Life Transitions (job related / relational / fertility / men's & women's issues / LGBTQQIA+ / aging). You may be working to find peace & purpose in your life. I hope to help you in evaluating and processing internal and external barriers that may prevent you from actualizing authentic-self potential. We will do this work with psychodynamic and somatic principals. We will work together to provide applicable skills for meeting the goals we set forth.
Clients who work with me are seeking a collaborative effort for wellness, open to mind / body approaches and a healthful path. Clients may be dealing with Anxiety or Depression or Life Transitions (job related / relational / fertility / men's & women's issues / LGBTQQIA+ / aging). You may be working to find peace & purpose in your life. I hope to help you in evaluating and processing internal and external barriers that may prevent you from actualizing authentic-self potential. We will do this work with psychodynamic and somatic principals. We will work together to provide applicable skills for meeting the goals we set forth.
(864) 674-1553 View (864) 674-1553
Photo of Robyn Durk, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Durk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greer, SC 29651
Waitlist for new clients
I have years of experience helping clients with coping, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationships, and more.
Acknowledging life struggles and making the decision to improve your mental health and wellbeing is often the hardest first step. Every person has their own individual reason for taking that first step. Some are struggling with major life transitions, some are finding they no longer feel excited about life and lack motivation to engage in activities that make them feel good. Others feel anxious doing everyday activities and some find that their past experiences hold them back from living their best life. Whatever your reason is for taking that first step, I am so glad you did!
I have years of experience helping clients with coping, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationships, and more.
Acknowledging life struggles and making the decision to improve your mental health and wellbeing is often the hardest first step. Every person has their own individual reason for taking that first step. Some are struggling with major life transitions, some are finding they no longer feel excited about life and lack motivation to engage in activities that make them feel good. Others feel anxious doing everyday activities and some find that their past experiences hold them back from living their best life. Whatever your reason is for taking that first step, I am so glad you did!
(864) 571-2383 View (864) 571-2383
Photo of Angelica Perez - LUMIN - Modern Therapy Practice in Greenville, PhD, MBA, Psychologist
LUMIN - Modern Therapy Practice in Greenville
Psychologist, PhD, MBA
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650
Many of our clients lead busy and stressful lives and are seeking therapy to improve their mental health state, by addressing their depression, anxiety, other mental health concerns, relationship challenges, and work/life balance.
LUMIN is not your typical therapy practice: We use a fresh, down-to-earth, and positive approach to help you confidently deal with life, work and family. We focus on your strengths and your potential while helping you overcome the challenges that bring you to therapy. We combine traditional therapy with education and other resources to empower you beyond your sessions. We also offer career coaching for professionals and entrepreneurs to help them achieve success, wellness, and work-life balance.
Many of our clients lead busy and stressful lives and are seeking therapy to improve their mental health state, by addressing their depression, anxiety, other mental health concerns, relationship challenges, and work/life balance.
LUMIN is not your typical therapy practice: We use a fresh, down-to-earth, and positive approach to help you confidently deal with life, work and family. We focus on your strengths and your potential while helping you overcome the challenges that bring you to therapy. We combine traditional therapy with education and other resources to empower you beyond your sessions. We also offer career coaching for professionals and entrepreneurs to help them achieve success, wellness, and work-life balance.
(864) 432-6689 View (864) 432-6689
Photo of Dr. Andrea Bandfield, MD
Dr. Andrea Bandfield
MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greer, SC 29650
Dr. Bandfield is a Psychiatrist AND Therapist accepting new clients at her Greenville office. For almost 20 years, her greatest joy has been helping her clients solve their Anxiety, Worry, OCD, and Panic. Visit drbandfield.com to learn more! In-person and welcoming, her practice is designed for the utmost in privacy and confidentiality. Dr. Bandfield's expertise in therapy has helped clients find relief from these symptoms: Anxiety— Worry — Panic —- OCD — Irrational Fears —Depression — Social Anxiety — Self Esteem —- Self Criticism — Sleep Issues.
Dr. Bandfield is a Psychiatrist AND Therapist accepting new clients at her Greenville office. For almost 20 years, her greatest joy has been helping her clients solve their Anxiety, Worry, OCD, and Panic. Visit drbandfield.com to learn more! In-person and welcoming, her practice is designed for the utmost in privacy and confidentiality. Dr. Bandfield's expertise in therapy has helped clients find relief from these symptoms: Anxiety— Worry — Panic —- OCD — Irrational Fears —Depression — Social Anxiety — Self Esteem —- Self Criticism — Sleep Issues.
(864) 971-3464 View (864) 971-3464
Photo of Angelica Perez-Litwin Lumin Center, PhD, MBA, Psychologist
Angelica Perez-Litwin Lumin Center
Psychologist, PhD, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greer, SC 29650
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and Career Therapist with 20 years of professional experience. I work closely with wonderful people like you who lead very busy lives, whether due to a highly stressful job, career, business or just being a parent trying to do it all. Many of my clients feel anxious, depressed, and/or overwhelmed balancing work and life. Others are experiencing a significant life transition -- a career change, the end of a relationship, or a relocation. I also work with healthcare providers, attorneys, engineers, entrepreneurs, and those in academia, among others.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and Career Therapist with 20 years of professional experience. I work closely with wonderful people like you who lead very busy lives, whether due to a highly stressful job, career, business or just being a parent trying to do it all. Many of my clients feel anxious, depressed, and/or overwhelmed balancing work and life. Others are experiencing a significant life transition -- a career change, the end of a relationship, or a relocation. I also work with healthcare providers, attorneys, engineers, entrepreneurs, and those in academia, among others.
(864) 252-1049 View (864) 252-1049
Photo of Brown Dunlap, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brown Dunlap
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650
Specialties include: marital difficulties, anxiety & depression, college students, adolescents, grief, trauma, life adjustment issues, stress management, addiction, and men’s issues.
Thanks for checking out my profile! I'd be happy to talk with you about how therapy might be helpful to you. To learn more about me, please read my bio found on the Greenville Counseling Associates website. www.greenvillecounseling.com/brown-dunlap
Specialties include: marital difficulties, anxiety & depression, college students, adolescents, grief, trauma, life adjustment issues, stress management, addiction, and men’s issues.
Thanks for checking out my profile! I'd be happy to talk with you about how therapy might be helpful to you. To learn more about me, please read my bio found on the Greenville Counseling Associates website. www.greenvillecounseling.com/brown-dunlap
(864) 756-8336 View (864) 756-8336
Deborah Downs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, LLC
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29651
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the stress of life? Has life come at you, and you feel hopeless,worthless, stuck, broken, depleted, or depressed? Are you dealing with unhealthy habits or past trauma that you feel is hindering you from being your best self, or do you desire to gain more purpose for your life? I will work with you in a supportive manner to find solutions, direction, balance, and help you gain a better perspective on your life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the stress of life? Has life come at you, and you feel hopeless,worthless, stuck, broken, depleted, or depressed? Are you dealing with unhealthy habits or past trauma that you feel is hindering you from being your best self, or do you desire to gain more purpose for your life? I will work with you in a supportive manner to find solutions, direction, balance, and help you gain a better perspective on your life.
(864) 642-2858 View (864) 642-2858
Photo of John Simpson Kilgo III - John Kilgo - Olive Tree Counseling, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Kilgo - Olive Tree Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650
While John has specialized in mental health counseling (anxiety and depression), his trainings and other personal work have led him to add a focus on marriages.
Often times our lives and relationships don't go according to our plans. We have problems with our past, not connecting or understanding relationships, how others have hurt us, or how to navigate the difficulty of finances. These situations are just a few that could require some additional help. You are not alone in this. In fact, most individuals and couples can relate to these experiences. Assistance can come in many forms, including the client central focus that Olive Tree Counseling strives to accomplish.
While John has specialized in mental health counseling (anxiety and depression), his trainings and other personal work have led him to add a focus on marriages.
Often times our lives and relationships don't go according to our plans. We have problems with our past, not connecting or understanding relationships, how others have hurt us, or how to navigate the difficulty of finances. These situations are just a few that could require some additional help. You are not alone in this. In fact, most individuals and couples can relate to these experiences. Assistance can come in many forms, including the client central focus that Olive Tree Counseling strives to accomplish.
(864) 207-4897 View (864) 207-4897
Photo of Joanne Armstrong, PhD, Psychologist
Joanne Armstrong
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650
They often suffer with stress, insomnia, ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger, and low self-confidence.
After 25+ years working as a clinical psychologist, business owner, and mediator, I am even more enthusiastic and delighted to go about my work than when I first began. Helping people of all ages as they learn to make decisions, handle stress, control emotions, advance their careers, and acquire loving relationships is a privilege and is what I am called to do. I care about your outcome and seek to be a trusted professional advisor and resource to you, both immediately and whenever you need me in years to come. Together we can transform your relationships, health, and career to get you safely through the toughest times. CALL NOW!
They often suffer with stress, insomnia, ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger, and low self-confidence.
After 25+ years working as a clinical psychologist, business owner, and mediator, I am even more enthusiastic and delighted to go about my work than when I first began. Helping people of all ages as they learn to make decisions, handle stress, control emotions, advance their careers, and acquire loving relationships is a privilege and is what I am called to do. I care about your outcome and seek to be a trusted professional advisor and resource to you, both immediately and whenever you need me in years to come. Together we can transform your relationships, health, and career to get you safely through the toughest times. CALL NOW!
(864) 649-6106 View (864) 649-6106
Full Circle Counseling Service, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29651  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping adults, children and adolescents with life stressors and difficult transitions, including anxiety, depression, marital and family conflicts, low self-esteem, grief and loss, behavioral problems, parenting issues, career changes and work related concerns.
Life presents new challenges and changes daily. When these challenges and changes occur, it cause stress, anxiety, and makes you question certain decisions you have made. You may need to explore new options and directions for your life. My goal for each individual is to obtain a clear understanding of your needs and how we can work to establish personal growth and stability. My goal is to establish respect, compassion and trust in a nonjudgmental environment.
I specialize in helping adults, children and adolescents with life stressors and difficult transitions, including anxiety, depression, marital and family conflicts, low self-esteem, grief and loss, behavioral problems, parenting issues, career changes and work related concerns.
Life presents new challenges and changes daily. When these challenges and changes occur, it cause stress, anxiety, and makes you question certain decisions you have made. You may need to explore new options and directions for your life. My goal for each individual is to obtain a clear understanding of your needs and how we can work to establish personal growth and stability. My goal is to establish respect, compassion and trust in a nonjudgmental environment.
(864) 559-8944 View (864) 559-8944
Photo of Kenneth P Smith - Kenneth P. Smith, M.Ed.; MRC; LPC, MEd, MRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kenneth P. Smith, M.Ed.; MRC; LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650
Developing a relationship with a qualified and caring therapist who provides a safe non-judgmental environment is essential if the client is to have a meaningful and successful counseling experience. This is always my objective with my clients. Utilizing research-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), I work with a wide range of clients and their issues. Specialized treatment areas include trauma-related disorders, depression and anxiety disorders, martial & relationship issues, grief and loss, and crisis intervention. I also provide adjustment and coping-skills counseling for tinnitus patients, using a CBT protocol.
Developing a relationship with a qualified and caring therapist who provides a safe non-judgmental environment is essential if the client is to have a meaningful and successful counseling experience. This is always my objective with my clients. Utilizing research-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), I work with a wide range of clients and their issues. Specialized treatment areas include trauma-related disorders, depression and anxiety disorders, martial & relationship issues, grief and loss, and crisis intervention. I also provide adjustment and coping-skills counseling for tinnitus patients, using a CBT protocol.
(864) 642-1893 View (864) 642-1893
Photo of Karren Peterson, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karren Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650
If there are parts of your life that aren’t working the way you might like…or aspects that feel out of balance…struggling with relationship issues, loss of Self, depression, trauma, anxiety, stress, confusion, or life transitions (career, death, divorce), great growth is possible…We are meant to live a life filled with passion and purpose...Develop a clear and comprehensive vision for your life that creates increased Happiness, Success, Life Meaning, Freedom, and Inspiration! I work with individuals, couples, and families in shifting the focus of habitual patterns to create true transformational change and Self-Actualization…
If there are parts of your life that aren’t working the way you might like…or aspects that feel out of balance…struggling with relationship issues, loss of Self, depression, trauma, anxiety, stress, confusion, or life transitions (career, death, divorce), great growth is possible…We are meant to live a life filled with passion and purpose...Develop a clear and comprehensive vision for your life that creates increased Happiness, Success, Life Meaning, Freedom, and Inspiration! I work with individuals, couples, and families in shifting the focus of habitual patterns to create true transformational change and Self-Actualization…
(864) 558-5111 View (864) 558-5111
Photo of Jim Spearman, PhD, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jim Spearman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650
Spearman specializes in Sex Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy, Anxiety and Depression, and Sexual Dysfunction.
My goal as a therapist/counselor is to help you clarify ways that your life can be more fulfilling and content. It is often difficult for us to sort out solutions to issues that on the surface seem simple, but in real life can be crippling, disorienting and sources of conflict.
Spearman specializes in Sex Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy, Anxiety and Depression, and Sexual Dysfunction.
My goal as a therapist/counselor is to help you clarify ways that your life can be more fulfilling and content. It is often difficult for us to sort out solutions to issues that on the surface seem simple, but in real life can be crippling, disorienting and sources of conflict.
(864) 432-9562 View (864) 432-9562
Photo of Aislyn M. Allen, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aislyn M. Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650
At one point, you were excited for the day. Even though your days had ups and downs, at least you were looking forward to the high points. Now, as much as you want to feel excited, it feels like most of the high points fall flat. Many of the things that you used to enjoy, or were just part of your daily routine, now feel like a task. You aren't lost, and you aren't sure if you're depressed, you just feel "meh". You want things to change, but you feel stuck.
At one point, you were excited for the day. Even though your days had ups and downs, at least you were looking forward to the high points. Now, as much as you want to feel excited, it feels like most of the high points fall flat. Many of the things that you used to enjoy, or were just part of your daily routine, now feel like a task. You aren't lost, and you aren't sure if you're depressed, you just feel "meh". You want things to change, but you feel stuck.
(864) 301-6103 View (864) 301-6103
Photo of Heidi Moss, LISW-CP, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Moss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, CEDS
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650
I believe that change can happen best in a safe, connected, caring environment and relationship. This is the foundation of my work as a therapist. I have a passion for working with adolescence, teens and adults who struggle with eating disorders, disordered eating, self esteem problems, anxiety, depression, life adjustment issues, and infertility.Being a Certified Eating Disorder counselor with 10 + years of training using Acceptance Commitment Therapy creates a solid foundation to create change. I work extensively with helping people get off the "diet rollercoaster" and learn to live a happier, supportive, mindful lifestyle.
I believe that change can happen best in a safe, connected, caring environment and relationship. This is the foundation of my work as a therapist. I have a passion for working with adolescence, teens and adults who struggle with eating disorders, disordered eating, self esteem problems, anxiety, depression, life adjustment issues, and infertility.Being a Certified Eating Disorder counselor with 10 + years of training using Acceptance Commitment Therapy creates a solid foundation to create change. I work extensively with helping people get off the "diet rollercoaster" and learn to live a happier, supportive, mindful lifestyle.
(864) 810-1234 View (864) 810-1234
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.