Depression Therapists in Hartsville, SC

Photo of Lelia Denise McKay - The SonShine Exchange Lelia Denise McKay , MS, LPC, LPCSC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The SonShine Exchange Lelia Denise McKay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCSC
Verified Verified
Hartsville, SC 29550
Are you lost? Lonely? Grieving? Acting or thinking in ways you don't understand? Looking for something more in your life? Not knowing what the next step is? Wanting to make big, positive changes (or even small ones) and don't know how? I love helping people explore their lives and themselves! Let's find out what's next, what's inside, what you want and who you are! We can talk, draw, play, sit... many ways to explore the issues you want to understand. Depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief & loss, childhood trauma. My goal is to help you find your best version of yourself. I LOVE helping others walk through any obstacle.
Are you lost? Lonely? Grieving? Acting or thinking in ways you don't understand? Looking for something more in your life? Not knowing what the next step is? Wanting to make big, positive changes (or even small ones) and don't know how? I love helping people explore their lives and themselves! Let's find out what's next, what's inside, what you want and who you are! We can talk, draw, play, sit... many ways to explore the issues you want to understand. Depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief & loss, childhood trauma. My goal is to help you find your best version of yourself. I LOVE helping others walk through any obstacle.
(843) 883-6620 View (843) 883-6620
Photo of Dr. Jamie Mazgaj, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jamie Mazgaj
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Hartsville, SC 29550
I have experience working with issues such anxiety, depression, anger management, work related stress, grief, and many other issues.
Hi I'm Jamie Mazgaj, and I look forward to working with you. Thank you so much for taking a look at my profile. I have 28 years of experience counseling adults, children, and adolescents both in clinic and school settings. My goal is to help put the missing pieces of your life back together again. I look forward to working with you!
I have experience working with issues such anxiety, depression, anger management, work related stress, grief, and many other issues.
Hi I'm Jamie Mazgaj, and I look forward to working with you. Thank you so much for taking a look at my profile. I have 28 years of experience counseling adults, children, and adolescents both in clinic and school settings. My goal is to help put the missing pieces of your life back together again. I look forward to working with you!
(843) 400-4351 View (843) 400-4351
Photo of Keri Davis, MA, LPC, LPC/S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keri Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC/S
Verified Verified
Hartsville, SC 29550
My name is Keri Davis. I have a Masters in Professional Mental Health Counseling and have been a practicing Licensed Professional Counselor for over 10 years. I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background including people with trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, and other life stressors. Often times, we find ourselves lost in the midst of these mental and emotional storms and are in need of a safe harbor or sturdy anchor until we can find our true selves again. Counseling helps navigate us through the storm until we are once again centered and well, both emotionally and mentally.
My name is Keri Davis. I have a Masters in Professional Mental Health Counseling and have been a practicing Licensed Professional Counselor for over 10 years. I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background including people with trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, and other life stressors. Often times, we find ourselves lost in the midst of these mental and emotional storms and are in need of a safe harbor or sturdy anchor until we can find our true selves again. Counseling helps navigate us through the storm until we are once again centered and well, both emotionally and mentally.
(843) 508-6793 View (843) 508-6793
Photo of Shakia Fuller, MS, LPC, CAMS-II, CCTSF, NCC, Counselor
Shakia Fuller
Counselor, MS, LPC, CAMS-II, CCTSF, NCC
Verified Verified
Hartsville, SC 29550
My name is Shakia Fuller! I am passionate about assisting individuals in his/her self-investment journey. My self-pay rate starts at $120. If you or a family member are experiencing unwanted situations causing anxiety, sadness, grief, difficulties in romantic relationships, family relational issues, esteem issues, identity issues, trauma, and/or work burnout; emotional struggles such as stress and depression, I am here to assist. If you are a busy individual, no worries, I have late evening and weekend appointments available!
My name is Shakia Fuller! I am passionate about assisting individuals in his/her self-investment journey. My self-pay rate starts at $120. If you or a family member are experiencing unwanted situations causing anxiety, sadness, grief, difficulties in romantic relationships, family relational issues, esteem issues, identity issues, trauma, and/or work burnout; emotional struggles such as stress and depression, I am here to assist. If you are a busy individual, no worries, I have late evening and weekend appointments available!
(843) 758-1120 View (843) 758-1120
Photo of Veronica D Gainey, MEd, GCDF, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronica D Gainey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, GCDF, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hartsville, SC 29550
Clients may be individuals, families, or couples of all ages who may be struggling with depression, anxiety disorders, anger management, school issues, relationship dysfunction, trauma and other issues. Everyone needs someone to talk to, sometimes just to listen and other times for advice. Adjusting as life presents changes, challenges, and barriers can be difficult. Sometimes we just need support while navigating through life. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, have experienced a loss, feeling stuck, or just need to talk with someone, I am here to offer you support.
Clients may be individuals, families, or couples of all ages who may be struggling with depression, anxiety disorders, anger management, school issues, relationship dysfunction, trauma and other issues. Everyone needs someone to talk to, sometimes just to listen and other times for advice. Adjusting as life presents changes, challenges, and barriers can be difficult. Sometimes we just need support while navigating through life. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, have experienced a loss, feeling stuck, or just need to talk with someone, I am here to offer you support.
(843) 279-4501 View (843) 279-4501
Photo of Laura Langley Smith, MS, LPC, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Langley Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartsville, SC 29550
Waitlist for new clients
I frequently work with those struggling with ADHD, anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, relationship distress, trauma, and women’s issues.
A privately owned counseling center for children, adolescents, adults, and families to promote personal growth and healing. Our goal is to help individuals, couples, and families learn and utilize healthy coping skills to reduce their distress and improve their daily functioning.
I frequently work with those struggling with ADHD, anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, relationship distress, trauma, and women’s issues.
A privately owned counseling center for children, adolescents, adults, and families to promote personal growth and healing. Our goal is to help individuals, couples, and families learn and utilize healthy coping skills to reduce their distress and improve their daily functioning.
(843) 350-6423 View (843) 350-6423
Photo of Jackie E Griffin, M Ed, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jackie E Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
Hartsville, SC 29550
A privately owned counseling center for adolescents, adults, and couples to promote personal growth and healing. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and trauma related isses our goal is to reduce your symptoms of distress and build healthy coping skills to improve your daily quality of living. Jackie has experience working with a wide range of issues including ADHD, OCD, sadness, low self esteem, traumatic abuse, relationship issues, grief/loss and womens issues. Jackie is Nationally Certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and uses an empathetic, cognitive behavioral approach.
A privately owned counseling center for adolescents, adults, and couples to promote personal growth and healing. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and trauma related isses our goal is to reduce your symptoms of distress and build healthy coping skills to improve your daily quality of living. Jackie has experience working with a wide range of issues including ADHD, OCD, sadness, low self esteem, traumatic abuse, relationship issues, grief/loss and womens issues. Jackie is Nationally Certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and uses an empathetic, cognitive behavioral approach.
(843) 920-2640 View (843) 920-2640
Photo of Samuel Pressly Coker, MA, LPCA, NCC
Samuel Pressly Coker
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Hartsville, SC 29550
As a counselor, my focus is to assist or guide clients toward finding a better path forward no matter the challenges or obstacles. As a solution-focused, strength-based, positive, and Christian oriented therapist, my goal is to help you find your potential and a life that is full and blessed. We all face life challenges and while we cannot change the past, working together, we can determine lessons learned, meaning, and a better and more rewarding path forward.
As a counselor, my focus is to assist or guide clients toward finding a better path forward no matter the challenges or obstacles. As a solution-focused, strength-based, positive, and Christian oriented therapist, my goal is to help you find your potential and a life that is full and blessed. We all face life challenges and while we cannot change the past, working together, we can determine lessons learned, meaning, and a better and more rewarding path forward.
(843) 612-1486 View (843) 612-1486
Photo of Tina C Outlaw, BSW, MSW, LISW-CP, CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina C Outlaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LISW-CP, CP
Verified Verified
Hartsville, SC 29550  (Online Only)
Looking for a different, more personal therapy experience, here it is ! I work collaboratively with you and your child/adolescent/family to develop a plan together on the second session, get a new skill each week, and see progress within 8 sessions. With 29 of years experience with children, adolescents and adults recovering from trauma, grief, emotional or behavioral challenges with educational or work-related issues in schools, group homes, rural health care clinics and military facilities. Sessions are online with a confidential platform to offer connivence and accessibility to any location in South Carolina.
Looking for a different, more personal therapy experience, here it is ! I work collaboratively with you and your child/adolescent/family to develop a plan together on the second session, get a new skill each week, and see progress within 8 sessions. With 29 of years experience with children, adolescents and adults recovering from trauma, grief, emotional or behavioral challenges with educational or work-related issues in schools, group homes, rural health care clinics and military facilities. Sessions are online with a confidential platform to offer connivence and accessibility to any location in South Carolina.
(843) 256-2277 View (843) 256-2277
Photo of Jordan C Conner | Art Therapist, LPC-A, MAAT, ATR-P, CLC, RYT-200
Jordan C Conner | Art Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MAAT, ATR-P, CLC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Hartsville, SC 29550
The recorded conversations on replay in your mind are so loud and pervasive that the only thing that stops the noise is distraction. So, you find yourself scrolling SM, binging a TV show, or sleeping... ALOT. But, at times even distraction isn’t enough. You’re finally realizing this painstaking cycle of avoidance in your life, not just avoiding the big things, but even the IDEA of facing any emotion at all. You are ready for a change! But, change is hard. You've tried before and failed. You've done therapy in the past. You've read self-help books. You feel as though nothing will ever change. You've all but given up hope.
The recorded conversations on replay in your mind are so loud and pervasive that the only thing that stops the noise is distraction. So, you find yourself scrolling SM, binging a TV show, or sleeping... ALOT. But, at times even distraction isn’t enough. You’re finally realizing this painstaking cycle of avoidance in your life, not just avoiding the big things, but even the IDEA of facing any emotion at all. You are ready for a change! But, change is hard. You've tried before and failed. You've done therapy in the past. You've read self-help books. You feel as though nothing will ever change. You've all but given up hope.
(843) 279-4855 View (843) 279-4855

Online Therapists

Photo of Sandra Quast, MA, LPC, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Quast
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Trauma, Couples Counseling, ADHD, Behavior Issues, Grief, Self Esteem Issues, Communication Problems & Career Counseling.
My passion is helping individuals, couples and teens to live their best, most fulfilling life and to have and enjoy healthy relationships. Life is filled with road blocks and sometimes it can be difficult to focus on what truly matters. Therapy is a pause on that journey,... a time to identify obstacles, develop new empowering goals and learn new skills to get you back on track. I offer a comfortable, non-judgemental environment to discuss issues that are causing pain in your life to assist you on your path towards greater happiness, peace and purpose.
I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Trauma, Couples Counseling, ADHD, Behavior Issues, Grief, Self Esteem Issues, Communication Problems & Career Counseling.
My passion is helping individuals, couples and teens to live their best, most fulfilling life and to have and enjoy healthy relationships. Life is filled with road blocks and sometimes it can be difficult to focus on what truly matters. Therapy is a pause on that journey,... a time to identify obstacles, develop new empowering goals and learn new skills to get you back on track. I offer a comfortable, non-judgemental environment to discuss issues that are causing pain in your life to assist you on your path towards greater happiness, peace and purpose.
(843) 494-5109 View (843) 494-5109
Photo of Amy Gann, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Gann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Summerville, SC 29483
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in working with clients with anxiety, depression, life transitions adjustment issues, military, military families and veterans,.
I understand how intimidating and uncomfortable it can be to share your innermost thoughts and feelings with a stranger. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with a safe, non-judgment space, where you will feel truly heard, validated, and respected. Treatment is a collaborative process, and we will work together as a team to ensure that your therapy is specifically individualized to meet your goals, and receive the tools needed to help you navigate current challenges and be the best possible you.
I have experience in working with clients with anxiety, depression, life transitions adjustment issues, military, military families and veterans,.
I understand how intimidating and uncomfortable it can be to share your innermost thoughts and feelings with a stranger. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with a safe, non-judgment space, where you will feel truly heard, validated, and respected. Treatment is a collaborative process, and we will work together as a team to ensure that your therapy is specifically individualized to meet your goals, and receive the tools needed to help you navigate current challenges and be the best possible you.
(854) 333-2084 View (854) 333-2084
Photo of Kim Saliba - Dr Kim Saliba, PhD (Clinical Psychologist), PhD, Psychologist
Dr Kim Saliba, PhD (Clinical Psychologist)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576  (Online Only)
Dr. Kim places a strong emphasis on an empathetic approach providing a full range of comprehensive services for: Adults, Adolescents, Children, and Families. Working with high risk population (Eating disorder, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, etc.) to mental health struggles (anxiety, depression, ADHD, etc.), to parent counselling and so much more. Dr. Kim provides evidence based therapy techniques and creates a safe environment to foster personal growth and supports clients in making deep and lasting changes. Dr. Kim's website also provides lots of helpful information. Website: www.drkimsaliba.com
Dr. Kim places a strong emphasis on an empathetic approach providing a full range of comprehensive services for: Adults, Adolescents, Children, and Families. Working with high risk population (Eating disorder, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, etc.) to mental health struggles (anxiety, depression, ADHD, etc.), to parent counselling and so much more. Dr. Kim provides evidence based therapy techniques and creates a safe environment to foster personal growth and supports clients in making deep and lasting changes. Dr. Kim's website also provides lots of helpful information. Website: www.drkimsaliba.com
(843) 547-9074 View (843) 547-9074
Photo of Eric Beasley, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eric Beasley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Irmo, SC 29063
Struggling with your relationship, trauma, or anger? Have you tried everything you know, but it’s still not working? You can escape. Whether you’re aiming to improve your relationship, escape depression, calm anxiety, heal from trauma, or control anger, change is possible. It's not too late to feel loved, appreciated, valued, and safe in your life and relationships. Let’s work together to make that change a reality. My approach is tailored to meet your specific needs and goals, ensuring that you receive the most effective and compassionate care possible.
Struggling with your relationship, trauma, or anger? Have you tried everything you know, but it’s still not working? You can escape. Whether you’re aiming to improve your relationship, escape depression, calm anxiety, heal from trauma, or control anger, change is possible. It's not too late to feel loved, appreciated, valued, and safe in your life and relationships. Let’s work together to make that change a reality. My approach is tailored to meet your specific needs and goals, ensuring that you receive the most effective and compassionate care possible.
(803) 358-8141 View (803) 358-8141
Photo of Kat West, LPC-A, LPC Intern
Kat West
LPC Intern, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29732
My counseling experience focuses on concerns related to anxiety, depression, divorce/relationship issues, ADHD, and more.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative process that considers your life experiences, patterns, relationships, and beliefs that have shaped you and are currently influencing your ways of being in the world. You are the only one who has experienced your life; therefore, I encourage you to think of yourself as the expert. My goal is to empower and guide you in expanding healthy awareness, rather than give you advice.
My counseling experience focuses on concerns related to anxiety, depression, divorce/relationship issues, ADHD, and more.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative process that considers your life experiences, patterns, relationships, and beliefs that have shaped you and are currently influencing your ways of being in the world. You are the only one who has experienced your life; therefore, I encourage you to think of yourself as the expert. My goal is to empower and guide you in expanding healthy awareness, rather than give you advice.
(803) 918-5724 View (803) 918-5724
Photo of Krysta Webster Fink - Fink Psychological Services, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Fink Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florence, SC 29501
Connections with others who foster growth and nurturance are so important for us as humans to live to our fullest potential. I recognize this truth in my psychotherapy with others and in my own personal relationships. My goal in my work is to empower people through a better understanding of themselves and to help others discover meaning and joy in their own lives. Working with trauma, depression, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal problems, relationship issues, grief, challenges with transitions, and/or challenging behavioral problems are all areas of experience and areas in which I feel honored to explore with individuals.
Connections with others who foster growth and nurturance are so important for us as humans to live to our fullest potential. I recognize this truth in my psychotherapy with others and in my own personal relationships. My goal in my work is to empower people through a better understanding of themselves and to help others discover meaning and joy in their own lives. Working with trauma, depression, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal problems, relationship issues, grief, challenges with transitions, and/or challenging behavioral problems are all areas of experience and areas in which I feel honored to explore with individuals.
(843) 461-4789 View (843) 461-4789
Photo of Mandy Carr, MA, LPC, Counselor
Mandy Carr
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
North Charleston, SC 29406
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples with a variety of both emotional and behavioral issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, and difficulties in relationships, social skills and self-esteem, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other effective strategies.
A healthy mind leads to a happier life. Seeking therapy can be the most challenging yet rewarding step towards healing. As a licensed professional counselor, I am dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment to help you work through any challenges you may be experiencing and establish and achieve the goals you have for your life. My approach is client-centered in nature, focusing on providing compassion, understanding, and support; while helping you work through any current or past challenges you may have. I've worked in residential, in-home and outpatient settings, utilizing a variety of research based techniques.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples with a variety of both emotional and behavioral issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, and difficulties in relationships, social skills and self-esteem, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other effective strategies.
A healthy mind leads to a happier life. Seeking therapy can be the most challenging yet rewarding step towards healing. As a licensed professional counselor, I am dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment to help you work through any challenges you may be experiencing and establish and achieve the goals you have for your life. My approach is client-centered in nature, focusing on providing compassion, understanding, and support; while helping you work through any current or past challenges you may have. I've worked in residential, in-home and outpatient settings, utilizing a variety of research based techniques.
(843) 326-4613 View (843) 326-4613
Photo of Haley Pasquale, LPC-A
Haley Pasquale
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Goose Creek, SC 29445
My goal as a counselor is to create a nonjudgmental and affirming space in which clients can engage in self-exploration. I hope to help clients identify what is most important to them and live as their most authentic self. I am passionate about working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, life transitions, and relationship concerns.
My goal as a counselor is to create a nonjudgmental and affirming space in which clients can engage in self-exploration. I hope to help clients identify what is most important to them and live as their most authentic self. I am passionate about working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, life transitions, and relationship concerns.
(854) 246-2915 View (854) 246-2915
Photo of Caren E Stewart, PhD, Can, LPCS, LAC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caren E Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, Can, LPCS, LAC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, SC 29526
I approach my work with clients from a strength base and person-centered model utilizing a variety of clinical methods including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, psycho-dynamic and solution-focused therapy. My areas of specialty are mood and personality disorders (i.e. depression, anxiety, and anger management, bipolar, borderline, antisocial and dependent personality).
I approach my work with clients from a strength base and person-centered model utilizing a variety of clinical methods including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, psycho-dynamic and solution-focused therapy. My areas of specialty are mood and personality disorders (i.e. depression, anxiety, and anger management, bipolar, borderline, antisocial and dependent personality).
(843) 279-0092 View (843) 279-0092
Photo of Thomas Mott, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas Mott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Thomas' clinical experience includes anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, sexual abuse trauma, alcoholism, drug addiction, sexual compulsion, marital counseling and Christian counseling.
Thomas Mott, MS, LPC joined the Myrtle Beach office in June 2022 after serving LifeStance Health patients in the Atlanta, GA region since 2020. Thomas has 15 years of experience working with mental health and substance abuse patients. He earned his Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology in Vermont and specializes in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder and Substance Use Disorders. Thomas's field experience includes opioid treatment centers, inpatient residential and outpatient community health centers and crisis intervention.
Thomas' clinical experience includes anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, sexual abuse trauma, alcoholism, drug addiction, sexual compulsion, marital counseling and Christian counseling.
Thomas Mott, MS, LPC joined the Myrtle Beach office in June 2022 after serving LifeStance Health patients in the Atlanta, GA region since 2020. Thomas has 15 years of experience working with mental health and substance abuse patients. He earned his Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology in Vermont and specializes in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder and Substance Use Disorders. Thomas's field experience includes opioid treatment centers, inpatient residential and outpatient community health centers and crisis intervention.
(843) 396-3046 View (843) 396-3046

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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.