Depression Therapists in Mauldin, SC

Photo of Marla Houston Libby, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marla Houston Libby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Mauldin, SC 29662
My primary experience has been in working with chemical dependency, other addictions (food, sex, relationships), survivors of trauma(such as childhood sexual or physical abuse, parental alcoholism), codependency, depression and anxiety.
Regardless of the reason someone may come to me for therapy, I believe that each person is unique and must be treated as an individual. Even though the "problem" gets the person in the door, it is often a symptom of deeper pain. I believe that I provide a nonjudgmental, compassionate setting that people need in order to look inside and gain a better understanding and acceptance of themselves, both their strengths and challenges. I "partner" with my clients to help them formulate realistic goals and give them feedback and encouragement as they strive to make positive changes.
My primary experience has been in working with chemical dependency, other addictions (food, sex, relationships), survivors of trauma(such as childhood sexual or physical abuse, parental alcoholism), codependency, depression and anxiety.
Regardless of the reason someone may come to me for therapy, I believe that each person is unique and must be treated as an individual. Even though the "problem" gets the person in the door, it is often a symptom of deeper pain. I believe that I provide a nonjudgmental, compassionate setting that people need in order to look inside and gain a better understanding and acceptance of themselves, both their strengths and challenges. I "partner" with my clients to help them formulate realistic goals and give them feedback and encouragement as they strive to make positive changes.
(864) 280-7077 View (864) 280-7077
Photo of Regina Gentry, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Regina Gentry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mauldin, SC 29662
I have worked over 25 years with children, adolescents and adults having difficulties with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life's transitions.
With over 25 years experience working with those suffering from anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, narcissist abuse and OCD, I treat my clients with compassion and understanding. I equip them with new found skills and techniques to deal with life's transitions and challenges. I work from an empowering and strength based perspective. I work with highly motivated clients in a nonjudgemental, open and caring environment. Life can be hard and having someone with the education and skills to help coach us along the way can make a big difference in having a joyful, fulfilling and peaceful life.
I have worked over 25 years with children, adolescents and adults having difficulties with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life's transitions.
With over 25 years experience working with those suffering from anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, narcissist abuse and OCD, I treat my clients with compassion and understanding. I equip them with new found skills and techniques to deal with life's transitions and challenges. I work from an empowering and strength based perspective. I work with highly motivated clients in a nonjudgemental, open and caring environment. Life can be hard and having someone with the education and skills to help coach us along the way can make a big difference in having a joyful, fulfilling and peaceful life.
(864) 312-7280 View (864) 312-7280
Photo of Ashleigh Neely - Ashwood Counseling LLC , MA, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashwood Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
Our clinicians have worked with clients overcoming depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavior issues, family issues, trauma, grief and more.
When dealing with life stressors, challenges and transitions, we sometimes forget how helpful it is to have someone willing to listen in a safe, judgment free environment. At Ashwood Counseling, we believe everyone can benefit from a listening ear and the empowerment to use the necessary tools to overcome any challenge. Our clinicians have worked in many different environments including schools, mental health clinics, hospitals and psychiatric residential facilities and are ready to join you in your healing journey.
Our clinicians have worked with clients overcoming depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavior issues, family issues, trauma, grief and more.
When dealing with life stressors, challenges and transitions, we sometimes forget how helpful it is to have someone willing to listen in a safe, judgment free environment. At Ashwood Counseling, we believe everyone can benefit from a listening ear and the empowerment to use the necessary tools to overcome any challenge. Our clinicians have worked in many different environments including schools, mental health clinics, hospitals and psychiatric residential facilities and are ready to join you in your healing journey.
(864) 301-8715 View (864) 301-8715
Photo of Angel Carswell, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angel Carswell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Mauldin, SC 29662  (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.
(864) 531-8179 View (864) 531-8179
Photo of Marilyn Goldman, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marilyn Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Mauldin, SC 29662  (Online Only)
Congratulations! You're moving toward the life you want. Exploring solutions to challenges and making life-transitions takes commitment to your growth. Are you dealing with fear, sadness, anxiety, frustration or depression? Are you looking for ways to balance work, family and your needs? Are the emotional and social impacts of a physical condition becoming overwhelming? Are you looking for help to manage the well being of a loved one? Do you want to better understand your motivations, behaviors and develop ways to get your needs met more effectively? These are a few of the concerns we can explore together.
Congratulations! You're moving toward the life you want. Exploring solutions to challenges and making life-transitions takes commitment to your growth. Are you dealing with fear, sadness, anxiety, frustration or depression? Are you looking for ways to balance work, family and your needs? Are the emotional and social impacts of a physical condition becoming overwhelming? Are you looking for help to manage the well being of a loved one? Do you want to better understand your motivations, behaviors and develop ways to get your needs met more effectively? These are a few of the concerns we can explore together.
(864) 619-4687 View (864) 619-4687
Photo of Dottie-Jean Bailey - Healing Grounds Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Grounds Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mauldin, SC 29662
Accepting New Clients: Are you navigating through distressful emotions? We all face times in our lives where we feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed or even feel like we have lost ourselves. Times where we need an unbiased support system. I am here to help empower you to reach your full potential in life! Let's find your happiness, your peace and purpose. I have provided therapy to a wide range of individuals but specialize in trauma (chronic trauma and workplace trauma) anxiety and depression. ONLINE and in person in NY and ONLINE in SC
Accepting New Clients: Are you navigating through distressful emotions? We all face times in our lives where we feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed or even feel like we have lost ourselves. Times where we need an unbiased support system. I am here to help empower you to reach your full potential in life! Let's find your happiness, your peace and purpose. I have provided therapy to a wide range of individuals but specialize in trauma (chronic trauma and workplace trauma) anxiety and depression. ONLINE and in person in NY and ONLINE in SC
(518) 662-3940 View (518) 662-3940
Photo of Cindy Coxie, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindy Coxie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mauldin, SC 29662
Are you experiencing problems that are hard to deal with? Situations such as, the loss of a loved one, adult/childhood trauma, raising difficult children, or relationship conflict often increase stress and depression. Fear or uncertainty of the future can elevate anxiety to the point it impairs relationships and performance. Coping with circumstances, yourself, or others is not always easy. It can be overwhelming and complex. Counseling provides a safe place where you can process painful emotions. Together we can make the journey to healing and well-being.
Are you experiencing problems that are hard to deal with? Situations such as, the loss of a loved one, adult/childhood trauma, raising difficult children, or relationship conflict often increase stress and depression. Fear or uncertainty of the future can elevate anxiety to the point it impairs relationships and performance. Coping with circumstances, yourself, or others is not always easy. It can be overwhelming and complex. Counseling provides a safe place where you can process painful emotions. Together we can make the journey to healing and well-being.
(864) 514-5690 View (864) 514-5690
Photo of Charity M Kilgore, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charity M Kilgore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
I have worked with individuals in the area of trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, adjustment, mood disorders and conflict resolution.
Let’s get started on your journey! Looking forward to providing a safe nonjudgmental space to help you feel comfortable with starting your journey to a better quality of life. I have over 15 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. My passion is to help you reach your highest potential and achieve your personal goals.
I have worked with individuals in the area of trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, adjustment, mood disorders and conflict resolution.
Let’s get started on your journey! Looking forward to providing a safe nonjudgmental space to help you feel comfortable with starting your journey to a better quality of life. I have over 15 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. My passion is to help you reach your highest potential and achieve your personal goals.
(864) 808-3178 View (864) 808-3178
Photo of Candace Smith Jackson, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Candace Smith Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
Being human is complex and brings a plethora of emotions your way. There are highs, lows, twists, and turns. At times the emotion we experience is overwhelming and the natural urge is to resist the feeling, to push it all away. The struggle to resist painful emotions, thoughts, memories, etc. is exhausting. It is through acceptance that a person can begin healing, coping, and growing into their best self. I have experience working with PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, etc., allowing me to help others learn new ways of addressing unwanted emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
Being human is complex and brings a plethora of emotions your way. There are highs, lows, twists, and turns. At times the emotion we experience is overwhelming and the natural urge is to resist the feeling, to push it all away. The struggle to resist painful emotions, thoughts, memories, etc. is exhausting. It is through acceptance that a person can begin healing, coping, and growing into their best self. I have experience working with PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, etc., allowing me to help others learn new ways of addressing unwanted emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
(864) 432-6178 View (864) 432-6178
Photo of Dana Adams, MA, LPC-A
Dana Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
I hold a person-centered focus while utilizing different therapeutic interventions such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR approaches for trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management, and life transitions.
I believe deeply in the therapeutic alliance between client and counselor for effective growth and change. As a counselor, I aim to build a safe relationship with my clients where they feel heard and seen. I support clients through the various stages of life by equipping them with tools to help them navigate difficulties while remaining present in their day-to-day life.
I hold a person-centered focus while utilizing different therapeutic interventions such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR approaches for trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management, and life transitions.
I believe deeply in the therapeutic alliance between client and counselor for effective growth and change. As a counselor, I aim to build a safe relationship with my clients where they feel heard and seen. I support clients through the various stages of life by equipping them with tools to help them navigate difficulties while remaining present in their day-to-day life.
(864) 651-7326 View (864) 651-7326
Photo of Emily Montgomery Rayes Up Counseling, LPC-S, MEd, NCC
Emily Montgomery Rayes Up Counseling
LPC-S, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
I work well with people who suffer from substance use disorders, PTSD, anxiety, depression etc.
Navigating through trauma can leave you feeling let down, emotionally unstable, unable to sleep or stop the constant negative thoughts, and emotionally overwhelmed; with little to no understanding of what to do next. You may wonder what it feels like be “normal” not to scan the room for what may be lurking to harm you, to have fun and be happy, to just have a good relationship with your partner, to date again? I believe insight/education plus a plan of action makes for positive changes.
I work well with people who suffer from substance use disorders, PTSD, anxiety, depression etc.
Navigating through trauma can leave you feeling let down, emotionally unstable, unable to sleep or stop the constant negative thoughts, and emotionally overwhelmed; with little to no understanding of what to do next. You may wonder what it feels like be “normal” not to scan the room for what may be lurking to harm you, to have fun and be happy, to just have a good relationship with your partner, to date again? I believe insight/education plus a plan of action makes for positive changes.
(864) 514-8181 View (864) 514-8181
Photo of Michele Bennefield, PhD, LPC, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michele Bennefield
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LPCS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with the direction your life is taking? Would you like someone to walk along side you to help you find your path? I provide counseling using a person centered and relational approach in which you can feel heard & cared for. My primary experience as a therapist has been in helping those with anxiety, depression, or a trauma related experience. Let me help you find healing and the path you were meant to be on. You will find a warm, welcoming environment to explore your treatment needs, and will be welcomed by Chewy, our office therapy dog who will keep you company while you wait or are in session.
Are you struggling with the direction your life is taking? Would you like someone to walk along side you to help you find your path? I provide counseling using a person centered and relational approach in which you can feel heard & cared for. My primary experience as a therapist has been in helping those with anxiety, depression, or a trauma related experience. Let me help you find healing and the path you were meant to be on. You will find a warm, welcoming environment to explore your treatment needs, and will be welcomed by Chewy, our office therapy dog who will keep you company while you wait or are in session.
(864) 293-7575 View (864) 293-7575
Photo of Marley Jones Wolfe - Marley J Wolfe Counseling Services LLC, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marley J Wolfe Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Mauldin, SC 29662
Waitlist for new clients
Marley is trained to manage marital issues, Stress, Anger Management, Depression, Mood Disorders Anxiety ADHD,Trauma, develop positive self esteem, mindfulness,Substance abuse.
Finding your way to a better life is something we all desire especially when we face challenges. Being empowered when we feel stuck requires a new way of thinking. An authentic, sincere professional can lead you on a new path. As a solution-focused therapist with 30 years of experience, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Take a look at my reviews www.marleyjwolfecounseling.com
Marley is trained to manage marital issues, Stress, Anger Management, Depression, Mood Disorders Anxiety ADHD,Trauma, develop positive self esteem, mindfulness,Substance abuse.
Finding your way to a better life is something we all desire especially when we face challenges. Being empowered when we feel stuck requires a new way of thinking. An authentic, sincere professional can lead you on a new path. As a solution-focused therapist with 30 years of experience, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Take a look at my reviews www.marleyjwolfecounseling.com
(864) 761-4651 View (864) 761-4651
Photo of Caitlin Segriff, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caitlin Segriff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
The majority of clients I see are couples, families, adults, and teenagers/pre-teens. Many are struggling with relationships, infidelity, self-esteem, sexual orientation, gender identity, depression, anxiety, stress, and feelings of disconnection. Most are looking for help navigating difficult times and improving their overall emotional health.
The majority of clients I see are couples, families, adults, and teenagers/pre-teens. Many are struggling with relationships, infidelity, self-esteem, sexual orientation, gender identity, depression, anxiety, stress, and feelings of disconnection. Most are looking for help navigating difficult times and improving their overall emotional health.
(864) 635-4526 View (864) 635-4526
Photo of Mark Goldsmith, MA, MDiv, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark Goldsmith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
Life is hard. If the difficulties you face are overwhelming, having another person walk with you may make all the difference. Therapy can be a means to identify and overcome challenges in your life, and those of your loved ones, and provide you the healing and courage you need to live and love to the fullest. My experience treating issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, spirituality, grief, men's issues, and marriage/relationships, enable me to accompany you through the dark seasons of your life, and help you find hope when it is hard to find.
Life is hard. If the difficulties you face are overwhelming, having another person walk with you may make all the difference. Therapy can be a means to identify and overcome challenges in your life, and those of your loved ones, and provide you the healing and courage you need to live and love to the fullest. My experience treating issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, spirituality, grief, men's issues, and marriage/relationships, enable me to accompany you through the dark seasons of your life, and help you find hope when it is hard to find.
(864) 803-5069 View (864) 803-5069
Photo of Sharon Spivey, LISWCP, BCPCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Spivey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISWCP, BCPCC
Verified Verified
Mauldin, SC 29662
I prefer to work with clients on a short term basis who are motivated to make a significant change in their situation whatever their problems may be. My practice is Christian focused with a unique blend of psychological techniques, information and tools with the power of faith and Biblical truths. I work best with adults and or family units. I have extensive experience in working successfully with couples in premarital and marital counseling. Other areas of expertise include trauma, grief, victims of abuse, anxiety disorders, and depression.
I prefer to work with clients on a short term basis who are motivated to make a significant change in their situation whatever their problems may be. My practice is Christian focused with a unique blend of psychological techniques, information and tools with the power of faith and Biblical truths. I work best with adults and or family units. I have extensive experience in working successfully with couples in premarital and marital counseling. Other areas of expertise include trauma, grief, victims of abuse, anxiety disorders, and depression.
(864) 841-9124 View (864) 841-9124
Photo of Jacqui Woolbright, MMFT, LMFT, AADC, CS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqui Woolbright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT, AADC, CS
Verified Verified
Mauldin, SC 29662  (Online Only)
Tired, frustrated, irritable, or lifeless? I am here to help you and your family return to or become your best self. Our work together will not only make your physical days better will also eliminate the somatic symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, restlessness, and fatigue. I have best helped those who need help understanding their spouse's mental health, couples to improve their marriages, physical or sexual abuse, overall anxiety and depression, and difficulty with addiction. Individuals need additional ways to cope with change, stress, and trauma so they can better focus and be present in their daily life.
Tired, frustrated, irritable, or lifeless? I am here to help you and your family return to or become your best self. Our work together will not only make your physical days better will also eliminate the somatic symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, restlessness, and fatigue. I have best helped those who need help understanding their spouse's mental health, couples to improve their marriages, physical or sexual abuse, overall anxiety and depression, and difficulty with addiction. Individuals need additional ways to cope with change, stress, and trauma so they can better focus and be present in their daily life.
(864) 660-3616 View (864) 660-3616
Photo of Cassaundra Gamble, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassaundra Gamble
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my specialties include working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and oppositional defiance.
Much like plants, with just the right amount of nourishment, attention, and care, a person can thrive in even the harshest of environments. As a strength-based and solution focused therapist, I believe that my clients have all the tools necessary to help them bloom where they’ve been planted. My calling is to facilitate the growth into a flower that represents your full potential.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my specialties include working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and oppositional defiance.
Much like plants, with just the right amount of nourishment, attention, and care, a person can thrive in even the harshest of environments. As a strength-based and solution focused therapist, I believe that my clients have all the tools necessary to help them bloom where they’ve been planted. My calling is to facilitate the growth into a flower that represents your full potential.
(864) 550-8103 View (864) 550-8103
Photo of Shelly L Atkinson, LPC/S-C, LAC-A, AADC, CS-IP, Counselor
Shelly L Atkinson
Counselor, LPC/S-C, LAC-A, AADC, CS-IP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
Hi! I am Shelly! I am so excited to be here and to have the opportunity to serve you! I am a practicing LPC in the Upstate of SC. I find absolute pleasure in working with clients who are in need of someone coming alongside them for guidance with concerns ranging from anxiety and depression to substance use issues and much more. Some potential clients like yourself may just need a listening ear, life coaching or guidance with developing healthy, appropriate skills to navigate life and managing the range of emotions that come along with that. Call or email me to discuss your particular needs. Telehealth services are available.
Hi! I am Shelly! I am so excited to be here and to have the opportunity to serve you! I am a practicing LPC in the Upstate of SC. I find absolute pleasure in working with clients who are in need of someone coming alongside them for guidance with concerns ranging from anxiety and depression to substance use issues and much more. Some potential clients like yourself may just need a listening ear, life coaching or guidance with developing healthy, appropriate skills to navigate life and managing the range of emotions that come along with that. Call or email me to discuss your particular needs. Telehealth services are available.
(864) 778-3033 View (864) 778-3033
Photo of Jess Downing, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jess Downing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mauldin, SC 29662
I am experienced in providing therapy to individuals of all ages with diverse trauma histories, anxiety, and depression.
If you've been through a traumatic event, you may find it difficult to go about your usual, everyday life. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship problems, self-esteem issues, or all of the above. As a therapist, I strive to create a welcoming and safe space for my clients to process these experiences and work toward improving their overall well-being. I believe my clients' goals can best be met when we work together as a team in therapy, and I consider it an honor to work with children, adolescents, and adults through their individual journeys.
I am experienced in providing therapy to individuals of all ages with diverse trauma histories, anxiety, and depression.
If you've been through a traumatic event, you may find it difficult to go about your usual, everyday life. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship problems, self-esteem issues, or all of the above. As a therapist, I strive to create a welcoming and safe space for my clients to process these experiences and work toward improving their overall well-being. I believe my clients' goals can best be met when we work together as a team in therapy, and I consider it an honor to work with children, adolescents, and adults through their individual journeys.
(864) 523-0974 View (864) 523-0974
1

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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.