Depression Therapists in North Augusta, SC

Photo of Donna B Strom, EdS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna B Strom
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841  (Online Only)
It is my pleasure to work with adult patients 18+ years old as a faith based therapist. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for anxiety, panic, depression, PTSD, grief, abuse, AD/HD and personality disorders is available for individuals. As a National Certified Parenting Coordinator I also work with parenting, family, couple issues, blended families, co-parenting and divorcing couples who want to work toward agreements that result in the best interest of their child(ren).
It is my pleasure to work with adult patients 18+ years old as a faith based therapist. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for anxiety, panic, depression, PTSD, grief, abuse, AD/HD and personality disorders is available for individuals. As a National Certified Parenting Coordinator I also work with parenting, family, couple issues, blended families, co-parenting and divorcing couples who want to work toward agreements that result in the best interest of their child(ren).
(803) 489-8690 View (803) 489-8690
Photo of Lexus Cecilia Lewis, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lexus Cecilia Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
My ideal client is navigating anxiety, life transitions, or relationship challenges. They may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about their next steps. Their needs include developing coping skills, gaining clarity, and finding emotional balance. Their goals are to reduce stress, improve self-awareness, and build healthier relationships. They want to feel more in control of their lives and are seeking tools to manage emotions and make decisions with confidence. They’re ready to engage in personal growth and create meaningful change.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
My ideal client is navigating anxiety, life transitions, or relationship challenges. They may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about their next steps. Their needs include developing coping skills, gaining clarity, and finding emotional balance. Their goals are to reduce stress, improve self-awareness, and build healthier relationships. They want to feel more in control of their lives and are seeking tools to manage emotions and make decisions with confidence. They’re ready to engage in personal growth and create meaningful change.
(803) 839-0894 View (803) 839-0894
Photo of Alice R. Murphy, MS, NCC, DCC
Alice R. Murphy
MS, NCC, DCC
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841
I have worked with individuals who have struggled with issues surrounding domestic violence, childhood sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship topics, and identity issues in teens.
I enjoy working with individuals to help them uncover patterns of behavior or thinking that are interfering with their personal growth. By addressing the underlying issues that are creating problems, you will be able to create lasting change and transformation. I welcome clients working through life issues that can be challenging and difficult. In addition to individual counseling and coaching, I also offer couples and family counseling and coaching where we will work together to develop a functional system that will serve your individual needs.
I have worked with individuals who have struggled with issues surrounding domestic violence, childhood sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship topics, and identity issues in teens.
I enjoy working with individuals to help them uncover patterns of behavior or thinking that are interfering with their personal growth. By addressing the underlying issues that are creating problems, you will be able to create lasting change and transformation. I welcome clients working through life issues that can be challenging and difficult. In addition to individual counseling and coaching, I also offer couples and family counseling and coaching where we will work together to develop a functional system that will serve your individual needs.
(839) 222-5572 View (839) 222-5572
Photo of Dr. Charlene Moore-Peterson, EdD, LPC, CPCS, LPCS Ca, GCDF, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Charlene Moore-Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS, LPCS Ca, GCDF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Augusta, SC 29841  (Online Only)
Are you having trouble with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or general problems? I specialize in depression, child/adolescent, and relational challenges. I strive to provide a safe and open-minded environment as clients process their feelings and work towards their goals. I am passionate about helping clients gain insight to inner issues that are contributing to their external issues. I encourage clients to think outside the box and discover information toward changing their lives during their therapeutic journey. Together we will work to make changes that are healthy for the MIND, BODY, and SPIRIT!
Are you having trouble with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or general problems? I specialize in depression, child/adolescent, and relational challenges. I strive to provide a safe and open-minded environment as clients process their feelings and work towards their goals. I am passionate about helping clients gain insight to inner issues that are contributing to their external issues. I encourage clients to think outside the box and discover information toward changing their lives during their therapeutic journey. Together we will work to make changes that are healthy for the MIND, BODY, and SPIRIT!
(803) 335-5906 View (803) 335-5906
Photo of Samantha Amses, MS, LPC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Amses
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Augusta, SC 29841
Waitlist for new clients
Samantha enjoys working with adults, children, families, and couples of all ages, cultures, religions, and sexual orientations. She practices with an open mind and heart from an integrative approach that includes aspects of cognitive, behavioral, existential, mindfulness, and other modalities to ensure optimal results and symptom and stress reduction. Samantha can help you combat depression and anxiety, work through PTSD symptoms, navigate LGBTQ challenges so you can be true to yourself, assist with organization, life planning, making and meeting goals, and ultimately help you find your happiness.
Samantha enjoys working with adults, children, families, and couples of all ages, cultures, religions, and sexual orientations. She practices with an open mind and heart from an integrative approach that includes aspects of cognitive, behavioral, existential, mindfulness, and other modalities to ensure optimal results and symptom and stress reduction. Samantha can help you combat depression and anxiety, work through PTSD symptoms, navigate LGBTQ challenges so you can be true to yourself, assist with organization, life planning, making and meeting goals, and ultimately help you find your happiness.
(706) 249-4105 View (706) 249-4105
Photo of Debbie Ruth Johnson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debbie Ruth Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841
My specialties include working with clients living with depression, anxiety, and grief and those caring for a loved one living with dementia.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve emotional well-being and balance through a non-judgmental, person-centered therapeutic approach. There is hope. You don't have to continue living with constant stress, depression, or anxiety. Your relationship does not have to remain unfulfilling or even toxic. You can regain the balance you need to thrive. And what's even better...you don't have to do it on your own. Let me help you find your voice and own your power. Everybody hurts...sometimes. It does not have to be forever.
My specialties include working with clients living with depression, anxiety, and grief and those caring for a loved one living with dementia.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve emotional well-being and balance through a non-judgmental, person-centered therapeutic approach. There is hope. You don't have to continue living with constant stress, depression, or anxiety. Your relationship does not have to remain unfulfilling or even toxic. You can regain the balance you need to thrive. And what's even better...you don't have to do it on your own. Let me help you find your voice and own your power. Everybody hurts...sometimes. It does not have to be forever.
(706) 203-3911 View (706) 203-3911
Photo of Suzan Watt, LPC, S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzan Watt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Augusta, SC 29841  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of South Carolina with 20+ years of experience. I have assisted clients with a wide range of concerns including Anxiety, Depression, Family/ Parenting Problems, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults and Children, Faith Based Concerns and Adolescent issues as well as Alcohol and other Drugs of Abuse/ Dependency Concerns.
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of South Carolina with 20+ years of experience. I have assisted clients with a wide range of concerns including Anxiety, Depression, Family/ Parenting Problems, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults and Children, Faith Based Concerns and Adolescent issues as well as Alcohol and other Drugs of Abuse/ Dependency Concerns.
(803) 274-5768 View (803) 274-5768
Photo of Alfred Jones - Jones Behavioral Health, Inc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jones Behavioral Health, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841
Our specialties include, but are not limited to the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, relationship problems, and grief counseling.
Our number one priority is to bring happiness and well-being to our patients' lives by restoring their mental balance. We want to help you break free from old habits, develop healthy coping skills and find new ways to respond to life's challenging situations. We provide individual psychotherapy for adolescents and adults, relationship counseling, group therapy and other services.
Our specialties include, but are not limited to the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, relationship problems, and grief counseling.
Our number one priority is to bring happiness and well-being to our patients' lives by restoring their mental balance. We want to help you break free from old habits, develop healthy coping skills and find new ways to respond to life's challenging situations. We provide individual psychotherapy for adolescents and adults, relationship counseling, group therapy and other services.
(762) 383-0844 View (762) 383-0844
Photo of Kristina Topp, LISW-CP, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Topp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, MSW
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841
Seeking therapy can be difficult, and it can be hard to talk about issues with debilitating symptoms. As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, my goal is to meet you where you are, build a strong therapeutic relationship, and develop treatment plans that are specific to you as an individual. I work with adults (17+) who have anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, chronic pain and illnesses, grief, suicidal thoughts and self harm, with military and veteran populations, and transgender teens (16+). If you are struggling, I want to assist and support you in reaching your treatment goals.
Seeking therapy can be difficult, and it can be hard to talk about issues with debilitating symptoms. As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, my goal is to meet you where you are, build a strong therapeutic relationship, and develop treatment plans that are specific to you as an individual. I work with adults (17+) who have anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, chronic pain and illnesses, grief, suicidal thoughts and self harm, with military and veteran populations, and transgender teens (16+). If you are struggling, I want to assist and support you in reaching your treatment goals.
(803) 575-3318 View (803) 575-3318
Photo of Erica James Young, PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Erica James Young
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841
My practice focuses on the treatment of depression and anxiety as well as interpersonal relationship difficulties.
My mission is to cultivate a space for clients to experience the fullness of mental health and wellness. Whether that be through providing a supportive therapeutic counseling experience or by helping you discover your strengths and identify areas of growth through comprehensive evaluation, I am here to support you in your journey to a healthier self. Although my practice focuses on counseling women, we are open to serving any adolescent and adult in need of counseling and/or assessment services.
My practice focuses on the treatment of depression and anxiety as well as interpersonal relationship difficulties.
My mission is to cultivate a space for clients to experience the fullness of mental health and wellness. Whether that be through providing a supportive therapeutic counseling experience or by helping you discover your strengths and identify areas of growth through comprehensive evaluation, I am here to support you in your journey to a healthier self. Although my practice focuses on counseling women, we are open to serving any adolescent and adult in need of counseling and/or assessment services.
(839) 333-5814 View (839) 333-5814
Photo of April Hill, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
April Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841
Hello! I'm glad you are considering counseling; it is not a sign of weakness; rather, it reflects your strength. Therapy can help you cope with life's situations in a safe and relaxed environment while strengthening your sense of purpose. I offer a supportive approach and I will work with you to help you meet your personal goals and needs. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in South Carolina and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Ohio; I provide psychotherapy to individual adults and couples. Throughout my career, I have helped clients with PTSD, grief, depression, and anxiety.
Hello! I'm glad you are considering counseling; it is not a sign of weakness; rather, it reflects your strength. Therapy can help you cope with life's situations in a safe and relaxed environment while strengthening your sense of purpose. I offer a supportive approach and I will work with you to help you meet your personal goals and needs. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in South Carolina and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Ohio; I provide psychotherapy to individual adults and couples. Throughout my career, I have helped clients with PTSD, grief, depression, and anxiety.
(803) 262-4304 View (803) 262-4304
Photo of Jay Earles, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Jay Earles
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Augusta, SC 29841
I help people from diverse backgrounds & demographics with medical conditions (diabetes, chronic pain, headaches, obesity, insomnia, and irritable bowel syndrome), anxiety and/or depression, and with couples wanting to improve their relationship.
If you are dealing with a chronic disease or emotional, mental or behavioral concern, then you are certainly not alone. Many people struggle with balancing the demands of family, friends, work, and a chronic disease and I would appreciate the opportunity to help you. I am a clinical psychologist with a specialty in clinical health psychology. I assist adults with chronic medical conditions improve their well-being, quality of life, and physical, mental and emotional health. I was a clinical psychologist in the US Army for 24 years and now provide counseling services in the local community.
I help people from diverse backgrounds & demographics with medical conditions (diabetes, chronic pain, headaches, obesity, insomnia, and irritable bowel syndrome), anxiety and/or depression, and with couples wanting to improve their relationship.
If you are dealing with a chronic disease or emotional, mental or behavioral concern, then you are certainly not alone. Many people struggle with balancing the demands of family, friends, work, and a chronic disease and I would appreciate the opportunity to help you. I am a clinical psychologist with a specialty in clinical health psychology. I assist adults with chronic medical conditions improve their well-being, quality of life, and physical, mental and emotional health. I was a clinical psychologist in the US Army for 24 years and now provide counseling services in the local community.
(803) 615-2146 View (803) 615-2146
Photo of Darrell Jones - Season 4 Change, LLC, LISW-CP, MPH, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Season 4 Change, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, MPH, BCD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Augusta, SC 29841
Are you having problems managing stress, anxiety, depression, or have a behavioral health problem that you are unsure how to manage? My therapeutic approach is simple. I first focus on identifying what the problem is. Then helping you build resilience and improve coping skills. I’m a retiree of the US Army and US Public Health Service with 25 years of experience working with active duty military, police, emergency responders and helping those that have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, mood instability or unmanageable anger. I provide a safe, affordable, therapeutic method of managing whatever problem you are facing.
Are you having problems managing stress, anxiety, depression, or have a behavioral health problem that you are unsure how to manage? My therapeutic approach is simple. I first focus on identifying what the problem is. Then helping you build resilience and improve coping skills. I’m a retiree of the US Army and US Public Health Service with 25 years of experience working with active duty military, police, emergency responders and helping those that have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, mood instability or unmanageable anger. I provide a safe, affordable, therapeutic method of managing whatever problem you are facing.
(803) 232-7530 View (803) 232-7530
Photo of John Charles Barnett, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Charles Barnett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841  (Online Only)
Charlie’s background includes working in acute psychiatric care, assessment/diagnoses, and psychotherapy in both inpatient and outpatient settings. He is also experienced working with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, ADHD, and many other mental health concerns.
Charlie’s background includes working in acute psychiatric care, assessment/diagnoses, and psychotherapy in both inpatient and outpatient settings. He is also experienced working with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, ADHD, and many other mental health concerns.
(803) 913-6299 View (803) 913-6299
Photo of Maria Gangarosa-Emerson - Child NeuroBehavior Center for Health & Wellness, PhD, OMC, Psychologist
Child NeuroBehavior Center for Health & Wellness
Psychologist, PhD, OMC
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841
We specialize in health, dyslexia, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma & loss, & work in multi-disciplinary teams.
Dr. Gangarosa Emerson & associates are committed to promoting health & wellness through a holistic neurointegrative approach. We work with all ages but specialize in children & adolescents. We begin with detailed neurocognitive &/or nutritional assessment, devising an individualized treatment plan. We offer on-site, nonpharmacological therapies to remediate cognitive, emotional, attentional, language, & processing issues. Specific research-based recommendations are designed for accommodations & remediation to promote emotional wellness & academic/work success. We believe that the brain can be changed & that your child can thrive.
We specialize in health, dyslexia, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma & loss, & work in multi-disciplinary teams.
Dr. Gangarosa Emerson & associates are committed to promoting health & wellness through a holistic neurointegrative approach. We work with all ages but specialize in children & adolescents. We begin with detailed neurocognitive &/or nutritional assessment, devising an individualized treatment plan. We offer on-site, nonpharmacological therapies to remediate cognitive, emotional, attentional, language, & processing issues. Specific research-based recommendations are designed for accommodations & remediation to promote emotional wellness & academic/work success. We believe that the brain can be changed & that your child can thrive.
(706) 447-8700 View (706) 447-8700
Photo of Brandon Wilcher, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandon Wilcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29860  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with those experiencing depression, anxiety, grief loss, relationship concerns, and challenges related to life transitions.
Are you ready to create the life you truly deserve? It's time to heal, reclaim your life, and thrive! If you find yourself overwhelmed with processing feelings such as anxiety, depression, or grief know that you're not alone. Living a life filled with meaning, purpose, and fulfillment can help you thrive emotionally, mentally, and physically, leading to a brighter and healthier future.
I enjoy working with those experiencing depression, anxiety, grief loss, relationship concerns, and challenges related to life transitions.
Are you ready to create the life you truly deserve? It's time to heal, reclaim your life, and thrive! If you find yourself overwhelmed with processing feelings such as anxiety, depression, or grief know that you're not alone. Living a life filled with meaning, purpose, and fulfillment can help you thrive emotionally, mentally, and physically, leading to a brighter and healthier future.
(803) 676-7095 View (803) 676-7095
Photo of John Knight Hill, LMFT/S, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Knight Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT/S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Augusta, SC 29841
If you are struggling emotionally, perhaps anxious or depressed, or unsure of your direction in life, I can help by offering a non-judgmental listening ear and an objective perspective.
I work with clients from a family perspective - seeing them as individuals, couples or families, but in the context they come from, which informs all their relationships. My goal is to promote healthy relationships, inner growth and healing of inner wounds, including traumatic events. I have over 30 years experience in marriage and family therapy, and am licensed in Georgia and South Carolina. I am also an Approved Supervisor with the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT). Learn more at www.mentalspiritual.com or book an appointment directly at: john-hill.clientsecure.me.
If you are struggling emotionally, perhaps anxious or depressed, or unsure of your direction in life, I can help by offering a non-judgmental listening ear and an objective perspective.
I work with clients from a family perspective - seeing them as individuals, couples or families, but in the context they come from, which informs all their relationships. My goal is to promote healthy relationships, inner growth and healing of inner wounds, including traumatic events. I have over 30 years experience in marriage and family therapy, and am licensed in Georgia and South Carolina. I am also an Approved Supervisor with the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT). Learn more at www.mentalspiritual.com or book an appointment directly at: john-hill.clientsecure.me.
(706) 873-8809 View (706) 873-8809
Photo of Hana Perkey, LPC, CPCS, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hana Perkey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Augusta, SC 29841
At times, trauma can get us locked in painful patterns of interacting with others or responding to our environment. Whether we are re-living pain and hurt in our relationships or reacting to triggers around us in ways that no longer serve us, the results can leave us depressed, chronically stressed, and exhausted. Living an authentic life that includes joy and fulfillment does not have to be a fantasy. Therapy can help you gain some clarity about your struggles and give you the tools you need to make transformational changes.
At times, trauma can get us locked in painful patterns of interacting with others or responding to our environment. Whether we are re-living pain and hurt in our relationships or reacting to triggers around us in ways that no longer serve us, the results can leave us depressed, chronically stressed, and exhausted. Living an authentic life that includes joy and fulfillment does not have to be a fantasy. Therapy can help you gain some clarity about your struggles and give you the tools you need to make transformational changes.
(706) 574-3174 View (706) 574-3174
Photo of Charity Odum, MA, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Charity Odum
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAPC
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841
My experience has allowed me to work with very diverse populations and utilize multicultural counseling competencies to promote equity and inclusion in my work. I have served clients with a wide range of presenting concerns such as substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, PTSD, and other co-occurring disorders. It is important for me to provide a safe space for my clients to feel comfortable working through issues and concerns that they are experiencing. I believe it is important to support clients in setting goals, learning how to problem solve, and developing coping skills.
My experience has allowed me to work with very diverse populations and utilize multicultural counseling competencies to promote equity and inclusion in my work. I have served clients with a wide range of presenting concerns such as substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, PTSD, and other co-occurring disorders. It is important for me to provide a safe space for my clients to feel comfortable working through issues and concerns that they are experiencing. I believe it is important to support clients in setting goals, learning how to problem solve, and developing coping skills.
(706) 523-9180 View (706) 523-9180
Photo of Nichole Lee - Center 4 Play Therapy and Counseling, LLC, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Center 4 Play Therapy and Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
North Augusta, SC 29841
I specialize in trauma therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, sand tray therapy, and play therapy addressing issues of trauma, depression, anxiety, adjustment, self-esteem and behavioral issues.
Has your child been through the unimaginable? Are you tired of tantrum meltdowns over small deals? Are you frustrated that your child wont listen? Do you worry about your child being successful at school? Parenting is a TOUGH job and I am here to help support you and your family while navigating life's challenges! I will provide your child with a safe space to work through their feelings and create positive change.
I specialize in trauma therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, sand tray therapy, and play therapy addressing issues of trauma, depression, anxiety, adjustment, self-esteem and behavioral issues.
Has your child been through the unimaginable? Are you tired of tantrum meltdowns over small deals? Are you frustrated that your child wont listen? Do you worry about your child being successful at school? Parenting is a TOUGH job and I am here to help support you and your family while navigating life's challenges! I will provide your child with a safe space to work through their feelings and create positive change.
(803) 310-2745 View (803) 310-2745
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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.