Depression Therapists in Madison, TN

Photo of Chantel D Baker, LPC, MHSP, temp, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chantel D Baker
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, temp
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
Some of the presenting issues I have successfully treated have been: ADHD, anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, and oppositional defiance.
At an early age most people are taught to be independent, strong, and self-sufficient. But, there are times in life when difficult situations can become overwhelming. During these difficult times in life some individuals do not realize that it is okay "Not to be Okay." Asking for help can be hard.
Some of the presenting issues I have successfully treated have been: ADHD, anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, and oppositional defiance.
At an early age most people are taught to be independent, strong, and self-sufficient. But, there are times in life when difficult situations can become overwhelming. During these difficult times in life some individuals do not realize that it is okay "Not to be Okay." Asking for help can be hard.
(515) 417-2857 View (515) 417-2857
Photo of Joi Mosley - Theraplaybook, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theraplaybook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
If you are experiencing performance anxiety, depression, anger, loneliness, mental blocks or even questioning what to do next.
We all have a superpower and it is to see the future; well at least we think we can see the future. Sometimes we get overwhelmed with "what if" and it prevents us from moving forward. What about sometimes losing memory of certain events or loss of ability to engage in the event. My goal is to assist those struggling with performance anxiety, mental blocks due to emotional distress and returning back to sports/life after injury. Through brain spotting, talk therapy, M.E.A.L. P.R.E.P framework and other therapeutic tools you will be able to implement and shift in order to move to the next play in your mental wellness.
If you are experiencing performance anxiety, depression, anger, loneliness, mental blocks or even questioning what to do next.
We all have a superpower and it is to see the future; well at least we think we can see the future. Sometimes we get overwhelmed with "what if" and it prevents us from moving forward. What about sometimes losing memory of certain events or loss of ability to engage in the event. My goal is to assist those struggling with performance anxiety, mental blocks due to emotional distress and returning back to sports/life after injury. Through brain spotting, talk therapy, M.E.A.L. P.R.E.P framework and other therapeutic tools you will be able to implement and shift in order to move to the next play in your mental wellness.
(931) 213-7336 View (931) 213-7336
Photo of Christa R Campbell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christa R Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
My focus is on helping people who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, transitions, mood issues, ADHD, recovery and others.
I am a licensed clinical therapist and have practiced in the Nashville area for almost 20 years. I enjoy working in a career that allows me to help people through the challenges they are facing. My goal is to walk along-side my clients, partnering with them to find their own strengths and a balance that helps them live a more satisfying life. I do this by teaching new skills and using techniques to help people make changes, set goals and move forward toward greater fulfillment.
My focus is on helping people who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, transitions, mood issues, ADHD, recovery and others.
I am a licensed clinical therapist and have practiced in the Nashville area for almost 20 years. I enjoy working in a career that allows me to help people through the challenges they are facing. My goal is to walk along-side my clients, partnering with them to find their own strengths and a balance that helps them live a more satisfying life. I do this by teaching new skills and using techniques to help people make changes, set goals and move forward toward greater fulfillment.
(615) 490-0991 View (615) 490-0991
Photo of Colleen Lynch, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Lynch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
Are your thoughts overwhelming you? Do you feel stuck in unhealthy patterns and don't know what to do to get out of them? In my therapy practice there is no judgement, no matter who you are or what you are bringing in to work on. All are welcome and all are equally valued. I offer telehealth services to individuals in Ohio and Tennessee for issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, ADHD, life transitions, relationship issues, and many of life's other challenges.
Are your thoughts overwhelming you? Do you feel stuck in unhealthy patterns and don't know what to do to get out of them? In my therapy practice there is no judgement, no matter who you are or what you are bringing in to work on. All are welcome and all are equally valued. I offer telehealth services to individuals in Ohio and Tennessee for issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, ADHD, life transitions, relationship issues, and many of life's other challenges.
(615) 854-7105 View (615) 854-7105
Photo of Sheree Rucker-Grafton, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheree Rucker-Grafton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
My experience is wide ranged; from Domestic Violence and the effects of trauma to grief & loss, identity challenges, anxiety, depression, stress management, parenting skills, and relationship/marital challenges.
NOW Accepting NEW Clients! My focus is helping client’s get through life challenges. I work alongside adults, couples, and families in a private practice setting. I use a multifaceted therapeutic approach as I believe that each individual is unique & diverse; so, their treatment should reflect their needs. I have a passion for bridging gaps across generations and repairing existing generational cycles. As I have a strong belief that childhood experiences not only affect us as individuals, but also the relationships that we create with others.
My experience is wide ranged; from Domestic Violence and the effects of trauma to grief & loss, identity challenges, anxiety, depression, stress management, parenting skills, and relationship/marital challenges.
NOW Accepting NEW Clients! My focus is helping client’s get through life challenges. I work alongside adults, couples, and families in a private practice setting. I use a multifaceted therapeutic approach as I believe that each individual is unique & diverse; so, their treatment should reflect their needs. I have a passion for bridging gaps across generations and repairing existing generational cycles. As I have a strong belief that childhood experiences not only affect us as individuals, but also the relationships that we create with others.
(615) 326-6732 View (615) 326-6732
Photo of Alexandra Mayes - Mindful Steps, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindful Steps
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115  (Online Only)
It can help you deal with many personal topics in life such as anger, guilt, depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues, trauma and/or grief.
Give yourself permission to work on yourself. It's time for you to prioritize your mental health. This is your opportunity to take time to improve your mental and emotional well being. Many people are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, and stress as they attempt to adjust from the change in normalcy. Emotions and feelings are natural indicators that reflects what we are personally feeling. Here at Mindful Steps, we believe that therapy is a teamwork effort. Your Therapist will help you navigate through life’s obstacles, challenge maladaptive behaviors, and negative thought patterns that have kept you stuck.
It can help you deal with many personal topics in life such as anger, guilt, depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues, trauma and/or grief.
Give yourself permission to work on yourself. It's time for you to prioritize your mental health. This is your opportunity to take time to improve your mental and emotional well being. Many people are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, and stress as they attempt to adjust from the change in normalcy. Emotions and feelings are natural indicators that reflects what we are personally feeling. Here at Mindful Steps, we believe that therapy is a teamwork effort. Your Therapist will help you navigate through life’s obstacles, challenge maladaptive behaviors, and negative thought patterns that have kept you stuck.
(629) 218-4814 View (629) 218-4814
Photo of Brendan McCarthy - Sessions Psychology, MS, LPC, MHSP, NCC, CET-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sessions Psychology
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, NCC, CET-II
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
His scope of practice includes those struggling with anxiety, depression, issues specific to touring artists/musicians/creatives/music business/spouses of touring artists, adjustment issues, and marital difficulties.
Brendan McCarthy is a licensed clinical psychotherapist (LPC-MHSP) in the East Nashville, TN area. Brendan treats a wide variety of mental health issues and works with a broad spectrum of clients. Brendan is the owner and director of the group therapy practice, Sessions Psychology. Sessions is a boutique group therapy practice that is home to a team of elite Nashville therapists. Brendan is a Nationally Certified Counselor, as well as a Certified Experiential Therapist (CET3). Additionally, Brendan is a part of the clinical staff at the nationally recognized Onsite Workshops.
His scope of practice includes those struggling with anxiety, depression, issues specific to touring artists/musicians/creatives/music business/spouses of touring artists, adjustment issues, and marital difficulties.
Brendan McCarthy is a licensed clinical psychotherapist (LPC-MHSP) in the East Nashville, TN area. Brendan treats a wide variety of mental health issues and works with a broad spectrum of clients. Brendan is the owner and director of the group therapy practice, Sessions Psychology. Sessions is a boutique group therapy practice that is home to a team of elite Nashville therapists. Brendan is a Nationally Certified Counselor, as well as a Certified Experiential Therapist (CET3). Additionally, Brendan is a part of the clinical staff at the nationally recognized Onsite Workshops.
(615) 551-1300 View (615) 551-1300
Photo of Ronald L Lawler, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ronald L Lawler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
We all go through difficult times. Sometimes we go through circumstances that put us in emotional crucibles that need to be nurtured, explored and worked through. Are you feeling overwhelmed or dominated by a circumstance in your life? Are you in a circumstance with your spouse or children that seems to be taking a lot of energy, consequently causing other areas in your life to be compromised? I specialize working with individuals and families in transition. I also have significant experience working with individuals that have issues with addictions, depression, anxiety, and spiritual conflict.
We all go through difficult times. Sometimes we go through circumstances that put us in emotional crucibles that need to be nurtured, explored and worked through. Are you feeling overwhelmed or dominated by a circumstance in your life? Are you in a circumstance with your spouse or children that seems to be taking a lot of energy, consequently causing other areas in your life to be compromised? I specialize working with individuals and families in transition. I also have significant experience working with individuals that have issues with addictions, depression, anxiety, and spiritual conflict.
(615) 603-3553 View (615) 603-3553
Photo of Tony A Halton, MSW, LADAC, MAC, EAP, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Tony A Halton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LADAC, MAC, EAP, SAP
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor and have a Masters Social Work Degree. I offer individual therapy, couples and family counseling in addition to group counseling. I specialize in mood disorders, depression post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), marriage & family therapy, anxiety disorders, domestic violence, trauma issues, grief therapy and anger management.
I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor and have a Masters Social Work Degree. I offer individual therapy, couples and family counseling in addition to group counseling. I specialize in mood disorders, depression post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), marriage & family therapy, anxiety disorders, domestic violence, trauma issues, grief therapy and anger management.
(615) 703-5085 View (615) 703-5085
Photo of Olivia Caldwell, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olivia Caldwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115  (Online Only)
I work primarily with clients that are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. I also work with clients on topics like anger management, parenting techniques, adjustment issues, and effective communication skills. I am here to assist clients in meeting their full potential and living their best lives because they deserve nothing less!
I work primarily with clients that are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. I also work with clients on topics like anger management, parenting techniques, adjustment issues, and effective communication skills. I am here to assist clients in meeting their full potential and living their best lives because they deserve nothing less!
(515) 446-7225 View (515) 446-7225
Photo of Erick Farmer, MEd, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erick Farmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults (18+) specializing in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Co-Dependency, and Interpersonal Relationships/conflict.
Therapy is an experience that I have seen from both sides, as a client and clinician. This is why my approach comes from an empathic, relative point of view. My belief is that a client knows more about what they need better than anyone else. However, we all need guidance and assistance at times to help unlock our potential. I have learned that each client has their own set of core beliefs, maladaptive coping skills, and a significant barrier to obtaining the life we deserve. As a result, we can work to change these unhealthy behaviors one may use to numb and escape feelings that are destructive and harmful together.
I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults (18+) specializing in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Co-Dependency, and Interpersonal Relationships/conflict.
Therapy is an experience that I have seen from both sides, as a client and clinician. This is why my approach comes from an empathic, relative point of view. My belief is that a client knows more about what they need better than anyone else. However, we all need guidance and assistance at times to help unlock our potential. I have learned that each client has their own set of core beliefs, maladaptive coping skills, and a significant barrier to obtaining the life we deserve. As a result, we can work to change these unhealthy behaviors one may use to numb and escape feelings that are destructive and harmful together.
(615) 560-9146 View (615) 560-9146
Photo of Georgia Bromehead, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Georgia Bromehead
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
Stuck? Frustrated? Yearning? I love helping clients reconnect with themselves and find what feels good. I work with healing trauma, disconnection, anxiety/ depression, and existential crisis or life transition. I specialize in body and emotional awareness and reconnection, inviting relationships with all parts of Self, giving air to what's beneath our masks, moving what needs to be moved, and relaxing into wholeness. I welcome adults of all genders, faiths, and dispositions. I bring creativity, laughter, tenderness and honesty to our sessions. "We're all just walking each other home." -Ram Dass
Stuck? Frustrated? Yearning? I love helping clients reconnect with themselves and find what feels good. I work with healing trauma, disconnection, anxiety/ depression, and existential crisis or life transition. I specialize in body and emotional awareness and reconnection, inviting relationships with all parts of Self, giving air to what's beneath our masks, moving what needs to be moved, and relaxing into wholeness. I welcome adults of all genders, faiths, and dispositions. I bring creativity, laughter, tenderness and honesty to our sessions. "We're all just walking each other home." -Ram Dass
(629) 276-3734 View (629) 276-3734
Photo of Christina Rumbaugh, MS, LPC, MHSP, (temp), NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christina Rumbaugh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC, MHSP, (temp), NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
I believe everyone has the strength and potential needed to uncover their next steps, and it would be an honor to be your fellow traveler as you navigate the winding roads of grief, life stage transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, or whatever stands in your path.
Do you feel like no one wants you to talk about your grief? Like they want you to “get over it” or “look on the brightside”? Or maybe you need support but don’t feel like you can burden others with the request? When others don’t know how to talk about or handle our grief, it can be isolating and lonely. The combination of emotions we feel at these times can be downright confusing. I want you to know this feeling won’t last forever. Whether you’re new to grief or feel stuck in it, whether you have lost a loved one or are grieving the loss of an anticipated life, I want to help you on your journey back to you.
I believe everyone has the strength and potential needed to uncover their next steps, and it would be an honor to be your fellow traveler as you navigate the winding roads of grief, life stage transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, or whatever stands in your path.
Do you feel like no one wants you to talk about your grief? Like they want you to “get over it” or “look on the brightside”? Or maybe you need support but don’t feel like you can burden others with the request? When others don’t know how to talk about or handle our grief, it can be isolating and lonely. The combination of emotions we feel at these times can be downright confusing. I want you to know this feeling won’t last forever. Whether you’re new to grief or feel stuck in it, whether you have lost a loved one or are grieving the loss of an anticipated life, I want to help you on your journey back to you.
(615) 933-9828 View (615) 933-9828
Photo of Laura Draughn Siktberg, LMSW
Laura Draughn Siktberg
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37116
Hi! Are you wondering how to sort through your thoughts and feelings? Are you feeling "down" or "off" but can't quite pinpoint why or what to do about it? Or maybe it's those pesky anxious and depressive thoughts with which you are all too familiar, and you're ready to work through them with a warm, safe, accountability partner. I would love to help you! I enjoy working with adults with a variety of presenting concerns, particularly trauma, OCD, ADHD, depression, and loneliness. I want you to leave our sessions feeling heard and equipped to get on your feet again.
Hi! Are you wondering how to sort through your thoughts and feelings? Are you feeling "down" or "off" but can't quite pinpoint why or what to do about it? Or maybe it's those pesky anxious and depressive thoughts with which you are all too familiar, and you're ready to work through them with a warm, safe, accountability partner. I would love to help you! I enjoy working with adults with a variety of presenting concerns, particularly trauma, OCD, ADHD, depression, and loneliness. I want you to leave our sessions feeling heard and equipped to get on your feet again.
(629) 269-9564 View (629) 269-9564
Photo of Andrew Chapman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Chapman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
Many clients seek therapy to work on issues relating to anxiety, depression, substance use, family of origin, trauma, relationship conflicts, life transition, grief, or just feeling stuck or under-motivated.
Honest self-reflection is the answer to so many of our problems. At many points throughout our lives, we learn to ease life’s burdens by shutting down, acting out, or running away in attempts to find relief. Even our most destructive coping strategies were often the best answers we could find at the time to manage our anxieties, our desires, and our pain. When we allow ourselves the opportunity to slow down and reflect on our lives, both past and present, we deepen our understanding and insight. And, as we explore our lives without moralizing and harshness, we develop genuine compassion and greater trust in ourselves.
Many clients seek therapy to work on issues relating to anxiety, depression, substance use, family of origin, trauma, relationship conflicts, life transition, grief, or just feeling stuck or under-motivated.
Honest self-reflection is the answer to so many of our problems. At many points throughout our lives, we learn to ease life’s burdens by shutting down, acting out, or running away in attempts to find relief. Even our most destructive coping strategies were often the best answers we could find at the time to manage our anxieties, our desires, and our pain. When we allow ourselves the opportunity to slow down and reflect on our lives, both past and present, we deepen our understanding and insight. And, as we explore our lives without moralizing and harshness, we develop genuine compassion and greater trust in ourselves.
(615) 258-6995 View (615) 258-6995
Photo of Janetta Fleming, RN, LPC, MHSP, PMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janetta Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, LPC, MHSP, PMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
I am available to work with individuals experiencing distress, especially anxiety and depression, women with mood disorders surrounding infertility and pregnancy, infant loss, and miscarriage as well as couples with relational conflict. Contemporary life is full of loneliness, stress, trauma and many faces of grief. Whether it be through setting long or short term therapeutic goals, I can help you create a new spirit of resilience.
I am available to work with individuals experiencing distress, especially anxiety and depression, women with mood disorders surrounding infertility and pregnancy, infant loss, and miscarriage as well as couples with relational conflict. Contemporary life is full of loneliness, stress, trauma and many faces of grief. Whether it be through setting long or short term therapeutic goals, I can help you create a new spirit of resilience.
(615) 987-0982 View (615) 987-0982
Photo of Ashley Bearden Elmquist, EdS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashley Bearden Elmquist
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37116
A major thread in Ashley’s work has been care for families. Having worked in volunteer and professional capacities with children and families for more than 17 years and as a mother of three young children, Ashley has found herself with a deep care for helping people find their own healing to stop cycles of toxic stress. When children or teens feel out of control or parents feel overwhelmed, working through issues that require learning how to emotionally regulate (i.e. trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, ADD, or OCD) can lead to healing that improves one’s ability to securely connect in relationships.
A major thread in Ashley’s work has been care for families. Having worked in volunteer and professional capacities with children and families for more than 17 years and as a mother of three young children, Ashley has found herself with a deep care for helping people find their own healing to stop cycles of toxic stress. When children or teens feel out of control or parents feel overwhelmed, working through issues that require learning how to emotionally regulate (i.e. trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, ADD, or OCD) can lead to healing that improves one’s ability to securely connect in relationships.
(629) 300-6197 View (629) 300-6197
Photo of Amy Lee - Amy Lee Counseling Services, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Lee Counseling Services
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
I am a mental health therapist providing child, teen, and adult therapy both in-person and via telehealth. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, anger, depression, crisis, trauma, coping skills for life's challenges, and self-discovery. As a child counselor for over 10 years, I believe both child and parent must have a healthy relationship to thrive. My goal is to help clients build resilience, develop coping skills, and gain self-understanding to live fulfilling lives. I take a compassionate and non-judgmental approach and aim to provide a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
I am a mental health therapist providing child, teen, and adult therapy both in-person and via telehealth. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, anger, depression, crisis, trauma, coping skills for life's challenges, and self-discovery. As a child counselor for over 10 years, I believe both child and parent must have a healthy relationship to thrive. My goal is to help clients build resilience, develop coping skills, and gain self-understanding to live fulfilling lives. I take a compassionate and non-judgmental approach and aim to provide a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(615) 205-0977 View (615) 205-0977
Photo of Donna Lynn Woodson, LAPSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Lynn Woodson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LAPSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
My clinical experiences include substance abuse and dependence, depression, anger management, grief, and PTSD.
As a mental health professional, my responsibility is to provide mental health care and counseling services to those in need. A healthier well-being and brighter outlook are the goals for those I service. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults.
My clinical experiences include substance abuse and dependence, depression, anger management, grief, and PTSD.
As a mental health professional, my responsibility is to provide mental health care and counseling services to those in need. A healthier well-being and brighter outlook are the goals for those I service. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults.
(615) 903-8877 View (615) 903-8877
Photo of Anishia Holman - Hope Pathway Therapy, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hope Pathway Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
My goal is to help humans examine and challenge barriers that have gotten in their way of achieving mental health wellness. Afterall, we all want to be happy and confident humans with healthy relationships. I specialize in serving preteens, adolescents and adults. Our team at Hope Pathway Therapy serves children through the elderly population. I have experience in serving those who may be experiencing the following: anger management, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief and loss, hyperactivity and impulse control, ineffective communication, life transitions, relationship concerns, self-esteem, social skills and trauma.
My goal is to help humans examine and challenge barriers that have gotten in their way of achieving mental health wellness. Afterall, we all want to be happy and confident humans with healthy relationships. I specialize in serving preteens, adolescents and adults. Our team at Hope Pathway Therapy serves children through the elderly population. I have experience in serving those who may be experiencing the following: anger management, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief and loss, hyperactivity and impulse control, ineffective communication, life transitions, relationship concerns, self-esteem, social skills and trauma.
(615) 265-1398 View (615) 265-1398
1
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.