Depression Therapists in Maryville, TN

Photo of Megan Marcus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Marcus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
Waitlist for new clients
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step- Lau Tuzla. Taking that first step can be scary and intimidating. I’m glad you are bravely exploring that first step. I have been in the social work field for over 20 years. My work history includes providing rehabilitation services for incarcerated individuals, skilled nursing facilities, and inpatient and outpatient treatment for seniors and adults in a hospital setting. I work with ages 18 and up and my specialties include all issues related to seniors, caregivers, grief, depression, anxiety, and postpartum support.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step- Lau Tuzla. Taking that first step can be scary and intimidating. I’m glad you are bravely exploring that first step. I have been in the social work field for over 20 years. My work history includes providing rehabilitation services for incarcerated individuals, skilled nursing facilities, and inpatient and outpatient treatment for seniors and adults in a hospital setting. I work with ages 18 and up and my specialties include all issues related to seniors, caregivers, grief, depression, anxiety, and postpartum support.
(865) 205-6912 View (865) 205-6912
Photo of Megan MacNamara, PhD, Psychologist
Megan MacNamara
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
I help empower women to love themselves. You may be a struggling mom, creative, business owner, empath, or trauma survivor that is ready to get past survive and start to thrive. My speciality is trauma recovery. My experience as an EMDR therapist & DBT psychologist helps you to deal with anxiety and depression. My clients say they feel immediate relief, a deep connection, & I open up worlds they never thought was possible. New virtual women's empowerment group and mindset membership!
I help empower women to love themselves. You may be a struggling mom, creative, business owner, empath, or trauma survivor that is ready to get past survive and start to thrive. My speciality is trauma recovery. My experience as an EMDR therapist & DBT psychologist helps you to deal with anxiety and depression. My clients say they feel immediate relief, a deep connection, & I open up worlds they never thought was possible. New virtual women's empowerment group and mindset membership!
(865) 383-1322 View (865) 383-1322
Photo of Heather Webb, MEd, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS*** I welcome adults, teenagers, children, and couples. I have 21 years experience in the Mental Health field and always continue to learn how to best help a variety of populations. I have experience in and am able to treat people who have Anxiety, Depression, on the Autism Spectrum,Bi-polar, ADHD, OCD, Addictions, Phobias, ODD, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders and low self-esteem.
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS*** I welcome adults, teenagers, children, and couples. I have 21 years experience in the Mental Health field and always continue to learn how to best help a variety of populations. I have experience in and am able to treat people who have Anxiety, Depression, on the Autism Spectrum,Bi-polar, ADHD, OCD, Addictions, Phobias, ODD, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders and low self-esteem.
(865) 217-2692 View (865) 217-2692
Photo of Tim Sutherland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tim Sutherland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I've worked extensively w clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, couple's issues, parenting/step-parenting struggles, & behavior problems w kids & teenagers.
The decision to begin counseling or therapy is a very important, very personal step. My first priority is to relate to each person, couple or family as unique. Everyone has strengths & positive qualities that can be drawn on to help make therapy a positive, enriching, and productive experience. Let's work together so you can live your best life. No matter where you've been or what you've been through or how much money you have or don't have, there's ALWAYS hope! You can get an appointment within the next 7 days. Finances should never stand between you & getting really good counseling or coaching.
I've worked extensively w clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, couple's issues, parenting/step-parenting struggles, & behavior problems w kids & teenagers.
The decision to begin counseling or therapy is a very important, very personal step. My first priority is to relate to each person, couple or family as unique. Everyone has strengths & positive qualities that can be drawn on to help make therapy a positive, enriching, and productive experience. Let's work together so you can live your best life. No matter where you've been or what you've been through or how much money you have or don't have, there's ALWAYS hope! You can get an appointment within the next 7 days. Finances should never stand between you & getting really good counseling or coaching.
(865) 285-7339 View (865) 285-7339
Photo of Michelle Portman Lcsw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Portman Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
Waitlist for new clients
My clients often are experiencing a life that feels without meaning and control. A life that is filled with chronic stress. This stress results from conflict in our relationships and multiple roles in life. At other times,this stress is residue from unresolved life events that have depleted the ability to see through a lens of love. Life then naturally becomes driven by fear. If you are seeking to learn a way to create a life that feels worth living, despite any circumstance. I can teach you the way. The majority of my clients are experiencing anxiety, anger and depression in their daily life.
My clients often are experiencing a life that feels without meaning and control. A life that is filled with chronic stress. This stress results from conflict in our relationships and multiple roles in life. At other times,this stress is residue from unresolved life events that have depleted the ability to see through a lens of love. Life then naturally becomes driven by fear. If you are seeking to learn a way to create a life that feels worth living, despite any circumstance. I can teach you the way. The majority of my clients are experiencing anxiety, anger and depression in their daily life.
(865) 269-6125 View (865) 269-6125
Photo of Dr. Amy L. Skinner, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC, ACS, KAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Amy L. Skinner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC, ACS, KAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
As a former professor who trained therapists, I have over 30 years experience working with depression and anxiety, women's issues, transition & disability issues, and resolving new & old trauma.
My helping philosophy is that everyone has within themselves the capacity for growth and healing, but they may need a skilled guide to access and improve those inner resources. I provide a safe place to help you navigate concerns from mental health and wellness management to life challenges and transitions. My therapeutic approach changes with your individual needs to promote your uniqueness as a person and your capabilities to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life. In addition to traditional therapies, I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to eligible clients. I am happy to partner with you on your wellness journey.
As a former professor who trained therapists, I have over 30 years experience working with depression and anxiety, women's issues, transition & disability issues, and resolving new & old trauma.
My helping philosophy is that everyone has within themselves the capacity for growth and healing, but they may need a skilled guide to access and improve those inner resources. I provide a safe place to help you navigate concerns from mental health and wellness management to life challenges and transitions. My therapeutic approach changes with your individual needs to promote your uniqueness as a person and your capabilities to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life. In addition to traditional therapies, I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to eligible clients. I am happy to partner with you on your wellness journey.
(865) 258-8297 View (865) 258-8297
Photo of Pamela Carpenter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
I specialize in working with issues of grief and loss, aging, trauma, life transition, and mood disorders, such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorders.
Life is filled with change. Oftentimes, we have to confront things we never expected. Sometimes, we are faced with overwhelming situations, such as loss or trauma, and we need someone to walk alongside us. But for all of us, there are times we know we want our lives to be different, but we may be unsure how to make changes. Perhaps, our moods or feelings seem to command our choices, or perhaps we just don't know what steps to take first. Therapy is an opportunity for us to pursue desired changes with the assistance that can help us achieve our goals.
I specialize in working with issues of grief and loss, aging, trauma, life transition, and mood disorders, such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorders.
Life is filled with change. Oftentimes, we have to confront things we never expected. Sometimes, we are faced with overwhelming situations, such as loss or trauma, and we need someone to walk alongside us. But for all of us, there are times we know we want our lives to be different, but we may be unsure how to make changes. Perhaps, our moods or feelings seem to command our choices, or perhaps we just don't know what steps to take first. Therapy is an opportunity for us to pursue desired changes with the assistance that can help us achieve our goals.
(865) 551-6113 View (865) 551-6113
Photo of Mark H. Barnes, PhD, Psychologist
Mark H. Barnes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
I welcome people with a wide range of life issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and general stress, as well as children and adolescents with behavioral, emotional and attentional problems. My approach is tailored to your needs and goals, but usually includes a focus on understanding how you got where you are. This kind of insight can be vitally important in figuring out a practical way to get to a better place in life. When working with kids and teens, I always involve their parents to some extent, so they can better understand and help their children.
I welcome people with a wide range of life issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and general stress, as well as children and adolescents with behavioral, emotional and attentional problems. My approach is tailored to your needs and goals, but usually includes a focus on understanding how you got where you are. This kind of insight can be vitally important in figuring out a practical way to get to a better place in life. When working with kids and teens, I always involve their parents to some extent, so they can better understand and help their children.
(865) 275-5913 View (865) 275-5913
Photo of Shannon McBride, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon McBride
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel a little anxious, depressed or restless without quite knowing why? Maybe you know your role as a mom, dad, student, professional, etc.
One of the things life has taught me is to not believe everything you think because our mind can really play tricks on us. There is hope even when you think there is none. There are solutions even when you cannot see them, because you have more power than you know.
Do you ever feel a little anxious, depressed or restless without quite knowing why? Maybe you know your role as a mom, dad, student, professional, etc.
One of the things life has taught me is to not believe everything you think because our mind can really play tricks on us. There is hope even when you think there is none. There are solutions even when you cannot see them, because you have more power than you know.
(865) 324-0783 View (865) 324-0783
Photo of Sabrina Peterson, MA, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabrina Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37803
I work with both adults and adolescents with a wide variety of mental health challenges including acute and complex trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and panic disorders, depression, Anger, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, and Schizoaffective Disorder.
Welcome to my practice! You inspire me! It takes a great deal of courage to reach out and ask for help and I admire that! Sometimes our expected life path shifts and it can feel extremely overwhelming to find our footing and get back on track to living the life we deserve. My blended therapeutic approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness can help you do just that. I strongly believe that in order to make meaningful changes in our lives, we have to get to the core beliefs (both about the self and about the world we live in) that are driving our behaviors.
I work with both adults and adolescents with a wide variety of mental health challenges including acute and complex trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and panic disorders, depression, Anger, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, and Schizoaffective Disorder.
Welcome to my practice! You inspire me! It takes a great deal of courage to reach out and ask for help and I admire that! Sometimes our expected life path shifts and it can feel extremely overwhelming to find our footing and get back on track to living the life we deserve. My blended therapeutic approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness can help you do just that. I strongly believe that in order to make meaningful changes in our lives, we have to get to the core beliefs (both about the self and about the world we live in) that are driving our behaviors.
(865) 737-2887 View (865) 737-2887
Photo of Alyssa Royce, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alyssa Royce
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
I'm really glad you're here. Finding places where we feel truly seen and heard can be challenging, especially when dealing with profound grief, managing anxiety or depression, or carrying the weight of past traumas. I'm dedicated to walking alongside you on this journey of discovery and healing. With extensive experience caring for people from all walks of life, I approach each person's challenges with deep empathy and respect. Together, we'll create a safe and nurturing space where you can find comfort and understanding, along with the tools to move forward with confidence and strength.
I'm really glad you're here. Finding places where we feel truly seen and heard can be challenging, especially when dealing with profound grief, managing anxiety or depression, or carrying the weight of past traumas. I'm dedicated to walking alongside you on this journey of discovery and healing. With extensive experience caring for people from all walks of life, I approach each person's challenges with deep empathy and respect. Together, we'll create a safe and nurturing space where you can find comfort and understanding, along with the tools to move forward with confidence and strength.
(865) 635-9334 View (865) 635-9334
Photo of Nancy C. Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy C. Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37803
Life can sometimes be filled with unexpected ups and downs or twists and turns that catch us off guard. We may feel overwhelmed or unprepared to handle these changes. Everyone needs a little help now and then. I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing for over 20 years. I have extensive experience with substance abuse/addiction, eating disorders, trauma and mood disorders ( depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar) along with issues related to grief and mild cognitive impairment and caregiving issues. I work with adults and families.
Life can sometimes be filled with unexpected ups and downs or twists and turns that catch us off guard. We may feel overwhelmed or unprepared to handle these changes. Everyone needs a little help now and then. I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing for over 20 years. I have extensive experience with substance abuse/addiction, eating disorders, trauma and mood disorders ( depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar) along with issues related to grief and mild cognitive impairment and caregiving issues. I work with adults and families.
(865) 205-0502 View (865) 205-0502
Photo of Jibby L Redfield, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jibby L Redfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I can see new clients within two days. I bring a lot of experience in depression, anxiety, personal conflicts, relationships, OCD, phobias, etc. Real and lasting changes have already happened with many of my clients! They have described me as objective, warm, and solution focused. Together we can bring you to a better place! Take that first step and call me about a free 15 minute, no commitment consultation. By the way, you might be surprised that therapy can actually be enjoyable! (-:
I can see new clients within two days. I bring a lot of experience in depression, anxiety, personal conflicts, relationships, OCD, phobias, etc. Real and lasting changes have already happened with many of my clients! They have described me as objective, warm, and solution focused. Together we can bring you to a better place! Take that first step and call me about a free 15 minute, no commitment consultation. By the way, you might be surprised that therapy can actually be enjoyable! (-:
(865) 205-8030 View (865) 205-8030
Photo of Angela L Obear, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela L Obear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with issues of grief and loss, trauma, abuse, life transition, guilt, shame, family conflict, relationship conflict, mood disorders, anxiety and depression, and codependency, etc.
The decision to come to counseling is an important step and I understand that participation in counseling is an incredibly brave act. My goal is to create a safe, comfortable space for you as we work together to find solutions, relief, and balance in your life. Through my own experiences in counseling and in counseling others, I have come to believe that hope, redemption, acceptance, and inner peace can become a part of every person's story. My approach to counseling is collaborative, holistic, and interactive.
I specialize in working with issues of grief and loss, trauma, abuse, life transition, guilt, shame, family conflict, relationship conflict, mood disorders, anxiety and depression, and codependency, etc.
The decision to come to counseling is an important step and I understand that participation in counseling is an incredibly brave act. My goal is to create a safe, comfortable space for you as we work together to find solutions, relief, and balance in your life. Through my own experiences in counseling and in counseling others, I have come to believe that hope, redemption, acceptance, and inner peace can become a part of every person's story. My approach to counseling is collaborative, holistic, and interactive.
(865) 234-3098 View (865) 234-3098
Photo of Lindsay Gunther, LMFT, LMT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsay Gunther
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMT
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37803
Now accepting new clients! Life is difficult and sometimes we need someone to walk with us through the hurt and confusion. I understand! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has a heart for coming alongside those who are hurting and providing a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients. I love working with individuals as well as couples! My goal is to make everyone feel welcome in my office. I have experience with depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, premarital, grief, family issues and more! We will work together to develop an individualized treatment plan. Christian based therapy available upon request.
Now accepting new clients! Life is difficult and sometimes we need someone to walk with us through the hurt and confusion. I understand! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has a heart for coming alongside those who are hurting and providing a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients. I love working with individuals as well as couples! My goal is to make everyone feel welcome in my office. I have experience with depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, premarital, grief, family issues and more! We will work together to develop an individualized treatment plan. Christian based therapy available upon request.
(865) 999-0368 View (865) 999-0368
Photo of Sharon Sitler, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharon Sitler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37803
In addition to trauma, I do marriage counseling, work with women's issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, codependency, career counseling as well as other areas.
I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, encouraging them and giving them hope. I believe in balanced living and looking at how issues are affecting us emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. I believe in looking at things from a Christian Worldview but work with people from all viewpoints. I used to work in the corporate world so can identify with people from all walks of life and many different life experiences. I started counseling individuals in Florida as an intern many years ago. Graduated in 1997 and am licensed both in Florida and Tennessee. My family moved to Tennessee 16 years ago, we love Tennessee.
In addition to trauma, I do marriage counseling, work with women's issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, codependency, career counseling as well as other areas.
I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, encouraging them and giving them hope. I believe in balanced living and looking at how issues are affecting us emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. I believe in looking at things from a Christian Worldview but work with people from all viewpoints. I used to work in the corporate world so can identify with people from all walks of life and many different life experiences. I started counseling individuals in Florida as an intern many years ago. Graduated in 1997 and am licensed both in Florida and Tennessee. My family moved to Tennessee 16 years ago, we love Tennessee.
(865) 409-1334 View (865) 409-1334
Photo of Shay L Groenewold, PhD, Psychologist
Shay L Groenewold
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801  (Online Only)
Making the decision to seek therapy is not an easy one, and choosing the right therapist to meet your needs can be even more daunting! As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have had the great fortune of supporting individuals from all walks of life who are working to make peace with their past, to connect with their present, and to build hope about their future. I strive to provide tailored support for my clients as they address issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, past trauma, communication issues, anger management, symptoms of serious mental illness, adjustment and decision-making issues, and relationship problems.
Making the decision to seek therapy is not an easy one, and choosing the right therapist to meet your needs can be even more daunting! As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have had the great fortune of supporting individuals from all walks of life who are working to make peace with their past, to connect with their present, and to build hope about their future. I strive to provide tailored support for my clients as they address issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, past trauma, communication issues, anger management, symptoms of serious mental illness, adjustment and decision-making issues, and relationship problems.
(865) 269-6834 View (865) 269-6834
Photo of Mekenzie Russell, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mekenzie Russell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I have worked with adolescents and adults working through grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
As a therapist, I believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are in their healing journey. Ultimately, I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing grief or other life transitions that are having trouble navigating new terrain. I also work with those who may be experiencing anxiety and depression and need assistance in creating coping skills. Additionally, I love to help men and women explore their own attachment style and work through early trauma.
I have worked with adolescents and adults working through grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
As a therapist, I believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are in their healing journey. Ultimately, I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing grief or other life transitions that are having trouble navigating new terrain. I also work with those who may be experiencing anxiety and depression and need assistance in creating coping skills. Additionally, I love to help men and women explore their own attachment style and work through early trauma.
(865) 401-6453 View (865) 401-6453
Photo of Lauren Shockley, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Shockley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I have extensive experience addressing individual concerns around anxiety, depression, self-esteem, emotion regulation, relationship issues, and more.
When you face challenges in your life, it's helpful to have support along the way. My role as a therapist is to work alongside you as a guide, not tell you what to do. Therapy sessions are a collaborative process, and they are aimed at empowering you to better understand yourself and to develop the coping skills necessary to live a more fulfilling life. Together, we will focus on your unique needs and explore meaningful changes you would like to see in your life so that you can be your most authentic self, and live a life of meaning and purpose.
I have extensive experience addressing individual concerns around anxiety, depression, self-esteem, emotion regulation, relationship issues, and more.
When you face challenges in your life, it's helpful to have support along the way. My role as a therapist is to work alongside you as a guide, not tell you what to do. Therapy sessions are a collaborative process, and they are aimed at empowering you to better understand yourself and to develop the coping skills necessary to live a more fulfilling life. Together, we will focus on your unique needs and explore meaningful changes you would like to see in your life so that you can be your most authentic self, and live a life of meaning and purpose.
(865) 419-7912 View (865) 419-7912
Photo of Shawn Helvey, LPC, MHSP, MA, WFR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shawn Helvey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA, WFR
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
I have been in private practice for over 7 years helping my clients confront the difficulties associated with depression, anxiety, drug use, trauma, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and more.
I work with men of all ages who are trying to find their path. Feeling lost, overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious in your day-to-day life can mean you are on the cusp of a life transition which can be a great opportunity. I help clients work through the areas where they struggle, whether they involve personal, school, relational, or career challenges. I believe that once you identify what you want and know what stands in your way and how to overcome it, you are more motivated to work toward your goals.
I have been in private practice for over 7 years helping my clients confront the difficulties associated with depression, anxiety, drug use, trauma, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and more.
I work with men of all ages who are trying to find their path. Feeling lost, overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious in your day-to-day life can mean you are on the cusp of a life transition which can be a great opportunity. I help clients work through the areas where they struggle, whether they involve personal, school, relational, or career challenges. I believe that once you identify what you want and know what stands in your way and how to overcome it, you are more motivated to work toward your goals.
(865) 217-1548 View (865) 217-1548
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.