Depression Therapists in Mount Juliet, TN

Photo of Ashley Bigham-Hendricks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Bigham-Hendricks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
If you're struggling with the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, or family dysfunction, I would love to connect with you.
Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. After working closely with people in the mental health field for the past 7 years, I've learned that we all need support at times. I enjoy working with people of all ages to identify their triggers, process their trauma, and learn healthy coping skills and boundaries. I also love family work where I can help people navigate challenges and improve their relationships. My favorite clients are the ones that come into counseling with curiosity about their past and and a desire for growth and healing.
If you're struggling with the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, or family dysfunction, I would love to connect with you.
Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. After working closely with people in the mental health field for the past 7 years, I've learned that we all need support at times. I enjoy working with people of all ages to identify their triggers, process their trauma, and learn healthy coping skills and boundaries. I also love family work where I can help people navigate challenges and improve their relationships. My favorite clients are the ones that come into counseling with curiosity about their past and and a desire for growth and healing.
(629) 276-9612 View (629) 276-9612
Photo of Debbie Robinson, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debbie Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, co-dependency, and relationships are high on the list of significant issues for people seeking counseling; and I specialize in these areas.
Our experiences, both positive and negative, shape who we are, but we don't have to stay stuck where we are. I believe that the opportunity for significant change occurs in healthy relationships; and that healthy relationships are built on trust, mutual respect, and cooperation. In my practice, I seek to create an environment that allows a healthy therapeutic relationship to develop, which can then be a model that my patients can apply to their relationships outside of the therapeutic environment. If you choose to see me as your therapist, you can expect empathy, compassion, respect, and professionalism.
Grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, co-dependency, and relationships are high on the list of significant issues for people seeking counseling; and I specialize in these areas.
Our experiences, both positive and negative, shape who we are, but we don't have to stay stuck where we are. I believe that the opportunity for significant change occurs in healthy relationships; and that healthy relationships are built on trust, mutual respect, and cooperation. In my practice, I seek to create an environment that allows a healthy therapeutic relationship to develop, which can then be a model that my patients can apply to their relationships outside of the therapeutic environment. If you choose to see me as your therapist, you can expect empathy, compassion, respect, and professionalism.
(615) 240-2936 View (615) 240-2936
Photo of Christine Wolf, MMFT, MedFT, CKAP
Christine Wolf
MMFT, MedFT, CKAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I have worked with a diverse population infant-older adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, substance use, sexual abuse, and trauma.
As a Temp-Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist I meet people where they are, find their own intention for therapy, & guide them through their interpersonal relationships, thoughts, and feelings. I work from an evidence-based Collaborative/Narrative Strength Based Approach to understand the patient’s perspective and help empower them to understand their mental health through neurophysiological psychoeducation, assessments, and build coping skills for everyday life stressors. I see patients with chronic illness, depression, anxiety, Trauma (PTSD, Complex), relationship distress/conflict. I work with individuals, couples, and families.
I have worked with a diverse population infant-older adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, substance use, sexual abuse, and trauma.
As a Temp-Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist I meet people where they are, find their own intention for therapy, & guide them through their interpersonal relationships, thoughts, and feelings. I work from an evidence-based Collaborative/Narrative Strength Based Approach to understand the patient’s perspective and help empower them to understand their mental health through neurophysiological psychoeducation, assessments, and build coping skills for everyday life stressors. I see patients with chronic illness, depression, anxiety, Trauma (PTSD, Complex), relationship distress/conflict. I work with individuals, couples, and families.
(615) 845-5951 View (615) 845-5951
Photo of Philip Alms, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Philip Alms
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Are you tired of feeling stuck or alone in the grief, depression, or anxiety you’re experiencing? Do you feel that your life is lacking value or purpose? I started TELOS Counseling to be a safe space to discover healing where you are, reorient your life towards what matters most to you, and move forward into the fulfillment found in being able to fully live your life again. Text or Email me today for a FREE 15 minute consultation.
Are you tired of feeling stuck or alone in the grief, depression, or anxiety you’re experiencing? Do you feel that your life is lacking value or purpose? I started TELOS Counseling to be a safe space to discover healing where you are, reorient your life towards what matters most to you, and move forward into the fulfillment found in being able to fully live your life again. Text or Email me today for a FREE 15 minute consultation.
(615) 208-5353 View (615) 208-5353
Photo of Dr. Andy Killingsworth, EdD, LPCMHSP, MAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Andy Killingsworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPCMHSP, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
With over 27 yrs of experience, I have learned that healing and change is a process that is unique to each individual. In counseling, we will walk this journey together by identifying, exploring, and working through your experiences and challenges. Whether you experience depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, behavioral addictions, trauma, extreme stress, etc., we will explore ways to manage thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and sensations associated with your life circumstances. Collaboratively, we will develop and identify unique coping strategies to help increase the likelihood that you live the life that you want to live.
With over 27 yrs of experience, I have learned that healing and change is a process that is unique to each individual. In counseling, we will walk this journey together by identifying, exploring, and working through your experiences and challenges. Whether you experience depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, behavioral addictions, trauma, extreme stress, etc., we will explore ways to manage thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and sensations associated with your life circumstances. Collaboratively, we will develop and identify unique coping strategies to help increase the likelihood that you live the life that you want to live.
(719) 625-2361 View (719) 625-2361
Photo of Kristin Cuzzourt, LPC-MHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Cuzzourt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Kristin works with clients struggling with anxiety and depression, mood disorders, substance abuse and addiction, ADHD, and trauma.
Kristin Cuzzourt, LPC-MHSP Kristin Cuzzourt is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University, a Massage Therapy Certificate from Lexington Healing Arts Academy, and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Georgia. Kristin believes all humans have inner strengths and abilities; but sometimes life causes us to lose belief in ourselves. This can show up as anxiety, depression, stress and feeling overwhelmed, or just feeling lost or stuck.
Kristin works with clients struggling with anxiety and depression, mood disorders, substance abuse and addiction, ADHD, and trauma.
Kristin Cuzzourt, LPC-MHSP Kristin Cuzzourt is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University, a Massage Therapy Certificate from Lexington Healing Arts Academy, and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Georgia. Kristin believes all humans have inner strengths and abilities; but sometimes life causes us to lose belief in ourselves. This can show up as anxiety, depression, stress and feeling overwhelmed, or just feeling lost or stuck.
(615) 205-0570 View (615) 205-0570
Photo of Carlita Harrington, MS, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carlita Harrington
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
My specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), covering issues related to career counseling, coping skills, life transitions, relationship issues, stress management, marital and premarital counseling, and suicidal ideation.
One of my favorite quotes is “Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken”. I believe who we are meant to be is rooted and shaped by our life experiences. I’m Carlita Harrington a Florida native who’s a master’s level Clinical Mental health counselor with a specialization in Military Families & Culture. I received my bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Communications from Tennessee State University and served in the United States Navy for eight years. I take a Rogerian approach to counseling also known as person centered, which is rooted in “helping people find their own best way”.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), covering issues related to career counseling, coping skills, life transitions, relationship issues, stress management, marital and premarital counseling, and suicidal ideation.
One of my favorite quotes is “Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken”. I believe who we are meant to be is rooted and shaped by our life experiences. I’m Carlita Harrington a Florida native who’s a master’s level Clinical Mental health counselor with a specialization in Military Families & Culture. I received my bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Communications from Tennessee State University and served in the United States Navy for eight years. I take a Rogerian approach to counseling also known as person centered, which is rooted in “helping people find their own best way”.
(615) 282-5604 View (615) 282-5604
Photo of Nicholas Foreman, MFT,  AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicholas Foreman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, AMFT
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Nicholas Foreman is a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist who holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Tennessee State University and a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Trevecca Nazarene University. With a compassionate and evidence-based approach, Nicholas is committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. Nicholas has extensive experience in addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, life transitions, and trauma.
Nicholas Foreman is a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist who holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Tennessee State University and a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Trevecca Nazarene University. With a compassionate and evidence-based approach, Nicholas is committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. Nicholas has extensive experience in addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, life transitions, and trauma.
(629) 468-3516 View (629) 468-3516
Photo of Erika R. Mitchell, EPT, LIIFT, IKYTA, CPT
Erika R. Mitchell
EPT, LIIFT, IKYTA, CPT
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I've helped everyone from adults, children, and teenagers dealing with health issues like anxiety and depression, trauma, stress management, & relationship issues.
Now Accepting New Clients! Every single one of us faces challenges in our individual "inside world". Those challenges cause us to struggle even more with the challenges of the outside world... but you don't have to face those challenges alone. I offer a safe place and a unique and natural healing approach to help you heal and gain more peace in your life.
I've helped everyone from adults, children, and teenagers dealing with health issues like anxiety and depression, trauma, stress management, & relationship issues.
Now Accepting New Clients! Every single one of us faces challenges in our individual "inside world". Those challenges cause us to struggle even more with the challenges of the outside world... but you don't have to face those challenges alone. I offer a safe place and a unique and natural healing approach to help you heal and gain more peace in your life.
(615) 285-3905 View (615) 285-3905
Photo of Nichole Bacigalupa, LPC, LPCMHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nichole Bacigalupa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
" I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief and loss, as well as life transitions and relationship issues.
I believe that everyone has the ability to live a life they love, a life of joy and purpose. You are as unique as your story and your experiences. It can be challenging when we feel someone else might not understand all we’ve gone through. I understand the leap it takes to seek out help and work to make that process a bit easier. I want to give you the opportunity to live your best life, to find your path, and feel the relief you are looking for. Whether it is to learn more about yourself, work through a current struggle or relationship issue, or feel better about things, I am here to work and walk alongside you.
" I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief and loss, as well as life transitions and relationship issues.
I believe that everyone has the ability to live a life they love, a life of joy and purpose. You are as unique as your story and your experiences. It can be challenging when we feel someone else might not understand all we’ve gone through. I understand the leap it takes to seek out help and work to make that process a bit easier. I want to give you the opportunity to live your best life, to find your path, and feel the relief you are looking for. Whether it is to learn more about yourself, work through a current struggle or relationship issue, or feel better about things, I am here to work and walk alongside you.
(615) 805-6631 View (615) 805-6631
Photo of Mary Anne Byrnes - Mary Anne Byrnes, BSW, LMFT, BSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Anne Byrnes, BSW, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, BSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I provide therapy for ages 12+. LEARN from yesterday! LIVE for today! HOPE for tomorrow! I strive to create a laid back atmosphere that is non-judgmental and safe to explore clients' deepest feelings. Normalizing and validating struggles that clients need to explore to find EMPOWERMENT for HOPE and RELIEF. I most enjoy working with any relationship including parent/child relationships. I also work most often with topics such as depression, anxiety, couples' issues, life transitions, teenagers, young adults, family of origin issues, victims of narcissistic abuse, and attachment issues. 17 years of experience. EMDR trained.
I provide therapy for ages 12+. LEARN from yesterday! LIVE for today! HOPE for tomorrow! I strive to create a laid back atmosphere that is non-judgmental and safe to explore clients' deepest feelings. Normalizing and validating struggles that clients need to explore to find EMPOWERMENT for HOPE and RELIEF. I most enjoy working with any relationship including parent/child relationships. I also work most often with topics such as depression, anxiety, couples' issues, life transitions, teenagers, young adults, family of origin issues, victims of narcissistic abuse, and attachment issues. 17 years of experience. EMDR trained.
(615) 823-7699 View (615) 823-7699
Photo of Caroline Horton, LPC, MHSP(T), Pre-Licensed Professional
Caroline Horton
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP(T)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
I have a sweet spot (experience + passion!) for helping women ages 16 + heal from anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.
Accepting new clients! One of the most beautiful things about being human is our ability to change. Yet, from observation (and personal experience!), I know how easy it is to feel stuck in destructive thoughts and behaviors. The good news is that you do not have to remain in a pit; it is possible to live a more hopeful, healthful, and whole life. As a counselor, I can equip you with tools for getting out of your head or out of the “funk.” We can work together to move through your pain and to restore hope for your future. I also have a background in matters of spirituality and am happy to integrate faith into sessions if desired.
I have a sweet spot (experience + passion!) for helping women ages 16 + heal from anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.
Accepting new clients! One of the most beautiful things about being human is our ability to change. Yet, from observation (and personal experience!), I know how easy it is to feel stuck in destructive thoughts and behaviors. The good news is that you do not have to remain in a pit; it is possible to live a more hopeful, healthful, and whole life. As a counselor, I can equip you with tools for getting out of your head or out of the “funk.” We can work together to move through your pain and to restore hope for your future. I also have a background in matters of spirituality and am happy to integrate faith into sessions if desired.
(615) 437-6302 View (615) 437-6302
Photo of Jennifer Michelle Dozier, PhD, LADAC, LPC-MHS, SAP, QCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Michelle Dozier
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LADAC, LPC-MHS, SAP, QCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
We all carry the weight of past experiences, and I’m here to guide you toward becoming the best version of yourself. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction, there is a path forward. I know many have tried other therapies before, but my specialized training in Brainspotting has made a profound difference for my clients. Healing trauma can be challenging, but there is hope. Life is too precious to spend it feeling stuck, and you don’t have to go through it alone. If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out—I’m here to help.
We all carry the weight of past experiences, and I’m here to guide you toward becoming the best version of yourself. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction, there is a path forward. I know many have tried other therapies before, but my specialized training in Brainspotting has made a profound difference for my clients. Healing trauma can be challenging, but there is hope. Life is too precious to spend it feeling stuck, and you don’t have to go through it alone. If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out—I’m here to help.
(615) 558-4285 View (615) 558-4285
Photo of Laura Hart, PhD, LTT, CDVC, Pastoral Counselor
Laura Hart
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LTT, CDVC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I have been in the counseling ministry for over 30 years. I am dedicated to assist families and individuals within the community who may suffer with anxiety, depression, or anger, and are looking for ways to find peace, healing, and resolve conflict. I can help you with mindfulness exercises, create new communication skills, how to learn to improve emotional intelligence and gain spiritual well-being. I also have a desire to work with those who may be suffering with grief or loneliness to find joy and peace.
I have been in the counseling ministry for over 30 years. I am dedicated to assist families and individuals within the community who may suffer with anxiety, depression, or anger, and are looking for ways to find peace, healing, and resolve conflict. I can help you with mindfulness exercises, create new communication skills, how to learn to improve emotional intelligence and gain spiritual well-being. I also have a desire to work with those who may be suffering with grief or loneliness to find joy and peace.
(615) 866-2485 View (615) 866-2485
Photo of April Bowen Harrison, LSPE, HSP
April Bowen Harrison
LSPE, HSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I enjoy working with a variety of ages and have a passion for helping others with anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues (including postpartum), adjustment to life changes, and stress management. My approach includes cognitive-behavioral methods, EMDR, and mindfulness along with support and laughter.
I enjoy working with a variety of ages and have a passion for helping others with anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues (including postpartum), adjustment to life changes, and stress management. My approach includes cognitive-behavioral methods, EMDR, and mindfulness along with support and laughter.
(615) 510-1440 View (615) 510-1440
Photo of Chantel D Baker, LPC, MHSP, temp, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chantel D Baker
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, temp
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
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 Andréa McInnis, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andréa McInnis
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37121
I am passionate about working with clients on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and life transitions.
Welcome! I believe that everyone deserves a listening ear to tell their story to and have an advocate for when things get hard. I aim to offer a non-judgmental, safe environment for all who seek counseling. I enjoy partnering with clients in understanding their experiences, healing negative belief systems, and living empowered lives. I am able to provide services for individuals of all races and genders. I am dedicated to providing clients with a supportive environment where therapy sessions are collaborative, engaging and tailored to the individuals unique needs.
I am passionate about working with clients on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and life transitions.
Welcome! I believe that everyone deserves a listening ear to tell their story to and have an advocate for when things get hard. I aim to offer a non-judgmental, safe environment for all who seek counseling. I enjoy partnering with clients in understanding their experiences, healing negative belief systems, and living empowered lives. I am able to provide services for individuals of all races and genders. I am dedicated to providing clients with a supportive environment where therapy sessions are collaborative, engaging and tailored to the individuals unique needs.
(615) 805-6192 View (615) 805-6192
Photo of Sarah Dowdy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Dowdy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
Some areas of interest include women's issues, depression/anxiety, domestic violence, trauma, life's transitions, addiction and narcissistic abuse.
Trauma shatters the illusion of invincibility, but in that vulnerability lies the seeds of strength.” – Jayneen Sanders Hello! My name is Sarah and I would love to get the chance to provide a safe relationship that would give you the space for personal growth and healing. I am here to help you at the pace that fits your needs. You are the expert in your own life and everyone deserves happiness.
Some areas of interest include women's issues, depression/anxiety, domestic violence, trauma, life's transitions, addiction and narcissistic abuse.
Trauma shatters the illusion of invincibility, but in that vulnerability lies the seeds of strength.” – Jayneen Sanders Hello! My name is Sarah and I would love to get the chance to provide a safe relationship that would give you the space for personal growth and healing. I am here to help you at the pace that fits your needs. You are the expert in your own life and everyone deserves happiness.
(615) 375-4759 View (615) 375-4759
Photo of Kim Stroud Hendrick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Stroud Hendrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I am grateful that you are considering counseling and viewing my personal page. I have over 26 years of clinical experience working with people that have felt like you may be feeling. Are you are feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, stressed, or unfulfilled? Does the joy of life seem hard to achieve? Are you just existing and not living? There is hope through the process of counseling. Life can at times feel difficult, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. You are not alone; together we can find solutions. I would love the opportunity to work with you. I look forward to helping you get your first appointment scheduled.
I am grateful that you are considering counseling and viewing my personal page. I have over 26 years of clinical experience working with people that have felt like you may be feeling. Are you are feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, stressed, or unfulfilled? Does the joy of life seem hard to achieve? Are you just existing and not living? There is hope through the process of counseling. Life can at times feel difficult, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. You are not alone; together we can find solutions. I would love the opportunity to work with you. I look forward to helping you get your first appointment scheduled.
(615) 819-5947 View (615) 819-5947
Photo of Frank C Batson - Nashville BrainCore Therapy, DC
Nashville BrainCore Therapy
DC
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Nashville BrainCore provides a unique, drugless, painless, noninvasive approach to treating brainwave dysregulation associated with symptoms of many neurological-based conditions like Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Memory Loss, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Panic Attacks, Autism, Post-Stroke, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Traumatic Brain Injury (e.g. Concussions), and many more. The relaxing and therapeutic treatment involves our Neurofeedback Practitioner, first, identifying the brainwave dysregulation with a noninvasive and painless brainwave analysis, and then determining a proper treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.
Nashville BrainCore provides a unique, drugless, painless, noninvasive approach to treating brainwave dysregulation associated with symptoms of many neurological-based conditions like Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Memory Loss, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Panic Attacks, Autism, Post-Stroke, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Traumatic Brain Injury (e.g. Concussions), and many more. The relaxing and therapeutic treatment involves our Neurofeedback Practitioner, first, identifying the brainwave dysregulation with a noninvasive and painless brainwave analysis, and then determining a proper treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.
(615) 374-7125 View (615) 374-7125
1

See more therapy options for Mount Juliet

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.