Photo of Vanessa Pierre-Parker, MA, LMFT, TF-CBT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Pierre-Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my specializations include issues relating to day-to-day stressors, childhood trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression; pre-marital/post-marital counseling, conflict/infidelity; Intimate Partner Violence (IPV); families challenged with multi-generational conflict, blended families and parenting.
I believe when clients have a safe place with genuine understanding and free of judgement, they are able to be their true selves and do their best work. With support and some guidance, clients have the opportunity to rediscover their strengths, build self-awareness and experience true connection which can lead to a life of purpose and fulfillment. I believe if you are willing, you have the ability to take action and kindle the fire inside of you to kick-start the changes you want to see in your life. I am passionate about helping to empower you to achieve your goals by bringing hope and possibility through psychotherapy.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my specializations include issues relating to day-to-day stressors, childhood trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression; pre-marital/post-marital counseling, conflict/infidelity; Intimate Partner Violence (IPV); families challenged with multi-generational conflict, blended families and parenting.
I believe when clients have a safe place with genuine understanding and free of judgement, they are able to be their true selves and do their best work. With support and some guidance, clients have the opportunity to rediscover their strengths, build self-awareness and experience true connection which can lead to a life of purpose and fulfillment. I believe if you are willing, you have the ability to take action and kindle the fire inside of you to kick-start the changes you want to see in your life. I am passionate about helping to empower you to achieve your goals by bringing hope and possibility through psychotherapy.
(704) 461-0541 View (704) 461-0541
Photo of Christa R Campbell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christa R Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216
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 Tennyson Dodd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tennyson Dodd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relational difficulties, I may be able to help you work through this distress. At some point in life, many people find themselves striving to understand and integrate difficult events or areas of their lives. Having a clinician to talk with can help you heal, adapt, and grow.
If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relational difficulties, I may be able to help you work through this distress. At some point in life, many people find themselves striving to understand and integrate difficult events or areas of their lives. Having a clinician to talk with can help you heal, adapt, and grow.
(615) 285-5549 View (615) 285-5549
Photo of Jason Hancock, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Hancock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
My areas of special clinical interest include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and addictions including sex and pornography.
Weakness. Shame. Fear. Pain. Stigma. Just thinking about seeing a therapist can bring up these emotions for individuals or couples struggling with addictions, relationship or parenting issues, caregiving, abuse, infidelity… Thank goodness times are changing, mental health is being prioritized, and it's OK to not be OK. If you're struggling, help is available. I am fully-licensed, with a Masters' Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Lipscomb University. I'd love to talk with you. I offer sessions in-person or via telehealth. Call me at 615-414-6210.
My areas of special clinical interest include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and addictions including sex and pornography.
Weakness. Shame. Fear. Pain. Stigma. Just thinking about seeing a therapist can bring up these emotions for individuals or couples struggling with addictions, relationship or parenting issues, caregiving, abuse, infidelity… Thank goodness times are changing, mental health is being prioritized, and it's OK to not be OK. If you're struggling, help is available. I am fully-licensed, with a Masters' Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Lipscomb University. I'd love to talk with you. I offer sessions in-person or via telehealth. Call me at 615-414-6210.
(615) 751-6163 View (615) 751-6163
Photo of J. Gregory Briggs - The Briggs Institute, Inc.
The Briggs Institute, Inc.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
“How can I make things better?” Whether you’re managing mental health issues like anxiety or depression or existing in a dissatisfying relationship, you’ve probably asked yourself many versions of this question. If you’re willing to work hard and are open to making changes, know that you have every reason to believe you can enjoy a healthier and happier life. Our purpose is to help our clients know what changes they may need to make in order to reach their goals. We are eager to serve and look forward to working with you.
“How can I make things better?” Whether you’re managing mental health issues like anxiety or depression or existing in a dissatisfying relationship, you’ve probably asked yourself many versions of this question. If you’re willing to work hard and are open to making changes, know that you have every reason to believe you can enjoy a healthier and happier life. Our purpose is to help our clients know what changes they may need to make in order to reach their goals. We are eager to serve and look forward to working with you.
(615) 593-3999 View (615) 593-3999
Photo of Shelly Louise Steel - Shelly Steel, LMFT, MMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelly Steel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
My focus includes depression, anxiety and grief for which I use Brainspotting, EMDR and CBT interventions.
I am a Certified Grief Educator , trained by David Kessler. I was honored to be contracted by the TV show "THE DOCTORS" to work with one of their case studies. I have completed Levels 1-3 of Gottman Training for couples. I practice eclectic therapy styles to meet clients within their comfort zone. My trauma therapy techniques include EMDR and Brainspotting. I have been in practice since 2009. I love what I do so I am a big believer in continuous trainings that will make me the best that I can be.
My focus includes depression, anxiety and grief for which I use Brainspotting, EMDR and CBT interventions.
I am a Certified Grief Educator , trained by David Kessler. I was honored to be contracted by the TV show "THE DOCTORS" to work with one of their case studies. I have completed Levels 1-3 of Gottman Training for couples. I practice eclectic therapy styles to meet clients within their comfort zone. My trauma therapy techniques include EMDR and Brainspotting. I have been in practice since 2009. I love what I do so I am a big believer in continuous trainings that will make me the best that I can be.
(615) 538-5449 View (615) 538-5449
Photo of Day Wall, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Day Wall
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37216
Seeking help is a courageous step in many of our lives and I am honored to be given the opportunity to share in the journey of healing with my clients. I work with individuals, couples, and families to provide counseling on a wide variety of life issues. I have experience helping clients work through depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, grief, divorce, marital issues, job satisfaction, and family conflict.
Seeking help is a courageous step in many of our lives and I am honored to be given the opportunity to share in the journey of healing with my clients. I work with individuals, couples, and families to provide counseling on a wide variety of life issues. I have experience helping clients work through depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, grief, divorce, marital issues, job satisfaction, and family conflict.
(615) 610-1383 View (615) 610-1383
Photo of Claire Mosteller, Pre-Licensed Professional
Claire Mosteller
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
Helping others is my nature and making a difference in someone’s life is my passion. I believe the best way to do that is to provide people the skills to help themselves grow through self-acceptance and personal development. I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, and life transitions. I am particularly interested in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I believe, “Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.” - Brené Brown
Helping others is my nature and making a difference in someone’s life is my passion. I believe the best way to do that is to provide people the skills to help themselves grow through self-acceptance and personal development. I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, and life transitions. I am particularly interested in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I believe, “Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.” - Brené Brown
(615) 258-6978 View (615) 258-6978
Photo of Karen B Roberts - KBR Serenity Mind, Body Practice  , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
KBR Serenity Mind, Body Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37206  (Online Only)
I have a diverse range of experience in working with those who have been exposed to trauma, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Greetings! I'm Karen Roberts, a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience in working with individuals, families, and groups in community. In therapy, my approach is to meet you where you are on your journey and collaborate towards achieving your goals. By envisioning what changes you desire in your life, you have already taken the first step. Perhaps you aim to be more vibrant, energetic, decisive, and purposeful. Imagine the possibilities if you could tap into these qualities. What would your life look like and how would you feel?
I have a diverse range of experience in working with those who have been exposed to trauma, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Greetings! I'm Karen Roberts, a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience in working with individuals, families, and groups in community. In therapy, my approach is to meet you where you are on your journey and collaborate towards achieving your goals. By envisioning what changes you desire in your life, you have already taken the first step. Perhaps you aim to be more vibrant, energetic, decisive, and purposeful. Imagine the possibilities if you could tap into these qualities. What would your life look like and how would you feel?
(615) 492-3396 View (615) 492-3396
Photo of Sessions M - Sessions Psychology, MS, LPC, MHSP, NCC, CET-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sessions Psychology
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, NCC, CET-II
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37216
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 Madison Fisher, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Madison Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209
Are you exhausted by racing thoughts? Are you longing for space to process your emotions and thoughts without fear of judgment? Are nervous and on edge, but you don't know why? I work with individuals and groups experiencing anxiety, depression, family concerns, maternal mental health challenges, parenting challenges, grief and loss, trauma, relationship challenges, existential concerns, and life transitions.
Are you exhausted by racing thoughts? Are you longing for space to process your emotions and thoughts without fear of judgment? Are nervous and on edge, but you don't know why? I work with individuals and groups experiencing anxiety, depression, family concerns, maternal mental health challenges, parenting challenges, grief and loss, trauma, relationship challenges, existential concerns, and life transitions.
(615) 552-0519 View (615) 552-0519
Photo of Amanda Laughlin - Exhale Family Therapy and Wellness, PC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Exhale Family Therapy and Wellness, PC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37206
I help individuals, couples, and families who are seeking support with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, or find themselves in challenging seasons of life due to change or transition.
I help individuals, couples, and families who are seeking support with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, or find themselves in challenging seasons of life due to change or transition.
(615) 326-6505 View (615) 326-6505
Photo of Jon Nemcek, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jon Nemcek
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
My areas of special clinical interest include marriage and health, research-informed clinical practice, couple conflict, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at The Briggs Institute, Inc. The therapists at the Institute are graduates of Lipscomb University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program. As the only COAMFTE accredited program in Nashville, the Lipscomb MFT program has earned its fine reputation by meeting the highest academic and clinical experience standards in the country. Because we practice under the supervision of the Lipscomb MFT program core faculty, we remain connected to academia. This means our work is informed by state-of-the-art scientific research that most private practice therapists can't easily access.
My areas of special clinical interest include marriage and health, research-informed clinical practice, couple conflict, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at The Briggs Institute, Inc. The therapists at the Institute are graduates of Lipscomb University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program. As the only COAMFTE accredited program in Nashville, the Lipscomb MFT program has earned its fine reputation by meeting the highest academic and clinical experience standards in the country. Because we practice under the supervision of the Lipscomb MFT program core faculty, we remain connected to academia. This means our work is informed by state-of-the-art scientific research that most private practice therapists can't easily access.
(615) 205-0423 View (615) 205-0423
Photo of Sarah Dowdy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Dowdy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215  (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 Jazzmin Cohen Psyd, MA, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Jazzmin Cohen Psyd
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples on various issues. Some of the specific areas I excel at are with clients looking to conquer life's obstacles caused by trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. During our time together, I will create a supportive environment and assist you in establishing goals and skills needed to achieve your desired lifestyle.
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples on various issues. Some of the specific areas I excel at are with clients looking to conquer life's obstacles caused by trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. During our time together, I will create a supportive environment and assist you in establishing goals and skills needed to achieve your desired lifestyle.
(615) 909-2384 View (615) 909-2384
Photo of Rebecca Pearce, PsyD, Psychologist
Rebecca Pearce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
I help people with anxiety (worry or panic), depression, grief, trauma, and trouble with eating patterns or body image. I help people who find themselves in a different world due to divorce, estrangement, coming out, or relocation. I also help those visited by the ongoing impact of another's addiction or of caring for a loved one who is sick. Whether in the midst of turbulence or motivated to reclaim your strength, you're in the right place to benefit from therapy.
I help people with anxiety (worry or panic), depression, grief, trauma, and trouble with eating patterns or body image. I help people who find themselves in a different world due to divorce, estrangement, coming out, or relocation. I also help those visited by the ongoing impact of another's addiction or of caring for a loved one who is sick. Whether in the midst of turbulence or motivated to reclaim your strength, you're in the right place to benefit from therapy.
(615) 454-9212 View (615) 454-9212
Photo of Stephanie Bashirian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Bashirian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
I welcome the opportunity to work with clients on whatever they might bring to therapy, though my areas of focus include couple therapy, life transitions, recovery from emotionally immature systems, attachment, adult survivors of childhood trauma (emotional, religious, sexual), spiritual/existential distress, issues of shame/self-worth, anxiety & depression.
My goal as your therapist is to create a relationship that you can use for your own growth. While I only practice evidence-based treatments informed by the latest research, I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Therapy is an art as much as a science, one that is meant to honor your unique story and specific goals. Together we will explore your inner world and identify the beliefs and patterns that are keeping you from experiencing your life in the healthiest, most fulfilling, and most meaningful ways.
I welcome the opportunity to work with clients on whatever they might bring to therapy, though my areas of focus include couple therapy, life transitions, recovery from emotionally immature systems, attachment, adult survivors of childhood trauma (emotional, religious, sexual), spiritual/existential distress, issues of shame/self-worth, anxiety & depression.
My goal as your therapist is to create a relationship that you can use for your own growth. While I only practice evidence-based treatments informed by the latest research, I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Therapy is an art as much as a science, one that is meant to honor your unique story and specific goals. Together we will explore your inner world and identify the beliefs and patterns that are keeping you from experiencing your life in the healthiest, most fulfilling, and most meaningful ways.
(615) 455-2490 View (615) 455-2490
Photo of Lori Petrie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Petrie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
As an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I’ve worked in both out-patient and in-patient settings with issues related to relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and school and workplace concerns.
Understanding your inner most self and your relationships is a profound journey toward discovery and introspection that is possible for most everyone. For some, the decision to enter therapy is made after many challenging attempts to resolve specific issues on their own. Others seek therapy to gain insight and greater awareness of family and relational patterns that are keeping them from realizing the life they’d hoped for. I believe in a person's innate ability to find meaningful change and growth in their lives. Sometimes we just need a little help getting there.
As an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I’ve worked in both out-patient and in-patient settings with issues related to relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and school and workplace concerns.
Understanding your inner most self and your relationships is a profound journey toward discovery and introspection that is possible for most everyone. For some, the decision to enter therapy is made after many challenging attempts to resolve specific issues on their own. Others seek therapy to gain insight and greater awareness of family and relational patterns that are keeping them from realizing the life they’d hoped for. I believe in a person's innate ability to find meaningful change and growth in their lives. Sometimes we just need a little help getting there.
(629) 276-5672 View (629) 276-5672
Photo of Kaitlyn King, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaitlyn King
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
I am particularly passionate about working systemically (with both internal and external systems) to support my clients in healing from spiritual trauma, navigating LGBTQ+ related issues, relational conflict, anxiety, and depression.
We all experience some combination of painful experiences and traumas just by making our way through life, and these experiences can lead you to construct a story of yourself that is anything but empowering. My goal is to mirror your strengths and your worth back to you— to remind you of the truth, despite what your parents, partners, friends, church, and society have told you. Through a creative, holistic blend of art and talk therapy, I support my clients (individuals, families and couples) to integrate mind, body and spirit in service of deeper healing, connection, and personal + collective growth.
I am particularly passionate about working systemically (with both internal and external systems) to support my clients in healing from spiritual trauma, navigating LGBTQ+ related issues, relational conflict, anxiety, and depression.
We all experience some combination of painful experiences and traumas just by making our way through life, and these experiences can lead you to construct a story of yourself that is anything but empowering. My goal is to mirror your strengths and your worth back to you— to remind you of the truth, despite what your parents, partners, friends, church, and society have told you. Through a creative, holistic blend of art and talk therapy, I support my clients (individuals, families and couples) to integrate mind, body and spirit in service of deeper healing, connection, and personal + collective growth.
(615) 205-7485 View (615) 205-7485
Photo of Aubrey Holden, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aubrey Holden
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I work well with clients who are struggling with self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Client goals I work well with include processing trauma, alleviating depression and/or anxiety, processing and/or exploring one’s identity, and improving self-confidence. I also have experience working with, and a deep passion for, members of the LGBTQIA+ community. It is an honor to be an affirming and safe space for this community.
I work well with clients who are struggling with self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Client goals I work well with include processing trauma, alleviating depression and/or anxiety, processing and/or exploring one’s identity, and improving self-confidence. I also have experience working with, and a deep passion for, members of the LGBTQIA+ community. It is an honor to be an affirming and safe space for this community.
(615) 909-5254 View (615) 909-5254
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.