Depression Therapists in Oak Ridge, TN

Photo of Rachel M Kimbrel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel M Kimbrel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830  (Online Only)
I believe a healthy mind is essential to finding peace and fulfillment in life. My goal is to help you in your journey to clarity, purpose and harmony within yourself and in your relationships. I am a therapist dedicated to supporting adult women through their healing journeys. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and depression. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
I believe a healthy mind is essential to finding peace and fulfillment in life. My goal is to help you in your journey to clarity, purpose and harmony within yourself and in your relationships. I am a therapist dedicated to supporting adult women through their healing journeys. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and depression. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs.
(865) 459-4348 View (865) 459-4348
Photo of Sandra Little, MHSP, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Little
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSP, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
I offer genuine, holistic, and creative interventions that work with a variety of issues; including but not limited to: trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, family conflict, child-parent relationships, and mood disorders.
Life throws curve balls that often knock us down, but painful and difficult experiences do not have to define you. Instead, these experiences can be a starting point to creating a more authentic, connected version of yourself. Whether you’re struggling personally, professionally or relationally, my Person-Centered and Integrative approach will provide you the tools you need to rebuild balance and regain control over your life.
I offer genuine, holistic, and creative interventions that work with a variety of issues; including but not limited to: trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, family conflict, child-parent relationships, and mood disorders.
Life throws curve balls that often knock us down, but painful and difficult experiences do not have to define you. Instead, these experiences can be a starting point to creating a more authentic, connected version of yourself. Whether you’re struggling personally, professionally or relationally, my Person-Centered and Integrative approach will provide you the tools you need to rebuild balance and regain control over your life.
(865) 401-9960 View (865) 401-9960
Photo of Mark H. Barnes, PhD, Psychologist
Mark H. Barnes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
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 Donna K Ford, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna K Ford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing grief, overwhelming stress, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, communication issues, substance use, social anxiety, difficulty at work, or have a specific problem you would like to work through, now is the time to reach out. The world today is complicated and these issues can seem to come out of no where or perhaps they have been a struggle for some time, but you don't have to go it alone. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, or learn new coping strategies, I look forward to working with you.
If you are experiencing grief, overwhelming stress, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, communication issues, substance use, social anxiety, difficulty at work, or have a specific problem you would like to work through, now is the time to reach out. The world today is complicated and these issues can seem to come out of no where or perhaps they have been a struggle for some time, but you don't have to go it alone. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, or learn new coping strategies, I look forward to working with you.
(865) 484-3764 View (865) 484-3764
Photo of Charles E Martin, PhD, Psychologist
Charles E Martin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
Martin's special areas of interest are the treatment of depression, anxiety, stress issues, anger management, and marriage/couples counseling.
Dr. Charles E. Martin is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in Knoxville, TN. He is currently accepting new patients, and both day and evening hours are available, as well as Telehealth sessions. Dr. Martin has been in practice over 40 years working with adults with a wide range of problems. Dr. Martin's treatment approach is solution-oriented. Often described as gentle and easy-going with a good sense of humor, Dr. Martin's counseling style is amiable and courteous. He understands that many people are quite anxious when they begin counseling and he makes the initial sessions comfortable.
Martin's special areas of interest are the treatment of depression, anxiety, stress issues, anger management, and marriage/couples counseling.
Dr. Charles E. Martin is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in Knoxville, TN. He is currently accepting new patients, and both day and evening hours are available, as well as Telehealth sessions. Dr. Martin has been in practice over 40 years working with adults with a wide range of problems. Dr. Martin's treatment approach is solution-oriented. Often described as gentle and easy-going with a good sense of humor, Dr. Martin's counseling style is amiable and courteous. He understands that many people are quite anxious when they begin counseling and he makes the initial sessions comfortable.
(865) 320-9901 View (865) 320-9901
Photo of Dawn M Fortich - Dawn Fortich, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Fortich, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
The process of initiating therapy can be scary. Trusting someone you don't know isn't always easy. The truth is that life is difficult. We have all experienced sadness, loss, fear, and loneliness. Therapy can help find clarity and strength. My experience is as diverse as those I serve such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, marital counseling, and PTSD. I enjoy my work and feel blessed to be a tool for God to help those who are hurting or in need of understanding. My greatest reward comes from empowering people with the confidence and tools to make a positive change.
The process of initiating therapy can be scary. Trusting someone you don't know isn't always easy. The truth is that life is difficult. We have all experienced sadness, loss, fear, and loneliness. Therapy can help find clarity and strength. My experience is as diverse as those I serve such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, marital counseling, and PTSD. I enjoy my work and feel blessed to be a tool for God to help those who are hurting or in need of understanding. My greatest reward comes from empowering people with the confidence and tools to make a positive change.
(865) 498-5001 View (865) 498-5001
Photo of Stacy Hernandez - Affinity Counseling - Stacy M Hernandez AAIT Cert., LPC, MHSP, AAIT-, Licensed Professional Counselor
Affinity Counseling - Stacy M Hernandez AAIT Cert.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, AAIT-
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
Hello! Welcome to my page! I have been in the counseling field for 21 years and I am passionate about working with female adults and adolescents struggling with depression and anxiety. To achieve relieve from anxiety and depression, I utilize a therapeutic approach called Acceptance and Integration Therapy. Being a certified AAIT (Acceptance and Integration) therapist has allowed me to help clients heal, identify goals and quickly relieve psychological suffering. Let's get together and start helping you live a better authentic life!
Hello! Welcome to my page! I have been in the counseling field for 21 years and I am passionate about working with female adults and adolescents struggling with depression and anxiety. To achieve relieve from anxiety and depression, I utilize a therapeutic approach called Acceptance and Integration Therapy. Being a certified AAIT (Acceptance and Integration) therapist has allowed me to help clients heal, identify goals and quickly relieve psychological suffering. Let's get together and start helping you live a better authentic life!
(865) 407-2290 View (865) 407-2290
Photo of Tim Sutherland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tim Sutherland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37831
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 Sara F Cawood, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara F Cawood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
births of children including post-partum depression; setting appropriate limits on children and adolescents, new marriages or relationships or life changes due to loss of partner through death or divorce, dealing with aging parents facing physical limitations.
Most people have difficulty navigating major changes at some stage of life. I treat individuals, couples and families with such developmental or adjustment difficulty or general mental health issues such as depression & anxiety. I offer counseling for marital and relationship issues either with the couple or one of the individuals if the other is resistant to couples therapy. Other frequently seen issues include dealing with loss of partner or friend or family member due to death or divorce, and the problems associated with work or school stress.
births of children including post-partum depression; setting appropriate limits on children and adolescents, new marriages or relationships or life changes due to loss of partner through death or divorce, dealing with aging parents facing physical limitations.
Most people have difficulty navigating major changes at some stage of life. I treat individuals, couples and families with such developmental or adjustment difficulty or general mental health issues such as depression & anxiety. I offer counseling for marital and relationship issues either with the couple or one of the individuals if the other is resistant to couples therapy. Other frequently seen issues include dealing with loss of partner or friend or family member due to death or divorce, and the problems associated with work or school stress.
(865) 229-1278 View (865) 229-1278
Photo of Lindsay Gunther, LMFT, LMT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsay Gunther
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMT
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
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 Emily Ezell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Ezell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
I work with teens and adults, and my specialties include trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Update: I am currently on maternity leave until mid-December! - I am passionate about providing a safe and welcoming space for people to receive support and heal. I care deeply about meeting clients where they are and tailoring sessions to their specific needs. In my work with clients, I strive to create a space in which we can become curious about patterns that are no longer working, and how they might have developed in the first place. I help people develop more effective ways of coping, and I support them in changing the ways they relate to themselves and others.
I work with teens and adults, and my specialties include trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Update: I am currently on maternity leave until mid-December! - I am passionate about providing a safe and welcoming space for people to receive support and heal. I care deeply about meeting clients where they are and tailoring sessions to their specific needs. In my work with clients, I strive to create a space in which we can become curious about patterns that are no longer working, and how they might have developed in the first place. I help people develop more effective ways of coping, and I support them in changing the ways they relate to themselves and others.
(931) 345-3719 View (931) 345-3719
Photo of Leigh Ann Stephens, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Ann Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in working with children, youth, adults as well as families. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California, specializing in children, youth and families. I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues as well as life adjustments. I have experience and training in working with trauma and ADHD. I enjoy being able to practice from a Christian platform, but also respect and honor other religions and beliefs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in working with children, youth, adults as well as families. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California, specializing in children, youth and families. I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues as well as life adjustments. I have experience and training in working with trauma and ADHD. I enjoy being able to practice from a Christian platform, but also respect and honor other religions and beliefs.
(865) 234-3127 View (865) 234-3127
Photo of Jibby L Redfield, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jibby L Redfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
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 Sabrina Peterson, MA, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabrina Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37831
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 Shannon McBride, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon McBride
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830  (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 Shawn Bissell Roach, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shawn Bissell Roach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
I address substance abuse/use issues, the affect on the family, and I treat depression and anxiety symptoms.
I have been in the field of social work for twenty-two years providing psychotherapy for adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Counseling can be a difficult process in which vulnerabilities and pain are often exposed. I provide a safe, nurturing, non-judgmental environment making the client as comfortable as possible to explore this process and address concerns. My goal is to provide safe and healthy coping mechanisms as well as a clearer understanding of the issues presented.
I address substance abuse/use issues, the affect on the family, and I treat depression and anxiety symptoms.
I have been in the field of social work for twenty-two years providing psychotherapy for adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Counseling can be a difficult process in which vulnerabilities and pain are often exposed. I provide a safe, nurturing, non-judgmental environment making the client as comfortable as possible to explore this process and address concerns. My goal is to provide safe and healthy coping mechanisms as well as a clearer understanding of the issues presented.
(865) 312-6884 x4 View (865) 312-6884 x4
Photo of Dr. Samantha A Hutton-Metheney, MA, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Samantha A Hutton-Metheney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
Waitlist for new clients
Hypnotherapy resolves anxiety, and depression quickly.
I believe that clients have the innate ability to heal through accessing their innermost selves. Each client is traveling their own personal, interpersonal, and spiritual path and I act as a guide to help facilitate and co- create healing and wholeness. Through healing old wounds, past traumas, and solving relationship conflicts, I aspire to help individuals, couples, and families reach their highest potentials to aid in having richer and more fulfilling lives. My approach is Transpersonal, which means that I look beyond the ego into the spiritual to encourage wholeness in each client.
Hypnotherapy resolves anxiety, and depression quickly.
I believe that clients have the innate ability to heal through accessing their innermost selves. Each client is traveling their own personal, interpersonal, and spiritual path and I act as a guide to help facilitate and co- create healing and wholeness. Through healing old wounds, past traumas, and solving relationship conflicts, I aspire to help individuals, couples, and families reach their highest potentials to aid in having richer and more fulfilling lives. My approach is Transpersonal, which means that I look beyond the ego into the spiritual to encourage wholeness in each client.
(865) 730-4209 View (865) 730-4209
Photo of William A. Macgillivray, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
William A. Macgillivray
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
My specialty is neurobiofeedback, a treatment that can help train the brain to respond differently to stress, anxiety, and other clinical problems from attention deficit disorder, to depression, to sleep problems, and more.
Many people seek therapy because they want answers to their problems, for example, a diagnosis, a treatment plan, etc. It can be enormously helpful to have an understanding of one's problems and coping patterns. The initial phase of any treatment is to develop a clear understanding of the problem and possible interventions, including behavioral and lifestyle changes, etc. At the same time, change is rarely the product of finding a specific intervention, but is often the process of finding better questions. People grow and change through relationships; and psychotherapy is a special kind of relationship that facilitates this process.
My specialty is neurobiofeedback, a treatment that can help train the brain to respond differently to stress, anxiety, and other clinical problems from attention deficit disorder, to depression, to sleep problems, and more.
Many people seek therapy because they want answers to their problems, for example, a diagnosis, a treatment plan, etc. It can be enormously helpful to have an understanding of one's problems and coping patterns. The initial phase of any treatment is to develop a clear understanding of the problem and possible interventions, including behavioral and lifestyle changes, etc. At the same time, change is rarely the product of finding a specific intervention, but is often the process of finding better questions. People grow and change through relationships; and psychotherapy is a special kind of relationship that facilitates this process.
(865) 316-6858 View (865) 316-6858
Photo of Ronald Richard Brown, PhD, Psychologist
Ronald Richard Brown
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
All of the clients, of which I am honored to see, are ideal. These are clients struggling and/challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Grief or Loss, Pre-Marital, Marital and Divorce concerns, Parenting Skills Training, Christian Counseling, and Sports Psychology are also services provided.
All of the clients, of which I am honored to see, are ideal. These are clients struggling and/challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Grief or Loss, Pre-Marital, Marital and Divorce concerns, Parenting Skills Training, Christian Counseling, and Sports Psychology are also services provided.
(865) 329-6249 View (865) 329-6249
Photo of Belinda Leventhal, LCSW, PhD, LPC, MAC, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Belinda Leventhal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, LPC, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830  (Online Only)
Dr. Leventhal's goal is to assist others to achieve their goals for therapy. Anxiety, depression, grief and loss, whatever your personal circumstance- life is often complicated and sometimes difficult. She enjoys working with clients who are seeking to improve their current circumstances, whatever they may be, and to see their own true potential. She is openminded, compassionate, empathic, and very personable.
Dr. Leventhal's goal is to assist others to achieve their goals for therapy. Anxiety, depression, grief and loss, whatever your personal circumstance- life is often complicated and sometimes difficult. She enjoys working with clients who are seeking to improve their current circumstances, whatever they may be, and to see their own true potential. She is openminded, compassionate, empathic, and very personable.
(865) 205-7368 View (865) 205-7368
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.