Depression Therapists in Ripley, TN

Photo of Leigh Ann Lehmann - Leigh Ann Lehmann, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Ann Lehmann, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ripley, TN 38063
I specialize in EMDR therapy, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, stress, and ADHD management, as well as anger and behavior management.
There are moments in our lives that can be tiring and overwhelming. However, you do not have to face these challenges all by yourself. I am committed to working with individuals who are going through tough times; I am here to guide you through this period. My aim is to help you grow by tapping into your inner strengths and abilities while also helping you acquire new skills to cope with the difficulties that life may throw your way.
I specialize in EMDR therapy, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, stress, and ADHD management, as well as anger and behavior management.
There are moments in our lives that can be tiring and overwhelming. However, you do not have to face these challenges all by yourself. I am committed to working with individuals who are going through tough times; I am here to guide you through this period. My aim is to help you grow by tapping into your inner strengths and abilities while also helping you acquire new skills to cope with the difficulties that life may throw your way.
(731) 207-8886 View (731) 207-8886
Photo of Patricia Heath, LPC-MHS, NCC, Counselor
Patricia Heath
Counselor, LPC-MHS, NCC
Verified Verified
Ripley, TN 38063
I have over 25 years experience working with various issues such as depression, anxiety, abuse, life issues, marital/family, spiritual or substance abuse.
It is never too late to change your life. Life can be hard and we all need help sometimes. Now is the time to change your life and invest in a healthier, happier you. I would be honored to help you change your life for a more positive tomorrow. I think everyone deserves to live their best life. I work to get to the root cause of the issue so you can have more permanent and deeper healing. A healthier you is the most important investment of time, energy and finances that you could make. You deserve positive relationships and to live a healthy life.
I have over 25 years experience working with various issues such as depression, anxiety, abuse, life issues, marital/family, spiritual or substance abuse.
It is never too late to change your life. Life can be hard and we all need help sometimes. Now is the time to change your life and invest in a healthier, happier you. I would be honored to help you change your life for a more positive tomorrow. I think everyone deserves to live their best life. I work to get to the root cause of the issue so you can have more permanent and deeper healing. A healthier you is the most important investment of time, energy and finances that you could make. You deserve positive relationships and to live a healthy life.
(731) 431-7728 View (731) 431-7728
Photo of James R Coffman, ThM, DMin, LMFT, LPC, (MHSP), Licensed Professional Counselor
James R Coffman
Licensed Professional Counselor, ThM, DMin, LMFT, LPC, (MHSP)
Verified Verified
Ripley, TN 38063
I am a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Therapist who is also licensed as a Professional Counselor (Mental Health Service Provider) and as a Marital and Family Therapist. I have worked with diverse populations of individuals, couples and families for 30 years--as an executive director and therapist in medical settings, in two pastoral counseling centers, and now in an independent practice. With families I am committed to helping them address the challenges of staying connected and in communication.. With individuals I seek to understand barriers to healthy intentions, the failures one feels, and I become an active ally to change one's unhappy direction..
I am a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Therapist who is also licensed as a Professional Counselor (Mental Health Service Provider) and as a Marital and Family Therapist. I have worked with diverse populations of individuals, couples and families for 30 years--as an executive director and therapist in medical settings, in two pastoral counseling centers, and now in an independent practice. With families I am committed to helping them address the challenges of staying connected and in communication.. With individuals I seek to understand barriers to healthy intentions, the failures one feels, and I become an active ally to change one's unhappy direction..
(731) 612-8544 View (731) 612-8544
Photo of Sarah Newman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ripley, TN 38063
Not accepting new clients
Ever felt like you were trying to face the world and all the obstacles alone? Ever feel like you don't have all the tools to help you manage your emotions, thoughts or actions? I love to help you on journey of gaining new coping skills, working through life's many stressors and gaining control over your thoughts, feelings, behaviors. I have experience in treating issues such as Anxiety, Depression, Stress, ADHD, Self-Esteem, Suicidal ideations, Behavioral Issues, Trauma, and a wide variety of other concerns.
Ever felt like you were trying to face the world and all the obstacles alone? Ever feel like you don't have all the tools to help you manage your emotions, thoughts or actions? I love to help you on journey of gaining new coping skills, working through life's many stressors and gaining control over your thoughts, feelings, behaviors. I have experience in treating issues such as Anxiety, Depression, Stress, ADHD, Self-Esteem, Suicidal ideations, Behavioral Issues, Trauma, and a wide variety of other concerns.
(731) 200-1413 View (731) 200-1413

Online Therapists

Photo of Asia Swopshire, MS, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Asia Swopshire
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104  (Online Only)
To the ones who struggle to love themselves because the voice in their head keeps telling them not to. To the adults who carry the scars of a rough childhood and the shame that comes with it. To the ones who seem like they have it all together, but are hiding their struggles with anxiety and depression behind a joke and smile. To the ones who were never taught how to deal with grief, anger, sadness, or fear and are coping the best way they know how. To the ones who were disowned or rejected by families or friends for who you love, who you are, or what you believe. I see your strength, I see your pain, and I see your courage.
To the ones who struggle to love themselves because the voice in their head keeps telling them not to. To the adults who carry the scars of a rough childhood and the shame that comes with it. To the ones who seem like they have it all together, but are hiding their struggles with anxiety and depression behind a joke and smile. To the ones who were never taught how to deal with grief, anger, sadness, or fear and are coping the best way they know how. To the ones who were disowned or rejected by families or friends for who you love, who you are, or what you believe. I see your strength, I see your pain, and I see your courage.
View
Photo of Dr. Pamela Schumaker, EdD , Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Pamela Schumaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD
Verified Verified
Paris, TN 38242  (Online Only)
I believe that there is no single treatment approach for everyone; therefore, I consider myself eclectic and together we will tailor an individualized treatment plan to fit your specific need/s. My educational background includes a BA in psychology, an MA in professional counseling, and a doctorate with a focus on trauma and counseling. I specialize in treating PTSD, anxiety, depression and life stressors.
I believe that there is no single treatment approach for everyone; therefore, I consider myself eclectic and together we will tailor an individualized treatment plan to fit your specific need/s. My educational background includes a BA in psychology, an MA in professional counseling, and a doctorate with a focus on trauma and counseling. I specialize in treating PTSD, anxiety, depression and life stressors.
(731) 361-8121 View (731) 361-8121
Photo of Michelle Renae Robinson, LCSW, CEAP, LSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Renae Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP, LSSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119  (Online Only)
I focus mainly on addressing life related issues in my practice such as: Relationship Conflicts, Codependency, Divorce, Grief and Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Stress issues, and evaluation/referral.
I enjoy working with all age groups. However, I particularly enjoy working with both men and women on their individualized issues. I also enjoy working with teens who are at the experimental stages of Alcohol and Drug issues. I have a Family Therapy background and Outpatient Mental Health, as well as over 15 years of providing EAP Counseling services, which is more Brief/Solution Focus Therapy. I love working with people helping them to reach a healthy emotional and mental state of being!! Let’s work together so that you can be happy and comfortable living in the present moment.
I focus mainly on addressing life related issues in my practice such as: Relationship Conflicts, Codependency, Divorce, Grief and Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Stress issues, and evaluation/referral.
I enjoy working with all age groups. However, I particularly enjoy working with both men and women on their individualized issues. I also enjoy working with teens who are at the experimental stages of Alcohol and Drug issues. I have a Family Therapy background and Outpatient Mental Health, as well as over 15 years of providing EAP Counseling services, which is more Brief/Solution Focus Therapy. I love working with people helping them to reach a healthy emotional and mental state of being!! Let’s work together so that you can be happy and comfortable living in the present moment.
(901) 450-5994 View (901) 450-5994
Photo of Jason Holtgrewe, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Holtgrewe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38119
I work with adults, teenagers, and pre-teens (10+) with anxiety, depression, anger, grief, abuse and trauma, relationship difficulties, and religious harm.
I seek to help my clients learn how to embrace vulnerability as a means to healing, become aware of their emotions and inner thoughts to connect with themselves and others, and trust that the love they deserve is the kind given without conditions.
I work with adults, teenagers, and pre-teens (10+) with anxiety, depression, anger, grief, abuse and trauma, relationship difficulties, and religious harm.
I seek to help my clients learn how to embrace vulnerability as a means to healing, become aware of their emotions and inner thoughts to connect with themselves and others, and trust that the love they deserve is the kind given without conditions.
(901) 479-0854 View (901) 479-0854
Photo of Matthew C. Myatt, MS, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew C. Myatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Collierville, TN 38017  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
depression, or life stressors, know that you don't have to go through it alone.
I specialize in helping adult individuals overcome addiction, anxiety, trauma, depression, stress, and phase of life issues. I understand that life can present many challenges, and it's not always easy to navigate them on your own. That's why I'm here to offer support and guidance. I utilize a combination of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to help my clients achieve their goals and improve their overall well-being.
depression, or life stressors, know that you don't have to go through it alone.
I specialize in helping adult individuals overcome addiction, anxiety, trauma, depression, stress, and phase of life issues. I understand that life can present many challenges, and it's not always easy to navigate them on your own. That's why I'm here to offer support and guidance. I utilize a combination of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to help my clients achieve their goals and improve their overall well-being.
(901) 457-1248 View (901) 457-1248
Photo of Marie Blunt, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marie Blunt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38138  (Online Only)
Also, I have extensive experience working with clients affected by depression, emotional regulation issues, self-harm behaviors, attachment issues, relationship issues, substance use, and trauma.
Children and adolescents are faced with stress and trauma in ways that challenge their support systems beyond the norms of the past. Finding additional support through therapy can be the relief needed for both the child and those around them. As a therapist, I strive to provide a safe, supportive environment where children can be heard and collaborate to process stress and learn practical, age-appropriate life and coping skills. Children are inherently resilient and can be positioned to grow into all they can become with the proper support and tools. It is my passion to help brighten the future of children or adolescents in need.
Also, I have extensive experience working with clients affected by depression, emotional regulation issues, self-harm behaviors, attachment issues, relationship issues, substance use, and trauma.
Children and adolescents are faced with stress and trauma in ways that challenge their support systems beyond the norms of the past. Finding additional support through therapy can be the relief needed for both the child and those around them. As a therapist, I strive to provide a safe, supportive environment where children can be heard and collaborate to process stress and learn practical, age-appropriate life and coping skills. Children are inherently resilient and can be positioned to grow into all they can become with the proper support and tools. It is my passion to help brighten the future of children or adolescents in need.
(901) 586-0978 View (901) 586-0978
Photo of Dr. Kristy Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Kristy Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cordova, TN 38018
I have over 5 years of experience working with adolescents and adults experiencing a plethora of mental health issues related to traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, life changes/aging process, and day-to-day challenges.
It is easy to become overwhelmed with daily hassles and unexpected stressors. Life can be challenging and the stress can be hard to manage at times. You have taken the first step to gain control of your worries and add joy and fulfillment to your life. I can help you explore ways to minimize stress, decrease depressive symptoms, and find a healthy balance in life.
I have over 5 years of experience working with adolescents and adults experiencing a plethora of mental health issues related to traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, life changes/aging process, and day-to-day challenges.
It is easy to become overwhelmed with daily hassles and unexpected stressors. Life can be challenging and the stress can be hard to manage at times. You have taken the first step to gain control of your worries and add joy and fulfillment to your life. I can help you explore ways to minimize stress, decrease depressive symptoms, and find a healthy balance in life.
(901) 459-2295 View (901) 459-2295
Photo of Elnora Peters, LPC, NCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elnora Peters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117  (Online Only)
You may be going through a major shift in your life and have reached a breaking point. The good news is that you no longer have to figure it out by yourself. Elnora is a skilled and empathetic psychotherapist, whose desire is to help individuals overcome anxiety and depression, grief/loss, life transitions, and family and marital/relationship discord.
You may be going through a major shift in your life and have reached a breaking point. The good news is that you no longer have to figure it out by yourself. Elnora is a skilled and empathetic psychotherapist, whose desire is to help individuals overcome anxiety and depression, grief/loss, life transitions, and family and marital/relationship discord.
(901) 329-3662 View (901) 329-3662
Photo of Dr. Naricia Futrell, DSW, LCSW, TCYM-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Naricia Futrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, TCYM-C
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
We specialize in treating a variety of concerns including, but not limited to; depression, anxiety, relationship/marital concerns, personality disorders, trauma/abuse, substance use issues, anger and stress management, parenting concerns and those who desire personal growth.
Hi! My name is Dr. NaRicia Futrell I am a psychotherapist/licensed clinical social worker who has been practicing as a therapist for greater than 15 yrs. I currently hold a doctorate in social work and hold an LCSW in TN, MS AR, and TX and am certified in the trauma conscious yoga method. In assisting individuals we at Gihon, utilize wholistic approaches while working to empower individuals to find and utilize their own strengths in working through problems and managing their emotions. Also, check out my book Red Flag Diaries on Amazon or at Barnes and Noble and learn about attachment styles and intimacy.
We specialize in treating a variety of concerns including, but not limited to; depression, anxiety, relationship/marital concerns, personality disorders, trauma/abuse, substance use issues, anger and stress management, parenting concerns and those who desire personal growth.
Hi! My name is Dr. NaRicia Futrell I am a psychotherapist/licensed clinical social worker who has been practicing as a therapist for greater than 15 yrs. I currently hold a doctorate in social work and hold an LCSW in TN, MS AR, and TX and am certified in the trauma conscious yoga method. In assisting individuals we at Gihon, utilize wholistic approaches while working to empower individuals to find and utilize their own strengths in working through problems and managing their emotions. Also, check out my book Red Flag Diaries on Amazon or at Barnes and Noble and learn about attachment styles and intimacy.
(901) 209-5381 View (901) 209-5381
Photo of Shelonda Phillips-McDonald, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelonda Phillips-McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38120
I enjoy working with clients of all ages who need help navigating this obstacle course we call life when it presents with such problems as depression, anxiety, anger, behavior problems, grief, stress, relational conflicts, and traumatic events.
Have you acknowledged that you have a problem and are now seeking help? When you talk to family or friends, do you feel like you are not being heard? I believe that the first step in the healing process for any issue is to be "heard" and have someone to listen to you. I provide a safe place for individuals, families, parents, and couples to speak and begin the healing process. My goal is to provide a warm, nurturing, accepting environment that meets the client where they are at.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages who need help navigating this obstacle course we call life when it presents with such problems as depression, anxiety, anger, behavior problems, grief, stress, relational conflicts, and traumatic events.
Have you acknowledged that you have a problem and are now seeking help? When you talk to family or friends, do you feel like you are not being heard? I believe that the first step in the healing process for any issue is to be "heard" and have someone to listen to you. I provide a safe place for individuals, families, parents, and couples to speak and begin the healing process. My goal is to provide a warm, nurturing, accepting environment that meets the client where they are at.
(901) 617-4573 View (901) 617-4573
Photo of Beth Hand, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Hand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38116  (Online Only)
I have over 30 years of experience in therapy. I'm licensed in both Mississippi & Tennessee; and I see individual adults virtually, statewide. Telehealth is an amazing & convenient resource! Counseling is provided for depression, anxiety, & other life stressors. Many people have personal struggles with: grief, relationship problems, difficulty with communication, divorce, childhood & adult traumas, social issues, health issues, and job/school performance. Pregnancy, adoption, parenting, or becoming a caregiver for an elderly or ill family member can also be overwhelming.
I have over 30 years of experience in therapy. I'm licensed in both Mississippi & Tennessee; and I see individual adults virtually, statewide. Telehealth is an amazing & convenient resource! Counseling is provided for depression, anxiety, & other life stressors. Many people have personal struggles with: grief, relationship problems, difficulty with communication, divorce, childhood & adult traumas, social issues, health issues, and job/school performance. Pregnancy, adoption, parenting, or becoming a caregiver for an elderly or ill family member can also be overwhelming.
(662) 214-8991 View (662) 214-8991
Photo of Caroline Schratz Lovett, LPC, MHSP, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline Schratz Lovett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
I am a holistic integrative wellness practitioner. I specialize in helping clients struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I particularly love helping those individuals who may be struggling with low self-esteem and self-worth. I enjoy guiding my clients to identify their own strengths and unlock the hidden potential that each of us possesses. I love working with individuals who are ready for change but are in need of some extrinsic motivation and guidance. For those parents who are looking for assistance for their children, I have extensive experience working with all ages, ranging from 4 to 18 years old.
I am a holistic integrative wellness practitioner. I specialize in helping clients struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I particularly love helping those individuals who may be struggling with low self-esteem and self-worth. I enjoy guiding my clients to identify their own strengths and unlock the hidden potential that each of us possesses. I love working with individuals who are ready for change but are in need of some extrinsic motivation and guidance. For those parents who are looking for assistance for their children, I have extensive experience working with all ages, ranging from 4 to 18 years old.
(901) 460-2969 View (901) 460-2969
Photo of Christopher Montanaro, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Montanaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38119  (Online Only)
Together, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. As a professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve a greater level of well-being and fulfillment in their lives. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based techniques and strategies, I work collaboratively with clients to address a wide range of concerns. I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals facing a wide range of challenges, from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, low self-esteem, job issues, divorce, family dysfunction, anger issues and more.
Together, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. As a professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve a greater level of well-being and fulfillment in their lives. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based techniques and strategies, I work collaboratively with clients to address a wide range of concerns. I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals facing a wide range of challenges, from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, low self-esteem, job issues, divorce, family dysfunction, anger issues and more.
(865) 253-8857 View (865) 253-8857
Photo of Lekichia Franklin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lekichia Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Medon, TN 38356
I have over 8 years experience in therapy with my specialty being in trauma, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, substance abuse, history of suicidal thoughts, and self harming.
Are you currently experiencing anxiety, depression, low self esteem, or have a history trauma? Are you needing someone to walk with you through this difficult time in your life?
I have over 8 years experience in therapy with my specialty being in trauma, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, substance abuse, history of suicidal thoughts, and self harming.
Are you currently experiencing anxiety, depression, low self esteem, or have a history trauma? Are you needing someone to walk with you through this difficult time in your life?
(731) 497-0889 View (731) 497-0889
Photo of Candace R Eubanks - Renew Counseling, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renew Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paris, TN 38242
Are you stuck? Tired of white knuckling? Every person has a story. Your story is important. Life shapes who you are through your story but it does not define who you are. You don't have to deal with pain, confusion, adjustment, and transitions in life alone. I can assist you in addressing depression, anxiety, relational issues, adjusting to life changes, family conflict, grief, addiction and many other human experiences. The best therapy outcomes result from treating the entire person: Mind, Body and Spirit.
Are you stuck? Tired of white knuckling? Every person has a story. Your story is important. Life shapes who you are through your story but it does not define who you are. You don't have to deal with pain, confusion, adjustment, and transitions in life alone. I can assist you in addressing depression, anxiety, relational issues, adjusting to life changes, family conflict, grief, addiction and many other human experiences. The best therapy outcomes result from treating the entire person: Mind, Body and Spirit.
(731) 393-4420 View (731) 393-4420
Photo of Mahdee Rasul, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mahdee Rasul
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
I have a profound dedication to fostering growth within the youth as well as uplifting adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and other personal concerns such as the need for self-enlightenment, lack of interpersonal skills, and major life transitions.
In tandum with my role at Navigating Courage Counseling & Consultation, my best clients would be individuals age 16+ who are seeking therapy to process issues related to addictions, life transitions, identity conflicts, depression, anxiety, and/or ADHD.
I have a profound dedication to fostering growth within the youth as well as uplifting adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and other personal concerns such as the need for self-enlightenment, lack of interpersonal skills, and major life transitions.
In tandum with my role at Navigating Courage Counseling & Consultation, my best clients would be individuals age 16+ who are seeking therapy to process issues related to addictions, life transitions, identity conflicts, depression, anxiety, and/or ADHD.
(901) 665-2170 View (901) 665-2170
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.