Therapists in Unionville, TN
I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, child and adolescent behaviors, alcohol and drug, working with those on probation, self-esteem, and men's and women's issues.
"I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept. " Life changes can be difficult and some people need help working through those changes. Therapy takes courage and it takes courage to take that first step. Together we will work on changes you want to make in your life. Together we can help you work on having a life worth living and finding the changes that you want in your life. I will work with you on defining problems, discussing how these have impacted your life, setting goals, and making accomplishments.
I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, child and adolescent behaviors, alcohol and drug, working with those on probation, self-esteem, and men's and women's issues.
"I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept. " Life changes can be difficult and some people need help working through those changes. Therapy takes courage and it takes courage to take that first step. Together we will work on changes you want to make in your life. Together we can help you work on having a life worth living and finding the changes that you want in your life. I will work with you on defining problems, discussing how these have impacted your life, setting goals, and making accomplishments.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Lisa L Frady, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb7b269-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, children, families and couples who face domestic violence, co-dependency, depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ, parenting, loss/grief, divorce, anger management, family dysfunction, blending families, and military life style/reintegration.
Many therapists like myself venture into the mental health field motivated by their own experiences. Growing up in a family that struggled with addictions, grief/loss, co-dependency, violence and dysfunction, I existed in life feeling lonely, worthless, and empty for too many years. I turned my life upside down and reconstructed my life based upon me as I was truly created. Living life whole, as a spiritually connected being, brought me to love, accept and respect myself. In this place LIFE IS GOOD! I know the path that leads to this place.
I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, children, families and couples who face domestic violence, co-dependency, depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ, parenting, loss/grief, divorce, anger management, family dysfunction, blending families, and military life style/reintegration.
Many therapists like myself venture into the mental health field motivated by their own experiences. Growing up in a family that struggled with addictions, grief/loss, co-dependency, violence and dysfunction, I existed in life feeling lonely, worthless, and empty for too many years. I turned my life upside down and reconstructed my life based upon me as I was truly created. Living life whole, as a spiritually connected being, brought me to love, accept and respect myself. In this place LIFE IS GOOD! I know the path that leads to this place.
![Photo of Tamara Boone, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12be10df-92b8-415f-a296-8a05efed033c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tamara Boone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37040
I presently have an interest in working with individuals of all age groups that struggle with anxiety, depression, anger management, personality disorders, trauma, self-esteem, LGBTQ, and family/couples counseling to name a few.
Giving up on a goal because of a setback is like slashing your other three tires because you have a flat; I live by this quote because it is so simplistic yet speaks volumes. I feel that in life you will always have setbacks, but that is essential to understanding that it is a process but that it is your process that we will work through together in a strong therapeutic relationship.
I presently have an interest in working with individuals of all age groups that struggle with anxiety, depression, anger management, personality disorders, trauma, self-esteem, LGBTQ, and family/couples counseling to name a few.
Giving up on a goal because of a setback is like slashing your other three tires because you have a flat; I live by this quote because it is so simplistic yet speaks volumes. I feel that in life you will always have setbacks, but that is essential to understanding that it is a process but that it is your process that we will work through together in a strong therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Jazzmin Cohen Psyd, MA, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3858f6f-190d-4c9b-9392-ad853fe6ea0d/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jason Pawlik, LPC, MHSP, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fe60cea-4da8-4728-8f5a-ef7cf1350300/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jason Pawlik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Immediate availability-I work collaboratively with my clients to identify specific therapeutic goals that fit the individual’s lifestyle. I am very compassionate about helping people with addictions, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, relational conflicts, and behavioral problems. I understand that it can be difficult to make the time in a busy schedule for self-care. That is why I also offer virtual counseling sessions for all of my clients in addition to traditional face to face counseling.
Immediate availability-I work collaboratively with my clients to identify specific therapeutic goals that fit the individual’s lifestyle. I am very compassionate about helping people with addictions, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, relational conflicts, and behavioral problems. I understand that it can be difficult to make the time in a busy schedule for self-care. That is why I also offer virtual counseling sessions for all of my clients in addition to traditional face to face counseling.
![Photo of Rachael A Benson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f83928f2-ba99-49aa-b02c-92375ae6e1ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachael A Benson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37419
From challenging relationships to severe depression, there is no problem too big or too small to bring to therapy.
I am in the practice of helping people understand themselves and find pathways towards healing and success. Therefore, I have the honor of meeting you just as you are and seeing a glimpse of your inner world, what shaped you, and molded you into a complex individual and being. My desire is to understand where you have come from and where you would like to go. Through understanding we can begin the work of creating a path toward deeper reflection, healing and thriving.
From challenging relationships to severe depression, there is no problem too big or too small to bring to therapy.
I am in the practice of helping people understand themselves and find pathways towards healing and success. Therefore, I have the honor of meeting you just as you are and seeing a glimpse of your inner world, what shaped you, and molded you into a complex individual and being. My desire is to understand where you have come from and where you would like to go. Through understanding we can begin the work of creating a path toward deeper reflection, healing and thriving.
![Photo of Sara Deyoung, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a016555-d726-4edb-809e-14d04da5de53/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Deyoung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
I have been a clinical social worker for approximately 15 years and I feel honored that my clients share their stories, their dreams and their goals with me. I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds. I tend to work more with depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I would love to discuss with you more about your specific needs.
I have been a clinical social worker for approximately 15 years and I feel honored that my clients share their stories, their dreams and their goals with me. I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds. I tend to work more with depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I would love to discuss with you more about your specific needs.
![Photo of Kevin Khye, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c413f1cd-4756-49eb-8366-f5348ba21576/2/320x400.png)
Hi! I'm Kevin- your mindful therapist for the LGBTQIA+ community, trauma survivors, and those battling the twists and turns of anxiety and depression. I think of therapy like gardening. Taming the overgrowth of ignored emotions, tending to the roots of your experiences, and pruning away what no longer serves you. I am here to support you as you hone your green thumb for personal growth. It takes work and sometimes is uncomfortable. But thankfully discomfort leads to growth. Together, we'll meet that discomfort in a different way to cultivate an inner landscape where you can flourish.
Hi! I'm Kevin- your mindful therapist for the LGBTQIA+ community, trauma survivors, and those battling the twists and turns of anxiety and depression. I think of therapy like gardening. Taming the overgrowth of ignored emotions, tending to the roots of your experiences, and pruning away what no longer serves you. I am here to support you as you hone your green thumb for personal growth. It takes work and sometimes is uncomfortable. But thankfully discomfort leads to growth. Together, we'll meet that discomfort in a different way to cultivate an inner landscape where you can flourish.
![Photo of Rachel Hammons, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aecc9267-715a-4f4d-81c2-9945752970ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in OCD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and gender dysphoria/identity exploration.
It’s taken me a long time to write this because I desperately wanted my bio to communicate my heart for counseling, people, and the work that I do, but I also feel that words fall short when you’re trying to communicate something so intimate. First of all, you are brave for taking a step toward deeper healing, and I am honored that you might consider me as a support alongside you in your journey. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling or your 10th time, I hope to encourage and help empower you in your fight to become who you want to be. Whatever next step you decide to take, I hope the best for you.
I specialize in OCD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and gender dysphoria/identity exploration.
It’s taken me a long time to write this because I desperately wanted my bio to communicate my heart for counseling, people, and the work that I do, but I also feel that words fall short when you’re trying to communicate something so intimate. First of all, you are brave for taking a step toward deeper healing, and I am honored that you might consider me as a support alongside you in your journey. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling or your 10th time, I hope to encourage and help empower you in your fight to become who you want to be. Whatever next step you decide to take, I hope the best for you.
![Photo of Dr. Eboni N Webb - The Village of Kairos, PsyD, HSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6108430-f78e-4b93-8fbd-7fbe720d3b8b/1/320x400.png)
Trauma and other developmental wounds often show up as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and a variety of diagnoses. At The Village of Kairos, our therapists are master-doctoral practitioners specializing in trauma-focused therapies and interventions so that our clients find hope, help, and how-to's in order to build a life worth living.
Trauma and other developmental wounds often show up as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and a variety of diagnoses. At The Village of Kairos, our therapists are master-doctoral practitioners specializing in trauma-focused therapies and interventions so that our clients find hope, help, and how-to's in order to build a life worth living.
![Photo of Brandie Jones, MMFT, MBA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52c3f2a9-79e8-4dc6-8a10-8dec67a48be0/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you're feeling stagnant, depressed, anxious, or just need a fresh start, counseling may be just what you need. I practice from a humanistic approach, considering the whole person. I am also trained in Prepare/Enrich for couples seeking premarital therapy, Brainspotting to assist in processing trauma, and Gottman Couple Techniques to assist couples in relationship issues. If you are ready to put in the work, I'm certain we can find the best approach to assist you in reaching your goals.
If you're feeling stagnant, depressed, anxious, or just need a fresh start, counseling may be just what you need. I practice from a humanistic approach, considering the whole person. I am also trained in Prepare/Enrich for couples seeking premarital therapy, Brainspotting to assist in processing trauma, and Gottman Couple Techniques to assist couples in relationship issues. If you are ready to put in the work, I'm certain we can find the best approach to assist you in reaching your goals.
![Photo of Jami Hughes - Lake Behavioral Health , MSSW, LCSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db25bd58-4b9f-4a54-a8f1-c55bb35c1e42/1/320x400.png)
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, chronic mental health conditions, psychotropic medication management, trauma work, relationship issues, life adjustment issues and aging, substance use treatment, and medication assisted treatment for opioid dependence and alcohol abuse.
Each patient’s experiences and background are different, and we strive to provide individualized and evidenced based therapy and medication management for those seeking help at Lake Behavioral Health. We offer a variety of treatment modalities with the ultimate goal of fostering successful outcome for every person.
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, chronic mental health conditions, psychotropic medication management, trauma work, relationship issues, life adjustment issues and aging, substance use treatment, and medication assisted treatment for opioid dependence and alcohol abuse.
Each patient’s experiences and background are different, and we strive to provide individualized and evidenced based therapy and medication management for those seeking help at Lake Behavioral Health. We offer a variety of treatment modalities with the ultimate goal of fostering successful outcome for every person.
![Photo of Dr. D. Lee McGahey, EdD, LPC, NCC, CISD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6757cfc1-c7c6-427a-b065-1f3d5bf6af8e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. D. Lee McGahey
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, CISD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37214
Throughout my life, I have walked through so many areas: addiction, anxiety, depression, esteem issues, grief and loss, gender identity, infidelity in relationships, self-doubt and self-sabotage.
Hey there, most of my patients just call me "Doc" to keep it simple. My specialty areas include anxiety, relationship issues for couples, PTSD, & gastric bypass evaluations. Listen, life does not have to hurt ALL the time, & it is way too short to STAY unhappy & overwhelmed. You have the power to take back control of your life, job, family, & future. Rome, as great a city as it was in its prime, was not built in a day; it took time & a "plan". Together, we can develop a "plan" to get to the greatness inside you. Success is achievable; you just need the right coach. Call or email today & let me help you.
Throughout my life, I have walked through so many areas: addiction, anxiety, depression, esteem issues, grief and loss, gender identity, infidelity in relationships, self-doubt and self-sabotage.
Hey there, most of my patients just call me "Doc" to keep it simple. My specialty areas include anxiety, relationship issues for couples, PTSD, & gastric bypass evaluations. Listen, life does not have to hurt ALL the time, & it is way too short to STAY unhappy & overwhelmed. You have the power to take back control of your life, job, family, & future. Rome, as great a city as it was in its prime, was not built in a day; it took time & a "plan". Together, we can develop a "plan" to get to the greatness inside you. Success is achievable; you just need the right coach. Call or email today & let me help you.
![Photo of Matt Mills, MEd, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e4b2446-8824-4f04-95b0-c6c82f6a0a4e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matt Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Waitlist for new clients
I offer individual and family therapy for adolescents to adults, the LGBTQ+ population, men, folks with depression, and anxiety.
If you’re wrestling with anger, sadness, or anxiety, you are not alone. Perhaps your personal or professional life suffers as a result. Lost in our minds, we struggle with how to manage tough emotions and how to find small joys. Together, we will work to recapture your control, passion for life, and take steps towards growth -- helping you to be fully present for self and others. Through in person or telehealth sessions, I’m here to offer reflection and support.
I offer individual and family therapy for adolescents to adults, the LGBTQ+ population, men, folks with depression, and anxiety.
If you’re wrestling with anger, sadness, or anxiety, you are not alone. Perhaps your personal or professional life suffers as a result. Lost in our minds, we struggle with how to manage tough emotions and how to find small joys. Together, we will work to recapture your control, passion for life, and take steps towards growth -- helping you to be fully present for self and others. Through in person or telehealth sessions, I’m here to offer reflection and support.
![Photo of Cassandra Riddle, LPC, MHSP, T, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/368fd637-63ca-4fa1-b0bf-3fd6d80eb6e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassandra believes that at the root of most anxiety, depression, emotional/behavioral issues, addiction, relationship issues is unhealed emotional wounds.
Finding the right person to help with life’s problems can be an overwhelming task. Aided by her warmth and authenticity, Cassandra creates an environment where clients feel supported and empowered to share their experiences. She has decades of life experience working with adolescents and adults across multiple settings, which informs her practice. Cassandra works with clients who have experienced a life change, trauma, grief/loss and are experiencing adjustment difficulties, anxiety, and/or depression. She provides individual therapy for adolescents, adults as well as couples therapy.
Cassandra believes that at the root of most anxiety, depression, emotional/behavioral issues, addiction, relationship issues is unhealed emotional wounds.
Finding the right person to help with life’s problems can be an overwhelming task. Aided by her warmth and authenticity, Cassandra creates an environment where clients feel supported and empowered to share their experiences. She has decades of life experience working with adolescents and adults across multiple settings, which informs her practice. Cassandra works with clients who have experienced a life change, trauma, grief/loss and are experiencing adjustment difficulties, anxiety, and/or depression. She provides individual therapy for adolescents, adults as well as couples therapy.
![Photo of Matthew Andrews, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/744511da-7fac-4198-9d99-472a3d0f78a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Do you ever feel like life can be overwhelming? Has depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or other problems taken control of you life? As a therapist, I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal . Sometimes it just takes a little guidance to help you get better. I have been in this field since 2013 and have been honored to help clients achieve their goals, grow as human beings, and become happier and healthier.
Do you ever feel like life can be overwhelming? Has depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or other problems taken control of you life? As a therapist, I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal . Sometimes it just takes a little guidance to help you get better. I have been in this field since 2013 and have been honored to help clients achieve their goals, grow as human beings, and become happier and healthier.
![Photo of Brooke Pate, MA, NCC, LPCMHSP, (temp), Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c27da37e-93ac-4c27-bceb-8cdf72073869/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Pate
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, LPCMHSP, (temp)
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Whether your addressing addiction, anxiety, ADHD, depression, life transitions, or the impact of trauma, I am here to support you on your path to wellness.
I am a compassionate and trauma-informed therapist, who is trained in Play Therapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, CBT, TF-CBT, and DBT, with a heart dedicated to healing. I specialize in serving children, teens, and adults through person-centered and trauma-informed approach. I believe in the transformative power of a therapeutic relationship built on trust, empathy, and understanding. My therapeutic approach is rooted in respect for your unique journey. I strive to create a place where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore your inner world.
Whether your addressing addiction, anxiety, ADHD, depression, life transitions, or the impact of trauma, I am here to support you on your path to wellness.
I am a compassionate and trauma-informed therapist, who is trained in Play Therapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, CBT, TF-CBT, and DBT, with a heart dedicated to healing. I specialize in serving children, teens, and adults through person-centered and trauma-informed approach. I believe in the transformative power of a therapeutic relationship built on trust, empathy, and understanding. My therapeutic approach is rooted in respect for your unique journey. I strive to create a place where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore your inner world.
![Photo of Kristi Quattrochi, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b7b1e40-fbc6-41eb-8986-e2edf270041e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristi Quattrochi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
I do both in-person and telehealth appointments with some evening flexibility. While I have experience working with a variety of ages, my passion involves working with children and adolescents. My areas of experience include trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, RAD, Autism, and SPMI’s, among others. I have worked as a Crisis Therapist as well as ongoing counseling in an office and intensive in-home settings. Recognizing a need for help and reaching out is the first step toward positive changes and a healthier you.
I do both in-person and telehealth appointments with some evening flexibility. While I have experience working with a variety of ages, my passion involves working with children and adolescents. My areas of experience include trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, RAD, Autism, and SPMI’s, among others. I have worked as a Crisis Therapist as well as ongoing counseling in an office and intensive in-home settings. Recognizing a need for help and reaching out is the first step toward positive changes and a healthier you.
![Photo of Bessie Naomi Costanza, MSSW, LCSW, CMFSW, CCTP, AMTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ad60ad4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bessie Naomi Costanza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CMFSW, CCTP, AMTP
Verified Verified
Clarksville, TN 37043
My specialities include, but are not limited to; couples, individual, relationship,intimacy,anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
With compassion,insight and acceptance, I can help you explore the issues which prevent you from success in your personal and professional relationships. I believe that we all possess much of the knowledge needed to answer life's questions; however, as with all things, we sometimes simply forget where to look. I see my work primarily as a guide, helping my clients find their own answers and their own happiness.I view therapy as a way to gain self awareness in order to understand one's pattern of relating to others and dealing with life's challenges.
My specialities include, but are not limited to; couples, individual, relationship,intimacy,anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
With compassion,insight and acceptance, I can help you explore the issues which prevent you from success in your personal and professional relationships. I believe that we all possess much of the knowledge needed to answer life's questions; however, as with all things, we sometimes simply forget where to look. I see my work primarily as a guide, helping my clients find their own answers and their own happiness.I view therapy as a way to gain self awareness in order to understand one's pattern of relating to others and dealing with life's challenges.
![Photo of Robert DeSalvo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1637da-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robert DeSalvo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
Are you ready to find and change what leads to your unhappiness, relationship problems, depression, and general unease?.
Do you feel like you spend all your energy managing your anxiety, sadness, panic attacks or hiding how you feel from those around you? Or do you feel like you're burdened by past trauma that causes you to make unwanted decisions or to feel unwanted things? You're here because you're unsure if you can overcome what's holding you back and it feels like nothing helps. From our first session together you will have a clearer direction on the path toward healing and have concrete tools to start working on improvement from day one. Life can be better, even if it doesn’t seem like it right now.
Are you ready to find and change what leads to your unhappiness, relationship problems, depression, and general unease?.
Do you feel like you spend all your energy managing your anxiety, sadness, panic attacks or hiding how you feel from those around you? Or do you feel like you're burdened by past trauma that causes you to make unwanted decisions or to feel unwanted things? You're here because you're unsure if you can overcome what's holding you back and it feels like nothing helps. From our first session together you will have a clearer direction on the path toward healing and have concrete tools to start working on improvement from day one. Life can be better, even if it doesn’t seem like it right now.
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Unionville
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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.