Lesley Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-, MHSP
Verified Verified
Unionville, TN 37180  (Online Only)
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.
(731) 207-4295 View (731) 207-4295
Photo of Robert Wesley Phillips, LADAC, NCAC, SAP, CPS, CIP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Robert Wesley Phillips
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC, NCAC, SAP, CPS, CIP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Unionville, TN 37180
Robert is an Intervention Specialist trained in guiding families through the systemic process whereby a person addicted to alcohol or drugs is encouraged to accept help and enter treatment. Robert has worked in treatment centers and detoxification facilities as a counselor, program developer, educator, director of admission and clinical supervisor. Robert's practice specializes in substance abuse interventions, counseling, DOT/SAP services and community prevention. Robert is certified and licensed as an Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse counselor; Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) ; Prevention Specialist; and Crisis Interventionist.
Robert is an Intervention Specialist trained in guiding families through the systemic process whereby a person addicted to alcohol or drugs is encouraged to accept help and enter treatment. Robert has worked in treatment centers and detoxification facilities as a counselor, program developer, educator, director of admission and clinical supervisor. Robert's practice specializes in substance abuse interventions, counseling, DOT/SAP services and community prevention. Robert is certified and licensed as an Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse counselor; Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) ; Prevention Specialist; and Crisis Interventionist.
(615) 283-7320 View (615) 283-7320

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Nicole Bryant: As You Are Therapy, EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Nicole Bryant: As You Are Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bell Buckle, TN 37020
At work, you’re a rock star! You can handle anything that comes your way. Whenever there’s a problem, you’re the one who fixes it. It’s your show and you’re killing it. So why do you feel so unfulfilled? On paper, you’re successful – making your family proud. But inside, something is still missing. A longing emptiness sits deep in the pit of your stomach. You’ve always worked so hard to pursue goals “at any cost,” but you’ve begun to realize that the cost was your well-being. All of your relationships seem to be out of obligation. You never have any time to care for yourself. Unless something changes, things will only get worse.
At work, you’re a rock star! You can handle anything that comes your way. Whenever there’s a problem, you’re the one who fixes it. It’s your show and you’re killing it. So why do you feel so unfulfilled? On paper, you’re successful – making your family proud. But inside, something is still missing. A longing emptiness sits deep in the pit of your stomach. You’ve always worked so hard to pursue goals “at any cost,” but you’ve begun to realize that the cost was your well-being. All of your relationships seem to be out of obligation. You never have any time to care for yourself. Unless something changes, things will only get worse.
(615) 437-7191 View (615) 437-7191

Online Therapists

Photo of Day Wall, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Day Wall
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37216
Seeking help is a courageous step in many of our lives and I am honored to be given the opportunity to share in the journey of healing with my clients. I work with individuals, couples, and families to provide counseling on a wide variety of life issues. I have experience helping clients work through depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, grief, divorce, marital issues, job satisfaction, and family conflict.
Seeking help is a courageous step in many of our lives and I am honored to be given the opportunity to share in the journey of healing with my clients. I work with individuals, couples, and families to provide counseling on a wide variety of life issues. I have experience helping clients work through depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, grief, divorce, marital issues, job satisfaction, and family conflict.
(615) 610-1383 View (615) 610-1383
Photo of Brooke Weesner, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brooke Weesner
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37040
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! My name is Brooke Weesner and I am currently accepting virtual clients! I strive to create a welcoming, judgment-free, safe space for all my clients. I am excited to work with any population on their mental health journey. Just to name a few, I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, emotion regulation, behavior issues, life transitions, and stress. I utilize client-centered, cognitive behavioral (CBT), strength-based, and solution-focused approaches to best serve my clients. As long as you are located in the state of Tennessee, we can do therapy!
Hello! My name is Brooke Weesner and I am currently accepting virtual clients! I strive to create a welcoming, judgment-free, safe space for all my clients. I am excited to work with any population on their mental health journey. Just to name a few, I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, emotion regulation, behavior issues, life transitions, and stress. I utilize client-centered, cognitive behavioral (CBT), strength-based, and solution-focused approaches to best serve my clients. As long as you are located in the state of Tennessee, we can do therapy!
(931) 340-5438 View (931) 340-5438
Photo of Janetta Fleming, RN, LPC, MHSP, PMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janetta Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, LPC, MHSP, PMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I am available to work with individuals experiencing distress, especially anxiety and depression, women with mood disorders surrounding infertility and pregnancy, infant loss, and miscarriage as well as couples with relational conflict. Contemporary life is full of loneliness, stress, trauma and many faces of grief. Whether it be through setting long or short term therapeutic goals, I can help you create a new spirit of resilience.
I am available to work with individuals experiencing distress, especially anxiety and depression, women with mood disorders surrounding infertility and pregnancy, infant loss, and miscarriage as well as couples with relational conflict. Contemporary life is full of loneliness, stress, trauma and many faces of grief. Whether it be through setting long or short term therapeutic goals, I can help you create a new spirit of resilience.
(615) 987-0982 View (615) 987-0982
Photo of Dan LaVelle, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dan LaVelle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220  (Online Only)
I specialize in Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Depression, and Existential Issues.
My goal is to utilize the individual strengths of all clients for the sake of enabling them to accomplish their goals, overcome hardships, and live up to their fullest potential. This possibility is readily available to all willing to adopt new perspectives and practices to their day to day lives. I am passionate about meeting clients where they are for the sake of discovering the perspectives and interests that make people excited about the lives they live. I am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Service Provider.
I specialize in Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Depression, and Existential Issues.
My goal is to utilize the individual strengths of all clients for the sake of enabling them to accomplish their goals, overcome hardships, and live up to their fullest potential. This possibility is readily available to all willing to adopt new perspectives and practices to their day to day lives. I am passionate about meeting clients where they are for the sake of discovering the perspectives and interests that make people excited about the lives they live. I am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Service Provider.
(615) 667-0330 View (615) 667-0330
Photo of Rachel Mayfield, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rachel Mayfield
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37040
I work with individuals who are battling depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, school struggles, and other life stressors through a mixture of Child-Centered Play Therapy, Non Directive Play, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Are you noticing any changes in your once thriving and happy child? Are they now struggling in school, controlling their emotions, or having a difficult time making friends? Maybe they no longer have interest in the thing they would get so excited to do. I have worked with kids in a variety of capacities, and I have a passion for helping them get through these difficult times.
I work with individuals who are battling depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, school struggles, and other life stressors through a mixture of Child-Centered Play Therapy, Non Directive Play, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Are you noticing any changes in your once thriving and happy child? Are they now struggling in school, controlling their emotions, or having a difficult time making friends? Maybe they no longer have interest in the thing they would get so excited to do. I have worked with kids in a variety of capacities, and I have a passion for helping them get through these difficult times.
(931) 391-3721 View (931) 391-3721
Photo of Kim Anderson, MA, LPCMHSP, CPLC, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP, CPLC, BCC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Typical topics include depression, anxiety, emotional pain, parenting, marital and relationship challenges.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Like you know that you were created for more in this life, but don't know where to begin? I understand. In today's world, our margins are thin, our spirits can feel defeated, and in the end, we suffer. As a counselor I provide a safe, private environment for growth and exploration, to help you not only survive, but thrive. I will help you with a plan for the life you want, based on your values and purpose. I am here to help you restore hope while providing tools that can lead to new possibilities. Together, we will fight the distractions in your way so you are free to become the best version of you!
Typical topics include depression, anxiety, emotional pain, parenting, marital and relationship challenges.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Like you know that you were created for more in this life, but don't know where to begin? I understand. In today's world, our margins are thin, our spirits can feel defeated, and in the end, we suffer. As a counselor I provide a safe, private environment for growth and exploration, to help you not only survive, but thrive. I will help you with a plan for the life you want, based on your values and purpose. I am here to help you restore hope while providing tools that can lead to new possibilities. Together, we will fight the distractions in your way so you are free to become the best version of you!
(615) 610-1379 View (615) 610-1379
Photo of Jordan Osher, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Osher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37219  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience supporting children and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and traumatic experiences.
Navigating the ups and downs of life doesn't come with a handbook. My goal is to help you develop the skills you need to manage the tough times and thrive in the good ones. I believe that the therapeutic experience should include authenticity, openness and growth. This is a place where we can work together to help you meet your goals. My social work practice is rooted in person centered, solution-focused treatment that highlights the strengths and resiliency of the individuals I serve.
I have extensive experience supporting children and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and traumatic experiences.
Navigating the ups and downs of life doesn't come with a handbook. My goal is to help you develop the skills you need to manage the tough times and thrive in the good ones. I believe that the therapeutic experience should include authenticity, openness and growth. This is a place where we can work together to help you meet your goals. My social work practice is rooted in person centered, solution-focused treatment that highlights the strengths and resiliency of the individuals I serve.
(629) 251-9111 View (629) 251-9111
Photo of Steve Riser, LPC, MHSP, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steve Riser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
My specialty is working in a variety of areas including sexual addiction, marriage conflict, divorce, family conflict, sexual abuse, grief, affair recovery, depression, anxiety, anger management, adult transitional issues, teen sexuality, parenting and spirituality among many other areas of relational brokenness helping people achieve wholeness.
I enjoy working with clients seeking to grow emotionally, spiritually and relationally. I believe therapy is an opportunity to journey deeper areas of self awareness and a greater understanding of who we have been created to be. I am relational in my approach to counseling. I believe that we have been broken in relationships and that we are therefore healed in the context of relationships. I have had many clients who have had success and experienced transformation throughout the counseling process. Evening and weekend appointments available. Contact me via phone, email, or text. New clients can register at therapyappointment.com
My specialty is working in a variety of areas including sexual addiction, marriage conflict, divorce, family conflict, sexual abuse, grief, affair recovery, depression, anxiety, anger management, adult transitional issues, teen sexuality, parenting and spirituality among many other areas of relational brokenness helping people achieve wholeness.
I enjoy working with clients seeking to grow emotionally, spiritually and relationally. I believe therapy is an opportunity to journey deeper areas of self awareness and a greater understanding of who we have been created to be. I am relational in my approach to counseling. I believe that we have been broken in relationships and that we are therefore healed in the context of relationships. I have had many clients who have had success and experienced transformation throughout the counseling process. Evening and weekend appointments available. Contact me via phone, email, or text. New clients can register at therapyappointment.com
(615) 489-4416 View (615) 489-4416
Photo of David Drennon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Drennon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
My areas of special clinical interest include adolescents and adults across the life cycle, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, boundary issues, communication issues, grief and loss, life transitions, academic issues, premarital/marital counseling, relationship conflict, family conflict, spirituality, sexual abuse, and emotional trauma.
The joy of therapy lies in tailoring my approach to fully leverage the unique strengths and skills of each individual client. I thoroughly enjoy cultivating an atmosphere of safety, encouragement, and hope for those whom I have the opportunity to serve. I endeavor to invite clients into a therapeutic relationship that enhances their ability to develop insight that leads to action.
My areas of special clinical interest include adolescents and adults across the life cycle, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, boundary issues, communication issues, grief and loss, life transitions, academic issues, premarital/marital counseling, relationship conflict, family conflict, spirituality, sexual abuse, and emotional trauma.
The joy of therapy lies in tailoring my approach to fully leverage the unique strengths and skills of each individual client. I thoroughly enjoy cultivating an atmosphere of safety, encouragement, and hope for those whom I have the opportunity to serve. I endeavor to invite clients into a therapeutic relationship that enhances their ability to develop insight that leads to action.
(615) 285-5202 View (615) 285-5202
Photo of Hannah Deschner, LPCMHSP, (Temp), NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hannah Deschner
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCMHSP, (Temp), NCC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in working with ages 5 to 25 who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, school issues, relationship difficulties, and identity development.
Are you a young adult feeling overwhelmed by your life's pressures? Are you a parent concerned about your child's well-being? I understand. The journey from your childhood to adulthood can be filled with uncertainty and challenges. I am here to support you in building resilience, developing coping skills, and finding your path. If you are feeling lost, stuck with patterns of behaviors you would like to change, or in need of an empathetic ear - I am here to listen, validate, and invite curiosity into your life.
I specialize in working with ages 5 to 25 who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, school issues, relationship difficulties, and identity development.
Are you a young adult feeling overwhelmed by your life's pressures? Are you a parent concerned about your child's well-being? I understand. The journey from your childhood to adulthood can be filled with uncertainty and challenges. I am here to support you in building resilience, developing coping skills, and finding your path. If you are feeling lost, stuck with patterns of behaviors you would like to change, or in need of an empathetic ear - I am here to listen, validate, and invite curiosity into your life.
(629) 229-4815 View (629) 229-4815
Photo of Laura McCracken, PhD, Psychologist
Laura McCracken
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and I am certified by the National Register of Health Service Psychologists. In therapy, I take a holistic approach to treatment and offer a supportive and collaborative environment in which to build a therapeutic alliance, explore difficulties, and assist clients in learning new ways of coping in order to facilitate change and experience optimal symptom relief. I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and loss, and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and I am certified by the National Register of Health Service Psychologists. In therapy, I take a holistic approach to treatment and offer a supportive and collaborative environment in which to build a therapeutic alliance, explore difficulties, and assist clients in learning new ways of coping in order to facilitate change and experience optimal symptom relief. I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and loss, and relationship issues.
(615) 861-8219 View (615) 861-8219
Photo of Angela Landry - Restoration Counseling Center, LMFT, LPC, MA, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Restoration Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, MA, CST
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
A few of our specialties include Trauma and Abuse, Sex Therapy, Marriage Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Parenting, Divorce, and Life Transition.
Restoration Counseling Center was founded by three Christian Counselors in Franklin, Tennessee, who share a vision for providing healing, grace, and professionalism to those experiencing brokenness in their relationship with self, others, and God. Our counselors have all been trained through nationally accredited counseling programs emphasizing Christian integration. Therapists at Restoration Counseling Center are passionate about helping others attain their goals and consider it a privilege to walk alongside others in healing. We have therapists accepting new clients for immediate openings.
A few of our specialties include Trauma and Abuse, Sex Therapy, Marriage Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Parenting, Divorce, and Life Transition.
Restoration Counseling Center was founded by three Christian Counselors in Franklin, Tennessee, who share a vision for providing healing, grace, and professionalism to those experiencing brokenness in their relationship with self, others, and God. Our counselors have all been trained through nationally accredited counseling programs emphasizing Christian integration. Therapists at Restoration Counseling Center are passionate about helping others attain their goals and consider it a privilege to walk alongside others in healing. We have therapists accepting new clients for immediate openings.
(615) 656-0432 View (615) 656-0432
Photo of Sheldon Clark, MS, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sheldon Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Is your child struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or meltdowns caused by overwhelming emotions? I help kids and teens to navigate tricky issues like ADHD, trauma, depression, or major life changes. With specialized training in Client-Centered Play Therapy as well as Expressive Arts, I offer a safe space where clients from age 5 to 17 can feel at ease. My approach to working with children and young people is creative and flexible, based on their specific needs. I love getting to know them and using their passions, strengths, and talents in the therapeutic process.
Is your child struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or meltdowns caused by overwhelming emotions? I help kids and teens to navigate tricky issues like ADHD, trauma, depression, or major life changes. With specialized training in Client-Centered Play Therapy as well as Expressive Arts, I offer a safe space where clients from age 5 to 17 can feel at ease. My approach to working with children and young people is creative and flexible, based on their specific needs. I love getting to know them and using their passions, strengths, and talents in the therapeutic process.
(629) 302-1105 View (629) 302-1105
Photo of Sarah Dowdy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Dowdy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215  (Online Only)
Some areas of interest include women's issues, depression/anxiety, domestic violence, trauma, life's transitions, addiction and narcissistic abuse.
Trauma shatters the illusion of invincibility, but in that vulnerability lies the seeds of strength.” – Jayneen Sanders Hello! My name is Sarah and I would love to get the chance to provide a safe relationship that would give you the space for personal growth and healing. I am here to help you at the pace that fits your needs. You are the expert in your own life and everyone deserves happiness.
Some areas of interest include women's issues, depression/anxiety, domestic violence, trauma, life's transitions, addiction and narcissistic abuse.
Trauma shatters the illusion of invincibility, but in that vulnerability lies the seeds of strength.” – Jayneen Sanders Hello! My name is Sarah and I would love to get the chance to provide a safe relationship that would give you the space for personal growth and healing. I am here to help you at the pace that fits your needs. You are the expert in your own life and everyone deserves happiness.
(615) 375-4759 View (615) 375-4759
Photo of Sharee Moore, T-MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sharee Moore
Pre-Licensed Professional, T-MFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37040
Whether you're experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship problems, one thing is probably true: you just want to be happier and feel better. Wouldn't it feel amazing to finally connect with someone who can understand you and help you achieve that?
Whether you're experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship problems, one thing is probably true: you just want to be happier and feel better. Wouldn't it feel amazing to finally connect with someone who can understand you and help you achieve that?
(931) 329-5513 View (931) 329-5513
Photo of Jennifer Sharpe-Hillary, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Sharpe-Hillary
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37040
I look for solutions. Sometimes the solution is a listening ear and processing difficult emotions or experiences. I also look for very practical solutions for couples such as communication techniques, division of household/work/and parenting tasks, and the big issues in relationships...money, sex, and in-laws or ex's. With individuals suffering with depression or anxiety I take a holistic approach; mind, body and spirit. Without simple changes in our bodies such as relaxation, exercise, and sleep our mind cannot connect. When we take care of the whole person there is a synergistic effect and the results are much greater.
I look for solutions. Sometimes the solution is a listening ear and processing difficult emotions or experiences. I also look for very practical solutions for couples such as communication techniques, division of household/work/and parenting tasks, and the big issues in relationships...money, sex, and in-laws or ex's. With individuals suffering with depression or anxiety I take a holistic approach; mind, body and spirit. Without simple changes in our bodies such as relaxation, exercise, and sleep our mind cannot connect. When we take care of the whole person there is a synergistic effect and the results are much greater.
(931) 202-9217 View (931) 202-9217
Photo of Cynthia Walker - Harmony Health Medical, DNP, APRN , FNP-BC
Harmony Health Medical
DNP, APRN , FNP-BC
Not Verified Not Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
We specialize in mental healthcare, medication management and therapies. We accept patients age 5 and up. Our practitioners have been trained in behavior modification therapies, and specialize in many different areas ranging from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ptsd, eating disorders, divorce, anger management to substance abuse and recovery. Our focus is on helping you set therapeutic goals and achieving those goals through medications or counseling or both.
We specialize in mental healthcare, medication management and therapies. We accept patients age 5 and up. Our practitioners have been trained in behavior modification therapies, and specialize in many different areas ranging from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ptsd, eating disorders, divorce, anger management to substance abuse and recovery. Our focus is on helping you set therapeutic goals and achieving those goals through medications or counseling or both.
(615) 551-1202 View (615) 551-1202

See more therapy options for Unionville

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.