Depression Therapists in Canyon, TX

Photo of Sean Thomas Lanegan - West Texas Therapy and Counseling Services, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
West Texas Therapy and Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MHP
Verified Verified
Canyon, TX 79015
I have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, grief, past trauma and/or a multitude of mental health diagnoses by engaging you directly with tele-behavioral health (Phone/Video) psychotherapy, as well as individual face-to-face sessions if you are in my local area.
Hello there, I'm Sean Lanegan and thank you for looking at my profile. Do you feel overwhelmed, worried, anxious, and are having trouble managing the emotional impact in your life? Do you feel sad, lonely, depressed or are you experiencing grief from the loss of a loved one? Are you struggling with your relationships? Have you experienced trauma in your past that continues to affect your daily life? Do you feel lost? If you answered yes to any of the questions above, you have come to the right place. In therapy with me I will guide you and teach you how to be the best version of yourself.
I have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, grief, past trauma and/or a multitude of mental health diagnoses by engaging you directly with tele-behavioral health (Phone/Video) psychotherapy, as well as individual face-to-face sessions if you are in my local area.
Hello there, I'm Sean Lanegan and thank you for looking at my profile. Do you feel overwhelmed, worried, anxious, and are having trouble managing the emotional impact in your life? Do you feel sad, lonely, depressed or are you experiencing grief from the loss of a loved one? Are you struggling with your relationships? Have you experienced trauma in your past that continues to affect your daily life? Do you feel lost? If you answered yes to any of the questions above, you have come to the right place. In therapy with me I will guide you and teach you how to be the best version of yourself.
(806) 221-2102 View (806) 221-2102
Photo of Sean Lanegan, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sean Lanegan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Canyon, TX 79015
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed, worried, anxious, and are having trouble managing the emotional impact in your life? Do you feel sad, lonely, depressed or are you experiencing grief from the loss of a loved one? Are you struggling with your relationships? Have you experienced trauma in your past that continues to affect your daily life? Do you feel lost? If you answered yes to any of the questions above, you have come to the right place. In therapy with me I will guide you and teach you how to be the best version of yourself. I take a psychodynamic approach in looking at your past and applying skills to help you in your present.
Do you feel overwhelmed, worried, anxious, and are having trouble managing the emotional impact in your life? Do you feel sad, lonely, depressed or are you experiencing grief from the loss of a loved one? Are you struggling with your relationships? Have you experienced trauma in your past that continues to affect your daily life? Do you feel lost? If you answered yes to any of the questions above, you have come to the right place. In therapy with me I will guide you and teach you how to be the best version of yourself. I take a psychodynamic approach in looking at your past and applying skills to help you in your present.
(806) 221-2102 View (806) 221-2102
Photo of Monica Mendoza, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica Mendoza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Canyon, TX 79015
I work with adults ages 18 and over dealing with stress and anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, trauma and abuse, relationship or family issues, conflict resolution, and adjustment to life-changing events.
Hi there, I am Monica! I am a licensed therapist in the state of Texas and have spent the last 21 years growing as an effective helper in the world of counseling and therapy. Achieving holistic health and reaping the rewards through genuine fulfillment takes courage and calls for commitment of the mind, body, and soul. Commitment to therapy as a pathway to that level of health is not inconceivable and is a journey you do not have to walk alone. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
I work with adults ages 18 and over dealing with stress and anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, trauma and abuse, relationship or family issues, conflict resolution, and adjustment to life-changing events.
Hi there, I am Monica! I am a licensed therapist in the state of Texas and have spent the last 21 years growing as an effective helper in the world of counseling and therapy. Achieving holistic health and reaping the rewards through genuine fulfillment takes courage and calls for commitment of the mind, body, and soul. Commitment to therapy as a pathway to that level of health is not inconceivable and is a journey you do not have to walk alone. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
(737) 530-9960 View (737) 530-9960
Photo of Chelsea LaRee Morrow, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chelsea LaRee Morrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canyon, TX 79015
I treat a wide variety of issues including Fear, Worry, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Stress, ADHD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Personality Issues, Bereavement and Grief, Behavior Problems, Sexual Abuse, Verbal Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Physical Abuse, Parent-Child Relationship, Employment Issues, Life Changes, Relationship Conflict, Social Skills and Coping.
At times life can feel challenging and overwhelming. It may be hard to see outside of your current stressors which may be continuously wearing you down over time. My goal is to help you pull away from current barriers which are preventing you from moving forward. I am here to help you in your journey to healing. Together, we will establish a plan for treatment that addresses your issues and concerns. My therapeutic practice serves adults, adolescents, children, marriages, families and other types of relationships.
I treat a wide variety of issues including Fear, Worry, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Stress, ADHD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Personality Issues, Bereavement and Grief, Behavior Problems, Sexual Abuse, Verbal Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Physical Abuse, Parent-Child Relationship, Employment Issues, Life Changes, Relationship Conflict, Social Skills and Coping.
At times life can feel challenging and overwhelming. It may be hard to see outside of your current stressors which may be continuously wearing you down over time. My goal is to help you pull away from current barriers which are preventing you from moving forward. I am here to help you in your journey to healing. Together, we will establish a plan for treatment that addresses your issues and concerns. My therapeutic practice serves adults, adolescents, children, marriages, families and other types of relationships.
(806) 884-4593 View (806) 884-4593
Photo of Jill Rios, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Rios
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canyon, TX 79015
I treat a wide variety of issues including Depression, Anxiety, Bereavement and Grief, Substance Disorders, Marital problems, Sexual Abuse, Physical Abuse, Verbal Abuse, Relationship Conflict, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Life Changes, and Social Skills and Coping.
Life is a journey and sometimes that journey leaves people broken without the tools to know how to "fix" the issues. Are you experiencing brokenness right now? It is my job to help clients learn how to use their strengths so that clients can grow to their full potential. Counseling can also help establish healthy boundaries, heal from a traumatic circumstance, and learn self - discovery.
I treat a wide variety of issues including Depression, Anxiety, Bereavement and Grief, Substance Disorders, Marital problems, Sexual Abuse, Physical Abuse, Verbal Abuse, Relationship Conflict, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Life Changes, and Social Skills and Coping.
Life is a journey and sometimes that journey leaves people broken without the tools to know how to "fix" the issues. Are you experiencing brokenness right now? It is my job to help clients learn how to use their strengths so that clients can grow to their full potential. Counseling can also help establish healthy boundaries, heal from a traumatic circumstance, and learn self - discovery.
(806) 424-4675 View (806) 424-4675
Photo of Katie Klaehn, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Klaehn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Canyon, TX 79015
Psychotherapy is a collaborative task, where the patient takes an active role in working toward goals. A therapist helps with mental, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral difficulties. Psychotherapy is to help a person reach better understanding of problems and gain increased self-awareness. It's also intended to work toward improving identified difficulties, offer support in problem solving, provide symptom relief, and improve coping in daily living. My experience involves working with divorce, depression, anxiety, anger, parenting, chronic//terminal illness, grief/loss, abuse/neglect, and all ages of delinquent behaviors.
Psychotherapy is a collaborative task, where the patient takes an active role in working toward goals. A therapist helps with mental, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral difficulties. Psychotherapy is to help a person reach better understanding of problems and gain increased self-awareness. It's also intended to work toward improving identified difficulties, offer support in problem solving, provide symptom relief, and improve coping in daily living. My experience involves working with divorce, depression, anxiety, anger, parenting, chronic//terminal illness, grief/loss, abuse/neglect, and all ages of delinquent behaviors.
(806) 216-6168 View (806) 216-6168
Photo of Pamela Dawn George, MS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Dawn George
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canyon, TX 79015
I help clients with treatment of personal issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, PTSD, anger management, abuse, and relationships.
I believe you are the expert on "you" and your life. I am here to help you find the best you, to help empower you to help yourself, and to help you through times when you don't see your own strengths.
I help clients with treatment of personal issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, PTSD, anger management, abuse, and relationships.
I believe you are the expert on "you" and your life. I am here to help you find the best you, to help empower you to help yourself, and to help you through times when you don't see your own strengths.
(806) 547-1296 View (806) 547-1296
Photo of LeAnn Lynn Sorrels, M, Ed, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LeAnn Lynn Sorrels
Licensed Professional Counselor, M, Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canyon, TX 79015
Skills and strategies can be learned to overcome problems such as anxiety, depression, and more to take back control of you life.
Compassionate care for all ages. Learn how to effectively manage life trials and tribulation with the help of an experienced professional. Every human being regardless of culture, creed, class, background, race or any other distinguishing characteristic is likely to experience some sort of emotional or mental disturbance throughout the course of their lives. The way you think about aspects of your current life or past experiences can move you from healthy, normal distress to more problematic mental heath disturbance. The good news is that it's totally normal to become mentally disturbed and it is absolutely possible to recover.
Skills and strategies can be learned to overcome problems such as anxiety, depression, and more to take back control of you life.
Compassionate care for all ages. Learn how to effectively manage life trials and tribulation with the help of an experienced professional. Every human being regardless of culture, creed, class, background, race or any other distinguishing characteristic is likely to experience some sort of emotional or mental disturbance throughout the course of their lives. The way you think about aspects of your current life or past experiences can move you from healthy, normal distress to more problematic mental heath disturbance. The good news is that it's totally normal to become mentally disturbed and it is absolutely possible to recover.
(806) 589-2813 View (806) 589-2813
Photo of Alice Deeds, MEd, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Alice Deeds
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Canyon, TX 79015
I work with children, teenagers & adults struggling with ADD/ADHD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, grief and loss, divorce, self-harm, behavioral issues, school trouble, learning disabilities and adjustment problems.
**CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Life is tough, but so are you.” Are you living a life that matters? Do you value yourself? I would love to help, my name is Alice Deeds and I deal with real people who are suffering with real problems. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified School Counselor. I want to help you develop and be your best. My primary therapeutic focus is to help children, adults and families work through problems to achieve their desired goals and be successful. I also utilize EMDR therapy.
I work with children, teenagers & adults struggling with ADD/ADHD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, grief and loss, divorce, self-harm, behavioral issues, school trouble, learning disabilities and adjustment problems.
**CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Life is tough, but so are you.” Are you living a life that matters? Do you value yourself? I would love to help, my name is Alice Deeds and I deal with real people who are suffering with real problems. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified School Counselor. I want to help you develop and be your best. My primary therapeutic focus is to help children, adults and families work through problems to achieve their desired goals and be successful. I also utilize EMDR therapy.
(806) 203-5696 View (806) 203-5696
Photo of Clifford McCormick-Zenor, MA
Clifford McCormick-Zenor
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canyon, TX 79016
Now excepting new clients! Evening and weekend appointments available! I'm experienced in counseling individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and many other problems. My goal is to help you identify and overcome obstacles in your life that may be blocking your path to healing and happiness.
Now excepting new clients! Evening and weekend appointments available! I'm experienced in counseling individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and many other problems. My goal is to help you identify and overcome obstacles in your life that may be blocking your path to healing and happiness.
(806) 513-5425 View (806) 513-5425
Photo of Beth Mowry, MA, LPC-A
Beth Mowry
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Canyon, TX 79015
This multifaceted approach allows me to use the most effective methods available to address each client’s individualized needs include depression, anxiety, and various life transitions.
I aspire to walk alongside clients on their journey to mental wellbeing. Clients come from all walks of life, each facing unique challenges. Whatever obstacles you are encountering I am here to provide compassionate support. My mission is to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your feelings, gain insights, and develop coping strategies. Through active listening and collaboration together we can tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
This multifaceted approach allows me to use the most effective methods available to address each client’s individualized needs include depression, anxiety, and various life transitions.
I aspire to walk alongside clients on their journey to mental wellbeing. Clients come from all walks of life, each facing unique challenges. Whatever obstacles you are encountering I am here to provide compassionate support. My mission is to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your feelings, gain insights, and develop coping strategies. Through active listening and collaboration together we can tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
(806) 666-1024 View (806) 666-1024
Photo of Crystal R Morales, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal R Morales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Canyon, TX 79015
Everyone has "baggage" and it is what truly makes us unique. Sometimes our baggage is heavy which can make our journey extra challenging. At times, we just need someone to listen to our thoughts, help us understand what is going on and help us understand what we are needing or wanting. I went into counseling in order to work with those who suffer from depression, anxiety, body issues and trauma. As children, we are not necessary in control of our childhood but as adults we are. I have worked with adolscents through middle aged adults using specific interventions with CBT and DBT.
Everyone has "baggage" and it is what truly makes us unique. Sometimes our baggage is heavy which can make our journey extra challenging. At times, we just need someone to listen to our thoughts, help us understand what is going on and help us understand what we are needing or wanting. I went into counseling in order to work with those who suffer from depression, anxiety, body issues and trauma. As children, we are not necessary in control of our childhood but as adults we are. I have worked with adolscents through middle aged adults using specific interventions with CBT and DBT.
(806) 375-3651 View (806) 375-3651
Photo of Emress Bevers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emress Bevers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canyon, TX 79015
I treat issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, marital/pre-marital relationships, addiction, family conflict and many other challenges.
Accepting new clients-Individual, Couples, Children 6 and up. Now accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield, IMS, Aetna, Humana, Cigna and many others. Life can be a journey with constant and often rough obstacles. Take heart and know that you do not have to do it alone. Together we can overcome barriers and create goals to achieve a healthy and productive life. I want to help you along the journey to healing and working through difficulties that are causing pain and stress in your life.
I treat issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, marital/pre-marital relationships, addiction, family conflict and many other challenges.
Accepting new clients-Individual, Couples, Children 6 and up. Now accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield, IMS, Aetna, Humana, Cigna and many others. Life can be a journey with constant and often rough obstacles. Take heart and know that you do not have to do it alone. Together we can overcome barriers and create goals to achieve a healthy and productive life. I want to help you along the journey to healing and working through difficulties that are causing pain and stress in your life.
(806) 203-6290 View (806) 203-6290
Photo of Rhonda S Barber, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhonda S Barber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Canyon, TX 79015
Specialties include: Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD,.
Having been a Licensed therapist for over 20 years, I may offer new insight and coping skills to help you face your current and previous stressors. Resilience and adaptability are positive qualities we all possess that may get overshadowed by life's unpredictable events. A therapist is basically a catalyst to assist you in finding your way back to a healthier, happier you. Cognitive therapy, self acceptance, boundaries, and mindful breathwork can help you on your journey. I look forward to working with you.
Specialties include: Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD,.
Having been a Licensed therapist for over 20 years, I may offer new insight and coping skills to help you face your current and previous stressors. Resilience and adaptability are positive qualities we all possess that may get overshadowed by life's unpredictable events. A therapist is basically a catalyst to assist you in finding your way back to a healthier, happier you. Cognitive therapy, self acceptance, boundaries, and mindful breathwork can help you on your journey. I look forward to working with you.
(806) 375-5357 View (806) 375-5357
Photo of Brenda Johnston, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenda Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canyon, TX 79015
I have extensive experience working with clients in a variety of areas including relationship issues, couples counseling, sexual matters, family therapy, anxiety, depression, trauma and grief. I work through a person- centered approach helping people overcome what they see as problems that may be affecting their everyday life. I have a passion for helping others to make sense of what they have experienced, how it has impacted them and how to move forward from these experiences so that they can achieve their goals. I believe in meeting the person where they are and working with them to get to where they want to be.
I have extensive experience working with clients in a variety of areas including relationship issues, couples counseling, sexual matters, family therapy, anxiety, depression, trauma and grief. I work through a person- centered approach helping people overcome what they see as problems that may be affecting their everyday life. I have a passion for helping others to make sense of what they have experienced, how it has impacted them and how to move forward from these experiences so that they can achieve their goals. I believe in meeting the person where they are and working with them to get to where they want to be.
(806) 878-9263 View (806) 878-9263
Photo of Jennifer Oliver, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Oliver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Canyon, TX 79015
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, guilt/shame, or moving forward from past trauma or grief, I can help connect you to the tools that will facilitate healing.
My mission as your therapist is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for processing, goal setting, and skills development to help you achieve your goals. Our sessions will serve as a secure environment for processing thoughts aloud, promoting clarity and healing. Together, we will explore the areas you'd like to improve and set attainable goals to guide you on your journey.
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, guilt/shame, or moving forward from past trauma or grief, I can help connect you to the tools that will facilitate healing.
My mission as your therapist is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for processing, goal setting, and skills development to help you achieve your goals. Our sessions will serve as a secure environment for processing thoughts aloud, promoting clarity and healing. Together, we will explore the areas you'd like to improve and set attainable goals to guide you on your journey.
(806) 496-9410 View (806) 496-9410
Photo of Maddy Thomas, MA, LPC-A
Maddy Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canyon, TX 79015
As a counselor, I believe that everyone possesses the innate capacity for growth and healing, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside my clients on their journey to self-discovery and empowerment. With my warm and supportive presence, I strive to create a therapeutic alliance that fosters self-acceptance, resilience, and positive change. Whether I'm guiding clients through the challenges of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or personal development, I'm known for tailoring my therapeutic techniques to meet the unique needs of each individual.
As a counselor, I believe that everyone possesses the innate capacity for growth and healing, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside my clients on their journey to self-discovery and empowerment. With my warm and supportive presence, I strive to create a therapeutic alliance that fosters self-acceptance, resilience, and positive change. Whether I'm guiding clients through the challenges of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or personal development, I'm known for tailoring my therapeutic techniques to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(806) 547-3049 View (806) 547-3049
Photo of Greg Kinsey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Greg Kinsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Canyon, TX 79015
Waitlist for new clients
I treat a variety of issues including PTSD/Trauma, Nightmares, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Anger, Men's Issues, Grief, Suicidal Ideation, and Relationship Conflict.
Mental health concerns can be difficult, distracting and even exhausting. Doing it alone can become overwhelming. My goal is to create an inviting and nonjudgmental environment in which together, we can explore and actively pursue learning, healing, growth, and obtaining balance in your life. I will meet you where you are and together, we will establish a plan to address your concerns.
I treat a variety of issues including PTSD/Trauma, Nightmares, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Anger, Men's Issues, Grief, Suicidal Ideation, and Relationship Conflict.
Mental health concerns can be difficult, distracting and even exhausting. Doing it alone can become overwhelming. My goal is to create an inviting and nonjudgmental environment in which together, we can explore and actively pursue learning, healing, growth, and obtaining balance in your life. I will meet you where you are and together, we will establish a plan to address your concerns.
(806) 304-0191 View (806) 304-0191
Photo of Ilean Pamela McCarty - Ilean McCarty Counseling PLLC, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ilean McCarty Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Canyon, TX 79015
Spanish sessions available. Are you seeking support and guidance on your journey towards mental well-being? I'm Ilean McCarty, a licensed clinical social worker supervisor, offering personalized and compassionate care through both in person and online session. Tailored to your unique needs, my focus is on empowering individuals through a variety of therapeutic modalities, specializing in addressing challenges such as depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, geriatric concerns and fostering self-esteem. I am dedicated to providing a safe and non-judgmental space for your healing journey.
Spanish sessions available. Are you seeking support and guidance on your journey towards mental well-being? I'm Ilean McCarty, a licensed clinical social worker supervisor, offering personalized and compassionate care through both in person and online session. Tailored to your unique needs, my focus is on empowering individuals through a variety of therapeutic modalities, specializing in addressing challenges such as depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, geriatric concerns and fostering self-esteem. I am dedicated to providing a safe and non-judgmental space for your healing journey.
(806) 304-6754 View (806) 304-6754
Photo of Beatriz Adriana Campos - Vida Canyon Counseling. Beatriz Adriana Campos LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vida Canyon Counseling. Beatriz Adriana Campos LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Canyon, TX 79015
My specialty is working with mood and depression disorders, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, and stress-trauma related disorders.
I provide counseling for adults and children who are experiencing persistent sadness, a sense of low worth/esteem, anxiety/worry, panic, heightened sense of stress, frequent irritability, survival/trauma responses due to past trauma experiences, and are affected in important areas of life. I help develop treatment goals to improve mood, sense of worth, coping strategies, behavioral issues, rational/healthy thoughts, anxiety management, trauma healing, and self-care.
My specialty is working with mood and depression disorders, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, and stress-trauma related disorders.
I provide counseling for adults and children who are experiencing persistent sadness, a sense of low worth/esteem, anxiety/worry, panic, heightened sense of stress, frequent irritability, survival/trauma responses due to past trauma experiences, and are affected in important areas of life. I help develop treatment goals to improve mood, sense of worth, coping strategies, behavioral issues, rational/healthy thoughts, anxiety management, trauma healing, and self-care.
(806) 583-1332 View (806) 583-1332
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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.