Depression Therapists in Driftwood, TX
![Photo of Angela Tierney, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f77dc276-b620-4351-a1da-bb921089b06b/2/320x400.jpeg)
My work includes self harm, eating disorders, alternative lifestyles, sexual identity issues, depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
I have been working with Young Adults (age 18 and older), predominantly female or gender queer, for about 19 years now and I love it. My goal in therapy is to help you get through the difficulties life brings your way. By providing a nurturing, comfortable environment, it allows you to relax and trust me and the counseling process. My positive, strength-building style of counseling means that I listen to you, understand what you are going through, see the strengths and positive parts, and set goals for what is not working. We will work together to figure it out.
My work includes self harm, eating disorders, alternative lifestyles, sexual identity issues, depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
I have been working with Young Adults (age 18 and older), predominantly female or gender queer, for about 19 years now and I love it. My goal in therapy is to help you get through the difficulties life brings your way. By providing a nurturing, comfortable environment, it allows you to relax and trust me and the counseling process. My positive, strength-building style of counseling means that I listen to you, understand what you are going through, see the strengths and positive parts, and set goals for what is not working. We will work together to figure it out.
![Photo of Michael Hannah, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccdc0a30-6743-439f-902d-3e193b5a7818/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychotherapist who has been in private practice and treatment centers for over thirty years. In my early years I worked with teens/young adults and their families in residential treatment settings. In my private practice I work mostly with adults, individually and couples. However I will work with teens who have a desire to make a positive shift in their life. My focus is to help the client make changes in patterns they believe are self defeating. My mission is to provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies and foster personal growth.
I am a psychotherapist who has been in private practice and treatment centers for over thirty years. In my early years I worked with teens/young adults and their families in residential treatment settings. In my private practice I work mostly with adults, individually and couples. However I will work with teens who have a desire to make a positive shift in their life. My focus is to help the client make changes in patterns they believe are self defeating. My mission is to provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies and foster personal growth.
![Photo of Maria L Gregg, LCSW, EMDR-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ae73275-1c94-4d3a-85ee-f60343ea2a1c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maria L Gregg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
Driftwood, TX 78619 (Online Only)
If you struggle to trust yourself and know what to do with life stressors, especially interpersonal ones, then I can guide and facilitate the process of identifying and using the strengths, capabilities and resources you already possess to respond to these stressors. Having gone through my own healing with internalize stigma and understanding of cultural implications of having a mental health condition I have the empathy to navigate how to work with and not against mental health symptoms. I desire for individuals to courageously live out their authentic, genuine self.
If you struggle to trust yourself and know what to do with life stressors, especially interpersonal ones, then I can guide and facilitate the process of identifying and using the strengths, capabilities and resources you already possess to respond to these stressors. Having gone through my own healing with internalize stigma and understanding of cultural implications of having a mental health condition I have the empathy to navigate how to work with and not against mental health symptoms. I desire for individuals to courageously live out their authentic, genuine self.
![Photo of Heather Jackson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/749ed84a-68b0-4ac3-a8cc-ea75b61f33f1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Driftwood, TX 78619
If you are looking for a listener because you need to talk to about: conflict in your marriage, unbearable family relationships, step parenting challenges, frustration with ADHD - yours or someone else's, scary new life transitions, healing from a traumatic event or relationship, or a constant nagging sadness or anxiousness that just won't go away, then we should talk!
If you are looking for a listener because you need to talk to about: conflict in your marriage, unbearable family relationships, step parenting challenges, frustration with ADHD - yours or someone else's, scary new life transitions, healing from a traumatic event or relationship, or a constant nagging sadness or anxiousness that just won't go away, then we should talk!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Vanessa Solis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b461965-1f66-46b1-ba7e-0f667c7037b7/1/320x400.png)
Vanessa Solis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620 (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Vanessa. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor living in the state of Texas. Often reducing depression, anxiety, and stress are common goals I have assisted in attaining. Also, grief processing and improving family communication skills are needs I have addressed. For my approach I choose Reality Therapy. I also find Cognitive/Behavioral techniques useful.
Hi there, I'm Vanessa. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor living in the state of Texas. Often reducing depression, anxiety, and stress are common goals I have assisted in attaining. Also, grief processing and improving family communication skills are needs I have addressed. For my approach I choose Reality Therapy. I also find Cognitive/Behavioral techniques useful.
![Photo of Sandra Cano Cormier, PhD, LSSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bcc7e6a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed psychologist and licensed specialist in school psychology. My practice serves adults, adolescents, children, and families. I use a problem-solving, collaborative, pragmatic approach which is helpful in achieving positive results quickly. My specialities include treating youth and adults with anxiety, depression, and trauma histories, as well as child and adolescent concerns such as ADHD and defiance. I am available to support veterans who are experiencing PTSD and adjustment issues related to returning to civilian life. Additionally, I work with older adults who might be experiencing depression, adjustment difficulties, or other mental health concerns.
I am a licensed psychologist and licensed specialist in school psychology. My practice serves adults, adolescents, children, and families. I use a problem-solving, collaborative, pragmatic approach which is helpful in achieving positive results quickly. My specialities include treating youth and adults with anxiety, depression, and trauma histories, as well as child and adolescent concerns such as ADHD and defiance. I am available to support veterans who are experiencing PTSD and adjustment issues related to returning to civilian life. Additionally, I work with older adults who might be experiencing depression, adjustment difficulties, or other mental health concerns.
![Photo of Sydney Squires, MA, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9944975-c9c5-4b23-b66e-4ec94b920211/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sydney Squires
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Pain arrives unasked. Often it comes and goes, but there are seasons when we feel “stuck” in suffering and unable to move forward. Do you have overwhelming anxiety or depression you can’t seem to shake? Do you have teenagers struggling with anxiety, social difficulties, and questions of identity? Through the counseling process, my intention is to help you build a heart of resiliency. One that possesses greater wholeness and confidence in your ability to navigate any and all turns of life. My aim is that you will develop skills to change the things you can, acceptance of what cannot, and develop greater hope for the future.
Pain arrives unasked. Often it comes and goes, but there are seasons when we feel “stuck” in suffering and unable to move forward. Do you have overwhelming anxiety or depression you can’t seem to shake? Do you have teenagers struggling with anxiety, social difficulties, and questions of identity? Through the counseling process, my intention is to help you build a heart of resiliency. One that possesses greater wholeness and confidence in your ability to navigate any and all turns of life. My aim is that you will develop skills to change the things you can, acceptance of what cannot, and develop greater hope for the future.
![Photo of Lynda Keen - Lynda Keen, LPC, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e2bd7dd-dd67-4cd1-af22-1104a5f5e892/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lynda Keen, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
We'll collaborate using your strengths and weaknesses to find your solutions to manage depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, co-dependency, dual diagnosis, women's issues, teen issues, motivation, life changes, and more.
Everyone can benefit from therapy at some point – whether for addressing momentary issues or ongoing challenges such as trauma. Life can be hard and different stages of life bring different obstacles. Whether you’re looking for a little support to get back on track or have a child who needs extra guidance, working with me can put things into perspective. In therapeutic sessions, we’ll focus on your strengths and work to find answers you’re seeking. Sessions can be held in my Dripping Springs, Texas office, or on-line from anywhere in Texas. Free 15-minute consultations are available to learn more about how I may support you.
We'll collaborate using your strengths and weaknesses to find your solutions to manage depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, co-dependency, dual diagnosis, women's issues, teen issues, motivation, life changes, and more.
Everyone can benefit from therapy at some point – whether for addressing momentary issues or ongoing challenges such as trauma. Life can be hard and different stages of life bring different obstacles. Whether you’re looking for a little support to get back on track or have a child who needs extra guidance, working with me can put things into perspective. In therapeutic sessions, we’ll focus on your strengths and work to find answers you’re seeking. Sessions can be held in my Dripping Springs, Texas office, or on-line from anywhere in Texas. Free 15-minute consultations are available to learn more about how I may support you.
![Photo of Dr. Gayle Owens, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2a7c770-cf30-4229-ba6b-acdd2e268364/1/320x400.png)
If you are an open minded adult who is experiencing a challenging situation, and/or anxiety, unhappiness, indecisiveness, mild to moderate depression or sadness - and hoping for support and ultimately a more satisfying life - my practice is particularly suited for you.
If you are an open minded adult who is experiencing a challenging situation, and/or anxiety, unhappiness, indecisiveness, mild to moderate depression or sadness - and hoping for support and ultimately a more satisfying life - my practice is particularly suited for you.
![Photo of Katy Vandruff, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e24f898-c6a3-403e-86cf-7244e1ccd2a0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katy Vandruff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
I work with teens, college students and adults experiencing anxiety, life transitions, depression and more.
Accepting new virtual clients only. No one should have to go through this life alone. I believe in the power of relationships to bring about positive transformation. My focus is to be a safe and warm presence for you to process and make sense of your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. With empathy and gentleness, I allow clients to take the lead in their own healing process, while offering guidance and perspective so that you can be the best version of yourself. As a counselor, it is an honor to sit with people in the midst of this messy life, human to human, as hope and healing come alive. To me, there is no greater privilege.
I work with teens, college students and adults experiencing anxiety, life transitions, depression and more.
Accepting new virtual clients only. No one should have to go through this life alone. I believe in the power of relationships to bring about positive transformation. My focus is to be a safe and warm presence for you to process and make sense of your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. With empathy and gentleness, I allow clients to take the lead in their own healing process, while offering guidance and perspective so that you can be the best version of yourself. As a counselor, it is an honor to sit with people in the midst of this messy life, human to human, as hope and healing come alive. To me, there is no greater privilege.
![Photo of Juli Acuna, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55bbafe4-b196-4360-b27a-a8ccfa0afb46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Juli has worked with youth and adults who have experienced sexual and physical trauma, depression, anxiety, as well as those navigating big life-changes, such as divorce, grief, and sexual exploration.
Juli Acuña is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. With experience in Play Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, Juli aims to help children, youth, and adults gain the skills needed to overcome life's challenges, set and attain their personal goals, and form healthier relationships with those around them. With a relationship-centered approach, she hopes to provide an affirming and nonjudgmental environment for clients to explore thinking and behavioral habits which can help them form healthier relationships with themselves and others.
Juli has worked with youth and adults who have experienced sexual and physical trauma, depression, anxiety, as well as those navigating big life-changes, such as divorce, grief, and sexual exploration.
Juli Acuña is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. With experience in Play Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, Juli aims to help children, youth, and adults gain the skills needed to overcome life's challenges, set and attain their personal goals, and form healthier relationships with those around them. With a relationship-centered approach, she hopes to provide an affirming and nonjudgmental environment for clients to explore thinking and behavioral habits which can help them form healthier relationships with themselves and others.
![Photo of Carl Coccaro, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b386a590-2b21-4bf9-8e74-247925b7b89f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carl Coccaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
My specialties include: Identity and Purpose, Self-Actualization, Addictions/Substance Use, Thought Control, Anxiety, Depression, Relationships/Couples, Family, and Trauma.
My focus is on meeting the client from a holistic and integrative approach to therapy. There are many avenues to find motivation to achieve optimal health, as well as maintaining gains through recovery efforts. I find great passion in assisting the client to find their true sense of self (authentic self) through self-actualization, which includes self-image, self-esteem, and the ideal self. There's also a desire for positivity and purpose, healthy balanced thoughts, grounding and breathing through mindfulness, replacement of negative behaviors for positive, identifying strengths/solutions, and rewriting the story of their lives.
My specialties include: Identity and Purpose, Self-Actualization, Addictions/Substance Use, Thought Control, Anxiety, Depression, Relationships/Couples, Family, and Trauma.
My focus is on meeting the client from a holistic and integrative approach to therapy. There are many avenues to find motivation to achieve optimal health, as well as maintaining gains through recovery efforts. I find great passion in assisting the client to find their true sense of self (authentic self) through self-actualization, which includes self-image, self-esteem, and the ideal self. There's also a desire for positivity and purpose, healthy balanced thoughts, grounding and breathing through mindfulness, replacement of negative behaviors for positive, identifying strengths/solutions, and rewriting the story of their lives.
![Photo of Lauren Hudson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a8069bf-5d69-4405-b7af-20ca19081f78/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737 (Online Only)
I see my role as a counselor as providing a supportive environment for each client to be able to address their areas of concern. I believe that each client is an expert in their own life and that they have the ability to grow and thrive. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, PTSD, relational issues and couples counseling.
I see my role as a counselor as providing a supportive environment for each client to be able to address their areas of concern. I believe that each client is an expert in their own life and that they have the ability to grow and thrive. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, PTSD, relational issues and couples counseling.
![Photo of Terry Eagan - Dr Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d672d360-d222-46ca-8d3a-8fbcd07f7c3d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620 (Online Only)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation also known as TMS Depression Therapy is an FDA cleared treatment for depression and co-occurring anxiety, postpartum, OCD, addiction, and other mental health conditions.
Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation also known as TMS Depression Therapy is an FDA cleared treatment for depression and co-occurring anxiety, postpartum, OCD, addiction, and other mental health conditions.
Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
![Photo of Jodie Daigle Robinson, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a4d6fdd-4480-4427-a61e-f2d66001dc94/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jodie Daigle Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78737 (Online Only)
I quickly realized that many women were overwhelmed, stressed out, depressed, and anxious but had no outlet to talk about it.
More and more I see women who are truly "doing it all" They might work full time, take care of the kids, and manage the house while dealing with a partner who doesn't appreciate how hard it is to live up to almost impossible standards. Sometimes it's stay at home moms who do a ton of work but don't feel appreciated for all that they do and feel isolated from others. I also see so much Anxiety. It seems as if Covid brought everyone's anxiety out of hiding. Things that we never worried about before are now overwhelming. Social Anxiety is also increasing due Covid related isolation. You are not alone with these feelings.
I quickly realized that many women were overwhelmed, stressed out, depressed, and anxious but had no outlet to talk about it.
More and more I see women who are truly "doing it all" They might work full time, take care of the kids, and manage the house while dealing with a partner who doesn't appreciate how hard it is to live up to almost impossible standards. Sometimes it's stay at home moms who do a ton of work but don't feel appreciated for all that they do and feel isolated from others. I also see so much Anxiety. It seems as if Covid brought everyone's anxiety out of hiding. Things that we never worried about before are now overwhelming. Social Anxiety is also increasing due Covid related isolation. You are not alone with these feelings.
![Photo of Savannah Howe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3ec08d8-5463-4c35-bc00-3389795ed456/1/320x400.jpeg)
Savannah Howe, practicing at LifeStance Health, offers specialized therapeutic support for children, adolescents, and families across Texas. Utilizing Play Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy, she creates a safe and nurturing environment where young clients can express themselves and work through emotional and behavioral challenges. Savannah’s approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, fostering growth and healing through creative and evidencebased interventions.In addition to her focus on Play Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy, Savannah specializes in treating anxiety, childhood behavior issues, and depression.
Savannah Howe, practicing at LifeStance Health, offers specialized therapeutic support for children, adolescents, and families across Texas. Utilizing Play Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy, she creates a safe and nurturing environment where young clients can express themselves and work through emotional and behavioral challenges. Savannah’s approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, fostering growth and healing through creative and evidencebased interventions.In addition to her focus on Play Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy, Savannah specializes in treating anxiety, childhood behavior issues, and depression.
![Photo of Liliana Nataly Aguilar Perez, MEd, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/288dacbb-cc1a-40a5-97c4-115ccbaf674b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Liliana Nataly Aguilar Perez
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , MEd, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wimberley, TX 78676 (Online Only)
Hello! I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, religious trauma, LGBTQA+ issues, low self-esteem, and more. I am passionate about helping clients overcome difficult childhood experiences, heal their inner child, and regulate their nervous system. I empower clients to advocate for themselves, explore their concerns, and embrace their genuine selves. Creating a safe space for new behaviors and authentic growth is central to my dedication.
Hello! I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, religious trauma, LGBTQA+ issues, low self-esteem, and more. I am passionate about helping clients overcome difficult childhood experiences, heal their inner child, and regulate their nervous system. I empower clients to advocate for themselves, explore their concerns, and embrace their genuine selves. Creating a safe space for new behaviors and authentic growth is central to my dedication.
![Photo of Heidi Reddin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/570656be-3259-4ed2-948d-2dffee91c20d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Heidi Reddin and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in New Braunfels, TX, and I see clients all throughout Texas via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, and major life transitions. I use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy as modalities to explore client concerns.
Hello! My name is Heidi Reddin and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in New Braunfels, TX, and I see clients all throughout Texas via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, and major life transitions. I use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy as modalities to explore client concerns.
![Photo of Virginia C Renfroe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3945ad54-a7c2-4c50-9aef-3c43390ebe99/1/320x400.jpeg)
Virginia C Renfroe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Welcome. Therapy is an important form of self-care. Anxiety, depression, grief & loss, life transitions, and relationship conflicts are often issues that lead people to seek a counselor. Or sometimes a person has experienced an upsetting or even life-threatening event. For close to twenty years I have assisted individuals, couples, and families in working through these and other concerns. While many may encounter similar difficulties, each person is unique, and your strengths, intuition, and creativity are key in your movement toward well-being.
Welcome. Therapy is an important form of self-care. Anxiety, depression, grief & loss, life transitions, and relationship conflicts are often issues that lead people to seek a counselor. Or sometimes a person has experienced an upsetting or even life-threatening event. For close to twenty years I have assisted individuals, couples, and families in working through these and other concerns. While many may encounter similar difficulties, each person is unique, and your strengths, intuition, and creativity are key in your movement toward well-being.
![Photo of Alejandro Gonzalez, MS, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4213bea-ab30-423f-97d2-712729f5d2bd/2/320x400.png)
If you need help navigating anxiety, depression, work stress, trauma, or life changes, I am here to support you.
HELLO! Struggling? Need to vent to a professional ? Overwhelmed with life changes and/or challenges? Do you feel like you could use some guidance? Living in today's world comes with many challenges. We all have our goals, life paths and journeys. Sometimes we need help. If you find yourself needing support, I am here to listen and provide options to help along the way. My experiences help understand the challenges faced by children, adolescents, and adults. Whether conducting individual or group therapy sessions, I provide comprehensive support tailored to the unique experiences of each client. (Fluent in Spanish)
If you need help navigating anxiety, depression, work stress, trauma, or life changes, I am here to support you.
HELLO! Struggling? Need to vent to a professional ? Overwhelmed with life changes and/or challenges? Do you feel like you could use some guidance? Living in today's world comes with many challenges. We all have our goals, life paths and journeys. Sometimes we need help. If you find yourself needing support, I am here to listen and provide options to help along the way. My experiences help understand the challenges faced by children, adolescents, and adults. Whether conducting individual or group therapy sessions, I provide comprehensive support tailored to the unique experiences of each client. (Fluent in Spanish)
See more therapy options for Driftwood
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Driftwood
- Bee Cave
- Bee Caves
- Buda
- Dripping Springs
- Kyle
- Lakeway
- Manchaca
- Rollingwood
- Spicewood
- Sunset Valley
- West Lake Hills
- Wimberley
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.