Therapists in Gainesville, TX
![Photo of Patricia Cherry, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eeb67289-cbe9-41e1-b24f-22a72b36b6fe/1/320x400.png)
Hello! I am Patricia (Patty) Cherry, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas with over 39 years of clinical experience. I typically work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety and stress, adjustment issues, and grief. My primary approaches to therapy include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness based therapy. In addition, I do Christian counseling.
Hello! I am Patricia (Patty) Cherry, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas with over 39 years of clinical experience. I typically work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety and stress, adjustment issues, and grief. My primary approaches to therapy include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness based therapy. In addition, I do Christian counseling.
![Photo of Suzanne Elizabeth Wheeler, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42588a3b-f88a-465d-add2-279208bdee65/2/320x400.png)
Suzanne Elizabeth Wheeler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, TX 76240
My goal is to aid all my clients whether addressing the complexities of trauma, the intricacies of relationship dynamics, or the challenges of managing anxiety and depression.
Hello I am Suzanne E. Wheeler, M.S., LPC. I am a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Masters of Science degree in Counseling. I have a profound commitment to help individuals navigate and improve their mental health challenges. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and impulse control problems. My personal hope is to help my clients regain control of their present life in order to reach their future goals. People have the ability to regain control of their personal challenges to be happy and have a productive life. With desire and dedication most anything is obtainable..
My goal is to aid all my clients whether addressing the complexities of trauma, the intricacies of relationship dynamics, or the challenges of managing anxiety and depression.
Hello I am Suzanne E. Wheeler, M.S., LPC. I am a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Masters of Science degree in Counseling. I have a profound commitment to help individuals navigate and improve their mental health challenges. I treat depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and impulse control problems. My personal hope is to help my clients regain control of their present life in order to reach their future goals. People have the ability to regain control of their personal challenges to be happy and have a productive life. With desire and dedication most anything is obtainable..
![Photo of Kelly Maney, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d115bd01-621c-49fa-b809-6b1223524058/1/320x400.jpeg)
Coping the best way you know works during a crisis but it is not a healthy way to live. Depression, anxiety and other mental/emotional issues is a symptom to a deeper issues hidden within. Finding someone who understands you and can help you find a way out is essential to ending the suffering you are experiencing.
Coping the best way you know works during a crisis but it is not a healthy way to live. Depression, anxiety and other mental/emotional issues is a symptom to a deeper issues hidden within. Finding someone who understands you and can help you find a way out is essential to ending the suffering you are experiencing.
![Photo of Deborah C. Reed, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d58773-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah C. Reed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, TX 76240 (Online Only)
Currently accepting daytime appointments only. Evenings are full. Life happens and change happens, whether we want it to or not, and sometimes we need some support and guidance to weather these changes. I act as a professional guide through those rough times. Through therapy, change can become an exciting, growth provoking process that creates stronger relationships. My motto has always been "Many roads lead to recovery". It is of utmost importance that all clients be educated, empowered, and make informed choices about the next step in their lives.
Currently accepting daytime appointments only. Evenings are full. Life happens and change happens, whether we want it to or not, and sometimes we need some support and guidance to weather these changes. I act as a professional guide through those rough times. Through therapy, change can become an exciting, growth provoking process that creates stronger relationships. My motto has always been "Many roads lead to recovery". It is of utmost importance that all clients be educated, empowered, and make informed choices about the next step in their lives.
![Photo of Sharon Montcalm, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d765836f-7e87-4d39-ad1d-303cbe8057eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Montcalm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gainesville, TX 76240
You keep thinking that this is just a stage or a passing behavior your child is going through. You stay up late searching online for books, articles, and social media posts looking for something new to try because nothing you do is working to help your child. The meltdowns, temper tantrums, yelling and the power struggles in your home are not how you pictured family life. It's too much noise, too much stress and the chaos is draining your energy. This is not the adventure you signed up for or learned about in Parenting 101. It's time for change.
You keep thinking that this is just a stage or a passing behavior your child is going through. You stay up late searching online for books, articles, and social media posts looking for something new to try because nothing you do is working to help your child. The meltdowns, temper tantrums, yelling and the power struggles in your home are not how you pictured family life. It's too much noise, too much stress and the chaos is draining your energy. This is not the adventure you signed up for or learned about in Parenting 101. It's time for change.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Hilary M DeWeerd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88c4de2c-f2ed-42cb-8b49-a4c771160a68/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hilary M DeWeerd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
The Colony, TX 75056 (Online Only)
My name is Hilary M. DeWeerd and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults (18+) and provide individual and couples counseling. I welcome clients of any race, religion or orientation. Client issues that I work with: Anxiety Substance Abuse Depression Trauma Life Transitions Neurodiversity Grief. Therapeutic -theoretical I offer: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Insight-oriented Therapy Family Systems Therapy Mindfulness Therapy
My name is Hilary M. DeWeerd and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults (18+) and provide individual and couples counseling. I welcome clients of any race, religion or orientation. Client issues that I work with: Anxiety Substance Abuse Depression Trauma Life Transitions Neurodiversity Grief. Therapeutic -theoretical I offer: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Insight-oriented Therapy Family Systems Therapy Mindfulness Therapy
![Photo of DeVaunier Cannon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cdc347e-704f-4f6c-be5c-c3552db2bf02/2/320x400.png)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Texas. The University of Texas at Arlington is where I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work. Being in the helping profession is what I wanted to do since I was a child. My professional experience began in 2016, as a therapist/case manager/discharge planner at a mental health hospital. Working with people in crisis was difficult, but it gave me an opportunity to learn how to handle crisis situations such as people who were suicidal/homicidal, severe depression and anxiety, struggling with psychosis, substance abuse and detoxing, and victims/perpetrators of abuse.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Texas. The University of Texas at Arlington is where I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work. Being in the helping profession is what I wanted to do since I was a child. My professional experience began in 2016, as a therapist/case manager/discharge planner at a mental health hospital. Working with people in crisis was difficult, but it gave me an opportunity to learn how to handle crisis situations such as people who were suicidal/homicidal, severe depression and anxiety, struggling with psychosis, substance abuse and detoxing, and victims/perpetrators of abuse.
![Photo of Sonia Noorany, LPC, MMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b344204-cc85-4bd8-90d0-cf6fb2199ac8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am here to help! As a counselor, I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety and abuse.
Life is hard! Whether it be stressors of everyday life, family or marital issues, school or work-related problems or because of recent or past trauma/grief, life can become messy. It gets hard not only for oneself, but also for loved ones or those around us. The reality is it happens to ALL of us. Sometimes all we need is for someone to listen with compassion and without judgment. Sometimes we require resources or coping strategies to help navigate the obstacles life throws at us. No matter what it is we need, therapy is the first step. Therapy equips us with the tools that we need to face whatever hardships we have.
I am here to help! As a counselor, I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety and abuse.
Life is hard! Whether it be stressors of everyday life, family or marital issues, school or work-related problems or because of recent or past trauma/grief, life can become messy. It gets hard not only for oneself, but also for loved ones or those around us. The reality is it happens to ALL of us. Sometimes all we need is for someone to listen with compassion and without judgment. Sometimes we require resources or coping strategies to help navigate the obstacles life throws at us. No matter what it is we need, therapy is the first step. Therapy equips us with the tools that we need to face whatever hardships we have.
![Photo of Patty Brown, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48e2ebd8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping people move toward emotional healing in an open therapeutic environment that fosters trust and compassion. My focus is to help children, adolescents, adults and families address difficulties related to identity, fear and anxiety, depression, grief, and abusive/dysfunctional relationships. I want to assist individuals improve communication, build healthy boundaries, and find empowerment through self awareness.
I am passionate about helping people move toward emotional healing in an open therapeutic environment that fosters trust and compassion. My focus is to help children, adolescents, adults and families address difficulties related to identity, fear and anxiety, depression, grief, and abusive/dysfunctional relationships. I want to assist individuals improve communication, build healthy boundaries, and find empowerment through self awareness.
![Photo of Megan Hoffman Supervised By Kelley Doss Lpc-S Ceds-C, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60756907-cbff-4417-bcfe-2d50b23259aa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Hoffman Supervised By Kelley Doss Lpc-S Ceds-C
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
Hardships and life changes can be difficult and discouraging to navigate alone. Together, we will identify stressors, and create a plan of action that works best for you, your child, and your family. My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with various presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, stress management, anger, self- image, porn addiction, trauma, and more.
Hardships and life changes can be difficult and discouraging to navigate alone. Together, we will identify stressors, and create a plan of action that works best for you, your child, and your family. My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with various presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, stress management, anger, self- image, porn addiction, trauma, and more.
![Photo of Dr. Dominique Dor, MA, LPC-S,, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f277f3b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dominique Dor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S,, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duncanville, TX 75116
* Family Therapy * Parenting Skills * Couples Therapy & Premarital Training * Career Counseling * Group Therapy * Depression and Anxiety * Grief Therapy * Life Skills Transition * Aging Geriatric Therapy - Mental Health and Family Issues * Psychological Assessment * Spiritual Integrated Approach.
Ever feel like adulting came out of nowhere and hit you like a ton of bricks? Dr. Dor's Life Skills concept can move you from surviving to thriving in life. Dr. Dor is a highly skilled, compassionate, empathetic, and solutions-oriented Psychotherapist. She is dedicated to providing exceptional care and implementing effective treatment plans for clients. She has a demonstrated track record of success working with diverse client populations in group settings, one-on-one, workshop training, and seminar speaking. Dr. Dor is an effective motivator and communicator.
* Family Therapy * Parenting Skills * Couples Therapy & Premarital Training * Career Counseling * Group Therapy * Depression and Anxiety * Grief Therapy * Life Skills Transition * Aging Geriatric Therapy - Mental Health and Family Issues * Psychological Assessment * Spiritual Integrated Approach.
Ever feel like adulting came out of nowhere and hit you like a ton of bricks? Dr. Dor's Life Skills concept can move you from surviving to thriving in life. Dr. Dor is a highly skilled, compassionate, empathetic, and solutions-oriented Psychotherapist. She is dedicated to providing exceptional care and implementing effective treatment plans for clients. She has a demonstrated track record of success working with diverse client populations in group settings, one-on-one, workshop training, and seminar speaking. Dr. Dor is an effective motivator and communicator.
![Photo of Ayushi Acharya, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98942c16-9b5d-4ed9-91be-cc9c8a69348c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ayushi Acharya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219 (Online Only)
Please do not call. Please email only or visit my website: www.loveyourbehavior.com to book a FREE 15-minute consultation. If you're feeling stuck, frustrated, misunderstood, depressed, anxious- there could be a multitude of reasons why. When life dips into the realm of the unexpected- we some times need to reach out for help. As a supporter of you, I want you to achieve your best sense of self. Through the therapeutic process, together we can achieve your goals and help manage your mental health by examining your thoughts, choices and relationships. I currently practice in Texas & Georgia & North Carolina via Telehealth.
Please do not call. Please email only or visit my website: www.loveyourbehavior.com to book a FREE 15-minute consultation. If you're feeling stuck, frustrated, misunderstood, depressed, anxious- there could be a multitude of reasons why. When life dips into the realm of the unexpected- we some times need to reach out for help. As a supporter of you, I want you to achieve your best sense of self. Through the therapeutic process, together we can achieve your goals and help manage your mental health by examining your thoughts, choices and relationships. I currently practice in Texas & Georgia & North Carolina via Telehealth.
![Photo of Asmaa A Mohamed, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79864990-a549-46fe-9430-80696a232dca/3/320x400.jpeg)
Asmaa A Mohamed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75002 (Online Only)
If you've ever found yourself grappling with depression, anxiety, grief, or facing challenges in your relationship. Whether you're navigating tough times or dealing with complex issues, I'm equipped with the training and tools to honor your dignity and autonomy and practice cultural humility to provide guidance and be with you through your healing journey. Respecting your individual journey and cultural context is fundamental in my approach. I'm here to assist if you're seeking help in managing mental health concerns or relationship issues. Reach out, and let's explore how I can support you on your path to healing and growth.
If you've ever found yourself grappling with depression, anxiety, grief, or facing challenges in your relationship. Whether you're navigating tough times or dealing with complex issues, I'm equipped with the training and tools to honor your dignity and autonomy and practice cultural humility to provide guidance and be with you through your healing journey. Respecting your individual journey and cultural context is fundamental in my approach. I'm here to assist if you're seeking help in managing mental health concerns or relationship issues. Reach out, and let's explore how I can support you on your path to healing and growth.
![Photo of Jestina Franks, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a770d60b-b1d5-4653-a366-05cc3b401498/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jestina Franks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76010 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Jestina Franks, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-S) and an AASECT-certified sex therapist. I provide virtual counseling services to patients in Texas. I have extensive experience in assisting individuals with issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, sexuality, and intimacy issues. My style and approach are a good fit for young adults and adults seeking assistance dealing with life challenges and social pressures. Typically, my focus is on anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+, intimacy, alternative relationships, and sexual health concerns.
Hi, my name is Jestina Franks, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-S) and an AASECT-certified sex therapist. I provide virtual counseling services to patients in Texas. I have extensive experience in assisting individuals with issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, sexuality, and intimacy issues. My style and approach are a good fit for young adults and adults seeking assistance dealing with life challenges and social pressures. Typically, my focus is on anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+, intimacy, alternative relationships, and sexual health concerns.
![Photo of Becky Bell - Integrity Health Counseling, LBSW, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33d1310d-4156-4b28-b6a4-e0c932f626c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Becky Bell - Integrity Health Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LBSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Wichita Falls, TX 76301
I have extensive experience working with teens, adults, senior adults, couples, and families with: depression, anxiety, anger, grief, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, trauma, those who are chronically self-critical, insecure, and questions of purpose and meaning.
No matter how "together" you may appear on the outside, when you are hurting on the inside, life can feel overwhelming. I understand how challenging stubborn and worn-out old patterns and dynamics can be. I always seek to create a warm, down-to-earth, and nurturing environment where you can feel safe and protected. I meet you where you are in your life. You are the expert of your story and we go at your pace. There is no judgment or expectation for you to talk or perform. This is your journey toward greater self-awareness, growth and healing.
I have extensive experience working with teens, adults, senior adults, couples, and families with: depression, anxiety, anger, grief, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, trauma, those who are chronically self-critical, insecure, and questions of purpose and meaning.
No matter how "together" you may appear on the outside, when you are hurting on the inside, life can feel overwhelming. I understand how challenging stubborn and worn-out old patterns and dynamics can be. I always seek to create a warm, down-to-earth, and nurturing environment where you can feel safe and protected. I meet you where you are in your life. You are the expert of your story and we go at your pace. There is no judgment or expectation for you to talk or perform. This is your journey toward greater self-awareness, growth and healing.
![Photo of Selene Byrne, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c124d80d-39f5-491e-bab5-7e3284bac2b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of specializing consist of anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, trauma, grief, and various life adjustments.
Hey there! I'm Selene Byrne, a bilingual Licensed Master of Social Work. I’m proud of you for taking the time to prioritize your journey towards healing! I received my Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington and have a wealth of experience from diverse settings such as inpatient mental health hospitals, homeless shelters, schools, Arlington PD crisis response team, as well as private/group practice. Utilizing treatment modalities like Motivational Interviewing, Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Crisis Intervention, and Seeking Safety.
My areas of specializing consist of anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, trauma, grief, and various life adjustments.
Hey there! I'm Selene Byrne, a bilingual Licensed Master of Social Work. I’m proud of you for taking the time to prioritize your journey towards healing! I received my Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington and have a wealth of experience from diverse settings such as inpatient mental health hospitals, homeless shelters, schools, Arlington PD crisis response team, as well as private/group practice. Utilizing treatment modalities like Motivational Interviewing, Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Crisis Intervention, and Seeking Safety.
I have worked with clients who have grief or domestic abuse. Often the client will have depression.
I have worked with clients who have grief or domestic abuse. Often the client will have depression.
![Photo of Joanna Mejia, MA, LPC, C-DBT, CCPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cdb2a5c-5c92-4c1d-b0bb-dbbd963a25e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Mejia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, C-DBT, CCPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
There are times in life when things are hard. It seems that you are the only one feeling overwhelmed, anxious and depressed. I am here to tell you that you are not alone. Beneath every behavior there is a feeling that needs to be explored. Together we can identify those feelings, work hard and overcome life's struggles. You don't have to be exhausted, you don't have to think that the only way out is to give up, you don't have to do this alone.
There are times in life when things are hard. It seems that you are the only one feeling overwhelmed, anxious and depressed. I am here to tell you that you are not alone. Beneath every behavior there is a feeling that needs to be explored. Together we can identify those feelings, work hard and overcome life's struggles. You don't have to be exhausted, you don't have to think that the only way out is to give up, you don't have to do this alone.
![Photo of Joy Lee, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b30df1ff-7c1d-4964-b866-12f1c28cd371/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joy Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Elm, TX 75068
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, couples, and families to help them grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Throughout my counseling practice, I have worked with different populations on topics including stress, trauma, depression, anxiety, shame, guilt, grief, self-esteem, values, identity, anger management, emotions, relationships, and communication skills. My greatest interest lies in the individual’s well-being. As a counselor, I facilitate a safe environment for exploration, support, and discovering internal and external strengths and resources to overcome challenges.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, couples, and families to help them grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Throughout my counseling practice, I have worked with different populations on topics including stress, trauma, depression, anxiety, shame, guilt, grief, self-esteem, values, identity, anger management, emotions, relationships, and communication skills. My greatest interest lies in the individual’s well-being. As a counselor, I facilitate a safe environment for exploration, support, and discovering internal and external strengths and resources to overcome challenges.
![Photo of Kimberly Hernandez, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d094120-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Clinically, I specialize in helping people who suffer from anxiety, depression, disordered eating, body-image concerns, relationship problems and trauma.
I imagine it took courage to get to this point. I want to honor that courage with an empathic and nurturing approach, so you feel understood and unconditionally accepted. I provide a warm and collaborative space to explore circumstances, thoughts and feelings creating difficulty. My work involves helping clients develop a deeper understanding of factors impacting functioning and tools to create relationships and a life that fosters growth and sustained health. I help clients access and rely on their inner wisdom and courage and promote development of self-compassion and healthy coping.
Clinically, I specialize in helping people who suffer from anxiety, depression, disordered eating, body-image concerns, relationship problems and trauma.
I imagine it took courage to get to this point. I want to honor that courage with an empathic and nurturing approach, so you feel understood and unconditionally accepted. I provide a warm and collaborative space to explore circumstances, thoughts and feelings creating difficulty. My work involves helping clients develop a deeper understanding of factors impacting functioning and tools to create relationships and a life that fosters growth and sustained health. I help clients access and rely on their inner wisdom and courage and promote development of self-compassion and healthy coping.
See more therapy options for Gainesville
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.