Therapists in Lampasas County, TX
![Photo of Vicki J Bates - Live-Your-Dream Counseling, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfbce38-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Live-Your-Dream Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lampasas, TX 76550
When I first started counseling, I dreamed of having a space where I could offer creative modalities to help people work through depression, anxiety and trauma.
I love doing therapy with adolescents and adults who are striving to become their genuine selves. You will be treated with the utmost care and sincerity. I will listen to your fears and concerns while taking the time to build trust. Rapport is an extremely important part of our relationship, and I want you to feel supported in your purpose. If your self-esteem is lacking or you are feeling like you don't fit in, I will walk beside you as we build your belief in yourself.
When I first started counseling, I dreamed of having a space where I could offer creative modalities to help people work through depression, anxiety and trauma.
I love doing therapy with adolescents and adults who are striving to become their genuine selves. You will be treated with the utmost care and sincerity. I will listen to your fears and concerns while taking the time to build trust. Rapport is an extremely important part of our relationship, and I want you to feel supported in your purpose. If your self-esteem is lacking or you are feeling like you don't fit in, I will walk beside you as we build your belief in yourself.
![Photo of Lora Ferguson - Austin Family Counseling , LPC, LMFT , LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/916ccf3d-8ae8-418f-8295-9130d5c626a8/1/320x400.png)
Austin Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT , LCSW
Verified Verified
Lampasas, TX 76550
Counseling For Children & Teens, Couples Counseling, Individual Adult Counseling, Family Counseling, Parent Coaching, Stress Management, Virtual Therapy, Career Counseling, Christian Counseling, Self-Esteem, EMDR & Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Tech Addiction, Pre-Marital Counseling.
Austin Family Counseling (AFC) is a counseling practice providing expert-level guidance and support for families, children, couples, and individuals. We are a unique group of therapists who will not only help you feel connected and cared for, but also provide you with guidance and expertise that will give you what you need to restore hope and connection in your life and relationships.
Counseling For Children & Teens, Couples Counseling, Individual Adult Counseling, Family Counseling, Parent Coaching, Stress Management, Virtual Therapy, Career Counseling, Christian Counseling, Self-Esteem, EMDR & Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Tech Addiction, Pre-Marital Counseling.
Austin Family Counseling (AFC) is a counseling practice providing expert-level guidance and support for families, children, couples, and individuals. We are a unique group of therapists who will not only help you feel connected and cared for, but also provide you with guidance and expertise that will give you what you need to restore hope and connection in your life and relationships.
![Photo of Kristin Leigh Tindell, LPC-S, BCBA, LBA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15b60014-9b45-475a-879e-c8a808e05af6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Leigh Tindell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Lampasas, TX 76550
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in creative therapy that meets clients where they are based on issues, needs and goals. I believe in involving clients in their own therapeutic process and building on their strengths to address challenges they may be having. I believe that, through safe, connected relationship, we can work together to tackle any issue.
I specialize in creative therapy that meets clients where they are based on issues, needs and goals. I believe in involving clients in their own therapeutic process and building on their strengths to address challenges they may be having. I believe that, through safe, connected relationship, we can work together to tackle any issue.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Brittney Daftuar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4b79d87-5f33-41f1-8c36-5faec9c90f38/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brittney Daftuar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78664
Brittney Daftuar is a Fully Licensed Clinical Master Social Worker with a Level II endorsement in Infant Mental Health. She received her Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Detroit-Mercy and her Master of Social Work degree from Wayne State University. She specializes in working with adults and children experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and behavioral issues. She prides herself in building relationships with her clients to meet their goals.
Brittney Daftuar is a Fully Licensed Clinical Master Social Worker with a Level II endorsement in Infant Mental Health. She received her Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Detroit-Mercy and her Master of Social Work degree from Wayne State University. She specializes in working with adults and children experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and behavioral issues. She prides herself in building relationships with her clients to meet their goals.
![Photo of Alexa Garcia Vega, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6bfc532-e79e-47e2-85d8-f2b9469d3a5b/3/320x400.jpeg)
I help individuals navigate life challenges that have created a negative impact in their lives and present, such as childhood trauma, domestic violence, grief, depression, and anxiety. I enjoy working with adults that want to find a way to heal from past experiences and start implementing changes to better their future.
I help individuals navigate life challenges that have created a negative impact in their lives and present, such as childhood trauma, domestic violence, grief, depression, and anxiety. I enjoy working with adults that want to find a way to heal from past experiences and start implementing changes to better their future.
![Photo of Susannah D. Kirksey, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0ccf792-fdd9-40db-a73c-210cb67b9084/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susannah D. Kirksey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Rollingwood, TX 78746
We live in an extraordinary stressful time. Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, or lonely? Maybe you face issues of love and relationship, career and money, health and happiness, or bereavement and loss. Perhaps you are simply sick of repeating the same self-defeating patterns. Whatever the case, we can figure it out together. I will guide you in the journey of self-inquiry that will lead to creating something beautiful and extraordinary in your life no matter the circumstance. Life will take on new meaning and purpose as you begin to explore and discover and love who you are.
We live in an extraordinary stressful time. Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, or lonely? Maybe you face issues of love and relationship, career and money, health and happiness, or bereavement and loss. Perhaps you are simply sick of repeating the same self-defeating patterns. Whatever the case, we can figure it out together. I will guide you in the journey of self-inquiry that will lead to creating something beautiful and extraordinary in your life no matter the circumstance. Life will take on new meaning and purpose as you begin to explore and discover and love who you are.
![Photo of Rebecca H Sheehan, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c1421aa-c511-49a7-86d2-4b3ec4d9c817/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca H Sheehan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734 (Online Only)
Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Are you trying to figure out which came first for you, the depression/anxiety or the substance abuse/addiction? I'm trained and specialize in distinguishing between the two and finding a treatment plan for both. I take a collaborative approach with my clients and see our relationship as a partnership. My motto is to meet each client where they are individually and work from that point. I'm here to help you change your thought process and your behaviors so you can live a healthy and content life.
Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Are you trying to figure out which came first for you, the depression/anxiety or the substance abuse/addiction? I'm trained and specialize in distinguishing between the two and finding a treatment plan for both. I take a collaborative approach with my clients and see our relationship as a partnership. My motto is to meet each client where they are individually and work from that point. I'm here to help you change your thought process and your behaviors so you can live a healthy and content life.
![Photo of Terry Eagan - Dr Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d672d360-d222-46ca-8d3a-8fbcd07f7c3d/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 Nicola Waisome-Crooks, MS, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de28bf1e-477e-41d1-8185-6c7a7cf8cd7f/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal clients experience a broad array of emotional, mental, and behavioral issues and situations that they no longer feel in control of. This may be anxiety, depression, traumas, grief, identity/personality and/or self-esteem problems. My ideal clients desire growth, self-discovery, and empowerment. My clients will have a strong desire foe self-fulfillment in all aspect of life: financially, emotionally, spiritually, academically, socially, and in intimacy.
My ideal clients experience a broad array of emotional, mental, and behavioral issues and situations that they no longer feel in control of. This may be anxiety, depression, traumas, grief, identity/personality and/or self-esteem problems. My ideal clients desire growth, self-discovery, and empowerment. My clients will have a strong desire foe self-fulfillment in all aspect of life: financially, emotionally, spiritually, academically, socially, and in intimacy.
![Photo of Howard Monsour, M Ed, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e4dfd92-829c-43fd-88be-08e20e6efbba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Howard Monsour
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Georgetown, TX 78626 (Online Only)
I'm eager to support individuals from all walks of life dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, destructive behaviors, identity crisis, grief/loss, or a new diagnosis. My clients desire empathy, support, compassion, and understanding; A place they can come to that feels safe. I'm honored to help create that space for them to explore and unpack emotional pain and stress as the result of past traumas or present circumstances. With the proper support and tools, clients can gain hope for their future, confidence with their decision-making, and develop the internal peace they deserve.
I'm eager to support individuals from all walks of life dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, destructive behaviors, identity crisis, grief/loss, or a new diagnosis. My clients desire empathy, support, compassion, and understanding; A place they can come to that feels safe. I'm honored to help create that space for them to explore and unpack emotional pain and stress as the result of past traumas or present circumstances. With the proper support and tools, clients can gain hope for their future, confidence with their decision-making, and develop the internal peace they deserve.
![Photo of Brian Hindert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/701aad5d-01ea-41cc-aeaa-972d5c350231/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Hindert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Texas with years of experience working with clients suffering from varying levels of anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and or addictions.
Courage and willingness are required to create a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are suffering from stress, anxiety, family issues, or maybe an addiction and you are ready to find a different way to live, I am here to support and empower you. Generally people do not understand what is truly happening within themselves so I am here to help you find the root of your troubles, take the appropriate actions to heal and live a better life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Texas with years of experience working with clients suffering from varying levels of anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and or addictions.
Courage and willingness are required to create a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are suffering from stress, anxiety, family issues, or maybe an addiction and you are ready to find a different way to live, I am here to support and empower you. Generally people do not understand what is truly happening within themselves so I am here to help you find the root of your troubles, take the appropriate actions to heal and live a better life.
![Photo of Margaret Ann (Bonny) Gardner - Margaret Ann (Bonny) Gardner Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e4a6d61-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Ann (Bonny) Gardner Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759 (Online Only)
I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy, especially for anxiety and depression, a scientifically supported approach.
I work with a broad cross section of clients and welcome diversity in my practice. If clients are motivated, attend sessions regularly, and receptive to suggestions and homework , I can usually help them overcome their symptoms and achieve a new sense of freedom. I empower my clients to improve their coping and problem-solving skills to live more effectively and happily. I work regularly with depression, anxiety, marital /relationship issues,and victimization.Clients coping with medical problems and older adults are a specialty and women's mental health and recovery from substance abuse. I enjoy helping clients with workplace challenges
I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy, especially for anxiety and depression, a scientifically supported approach.
I work with a broad cross section of clients and welcome diversity in my practice. If clients are motivated, attend sessions regularly, and receptive to suggestions and homework , I can usually help them overcome their symptoms and achieve a new sense of freedom. I empower my clients to improve their coping and problem-solving skills to live more effectively and happily. I work regularly with depression, anxiety, marital /relationship issues,and victimization.Clients coping with medical problems and older adults are a specialty and women's mental health and recovery from substance abuse. I enjoy helping clients with workplace challenges
![Photo of Kenyatta L Johnson - Expect Change Counseling and Wellness Center , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e0e61a2-6675-46d1-8321-6f0690f8c541/1/320x400.jpeg)
Expect Change Counseling and Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pflugerville, TX 78660
Are you looking to make real life changes in a space that feels safe and offers the support that you desire? Does it seem as if you have done all that you can to find the answers? Well, I am here to assist. I enjoy partnering with teens, young adults, and couples as they manage circumstances such as conflict management, anxiety, depression, navigate life and career changes, blended families, adoptions, and school issues; I utilize a trauma informed compassion based approach which focused on your individualized needs. I also offer Christian counseling. In life, one of the bravest things you can do is take ahold of your life journey.
Are you looking to make real life changes in a space that feels safe and offers the support that you desire? Does it seem as if you have done all that you can to find the answers? Well, I am here to assist. I enjoy partnering with teens, young adults, and couples as they manage circumstances such as conflict management, anxiety, depression, navigate life and career changes, blended families, adoptions, and school issues; I utilize a trauma informed compassion based approach which focused on your individualized needs. I also offer Christian counseling. In life, one of the bravest things you can do is take ahold of your life journey.
![Photo of Rebecca Roman Montez, MS, LPC, BCN, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53253bfa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Roman Montez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, BCN
Verified Verified
Boerne, TX 78015 (Online Only)
I offer integrative and evidence-based therapies to help clients struggling with anxiety, relational issues, difficult life transitions, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression.
Seneca Therapy is 100% online for all Texas residents! Hours are 5 a.m. to Noon to support alternate shift schedules: military, first responders, medical professionals, & more! When you face challenges in your daily life, relationships, or meeting your goals, I am here to support you in discovering how to process big emotions and grow through each difficulty. I provide counseling to teens, adults, and couples. I seek to empower clients to improve and restore balance in their lives by tapping into their personal strengths. I employ integrative approaches including CBT, neuroscience, narrative therapy, EMDR, and Relational Therapy.
I offer integrative and evidence-based therapies to help clients struggling with anxiety, relational issues, difficult life transitions, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression.
Seneca Therapy is 100% online for all Texas residents! Hours are 5 a.m. to Noon to support alternate shift schedules: military, first responders, medical professionals, & more! When you face challenges in your daily life, relationships, or meeting your goals, I am here to support you in discovering how to process big emotions and grow through each difficulty. I provide counseling to teens, adults, and couples. I seek to empower clients to improve and restore balance in their lives by tapping into their personal strengths. I employ integrative approaches including CBT, neuroscience, narrative therapy, EMDR, and Relational Therapy.
![Photo of Mia Mattingly, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8caaf5e-d431-49c9-aa8f-e929fa2ce92d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mia Mattingly
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
I specialize in helping adult individuals, couples/intimate partnerships, and families find support and healing when faced with challenges related to grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, mistrust, an inability to form or keep meaningful relationships, and self-hatred. I have a plethora of experience working with trauma and its related diagnoses, neurodivergence, gender/sexual identity, and grief (including terminal illness/caretaking, infertility, and disenfranchised grief.) For couples/intimate partnerships, I enjoy working with relationships featuring the above, with long histories of resentment and relational wounds.
I specialize in helping adult individuals, couples/intimate partnerships, and families find support and healing when faced with challenges related to grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, mistrust, an inability to form or keep meaningful relationships, and self-hatred. I have a plethora of experience working with trauma and its related diagnoses, neurodivergence, gender/sexual identity, and grief (including terminal illness/caretaking, infertility, and disenfranchised grief.) For couples/intimate partnerships, I enjoy working with relationships featuring the above, with long histories of resentment and relational wounds.
![Photo of Engracia B Gill, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f2f336f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Engracia B Gill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
My great joy is to facilitate healing in body, mind and spirit. I use a varied approach to suit your needs and circumstances. Difficult life events such as a relationship breakup, divorce, addictions and depression demand learning new coping skills. Releasing stress, creating safety within and with others are the first tasks in the therapeutic alliance. Understanding your world is my focus. We work to transform your life stressors into growth opportunities, a challenge I meet willingly. With trust, everything is achievable.
My great joy is to facilitate healing in body, mind and spirit. I use a varied approach to suit your needs and circumstances. Difficult life events such as a relationship breakup, divorce, addictions and depression demand learning new coping skills. Releasing stress, creating safety within and with others are the first tasks in the therapeutic alliance. Understanding your world is my focus. We work to transform your life stressors into growth opportunities, a challenge I meet willingly. With trust, everything is achievable.
![Photo of Delicia Mclean - The Raeda Group, PLLC, PhD, MA, LCSW, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f13dbc14-735f-4efa-90ce-f8e93529afee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether it be navigating personal and professional roadblocks or addressing Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Loss, and more, our diverse team of therapists meet you where you're at.
The Raeda Group, PLLC is Austin’s leading private practice based downtown treating adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our typical clientele live and/or work in the downtown area; they either walk over or use our free parking. Remote sessions are also an option for clients who cannot make it into the office or just don't prefer to.
Whether it be navigating personal and professional roadblocks or addressing Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Loss, and more, our diverse team of therapists meet you where you're at.
The Raeda Group, PLLC is Austin’s leading private practice based downtown treating adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our typical clientele live and/or work in the downtown area; they either walk over or use our free parking. Remote sessions are also an option for clients who cannot make it into the office or just don't prefer to.
![Photo of Danyel Gipson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cf3c809-7a3e-4ca4-95d5-742a6de182d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danyel Gipson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705 (Online Only)
Feeling weighed down by depression, anxiety, relational conflicts, or self-esteem issues? Perhaps stress and life's daily struggles seem overwhelming, or addiction has become a relentless battle. You’re not alone in wanting to break free and rediscover joy, peace, and fulfillment. My ideal client feels overwhelmed and seeks a path forward. You aim to navigate the complexities of your emotions and experiences, regaining control and relief for a balanced life. Together, we’ll explore root causes, develop coping strategies, and create a personalized plan. Let’s turn your goals into reality, one step at a time.
Feeling weighed down by depression, anxiety, relational conflicts, or self-esteem issues? Perhaps stress and life's daily struggles seem overwhelming, or addiction has become a relentless battle. You’re not alone in wanting to break free and rediscover joy, peace, and fulfillment. My ideal client feels overwhelmed and seeks a path forward. You aim to navigate the complexities of your emotions and experiences, regaining control and relief for a balanced life. Together, we’ll explore root causes, develop coping strategies, and create a personalized plan. Let’s turn your goals into reality, one step at a time.
![Photo of Brandy Oto, MS, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c2206b3-0f36-4d2f-9bde-d9f8b13b3664/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether its conflict, fear, depression or old patterns that are holding you back, I want to walk with you through overcoming them.
I am most passionate about working with people who are not happy with their current situation and wanting to make a change. For individuals this might be wanting to analyze the relationship they are in, make a career change, challenge old mindsets that are no longer working for them or disuss current mental health symptoms they are experiencing. For couples this could be exploring compatability, communication challenges, lack of intimacy, ongoing conflict, confronting addiction or having experienced an affair. My training in trauma, addiction and recovering from affairs allows me to work with the most challenging circumstances.
Whether its conflict, fear, depression or old patterns that are holding you back, I want to walk with you through overcoming them.
I am most passionate about working with people who are not happy with their current situation and wanting to make a change. For individuals this might be wanting to analyze the relationship they are in, make a career change, challenge old mindsets that are no longer working for them or disuss current mental health symptoms they are experiencing. For couples this could be exploring compatability, communication challenges, lack of intimacy, ongoing conflict, confronting addiction or having experienced an affair. My training in trauma, addiction and recovering from affairs allows me to work with the most challenging circumstances.
![Photo of Dana Edgerton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd79a46-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Areas of therapy include: *depression *anxiety *financial stress *life transitions *parent-child relations *marriage/couples/family counseling *self-esteem *women's issues * group therapy *life and career coaching *identity development.
Solutions Over Stress - you have the power to choose. It takes strength and courage to do something different. Through the collaborative process of therapy you will not have to face the unknown alone. Together we will identify the barriers that make it difficult to reach your desired goals and live up to your greatest potential. As your therapist, I will create a safe environment for you to openly express and explore your thoughts and feelings. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to initiate lasting changes from the inside out.
Areas of therapy include: *depression *anxiety *financial stress *life transitions *parent-child relations *marriage/couples/family counseling *self-esteem *women's issues * group therapy *life and career coaching *identity development.
Solutions Over Stress - you have the power to choose. It takes strength and courage to do something different. Through the collaborative process of therapy you will not have to face the unknown alone. Together we will identify the barriers that make it difficult to reach your desired goals and live up to your greatest potential. As your therapist, I will create a safe environment for you to openly express and explore your thoughts and feelings. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to initiate lasting changes from the inside out.
See more therapy options for Lampasas County
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.