Photo of James Manuel, PsyD, Psychologist
James Manuel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mansfield, TX 76063
depression, anxiety, marital/family problems, occupational/academic concerns, violence/aggression, substance abuse, sexual issues, financial issues, and grief).
Greetings. I am a general practitioner with 20 years of experience providing psychological services. My training and practice covers the human life span. Individuals, couples, and Families are welcome. I use a unique, innovative, culturally appropriate approach that is based on best practices derived from empirical and qualitative research. With all my clients, I seek to help them pursue the full unfolding of their true self, and close the gap between their present reality and their ideal. Making changes can be difficult, but I want to congratulate you on taking the first step.
depression, anxiety, marital/family problems, occupational/academic concerns, violence/aggression, substance abuse, sexual issues, financial issues, and grief).
Greetings. I am a general practitioner with 20 years of experience providing psychological services. My training and practice covers the human life span. Individuals, couples, and Families are welcome. I use a unique, innovative, culturally appropriate approach that is based on best practices derived from empirical and qualitative research. With all my clients, I seek to help them pursue the full unfolding of their true self, and close the gap between their present reality and their ideal. Making changes can be difficult, but I want to congratulate you on taking the first step.
(469) 300-5087 View (469) 300-5087
Photo of Laura L Avila, PhD, Psychologist
Laura L Avila
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mansfield, TX 76063  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist with a special interest in health and wellness, both physical and emotional. I have also completed specialized training in evidence-based therapies for treatment of PTSD. I have enjoyed working with medical populations as this has deepened my understanding of the mind-body connection, particularly how health conditions can contribute to emotional problems and vice versa. Although we may not always be able to choose or change our current circumstances, we are able to choose how we think about, manage, and cope with our circumstances which can lead to a change in our overall health.
I am a clinical psychologist with a special interest in health and wellness, both physical and emotional. I have also completed specialized training in evidence-based therapies for treatment of PTSD. I have enjoyed working with medical populations as this has deepened my understanding of the mind-body connection, particularly how health conditions can contribute to emotional problems and vice versa. Although we may not always be able to choose or change our current circumstances, we are able to choose how we think about, manage, and cope with our circumstances which can lead to a change in our overall health.
(817) 587-3962 View (817) 587-3962
Photo of Robert (Gus) Gustafson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert (Gus) Gustafson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mansfield, TX 76063
I have a straight-forward, solution-based focus on making progress quickly. I am known for helping parents reduce conflicts with their sons, in particular, and have an emphasis on making parenting boys much more enjoyable and effective. I also have extensive experience in helping couples become more understandable to one another, and in providing them with relationship skills which enable both individuals to have their needs met.
I have a straight-forward, solution-based focus on making progress quickly. I am known for helping parents reduce conflicts with their sons, in particular, and have an emphasis on making parenting boys much more enjoyable and effective. I also have extensive experience in helping couples become more understandable to one another, and in providing them with relationship skills which enable both individuals to have their needs met.
(817) 567-2344 View (817) 567-2344

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of MacArthur Gilmer, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
MacArthur Gilmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76010
I truly believe in the statement: "A calm and undisturbed heart and mind are the life and health of the body..." I understand dealing with hard times. It is my goal to help people live and achieve more satisfying lives. Whether you are dealing with anger, feeling disconnected, marital / relationship issues, anxiety, depression, loneliness, chemical/ alcohol dependency, family, or teen & adolescent issues, seeking professional help is always a start to making changes and growth.
I truly believe in the statement: "A calm and undisturbed heart and mind are the life and health of the body..." I understand dealing with hard times. It is my goal to help people live and achieve more satisfying lives. Whether you are dealing with anger, feeling disconnected, marital / relationship issues, anxiety, depression, loneliness, chemical/ alcohol dependency, family, or teen & adolescent issues, seeking professional help is always a start to making changes and growth.
(817) 264-7883 View (817) 264-7883
Photo of Bryan Duncan - New Leaf Services, LLC, LPC, PhD, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Leaf Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD, NCC
Verified Verified
Pantego, TX 76013
At New Leaf Services, LLC we offer a wide variety of therapy and specialties. We offer individual, family, and couples counseling. Specialty treatment is available in Trauma, Abuse, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Grief Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Health Issues, and Animal Assisted Therapy. For counselors, we offer CEU training, administrative services, billing, credentialing, and general bookkeeping. We have multiple counselors and counselor interns to meet your needs. Please check out our web page for their bio's. www.newleafservicesllc.com
At New Leaf Services, LLC we offer a wide variety of therapy and specialties. We offer individual, family, and couples counseling. Specialty treatment is available in Trauma, Abuse, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Grief Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Health Issues, and Animal Assisted Therapy. For counselors, we offer CEU training, administrative services, billing, credentialing, and general bookkeeping. We have multiple counselors and counselor interns to meet your needs. Please check out our web page for their bio's. www.newleafservicesllc.com
(682) 622-0129 View (682) 622-0129
Photo of Allison Biles, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Biles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Weatherford, TX 76087
Feeling sad, lonely, unmotivated, stuck? Need a helping hand with transitioning through life’s many challenges? You are not alone. Consider me a compassionate and understanding ally as we work together towards reaching individualized goals and helping you learn to live a happier, more fulfilling life. In a safe and supportive environment, I will take the journey alongside you while using a person-centered, humanistic approach in addressing your unique needs. Ever since working as a Kindergarten teacher in the Texas public school system for nearly a decade,
Feeling sad, lonely, unmotivated, stuck? Need a helping hand with transitioning through life’s many challenges? You are not alone. Consider me a compassionate and understanding ally as we work together towards reaching individualized goals and helping you learn to live a happier, more fulfilling life. In a safe and supportive environment, I will take the journey alongside you while using a person-centered, humanistic approach in addressing your unique needs. Ever since working as a Kindergarten teacher in the Texas public school system for nearly a decade,
(469) 599-4023 View (469) 599-4023

Online Therapists

Photo of Casey Leamy, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Casey Leamy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My experience encompasses substance abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, adolescent behavioral issues, relational issues, family conflict, parenting, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar, Borderline, and ADHD.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
My experience encompasses substance abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, adolescent behavioral issues, relational issues, family conflict, parenting, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar, Borderline, and ADHD.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
(469) 778-4625 View (469) 778-4625
Photo of Alexa Marrach, PhD, Psychologist
Alexa Marrach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
I have extensive experience working with people coping with different types of issues ranging from mild adjustment difficulties to chronic and severe psychosis. I have worked with clients in various treatment settings, including out-patient clinics, a university counseling center, a partial hospitalization program, nursing homes, psychiatric in-patient treatment, residential substance abuse treatment programs, and private practice. My areas of specialization include relationship issues, loss / grief, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and post-partum adjustment. In addition, I treat both individuals and couples.
I have extensive experience working with people coping with different types of issues ranging from mild adjustment difficulties to chronic and severe psychosis. I have worked with clients in various treatment settings, including out-patient clinics, a university counseling center, a partial hospitalization program, nursing homes, psychiatric in-patient treatment, residential substance abuse treatment programs, and private practice. My areas of specialization include relationship issues, loss / grief, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and post-partum adjustment. In addition, I treat both individuals and couples.
(214) 519-8641 View (214) 519-8641
Photo of Robert Good, LPC-S, CART, ThM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert Good
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CART, ThM
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75033
My areas of speciality focus on marriage counseling, pre-marital counseling, depression, anxiety, anger management, coping skill training to face life issues, sexual addiction, chemical addiction, poor self esteem issues.
I work with individuals, couples, and families in helping them achieve control over "emotional hijacking" and poor decision making. Feelings like fear, sorrow, anger, rejection prevent people from experiencing connectedness with life and with others. Therefore, the ideal client is one who is struggling with relationship problems, anger, addictions (sexual or chemical), poor stress control, depression, or anxiety-I provide a safe environment where the individual's pain and/or struggle is met with understanding alongside a plan of action to address the issue(s).
My areas of speciality focus on marriage counseling, pre-marital counseling, depression, anxiety, anger management, coping skill training to face life issues, sexual addiction, chemical addiction, poor self esteem issues.
I work with individuals, couples, and families in helping them achieve control over "emotional hijacking" and poor decision making. Feelings like fear, sorrow, anger, rejection prevent people from experiencing connectedness with life and with others. Therefore, the ideal client is one who is struggling with relationship problems, anger, addictions (sexual or chemical), poor stress control, depression, or anxiety-I provide a safe environment where the individual's pain and/or struggle is met with understanding alongside a plan of action to address the issue(s).
(214) 506-2568 View (214) 506-2568
Photo of Shawn Chrisman, PhD, MEd, MS, CHyp, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shawn Chrisman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, MS, CHyp, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
My specialities include: * Anxiety / Depression * Relationship Issues (Communication / Conflict Resolution / Desire & Intimacy Disconnects) * Divorce / Premarital Counseling * Diverse Relationships (Open Relationships / Poly Relationships / Kink) * Sexual Concerns (Low Desire / Erectile Issues) * LGBT clients (Gender Identity / Coming Out / Transitioning).
Struggling to connect with your authentic self? Looking for a sense of peace or contentment? When you have positive feelings about yourself, you experience daily joy, have better relationships and increase performance. When you encounter a block to these positive feelings, you may experience anxiety, depression, and be unsatisfied with relationships. We work together to help you find their best self, navigate intimacy, tackle communication issues & bridge other relationships gaps. We also work together to overcome those deeper blocks that prevent us from making lasting change.
My specialities include: * Anxiety / Depression * Relationship Issues (Communication / Conflict Resolution / Desire & Intimacy Disconnects) * Divorce / Premarital Counseling * Diverse Relationships (Open Relationships / Poly Relationships / Kink) * Sexual Concerns (Low Desire / Erectile Issues) * LGBT clients (Gender Identity / Coming Out / Transitioning).
Struggling to connect with your authentic self? Looking for a sense of peace or contentment? When you have positive feelings about yourself, you experience daily joy, have better relationships and increase performance. When you encounter a block to these positive feelings, you may experience anxiety, depression, and be unsatisfied with relationships. We work together to help you find their best self, navigate intimacy, tackle communication issues & bridge other relationships gaps. We also work together to overcome those deeper blocks that prevent us from making lasting change.
(972) 893-9080 View (972) 893-9080
Photo of Kurt W. Billups, MA, MPC, LPC, BCPC, LPHA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kurt W. Billups
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MPC, LPC, BCPC, LPHA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76133  (Online Only)
For over 18 years, I have worked with a full spectrum of patients, dealing with anxiety, depression, and many other issues.
People should live happier, healthier lives. That is what all people want and deserve. My focus is on helping people achieve ALL of their goals. Everyone goes through tough times. Some people go through them on their own, but sometimes it takes a professional, unbiased perspective to help. People are the result of both nature (inherited traits) and nurture (environment) which form lenses through which we perceive the world. Through life experience, lenses can become scratched or cloudy. Bring the drive to improve and I will provide the experience, empathy, and knowledge. Let's make them clear again, together, as a team!
For over 18 years, I have worked with a full spectrum of patients, dealing with anxiety, depression, and many other issues.
People should live happier, healthier lives. That is what all people want and deserve. My focus is on helping people achieve ALL of their goals. Everyone goes through tough times. Some people go through them on their own, but sometimes it takes a professional, unbiased perspective to help. People are the result of both nature (inherited traits) and nurture (environment) which form lenses through which we perceive the world. Through life experience, lenses can become scratched or cloudy. Bring the drive to improve and I will provide the experience, empathy, and knowledge. Let's make them clear again, together, as a team!
(682) 334-8634 View (682) 334-8634
Photo of Ciara Kennedy, MS, LPC-A
Ciara Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
With previous experiences working with adolescents through the geriatric population, I have experience with clients through the entire lifespan. My approach centers on fostering growth and wellness through grace, understanding, and utilizing individual strengths. Some areas of interest include PTSD, LGBTQ+ community, the chronic pain/illness community, as well as clients working through life changes, codependency, depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. I strongly believe that through understanding ourselves and our personal life stories that we can navigate the challenges we encounter in life and come out of them stronger.
With previous experiences working with adolescents through the geriatric population, I have experience with clients through the entire lifespan. My approach centers on fostering growth and wellness through grace, understanding, and utilizing individual strengths. Some areas of interest include PTSD, LGBTQ+ community, the chronic pain/illness community, as well as clients working through life changes, codependency, depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. I strongly believe that through understanding ourselves and our personal life stories that we can navigate the challenges we encounter in life and come out of them stronger.
(817) 937-2876 View (817) 937-2876
Photo of Debra Arseneaux, MA, LPC-S, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra Arseneaux
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
I specialize in a wide variety of issues, although a large percentage of my therapy work is in anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, grief and sexual/relational issues.
For best and quickest response, email me! Phone calls are difficult to return in a timely manner with my schedule. My clients range in a variety of needs and challenges, and my experience across a diverse demographic gives me the opportunity to help people in most situations to recover, heal and overcome issues in their lives. I enjoy helping people transform their lives in both reactive and proactive ways, and look forward to helping you meet your goals.
I specialize in a wide variety of issues, although a large percentage of my therapy work is in anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, grief and sexual/relational issues.
For best and quickest response, email me! Phone calls are difficult to return in a timely manner with my schedule. My clients range in a variety of needs and challenges, and my experience across a diverse demographic gives me the opportunity to help people in most situations to recover, heal and overcome issues in their lives. I enjoy helping people transform their lives in both reactive and proactive ways, and look forward to helping you meet your goals.
(254) 232-5657 View (254) 232-5657
Photo of Leigh Barnett, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leigh Barnett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
I specialize in working with adolescents, adults and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, mood disorders and relationship issues. I will help you learn to cope with present stressors or process past experiences. It is important that we establish goals, and I will actively work to help you meet them. I develop personal and genuine relationships with my clients, which is helpful in developing a plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
I specialize in working with adolescents, adults and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, mood disorders and relationship issues. I will help you learn to cope with present stressors or process past experiences. It is important that we establish goals, and I will actively work to help you meet them. I develop personal and genuine relationships with my clients, which is helpful in developing a plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
(972) 388-3648 View (972) 388-3648
Photo of Richard E Miller, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard E Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76104
Thanks for taking a moment to review my profile. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 30 years experience treating most conditions and issues for people between the ages of 12 to 80 years of age. I am currently accepting new clients and do file with most major insurance companies if you wish. I provide individual, family, marital/couples counseling as well as group therapy. Treating Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Social Skills, Marital therapy and many other conditions. You might also want to check out my website for further information by going to: www.richardmillercounseling.com. I look forward to meeting you. Richard
Thanks for taking a moment to review my profile. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 30 years experience treating most conditions and issues for people between the ages of 12 to 80 years of age. I am currently accepting new clients and do file with most major insurance companies if you wish. I provide individual, family, marital/couples counseling as well as group therapy. Treating Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Social Skills, Marital therapy and many other conditions. You might also want to check out my website for further information by going to: www.richardmillercounseling.com. I look forward to meeting you. Richard
(817) 756-9009 View (817) 756-9009
Photo of Chris T Lorenc, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CSAT, CPTT, Counselor
Chris T Lorenc
Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75244
I provide sexual addiction help in an atmosphere that is encouraging and accepting and meet the client and his or her family where they are. My specialty is sexual addiction, and I am a Dallas area Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) trained personally by Dr Patrick Carnes. I treat drug and alcohol dependence, and associated trauma, grief, and depression as well. I treat cybersex addiction, pornography addiction, multiple affairs, and other sexually compulsive behavior. Sexual addiction, like other addictions, affects the whole family system, especially the partner. I am a CPTT, Certified Partner Trauma Therapist as well.
I provide sexual addiction help in an atmosphere that is encouraging and accepting and meet the client and his or her family where they are. My specialty is sexual addiction, and I am a Dallas area Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) trained personally by Dr Patrick Carnes. I treat drug and alcohol dependence, and associated trauma, grief, and depression as well. I treat cybersex addiction, pornography addiction, multiple affairs, and other sexually compulsive behavior. Sexual addiction, like other addictions, affects the whole family system, especially the partner. I am a CPTT, Certified Partner Trauma Therapist as well.
(972) 891-9820 View (972) 891-9820
Photo of Amanda Esquivel - Room for Change, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Room for Change
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garland, TX 75043
(keywords: depression, anxiety, grief, substance use, therapy, counseling, help, alone, EMDR,Garland, Mesquite) .
Are you having feelings of uncertainty, fear, and emotional isolation? There is not need to do this alone. We are dedicated to providing support to the community during this time by encouraging, strategizing, and educating. By using a secure video chat, we are ensuring people are not experiencing lapses in care and have access to the help they deserve and need.
(keywords: depression, anxiety, grief, substance use, therapy, counseling, help, alone, EMDR,Garland, Mesquite) .
Are you having feelings of uncertainty, fear, and emotional isolation? There is not need to do this alone. We are dedicated to providing support to the community during this time by encouraging, strategizing, and educating. By using a secure video chat, we are ensuring people are not experiencing lapses in care and have access to the help they deserve and need.
(972) 449-7604 View (972) 449-7604
Photo of Adrian Colon, LMFT, MA, MFA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adrian Colon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
Adrian has spent his clinical and professional experience working in a variety of settings, including nonprofit, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization and inpatient/residential. He has worked extensively with adolescents and adult individuals experiencing trauma, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation and relationship concerns. He can also help with self-esteem, life transitions, veteran's issues, relationship violence, sexual abuse, substance use, grief and loss, career concerns, family conflict, gender identity concerns and more.
Adrian has spent his clinical and professional experience working in a variety of settings, including nonprofit, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization and inpatient/residential. He has worked extensively with adolescents and adult individuals experiencing trauma, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation and relationship concerns. He can also help with self-esteem, life transitions, veteran's issues, relationship violence, sexual abuse, substance use, grief and loss, career concerns, family conflict, gender identity concerns and more.
(817) 785-9688 View (817) 785-9688
Photo of Moses Chism Jr., LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Moses Chism Jr.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
Are you sick and tired of being controlled by your emotions and negative thoughts? Are you tormented by memories from your past or present events, pain that has a hold around your heart and is keeping you from fulfilling your purpose in life? If you've answered "yes" to any of these questions, then welcome to Innovative Centered Counseling. My experience includes work as a private practitioner and a hospital-based therapist. I enjoy helping those who struggle with mental health issues, depression, anxiety, anger, suicidal thoughts, addictions, physical and sexual abuse recovery, relationship problems, and sexuality adjustment issues.
Are you sick and tired of being controlled by your emotions and negative thoughts? Are you tormented by memories from your past or present events, pain that has a hold around your heart and is keeping you from fulfilling your purpose in life? If you've answered "yes" to any of these questions, then welcome to Innovative Centered Counseling. My experience includes work as a private practitioner and a hospital-based therapist. I enjoy helping those who struggle with mental health issues, depression, anxiety, anger, suicidal thoughts, addictions, physical and sexual abuse recovery, relationship problems, and sexuality adjustment issues.
(469) 454-2859 View (469) 454-2859
Photo of Brian Powers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Powers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grapevine, TX 76051
Although I welcomes clients with a range of needs, my special areas of interests include: addictions, depression, marital issues, grief & loss, anxiety, spiritual/ministry wounds, adoption issues, premarital counseling, PREPARE/ENRICH Certified, divorce recovery & blended family issues.
I have a burning desire to help individuals and families struggling with what often seems like impossible problems and a wavering faith. I know that people crave restoration through change and want to help them on this journey. I provide a safe environment to explore sensitive issues, founded on respect and caring for the client. My own personal journey of growth gives me a unique perspective that I use with each client.
Although I welcomes clients with a range of needs, my special areas of interests include: addictions, depression, marital issues, grief & loss, anxiety, spiritual/ministry wounds, adoption issues, premarital counseling, PREPARE/ENRICH Certified, divorce recovery & blended family issues.
I have a burning desire to help individuals and families struggling with what often seems like impossible problems and a wavering faith. I know that people crave restoration through change and want to help them on this journey. I provide a safe environment to explore sensitive issues, founded on respect and caring for the client. My own personal journey of growth gives me a unique perspective that I use with each client.
(682) 237-6160 View (682) 237-6160
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.