Depression Therapists in Melissa, TX

Photo of Marissa Hathaway, MS, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Marissa Hathaway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melissa, TX 75454  (Online Only)
EMDR is heavily clinically researched and indicated for PTSD, trauma, depression and self esteem issues, anxiety, and OCD.
The most important relationship you will ever have is the one with yourself. I believe validating, empathic and compassionate care is where the therapeutic journey begins. If you aren’t living in a way that is genuine to you, your life can feel chaotic, conflicted, depressing or detached. We have the potential to be the most authentic versions of ourselves and live in a way that we feel validated and confident in ourselves and our abilities. I take pride in having a personable and authentic approach with my clients. I offer skills to help you with what you bring to therapy, in addition to real talk.
EMDR is heavily clinically researched and indicated for PTSD, trauma, depression and self esteem issues, anxiety, and OCD.
The most important relationship you will ever have is the one with yourself. I believe validating, empathic and compassionate care is where the therapeutic journey begins. If you aren’t living in a way that is genuine to you, your life can feel chaotic, conflicted, depressing or detached. We have the potential to be the most authentic versions of ourselves and live in a way that we feel validated and confident in ourselves and our abilities. I take pride in having a personable and authentic approach with my clients. I offer skills to help you with what you bring to therapy, in addition to real talk.
(281) 606-5705 View (281) 606-5705
Photo of Yaschia Kinsey - Transitional Therapy LLC, LMHC, CASAC , LPC, Counselor
Transitional Therapy LLC
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC , LPC
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454  (Online Only)
My team and I can help you learn healthy ways to manage your emotions and teach you how to use your coping skills to decrease stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression.
Does change make you feel uncomfortable? are you anxious about the future? worried about the past? or having a difficult time being present in the moment? life can be overwhelming sometimes, but the good news is you don't have to figure it out on your own. As your therapist, I will help you navigate through difficult transitions in life, assist you with reaching your desired goals and provide you with the necessary resources that you may need in order to have a healthy relationship with yourself and others.
My team and I can help you learn healthy ways to manage your emotions and teach you how to use your coping skills to decrease stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression.
Does change make you feel uncomfortable? are you anxious about the future? worried about the past? or having a difficult time being present in the moment? life can be overwhelming sometimes, but the good news is you don't have to figure it out on your own. As your therapist, I will help you navigate through difficult transitions in life, assist you with reaching your desired goals and provide you with the necessary resources that you may need in order to have a healthy relationship with yourself and others.
(315) 908-3903 View (315) 908-3903
Photo of Renae Heilman, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renae Heilman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client wants change. Although they may be struggling, they are trying to hold on to hope. There is hope. If you are struggling with depression and anxiety, trying to cope with past trauma or just navigating life's challenges, there is hope. I work from a cognitive behavioral model to understand the connection of our thoughts, feelings, and actions and how one may be stuck in a cycle with these thoughts and feelings dragging them down. I am an active counselor, so I don't just sit back, we work together with you developing the skills you need to move forward with your life. I also provide EMDR services.
My ideal client wants change. Although they may be struggling, they are trying to hold on to hope. There is hope. If you are struggling with depression and anxiety, trying to cope with past trauma or just navigating life's challenges, there is hope. I work from a cognitive behavioral model to understand the connection of our thoughts, feelings, and actions and how one may be stuck in a cycle with these thoughts and feelings dragging them down. I am an active counselor, so I don't just sit back, we work together with you developing the skills you need to move forward with your life. I also provide EMDR services.
(430) 204-2223 View (430) 204-2223
Photo of Sarah Oliva, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Oliva
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melissa, TX 75454
My focus is to assist those struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, impulse control, daily life stressors, self harm, trauma, adolescents affected by parental conflict or divorce, behavioral outbursts and anger management issues, and youth transitioning into young adulthood.
I hope to be someone you can seek support from, but who can also help to guide you to feel more in control, more grounded, and better able to face everyday stressors that pop up along the way. I believe we all have the power to grow from challenges; we just need the right guidance and space to do so. I love walking alongside clients to help them navigate these challenges.
My focus is to assist those struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, impulse control, daily life stressors, self harm, trauma, adolescents affected by parental conflict or divorce, behavioral outbursts and anger management issues, and youth transitioning into young adulthood.
I hope to be someone you can seek support from, but who can also help to guide you to feel more in control, more grounded, and better able to face everyday stressors that pop up along the way. I believe we all have the power to grow from challenges; we just need the right guidance and space to do so. I love walking alongside clients to help them navigate these challenges.
(469) 382-4535 View (469) 382-4535
Photo of Kristi Stevens, MA, LPC
Kristi Stevens
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melissa, TX 75454
My areas of strength are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, self-harm, eating disorders, and stress management.
I am a mother of 2 boys, ages 21 and 25. I truly enjoyed every minute of raising them, even the hard moments. My oldest son is now married and in Seattle with his wife. My youngest is the fireball who has DiGeorge syndrome. It was challenging many times, but I have been his advocate through his entire life and still am to this day. I am now an empty nester with just my sweet dog Dixon, an American Eskimo.
My areas of strength are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, self-harm, eating disorders, and stress management.
I am a mother of 2 boys, ages 21 and 25. I truly enjoyed every minute of raising them, even the hard moments. My oldest son is now married and in Seattle with his wife. My youngest is the fireball who has DiGeorge syndrome. It was challenging many times, but I have been his advocate through his entire life and still am to this day. I am now an empty nester with just my sweet dog Dixon, an American Eskimo.
(972) 476-0294 View (972) 476-0294
Photo of Michelle Heller - Hope In Motion, PLLC, MS, LPC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope In Motion, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melissa, TX 75454  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I received my B.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology and my M.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Throughout my career, I have had experience working with adolescents (16+) and young adults who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, gender/identity struggles, and life adjustment stressors.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I received my B.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology and my M.S in Clinical/Applied Psychology from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Additionally, I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Throughout my career, I have had experience working with adolescents (16+) and young adults who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, gender/identity struggles, and life adjustment stressors.
(214) 865-7553 View (214) 865-7553
Photo of Haleigh Morris, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haleigh Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454
Haleigh enjoys working with clients of all ages but especially enjoys working with adolescents and young adults dealing with depression, anxiety, substance use and/or eating disorders.
Haleigh received a Bachelor’s of Social Work at Brigham Young University-Idaho and a Master’s of Social Work with a direct practice in mental health and substance abuse at The University of Texas at Arlington. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). She has experience working in substance use treatment, dual diagnosis work release and probation programs, as well as her most recent work being at an eating disorder treatment center for adolescents and adults.
Haleigh enjoys working with clients of all ages but especially enjoys working with adolescents and young adults dealing with depression, anxiety, substance use and/or eating disorders.
Haleigh received a Bachelor’s of Social Work at Brigham Young University-Idaho and a Master’s of Social Work with a direct practice in mental health and substance abuse at The University of Texas at Arlington. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). She has experience working in substance use treatment, dual diagnosis work release and probation programs, as well as her most recent work being at an eating disorder treatment center for adolescents and adults.
(972) 694-1605 View (972) 694-1605
Photo of Elen Redford, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR TR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elen Redford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR TR
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454
Addiction has been a large part of my life and career, I have enjoyed helping families understand and set boundaries with their loved ones in addiction, and those working towards sobriety or reevaluating their relationship with alcohol and substances. I believe in keeping a direct, open and honest environment when working together to identify the best course of action and coping skills to help you reduce and manage depression, anxiety. Let's see if together we find the path to achieve your goals and help create boundaries in order to improve quality of life.
Addiction has been a large part of my life and career, I have enjoyed helping families understand and set boundaries with their loved ones in addiction, and those working towards sobriety or reevaluating their relationship with alcohol and substances. I believe in keeping a direct, open and honest environment when working together to identify the best course of action and coping skills to help you reduce and manage depression, anxiety. Let's see if together we find the path to achieve your goals and help create boundaries in order to improve quality of life.
(972) 764-8902 View (972) 764-8902
Photo of Dr. Justin Litvin, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Justin Litvin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melissa, TX 75454
My training has included learning how to improve relationships, increase happiness and joy, develop meaning and purpose, reduce anxiety and depression, recover from trauma and addictions, and enhance sleep and pain management.
Does your anxiety get in the way of doing things? Would you like to improve your relationships with a partner, family, friends, or coworkers? Do you feel down, unmotivated, or not as interested in things as you used to be? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, there is hope! You are not alone in these experiences, and many people have changed their lives through therapy. Therapy is a journey that we take together. There are many paths we can choose from to go in the direction you desire. Everyone is different, and your path is tailored to your needs, preferences, and values.
My training has included learning how to improve relationships, increase happiness and joy, develop meaning and purpose, reduce anxiety and depression, recover from trauma and addictions, and enhance sleep and pain management.
Does your anxiety get in the way of doing things? Would you like to improve your relationships with a partner, family, friends, or coworkers? Do you feel down, unmotivated, or not as interested in things as you used to be? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, there is hope! You are not alone in these experiences, and many people have changed their lives through therapy. Therapy is a journey that we take together. There are many paths we can choose from to go in the direction you desire. Everyone is different, and your path is tailored to your needs, preferences, and values.
(817) 396-7205 View (817) 396-7205
Photo of Kinsey Igo, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kinsey Igo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melissa, TX 75454
The weight of depression can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. Anxiety might be holding you back from the things you love. The lingering effects of trauma can cast shadows over your days. I get it and I understand how these struggles can impact your life, your relationships, and your overall well-being. I am Kinsey Igo, and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker that specializes in guiding individuals like you towards a life of renewed hope and empowerment. If you're grappling with the weight of depression, anxiety, or the aftermath of trauma, know that you don't have to face this journey alone.
The weight of depression can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. Anxiety might be holding you back from the things you love. The lingering effects of trauma can cast shadows over your days. I get it and I understand how these struggles can impact your life, your relationships, and your overall well-being. I am Kinsey Igo, and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker that specializes in guiding individuals like you towards a life of renewed hope and empowerment. If you're grappling with the weight of depression, anxiety, or the aftermath of trauma, know that you don't have to face this journey alone.
(469) 871-6679 View (469) 871-6679
Photo of Heather McGowen Sanford, MFT-A, MA
Heather McGowen Sanford
LPC Associate, MFT-A, MA
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454
Mental health challenges of your own or a loved one can cause such confusion and pain. Broken relationships can hurt so deeply. These things can put our lives in a wobble and cause us to lose meaning and joy in life. It can cause nagging anxiety or even depression; resulting in anxious thoughts playing on a loop in our minds, yet with the confusion of not knowing where to go from here. Rest assured that hope is just around the corner. You took the first step in reaching out and looking for help. We all need to feel seen and heard and know that we are not alone.
Mental health challenges of your own or a loved one can cause such confusion and pain. Broken relationships can hurt so deeply. These things can put our lives in a wobble and cause us to lose meaning and joy in life. It can cause nagging anxiety or even depression; resulting in anxious thoughts playing on a loop in our minds, yet with the confusion of not knowing where to go from here. Rest assured that hope is just around the corner. You took the first step in reaching out and looking for help. We all need to feel seen and heard and know that we are not alone.
(214) 997-0319 View (214) 997-0319
Photo of Zach Small, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zach Small
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454
I specialize in treating PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
For now, we are operating out of temporary offices in downtown McKinney while our permanent location is being prepared. Our new, permanent office will be in downtown Melissa and is expected to open in late Fall 2024. For appointments or more information, please call us at 972-265-9140 or visit our website here.
I specialize in treating PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
For now, we are operating out of temporary offices in downtown McKinney while our permanent location is being prepared. Our new, permanent office will be in downtown Melissa and is expected to open in late Fall 2024. For appointments or more information, please call us at 972-265-9140 or visit our website here.
(972) 265-9150 View (972) 265-9150
Photo of Anna Kay Dick, MFT , Pre-Licensed Professional
Anna Kay Dick
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melissa, TX 75454  (Online Only)
If you live in Alabama, Colorado, New York, or Texas I specialize in helping people navigate stress, anxiety, loss, depression, life transitions, and complex trauma.
Congratulations on embarking on your therapeutic journey. It takes courage to pursue healing and wellness when life throws unpredictable & life-altering challenges at you. Although these challenges impact our daily lives, we can determine how those experiences define our opinions about the world. Together, we can explore ways to become the best version of ourselves. You don't have to do this journey alone. I provide a safe place where you are free to express unspoken thoughts and provide tools to overcome life obstacles.
If you live in Alabama, Colorado, New York, or Texas I specialize in helping people navigate stress, anxiety, loss, depression, life transitions, and complex trauma.
Congratulations on embarking on your therapeutic journey. It takes courage to pursue healing and wellness when life throws unpredictable & life-altering challenges at you. Although these challenges impact our daily lives, we can determine how those experiences define our opinions about the world. Together, we can explore ways to become the best version of ourselves. You don't have to do this journey alone. I provide a safe place where you are free to express unspoken thoughts and provide tools to overcome life obstacles.
(720) 817-6084 View (720) 817-6084
Photo of Krysta Lacy, MS
Krysta Lacy
MS
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454
I received my masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have experience in working with children, teens, and adults experiencing a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, text anxiety, grief, eating disorders and even substance abuse.
Do you feel as though you will never have a healthy relationship: with your family? with your significant other? with yourself? with food? Do you struggle to love and appreciate the person staring back at you in the mirror? Do you feel stuck in habits that result in self-sabotage and feelings of shame? Do you feel unworthy or undeserving of stability or contentment, so you turn to unhealthy eating patterns, toxic relationships, or substances? Maybe the trauma you have experienced has not been managed effectively and you don't have the tools to heal and feel relief.
I received my masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have experience in working with children, teens, and adults experiencing a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, text anxiety, grief, eating disorders and even substance abuse.
Do you feel as though you will never have a healthy relationship: with your family? with your significant other? with yourself? with food? Do you struggle to love and appreciate the person staring back at you in the mirror? Do you feel stuck in habits that result in self-sabotage and feelings of shame? Do you feel unworthy or undeserving of stability or contentment, so you turn to unhealthy eating patterns, toxic relationships, or substances? Maybe the trauma you have experienced has not been managed effectively and you don't have the tools to heal and feel relief.
(972) 430-4972 View (972) 430-4972
Photo of Tim Kerby, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tim Kerby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454
I am a National Certified Counselor and a member of the National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists (NACBT), and a NACBT Certified Depression Specialist.
Would you like to put your marriage back together, resolve conflict in a relationship, develop more effective parenting skills, or have a better understanding of your child's behaviors? Are you feeling depressed and struggling to find answers for the way you feel? Do you feel anxious at times and don't know where to turn? Are you grieving over a lost relationship? We can develop a plan with achievable goals, that will help you get where you want to be. My approach to healing, is one that emphasizes how our thoughts impact how we feel and what we do. All sessions are in person only.
I am a National Certified Counselor and a member of the National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists (NACBT), and a NACBT Certified Depression Specialist.
Would you like to put your marriage back together, resolve conflict in a relationship, develop more effective parenting skills, or have a better understanding of your child's behaviors? Are you feeling depressed and struggling to find answers for the way you feel? Do you feel anxious at times and don't know where to turn? Are you grieving over a lost relationship? We can develop a plan with achievable goals, that will help you get where you want to be. My approach to healing, is one that emphasizes how our thoughts impact how we feel and what we do. All sessions are in person only.
(214) 299-5205 View (214) 299-5205
Photo of Joshua Sturdivant, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joshua Sturdivant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and senior adults with issues including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, self-esteem, anger management, trauma, and adjusting to and coping with life’s stressors. I also have experience in assisting LGBTQ+ clients with identity exploration and transition.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and senior adults with issues including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, self-esteem, anger management, trauma, and adjusting to and coping with life’s stressors. I also have experience in assisting LGBTQ+ clients with identity exploration and transition.
(972) 884-5842 View (972) 884-5842
Photo of Dr. Desiree L. Stephens, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, CCPT, TH LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Desiree L. Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, CCPT, TH LMHC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Melissa, TX 75454
Children often do not have the words to express what they are thinking or feeling. Traditional talk therapy alone is rarely successful in helping children process difficult life situations. I help children overcome anxiety, depression, and other challenges. I also assist parents in building strong, open relationships with their children. If your child is going through anxiety, sadness, behavior problems, social issues, or life changes (divorce, loss of a loved one, etc.) I am happy to walk along side them in their journey. In addition to working with children, I also see teens and adults.
Children often do not have the words to express what they are thinking or feeling. Traditional talk therapy alone is rarely successful in helping children process difficult life situations. I help children overcome anxiety, depression, and other challenges. I also assist parents in building strong, open relationships with their children. If your child is going through anxiety, sadness, behavior problems, social issues, or life changes (divorce, loss of a loved one, etc.) I am happy to walk along side them in their journey. In addition to working with children, I also see teens and adults.
(469) 904-1439 View (469) 904-1439
Photo of Renée Good, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renée Good
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Melissa, TX 75454
Sometimes life can feel like trying to climb Mount Everest without any supplies. As a fellow traveler of life, I have experienced steep climbs, low valleys, feeling disconnected, and at times hopeless. The experiences of my journey have given me an authentic wisdom to navigate the unfamiliar or challenging terrain with you. Together, we can do hard things and tread across the contours of life. My areas of focus are: trauma, personal/mental health challenges while parenting/raising children, women's mental health, peri/postpartum anxiety/ depression, substance use, identity development, geriatric, life transitions, and end of life.
Sometimes life can feel like trying to climb Mount Everest without any supplies. As a fellow traveler of life, I have experienced steep climbs, low valleys, feeling disconnected, and at times hopeless. The experiences of my journey have given me an authentic wisdom to navigate the unfamiliar or challenging terrain with you. Together, we can do hard things and tread across the contours of life. My areas of focus are: trauma, personal/mental health challenges while parenting/raising children, women's mental health, peri/postpartum anxiety/ depression, substance use, identity development, geriatric, life transitions, and end of life.
(214) 239-4283 View (214) 239-4283
Photo of Blake Thomas, MA
Blake Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melissa, TX 75454
I am passionate about helping people who have difficulty with anxiety, depression, addictions, anger management, trauma, grief, family and relationship issues, life transitions, and spiritual issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas under the supervision of Laurie Todd, MS, LPC-S. I graduated with a Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling and hold a Master of Divinity Degree. I strive to create a safe, caring, and compassionate therapeutic environment where clients are able to explore life issues and struggles. I desire to help teens, adults, and couples work through and find freedom from issues that they have been dealing with for days, decades, or anywhere in between. I've also enjoyed working with clients from numerous backgrounds and cultures to help them reach their goals.
I am passionate about helping people who have difficulty with anxiety, depression, addictions, anger management, trauma, grief, family and relationship issues, life transitions, and spiritual issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in the state of Texas under the supervision of Laurie Todd, MS, LPC-S. I graduated with a Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling and hold a Master of Divinity Degree. I strive to create a safe, caring, and compassionate therapeutic environment where clients are able to explore life issues and struggles. I desire to help teens, adults, and couples work through and find freedom from issues that they have been dealing with for days, decades, or anywhere in between. I've also enjoyed working with clients from numerous backgrounds and cultures to help them reach their goals.
(469) 609-6251 View (469) 609-6251
Photo of Maria Torres
Maria Torres
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melissa, TX 75454
I've been a dreamer for as far back as I can recall. While many of my ideas remain just that - ideas, I embrace this part of my nature. I find joy in letting my imagination run wild and getting creative. I've discovered the beauty of living in the present moment, appreciating the little things like the scent of cilantro or roses (Have you ever noticed the rich, purple color of “frijoles negros”?- so simple, yet amazing!) When a few of my dreams do come true, I take the time to be grateful. When I go through the creative process as a dreamer, it reminds me of the unique and beautiful process that we each are -
I've been a dreamer for as far back as I can recall. While many of my ideas remain just that - ideas, I embrace this part of my nature. I find joy in letting my imagination run wild and getting creative. I've discovered the beauty of living in the present moment, appreciating the little things like the scent of cilantro or roses (Have you ever noticed the rich, purple color of “frijoles negros”?- so simple, yet amazing!) When a few of my dreams do come true, I take the time to be grateful. When I go through the creative process as a dreamer, it reminds me of the unique and beautiful process that we each are -
(469) 523-0906 View (469) 523-0906
1
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.