Photo of Catherine Lunde - The Woodlands Family Counseling Center, PLLC
The Woodlands Family Counseling Center, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Magnolia, TX 77354
Some of the more common problems teens experience are anxiety, depression, bullying, loss of friendships, test anxiety, and adjusting to a divorce and/or blended families dynamics.
TWFCC assists individuals who are going through difficult times by providing the support they need to overcome issues from the past, find freedom from unhealthy patterns of thought and behavior, and live full and productive lives. Our therapists are trained to work with anxiety and depression, relational issues, abuse, trauma, grief, personal & spiritual growth, life transitions, and many additional issues.
Some of the more common problems teens experience are anxiety, depression, bullying, loss of friendships, test anxiety, and adjusting to a divorce and/or blended families dynamics.
TWFCC assists individuals who are going through difficult times by providing the support they need to overcome issues from the past, find freedom from unhealthy patterns of thought and behavior, and live full and productive lives. Our therapists are trained to work with anxiety and depression, relational issues, abuse, trauma, grief, personal & spiritual growth, life transitions, and many additional issues.
(936) 463-8185 View (936) 463-8185
Photo of Enobong J Inyang, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Enobong J Inyang
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Shenandoah, TX 77385
My specialty include addictions, childhood behavior problems , parenting/co-parenting, couple/family, anger management, depression/ anxiety, ADHD.
I believe, from personal experiences, years of practice & teaching, that anyone can be empowered to face life challenges. Empowered individuals are resilient & able to bounce back from adversities. My main focus is to empower you & your loved ones to overcome challenges. As a professor for 8 years, I have trained & supervised hundreds of graduate students on evidence-based practices, positive psychology, Strength-based approaches, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, DBT, & integration of music & spirituality into counseling. CBT & Adlerian are my overarching modalities upon which I integrate other interventions tailored to clients' needs.
My specialty include addictions, childhood behavior problems , parenting/co-parenting, couple/family, anger management, depression/ anxiety, ADHD.
I believe, from personal experiences, years of practice & teaching, that anyone can be empowered to face life challenges. Empowered individuals are resilient & able to bounce back from adversities. My main focus is to empower you & your loved ones to overcome challenges. As a professor for 8 years, I have trained & supervised hundreds of graduate students on evidence-based practices, positive psychology, Strength-based approaches, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, DBT, & integration of music & spirituality into counseling. CBT & Adlerian are my overarching modalities upon which I integrate other interventions tailored to clients' needs.
(936) 251-0619 View (936) 251-0619
Photo of Christopher Times, MA, CCC, LCDC-I, Counselor
Christopher Times
Counselor, MA, CCC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I specialize in chemical dependency counseling, dual diagnosis therapy, treating schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder and anger management.
My practice is designed to offer Life Coaching to clients of all ethnic backgrounds for the purpose of lifting, building, stimulating growth and progressive motion toward emotional well-being and personal actualization.
I specialize in chemical dependency counseling, dual diagnosis therapy, treating schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder and anger management.
My practice is designed to offer Life Coaching to clients of all ethnic backgrounds for the purpose of lifting, building, stimulating growth and progressive motion toward emotional well-being and personal actualization.
(409) 752-6668 View (409) 752-6668
Photo of Hanh Vo, PhD, LP, LPC-S, Psychologist
Hanh Vo
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC-S
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77354
Trauma Resolution, Anger Management Classes, Parenting Skill Classes, Life's Meaning, and Purposes, Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and Addiction.
"You are here on earth because there is something that only you can do!" Choosing Now as the time to act and being fully present in your body and in your relationships will take you to infinite possibilities. All of life's answers lie in how deep you are connected to yourself. Do not turn your attention elsewhere to look for the truth, for it is nowhere to be found but within your body.
Trauma Resolution, Anger Management Classes, Parenting Skill Classes, Life's Meaning, and Purposes, Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and Addiction.
"You are here on earth because there is something that only you can do!" Choosing Now as the time to act and being fully present in your body and in your relationships will take you to infinite possibilities. All of life's answers lie in how deep you are connected to yourself. Do not turn your attention elsewhere to look for the truth, for it is nowhere to be found but within your body.
(832) 769-8736 View (832) 769-8736
Photo of Ian Baker Thompson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ian Baker Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Types of counseling offered are: Individual, Family, Couple, Stress and Anxiety Management, Executive Skills Coaching, Substance Use Disorders, High Functioning Autism, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, and Personality Disorders.
I am a counselor and co-owner of Third Coast Counseling and Wellness. My masters degree is in Clinical Psychology and I have been working in the behavioral health field for over 10 years. I have worked in both private practice and public mental health services. I treat patients with and without health insurance using evidenced-based practices and down-to-earth sessions.
Types of counseling offered are: Individual, Family, Couple, Stress and Anxiety Management, Executive Skills Coaching, Substance Use Disorders, High Functioning Autism, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, and Personality Disorders.
I am a counselor and co-owner of Third Coast Counseling and Wellness. My masters degree is in Clinical Psychology and I have been working in the behavioral health field for over 10 years. I have worked in both private practice and public mental health services. I treat patients with and without health insurance using evidenced-based practices and down-to-earth sessions.
(281) 623-4454 View (281) 623-4454
Photo of Erik Boie - Capstone Connect-Counseling & Trauma Services, LICSW, LCSW-S, EMDR, Trained, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Capstone Connect-Counseling & Trauma Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-S, EMDR, Trained
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304
Welcome! If you're feeling overwhelmed and need help -You have come to the right place. Don't let anything stand in your way of achieving your life's goals, and ultimately feeling better. Capstone Connect is a group practice skilled in play therapy, trauma treatment, and psychotherapy. We are here to help you find solutions to your challenges. Capstone's therapists are master level therapists with advanced skills in psychotherapy and play therapy. We have the expertise to work effectively with diverse challenges including divorce, parenting challenges, behavioral concerns, school, environmental, and medical traumas, adoption, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! If you're feeling overwhelmed and need help -You have come to the right place. Don't let anything stand in your way of achieving your life's goals, and ultimately feeling better. Capstone Connect is a group practice skilled in play therapy, trauma treatment, and psychotherapy. We are here to help you find solutions to your challenges. Capstone's therapists are master level therapists with advanced skills in psychotherapy and play therapy. We have the expertise to work effectively with diverse challenges including divorce, parenting challenges, behavioral concerns, school, environmental, and medical traumas, adoption, anxiety, and depression.
(832) 981-5496 View (832) 981-5496
Photo of Lisa A Wines - L & A Professional Services LLC., PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
L & A Professional Services LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Here at our center, the goal is to provide holistic mental-health therapy services. We practice empirically-based methods for our patients with a focus on affect, behavioral, and cognitive processes. As a team, we design your treatment plan with the patient's goals in mind. Our optimal goal is for patients to establish the areas they wish to change, experience the therapeutic process in diversified ways, and be afforded the support needed to accomplish their goals in therapy. In general, we look for evidence of change through obtaining both informal and formal feedback.
Here at our center, the goal is to provide holistic mental-health therapy services. We practice empirically-based methods for our patients with a focus on affect, behavioral, and cognitive processes. As a team, we design your treatment plan with the patient's goals in mind. Our optimal goal is for patients to establish the areas they wish to change, experience the therapeutic process in diversified ways, and be afforded the support needed to accomplish their goals in therapy. In general, we look for evidence of change through obtaining both informal and formal feedback.
(936) 237-7020 View (936) 237-7020
Photo of Shelley L Muller, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelley L Muller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381
Within themselves, each person has the power and strength to tackle the challenges and difficulties they face. It’s my job, as a clinician, to help them access that power and strength, and I do this by first providing a non-judgmental and positive environment. This allows us to identify the thoughts and perceptions that are influencing their actions, both positive and negative. Real, affirming change can happen when we openly examine the thinking that is holding us back and work to change those thoughts that are no longer servicing our goals. I’m excited to help clients with that self-examination and re-building process.
Within themselves, each person has the power and strength to tackle the challenges and difficulties they face. It’s my job, as a clinician, to help them access that power and strength, and I do this by first providing a non-judgmental and positive environment. This allows us to identify the thoughts and perceptions that are influencing their actions, both positive and negative. Real, affirming change can happen when we openly examine the thinking that is holding us back and work to change those thoughts that are no longer servicing our goals. I’m excited to help clients with that self-examination and re-building process.
(346) 239-8305 View (346) 239-8305
Photo of Jennifer Aune - Jennifer L. Aune Counseling, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer L. Aune Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77380
We use a variety of techniques that are tailored to meet the needs of our clients with a special interest in self esteem/self worth issues, codependency, NPD & unconscious programming. Some individuals are unaware of limiting thoughts, beliefs & memories and stay stuck. Trapped trauma and unconscious programming plays a major role in mental & physical health problems as well as interpersonal relationships. In addition to psychotherapy we offer a unique & transformational experience called Zerobody Dry Flotation to aid and accelerate the healing process and to re program unconscious programming (one's blueprint of self and life).
We use a variety of techniques that are tailored to meet the needs of our clients with a special interest in self esteem/self worth issues, codependency, NPD & unconscious programming. Some individuals are unaware of limiting thoughts, beliefs & memories and stay stuck. Trapped trauma and unconscious programming plays a major role in mental & physical health problems as well as interpersonal relationships. In addition to psychotherapy we offer a unique & transformational experience called Zerobody Dry Flotation to aid and accelerate the healing process and to re program unconscious programming (one's blueprint of self and life).
(936) 337-4803 View (936) 337-4803
Photo of Cindy Thornby, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindy Thornby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Life can be challenging! I assist individuals, couples, and families in moving through difficulties and making positive changes for a more satisfying, fulfillling life. Clients learn to utilize holistic and therapeutic approaches to regain personal balance, vitality, meaning, and a sense of purpose. I've worked in a variety of clinical and hospital settings, including pain management, substance abuse, and mental health, as well as providing services in the community, schools, and homes. My clients include adults, families, adolescents, and children, who learn to view their challenges as opportunities for growth!
Life can be challenging! I assist individuals, couples, and families in moving through difficulties and making positive changes for a more satisfying, fulfillling life. Clients learn to utilize holistic and therapeutic approaches to regain personal balance, vitality, meaning, and a sense of purpose. I've worked in a variety of clinical and hospital settings, including pain management, substance abuse, and mental health, as well as providing services in the community, schools, and homes. My clients include adults, families, adolescents, and children, who learn to view their challenges as opportunities for growth!
(281) 761-2690 View (281) 761-2690
Photo of Jonathan A. Delgado, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonathan A. Delgado
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Magnolia, TX 77354
As an integrative therapist, I have the advantage of drawing from various therapeutic modalities and techniques. This approach allows therapy to be tailored to the client's unique needs. As a minority counselor, I understand the value in someone's upbringing, experiences, and culture. And they will allows be consideration throughout the counseling process.
As an integrative therapist, I have the advantage of drawing from various therapeutic modalities and techniques. This approach allows therapy to be tailored to the client's unique needs. As a minority counselor, I understand the value in someone's upbringing, experiences, and culture. And they will allows be consideration throughout the counseling process.
(281) 816-4656 x700 View (281) 816-4656 x700
Photo of Erica L. Anderson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica L. Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77380
Erica L. Anderson subscribes to use a variety of approaches using an empathetic approach that empowers and motivates her clients to look for rainbows when it's raining. Her belief is determination gets more done than doubt and agrees with Josh Billings, "Life is a grindstone and whether it grinds you down or polishes you up depends on what your made of. Her mission as a therapist is threefold to promote a positive nurturing environment for her clients, spark an enthusiasm for optimism, and provide a strong foundation for life long learning to become an even better you.
Erica L. Anderson subscribes to use a variety of approaches using an empathetic approach that empowers and motivates her clients to look for rainbows when it's raining. Her belief is determination gets more done than doubt and agrees with Josh Billings, "Life is a grindstone and whether it grinds you down or polishes you up depends on what your made of. Her mission as a therapist is threefold to promote a positive nurturing environment for her clients, spark an enthusiasm for optimism, and provide a strong foundation for life long learning to become an even better you.
(832) 261-9142 View (832) 261-9142

Online Therapists

Photo of Phil Ginsburg, MA, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Phil Ginsburg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, CSAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77065
I have experience with Dual Diagnosis, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Major Depression, Anxiety, and Trauma, and Clinical Hypnosis.
I believe that while you are the expert in your own life, that I can help you to expand your view of a problem and to find new possibilities for change. Whether the sessions are with an individual, couple or family, I view you, the client, as being embedded in various relationships. I believe that a person grows in relationships and it is my mission to help you resolve conflict, establish resources and improve relating skills needed to enhance the overall health of your life and your relationships. "To bring anything into your life, imagine that it's already there."
I have experience with Dual Diagnosis, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Major Depression, Anxiety, and Trauma, and Clinical Hypnosis.
I believe that while you are the expert in your own life, that I can help you to expand your view of a problem and to find new possibilities for change. Whether the sessions are with an individual, couple or family, I view you, the client, as being embedded in various relationships. I believe that a person grows in relationships and it is my mission to help you resolve conflict, establish resources and improve relating skills needed to enhance the overall health of your life and your relationships. "To bring anything into your life, imagine that it's already there."
(832) 390-0960 View (832) 390-0960
Photo of Jennifer G. Ferguson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer G. Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Friendswood, TX 77546
TEENS, ADULTS, COUPLES: IN PERSON APPTS AVAILABLE. We live in a world of upheaval, difficulties that can be challenging for even the healthiest Teen, Adult, and Couple. Do you have the ability to cope when life begins to unravel, family breaks down, and anxiety takes over? I am here to listen, support you where you are, and collaborate on new ways to live positively, without anxiety, depression or even addiction. Clients are looking for practical, real life solutions that can be used in real life settings. I provide a supportive, caring, "authentic" therapy environment, through a great counseling relationship with my clients.
TEENS, ADULTS, COUPLES: IN PERSON APPTS AVAILABLE. We live in a world of upheaval, difficulties that can be challenging for even the healthiest Teen, Adult, and Couple. Do you have the ability to cope when life begins to unravel, family breaks down, and anxiety takes over? I am here to listen, support you where you are, and collaborate on new ways to live positively, without anxiety, depression or even addiction. Clients are looking for practical, real life solutions that can be used in real life settings. I provide a supportive, caring, "authentic" therapy environment, through a great counseling relationship with my clients.
(832) 280-1579 View (832) 280-1579
Photo of Melissa Kay Blair, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Kay Blair
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baytown, TX 77521
PTSD and trauma resolution (using ART and EMDR), Addiction recovery, as well as couples therapy are among my specialties. I work 12-7 pm and weekends. I worked for 10+ years as a therapist in a highly respected residential treatment center for adolescents with addiction as well as other mental health issues. My experience also includes working with people with extreme stress, depression and anxiety. I have over 25 years of experience as a helper to include a career as a high school science teacher and school counselor. I returned to school to earn my PhD from Texas A&M-Commerce University to become a therapist.
PTSD and trauma resolution (using ART and EMDR), Addiction recovery, as well as couples therapy are among my specialties. I work 12-7 pm and weekends. I worked for 10+ years as a therapist in a highly respected residential treatment center for adolescents with addiction as well as other mental health issues. My experience also includes working with people with extreme stress, depression and anxiety. I have over 25 years of experience as a helper to include a career as a high school science teacher and school counselor. I returned to school to earn my PhD from Texas A&M-Commerce University to become a therapist.
(903) 228-3169 View (903) 228-3169
Photo of Stephanie R Rodriguez, MSW, LCSW-S, CSAT , SEP, CDWF, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie R Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, CSAT , SEP, CDWF
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
That painful event keeps replaying over and over in your head. You can’t stop seeing the images of it. Thoughts of what you could have done differently play on repeat. They force their way into your mind, leaving you overwhelmed, panicked, and burnt out. The triggers are everywhere and anxiety and depression feel like they’re constantly looming over you. If you could just let it go maybe you could move on with your life. You no longer want to carry the weight of what happened but to enjoy the things you once loved.
That painful event keeps replaying over and over in your head. You can’t stop seeing the images of it. Thoughts of what you could have done differently play on repeat. They force their way into your mind, leaving you overwhelmed, panicked, and burnt out. The triggers are everywhere and anxiety and depression feel like they’re constantly looming over you. If you could just let it go maybe you could move on with your life. You no longer want to carry the weight of what happened but to enjoy the things you once loved.
(281) 810-3613 View (281) 810-3613
Photo of Alexis Hyde-Washmon (Able Thoughts Pllc), MS, LPC, BCBA, LMFT, LBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexis Hyde-Washmon (Able Thoughts Pllc)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, BCBA, LMFT, LBA
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77450
I provide services for the following: Child/Adolescent - development, application, and evaluation of behavioral/cognitive-behavioral interventions for child/teen populations (e.g., under-served, children of divorce, juvenile victims of violent crimes, children with conduct and personality disorders, children with developmental disorders, and adolescents with chemical dependency and life challenges). Adults/Elderly - individual, couples and family psychotherapy (e.g., marital, parenting, aging, divorce issues, chemical dependency, mood disorders, depression and anxiety, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress, and LGBTQ).
I provide services for the following: Child/Adolescent - development, application, and evaluation of behavioral/cognitive-behavioral interventions for child/teen populations (e.g., under-served, children of divorce, juvenile victims of violent crimes, children with conduct and personality disorders, children with developmental disorders, and adolescents with chemical dependency and life challenges). Adults/Elderly - individual, couples and family psychotherapy (e.g., marital, parenting, aging, divorce issues, chemical dependency, mood disorders, depression and anxiety, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress, and LGBTQ).
(713) 804-2638 View (713) 804-2638
Photo of Krystin L. Holmes - Family Center Counseling and Consulting, PhD, LPC, LMFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Family Center Counseling and Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77018
We strive to help overcome a variety of complex issues such as anxiety, infidelity, depression, grief, and etc.
We are a group of therapists that are committed to helping those who seek to make changes and move towards total wellness and healing. In our experience, we reach this crossroads in our lives when we are situated between a rock and a hard place. We hope that through our time together, our clients emerge with a better sense of who they are in relation to others and a newfound sense of hope and confidence.
We strive to help overcome a variety of complex issues such as anxiety, infidelity, depression, grief, and etc.
We are a group of therapists that are committed to helping those who seek to make changes and move towards total wellness and healing. In our experience, we reach this crossroads in our lives when we are situated between a rock and a hard place. We hope that through our time together, our clients emerge with a better sense of who they are in relation to others and a newfound sense of hope and confidence.
(832) 225-2449 View (832) 225-2449
Photo of Amy Rollo - Cy-Hope Counseling Center, MA, LPC-S, LSSP, LMFT, Counselor
Cy-Hope Counseling Center
Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LSSP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77429
Additionally, we have expertise working with children on the autism spectrum, emotional and behavioral difficulties, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression & self-harm.
From the moment a client enters our grounds, we strive to provide a warm, therapeutic, and inviting atmosphere. We have a variety of talented counselors and speech therapists with various specialties that allows us to match you with the therapist that is a fit for your needs. Whether you are faced with challenging and stressful relationships within your family, a personal need of a struggling child or family member, or an individual need for yourself, we have the right counselors for you. We look forward to working with you!
Additionally, we have expertise working with children on the autism spectrum, emotional and behavioral difficulties, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression & self-harm.
From the moment a client enters our grounds, we strive to provide a warm, therapeutic, and inviting atmosphere. We have a variety of talented counselors and speech therapists with various specialties that allows us to match you with the therapist that is a fit for your needs. Whether you are faced with challenging and stressful relationships within your family, a personal need of a struggling child or family member, or an individual need for yourself, we have the right counselors for you. We look forward to working with you!
(281) 730-8538 View (281) 730-8538
Photo of James Jackson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77007  (Online Only)
I have experience leading clients through life challenges such as stress and anxiety, depression, grief, substance abuse, and relationship issues.
I' am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas. I provide individual, family, and couple's therapy. I earned my Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Maryland University College and a Masters in Counseling from Webster University. I've worked in many different clinical settings to include outpatient counseling and inpatient treatment at a psychiatric hospital along with working as an outpatient assessment counselor for a nonprofit organization.
I have experience leading clients through life challenges such as stress and anxiety, depression, grief, substance abuse, and relationship issues.
I' am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas. I provide individual, family, and couple's therapy. I earned my Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Maryland University College and a Masters in Counseling from Webster University. I've worked in many different clinical settings to include outpatient counseling and inpatient treatment at a psychiatric hospital along with working as an outpatient assessment counselor for a nonprofit organization.
(832) 862-8436 View (832) 862-8436

See more therapy options for Montgomery 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.