Depression Therapists in Porter, TX
![Photo of Brenda Lee Kyger-Skidgel - Inspirational Therapy, PLLC , MEd, LPC, BC-TMH, GC-C, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e381137-4253-4153-835c-b6368a1fbc9b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inspirational Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, BC-TMH, GC-C, CCATP
Verified Verified
Porter, TX 77365 (Online Only)
As a skilled and compassionate professional counselor, I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief and loss, anger management, DBT, nutrition, and relationship issues.
Being a Therapist is an honor. I love guiding people towards positive changes and watching them transform their lives. The most rewarding thing about being a therapist is when my clients state the coping skills are working. I am committed to encouraging you to see healing and transformation are possible. Our Sessions Are Focused On You. Sessions will provide you with the space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. In feeling safe and comfortable, you'll be able to figure things out. It's important to me to provide a non-judgmental space where you can be yourself and focus on goals.
As a skilled and compassionate professional counselor, I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief and loss, anger management, DBT, nutrition, and relationship issues.
Being a Therapist is an honor. I love guiding people towards positive changes and watching them transform their lives. The most rewarding thing about being a therapist is when my clients state the coping skills are working. I am committed to encouraging you to see healing and transformation are possible. Our Sessions Are Focused On You. Sessions will provide you with the space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. In feeling safe and comfortable, you'll be able to figure things out. It's important to me to provide a non-judgmental space where you can be yourself and focus on goals.
![Photo of Chrissy Wagner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb661302-137a-4317-be4a-dd4dfaaa1199/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Christine (Chrissy) Wagner, and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Texas. I have a master's degree in social work, licensed clinical social work. I have over 30 years of social and human service experience in family and child welfare. I have worked with Hospice patients and families and worked with group therapy and individual therapy. I work with adults and specialize in aging, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, and inner conflict, using cognitive behavioral therapy, strength-based and emotion-focused therapy.
My name is Christine (Chrissy) Wagner, and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Texas. I have a master's degree in social work, licensed clinical social work. I have over 30 years of social and human service experience in family and child welfare. I have worked with Hospice patients and families and worked with group therapy and individual therapy. I work with adults and specialize in aging, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, and inner conflict, using cognitive behavioral therapy, strength-based and emotion-focused therapy.
![Photo of Tiquana Hill, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2256ea73-a53b-4050-bfeb-49622caa3c36/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiquana Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365 (Online Only)
My specialty areas include LGBTQIA+ community, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, African-American community and childhood trauma.
My name is Tiquana Hill and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and Texas with approximately 10 years of experience providing mental health services to adults, adolescents and children in a variety of settings. I have 4 years of experience providing outpatient therapy to adults and adolescents. I have experience with a variety of stressors including family trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem/ self-image, career development, romantic/pre-marital, PTSD/Trauma, lack of communication and several other undesirable behaviors that may effect your daily living. Check out my website peacementalhealthservices.com
My specialty areas include LGBTQIA+ community, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, African-American community and childhood trauma.
My name is Tiquana Hill and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and Texas with approximately 10 years of experience providing mental health services to adults, adolescents and children in a variety of settings. I have 4 years of experience providing outpatient therapy to adults and adolescents. I have experience with a variety of stressors including family trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem/ self-image, career development, romantic/pre-marital, PTSD/Trauma, lack of communication and several other undesirable behaviors that may effect your daily living. Check out my website peacementalhealthservices.com
![Photo of Theora (Teddy) Noble - Woodlands Family Institute, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, AAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c057655-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Woodlands Family Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, AAC
Verified Verified
Porter, TX 77365
You may be considering therapy because you are hurting,stressed, depressed, anxious, confused,experiencing difficulty sustaining a meaningful relationship, in a spiritual crisis... It takes courage to admit problems and try to change but change is possible in a safe caring environment.
I have 20 years experience helping individuals/couples/families explore their hurts and discover hope, new beliefs, new behaviors, and at last a new life for themselves and their relationships. Meeting people where they are, I am a confidential, caring.accepting, compassionalte listener/therapist/coach.
You may be considering therapy because you are hurting,stressed, depressed, anxious, confused,experiencing difficulty sustaining a meaningful relationship, in a spiritual crisis... It takes courage to admit problems and try to change but change is possible in a safe caring environment.
I have 20 years experience helping individuals/couples/families explore their hurts and discover hope, new beliefs, new behaviors, and at last a new life for themselves and their relationships. Meeting people where they are, I am a confidential, caring.accepting, compassionalte listener/therapist/coach.
![Photo of Jasmine Trachelle Groves, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f42cb42-67f5-43b7-b3a8-54cc840a49b9/4/320x400.jpeg)
Jasmine Trachelle Groves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365
What an amazing day to heal! Allow me to help you achieve the life you are entitled to and deserve. We all carry baggage and experience ongoing day-to-day stressors that can make the future seem unattainable. Now is the time to put your life into perspective and get back on track. I have experience working with individuals, adolescents, and adolescent groups. Most issues presented to me in therapy include relational and vocational stressors, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, impulse control issues, self-harm, inattention/focusing problems, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, post traumatic stress, and substance abuse.
What an amazing day to heal! Allow me to help you achieve the life you are entitled to and deserve. We all carry baggage and experience ongoing day-to-day stressors that can make the future seem unattainable. Now is the time to put your life into perspective and get back on track. I have experience working with individuals, adolescents, and adolescent groups. Most issues presented to me in therapy include relational and vocational stressors, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, impulse control issues, self-harm, inattention/focusing problems, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, post traumatic stress, and substance abuse.
![Photo of Brandi Sturrock, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb9427b-e4e8-43a6-9a4d-fa2c81a7c160/2/320x400.png)
Brandi Sturrock is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Supervisor with over 20 years of experience combined in the medical and mental health fields. She is passionate about helping others address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Brandi specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, major life transitions, and navigating chronic illnesses.
Brandi Sturrock is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Supervisor with over 20 years of experience combined in the medical and mental health fields. She is passionate about helping others address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Brandi specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, major life transitions, and navigating chronic illnesses.
![Photo of Elizabeth Belcon, MS, LMFT-S, LPC-S, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41de9635-2545-4fe2-b9b0-4bfab6b92076/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Belcon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365
If you wake up every day feeling hopeless, depressed, anxious, or simply trapped; you're not alone.
Are you currently in dark place in life? Wake up sad and hopeless? Experiencing the pain of a failed relationship, experienced infidelity, unable to communicate with your spouse, or is a victim of a traumatic experience? As an experienced therapist, I am here to help you through the challenges you are facing in your life. I ensure my clients feel comfortable as they walk through their difficulties by creating a safe and empathetic environment. As a Certified Christian Counselor, I believe through Christ complete healing is possible. He promises us that "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Ps. 147:3.
If you wake up every day feeling hopeless, depressed, anxious, or simply trapped; you're not alone.
Are you currently in dark place in life? Wake up sad and hopeless? Experiencing the pain of a failed relationship, experienced infidelity, unable to communicate with your spouse, or is a victim of a traumatic experience? As an experienced therapist, I am here to help you through the challenges you are facing in your life. I ensure my clients feel comfortable as they walk through their difficulties by creating a safe and empathetic environment. As a Certified Christian Counselor, I believe through Christ complete healing is possible. He promises us that "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Ps. 147:3.
![Photo of Kassie Thurman, MS, LPCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edee10f3-6f3b-472d-8d69-baf048c1d60a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have had the privilege of working with individuals in the social services field for over 10 years; realizing my dream of becoming a counselor has allowed me to reach out to people who have been struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and the sensation of being overwhelmed.
Helping individuals understand and realize their potential has always been my dream. Too often we become overwhelmed with the struggles of everyday life and find ourselves putting the needs of others first; we feel that if we do otherwise, we are being selfish. Sometimes it’s hard to see the light when you’re looking down a dark tunnel. I believe that helping others see that light is the greatest thing a counselor can do.
I have had the privilege of working with individuals in the social services field for over 10 years; realizing my dream of becoming a counselor has allowed me to reach out to people who have been struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and the sensation of being overwhelmed.
Helping individuals understand and realize their potential has always been my dream. Too often we become overwhelmed with the struggles of everyday life and find ourselves putting the needs of others first; we feel that if we do otherwise, we are being selfish. Sometimes it’s hard to see the light when you’re looking down a dark tunnel. I believe that helping others see that light is the greatest thing a counselor can do.
![Photo of Kayla Jackson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/959bc01e-2ac4-4244-ae25-e7d6b07d7f72/1/320x400.png)
I have worked with concerns/diagnoses including: grief/loss, trauma, stress/anger management, family/relationship conflicts, social skills, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and intellectual disabilities.
I try to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for you to express yourself and help you reach your personal goals. There's no magic pill I can give you, but we can work together so you can develop the tools and coping skills you need to overcome obstacles and maximize your potential to make healthy choices and live the most fulfilling life possible.
I have worked with concerns/diagnoses including: grief/loss, trauma, stress/anger management, family/relationship conflicts, social skills, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and intellectual disabilities.
I try to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for you to express yourself and help you reach your personal goals. There's no magic pill I can give you, but we can work together so you can develop the tools and coping skills you need to overcome obstacles and maximize your potential to make healthy choices and live the most fulfilling life possible.
![Photo of Shadia Suber, MA, LSSP, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/513215ca-c519-4278-bac7-2f8898a437cf/1/320x400.png)
Shadia Suber
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LSSP, LPC-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365
If you are struggling with depression, trauma, or anxiety. If you exhibit symptoms like persistent sadness, withdrawal from activities, excessive worry, or physical complaints. If you crave a safe space to express yourself, receive emotional validation, and learn tailored coping strategies. If your primary goal is to alleviate symptoms, improve emotional well-being, & build resilience. If you are seeking therapy to regain a sense of joy and fulfillment in daily life, enhance your relationships, and navigate social challenges more effectively. I'm here to understand, support, & empower you to thrive despite mental health struggles.
If you are struggling with depression, trauma, or anxiety. If you exhibit symptoms like persistent sadness, withdrawal from activities, excessive worry, or physical complaints. If you crave a safe space to express yourself, receive emotional validation, and learn tailored coping strategies. If your primary goal is to alleviate symptoms, improve emotional well-being, & build resilience. If you are seeking therapy to regain a sense of joy and fulfillment in daily life, enhance your relationships, and navigate social challenges more effectively. I'm here to understand, support, & empower you to thrive despite mental health struggles.
![Photo of Ronda L. Bonnette, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80cff81e-eba4-4197-be52-10b3277905ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ronda L. Bonnette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365
A few examples include anxiety, depression, life adjustments, and grief/loss.
Does life have you feeling overwhelmed? Are negative/anxious thoughts taking over and continuing to win in your head? Are you wondering why your marriage is now stale or you don't know how to communicate with your partner? These are a few of the many ways in how YOU can benefit from the therapeutic process. I am a straight shooter-I'm going to tell you what you NEED to hear, not necessarily what you want to hear. Yes, I am in the business of transforming lives and I have SEEN this over and over throughout my career! Look at this as an investment in yourself! You've got this! I'm happy to answer any questions you may have!
A few examples include anxiety, depression, life adjustments, and grief/loss.
Does life have you feeling overwhelmed? Are negative/anxious thoughts taking over and continuing to win in your head? Are you wondering why your marriage is now stale or you don't know how to communicate with your partner? These are a few of the many ways in how YOU can benefit from the therapeutic process. I am a straight shooter-I'm going to tell you what you NEED to hear, not necessarily what you want to hear. Yes, I am in the business of transforming lives and I have SEEN this over and over throughout my career! Look at this as an investment in yourself! You've got this! I'm happy to answer any questions you may have!
15 Second Videos
Inspirational Therapy, PLLC
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Kingwood
Allie Haydon
![Photo of Juliette Eki, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/736298b5-c92f-4f14-a04b-2f8781750ec5/1/320x400.png)
I am committed to help you achieve your goals for personal development and growth. My goal is to address the root of what's been causing your current struggles so that you can live a fulfilling and happy life. I also collaborate with individuals and families to help reach their goals of feeling more content, balanced, and connected with themselves and others.
I am committed to help you achieve your goals for personal development and growth. My goal is to address the root of what's been causing your current struggles so that you can live a fulfilling and happy life. I also collaborate with individuals and families to help reach their goals of feeling more content, balanced, and connected with themselves and others.
![Photo of Lorena Abitante, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43c03459-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allow me to assist you in the change process by both of us looking at your thinking &how it affects you. I feel passionate about working with those who have experienced trauma, loss, abuse/neglect, as well as those who are living with mental illness, including struggling teens & ones with onset of mental illness. I believe in empowering people to process loss, reach goals, develop self-esteem, and improve functioning in a supportive, safe environment.I have gained experience working in both an in-patient and an out-patient psychiatric hospital setting, the Children's Protective Services system, group private practice, and a prison.
Allow me to assist you in the change process by both of us looking at your thinking &how it affects you. I feel passionate about working with those who have experienced trauma, loss, abuse/neglect, as well as those who are living with mental illness, including struggling teens & ones with onset of mental illness. I believe in empowering people to process loss, reach goals, develop self-esteem, and improve functioning in a supportive, safe environment.I have gained experience working in both an in-patient and an out-patient psychiatric hospital setting, the Children's Protective Services system, group private practice, and a prison.
![Photo of Kimberly Boyd - KBCC - Heights/Kingwood/Humble/Cleveland, MS, LPC-, S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c173a71-8c84-43a1-b79a-5c48db6e5fc6/1/320x400.png)
KBCC - Heights/Kingwood/Humble/Cleveland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-, S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365
Welcome to Kimberly Boyd Counseling Center, LLC where our desire is to assist individuals in making realistic and necessary changes to improve their mental health and emotional well-being. Using a therapeutic relationship based on respect and positive esteem, our clinicians will help you define a plan, set goals and measurable objectives, and encourage and motivate you through your journey.
Welcome to Kimberly Boyd Counseling Center, LLC where our desire is to assist individuals in making realistic and necessary changes to improve their mental health and emotional well-being. Using a therapeutic relationship based on respect and positive esteem, our clinicians will help you define a plan, set goals and measurable objectives, and encourage and motivate you through your journey.
![Photo of Juliette Eki - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Kingwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f01c12c-0c42-4961-bf3a-298ab7fae32a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Kingwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Porter, TX 77365
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
![Photo of Jennifer Daly - Jennifer Daly, MA, LPC-A, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7f56020-e7f5-4061-a50b-f40f93ec8d56/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Daly
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , MA, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Porter, TX 77365
As a parent, it's devastating to see your once-happy child withdraw, lash out, or become someone you barely recognize. You may feel overwhelmed, unsure how to help, and worried about their future. Whether your child has faced bullying, abuse, or other traumatic events, these experiences can create deep wounds that affect every aspect of their life and yours. I understand the heartache and the fear that comes with watching your child suffer. Together, we can work towards restoring hope & happiness to your home by providing a compassionate, safe space where your child can begin to heal and rebuild their strength and resilience.
As a parent, it's devastating to see your once-happy child withdraw, lash out, or become someone you barely recognize. You may feel overwhelmed, unsure how to help, and worried about their future. Whether your child has faced bullying, abuse, or other traumatic events, these experiences can create deep wounds that affect every aspect of their life and yours. I understand the heartache and the fear that comes with watching your child suffer. Together, we can work towards restoring hope & happiness to your home by providing a compassionate, safe space where your child can begin to heal and rebuild their strength and resilience.
![Photo of Rachel Marshall, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd61dc6d-8f7a-49df-8830-1e7863e1f34f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Porter, TX 77365 (Online Only)
Rachel Marshall is a board-certified Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. She is also a Master Certified Professional Coach (MCPC). She is on a mission to help people with their spiritual, psychological, emotional, and/or behavioral well-being. Rachel specializes in helping individuals better manage chronic stress, trauma, complex post-traumatic stress, and anxiety, along with many other conditions. She also provides counseling from a Christian faith perspective upon request.
Rachel Marshall is a board-certified Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. She is also a Master Certified Professional Coach (MCPC). She is on a mission to help people with their spiritual, psychological, emotional, and/or behavioral well-being. Rachel specializes in helping individuals better manage chronic stress, trauma, complex post-traumatic stress, and anxiety, along with many other conditions. She also provides counseling from a Christian faith perspective upon request.
![Photo of Kristin Elizabeth Malaer, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ce70b5d-f945-4b3e-b11f-a9ac38532a34/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Elizabeth Malaer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Porter, TX 77365 (Online Only)
As a therapist, I believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are in their journey towards healing and growth. My approach is rooted in honesty, empathy, and a commitment to tailoring treatment to each individual's specific needs. While I value compassion and understanding, I also believe in the power of honesty and directness. At times, this might mean gently challenging you to explore uncomfortable truths or guiding you towards difficult but necessary insights. My aim is always to empower you to confront obstacles, foster resilience, and move towards a more fulfilling life. Therapy is a journey and I serve as your tour guide.
As a therapist, I believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are in their journey towards healing and growth. My approach is rooted in honesty, empathy, and a commitment to tailoring treatment to each individual's specific needs. While I value compassion and understanding, I also believe in the power of honesty and directness. At times, this might mean gently challenging you to explore uncomfortable truths or guiding you towards difficult but necessary insights. My aim is always to empower you to confront obstacles, foster resilience, and move towards a more fulfilling life. Therapy is a journey and I serve as your tour guide.
![Photo of Vanessa Fowlkes, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/680c3f57-a417-4ef1-88a9-0a68f89a3851/3/320x400.jpeg)
Whether it's managing stress, complex relationships, life transitions or dysfunctional family dynamics, the weight of these challenges can often make life feel overwhelming. You are not in this alone. Together, we can journey through these and other issues. Your unique experiences and goals guide our work together. Whether you prefer a cozy chat from the comfort of your home or a refreshing walk through nature, I am here for you.
Whether it's managing stress, complex relationships, life transitions or dysfunctional family dynamics, the weight of these challenges can often make life feel overwhelming. You are not in this alone. Together, we can journey through these and other issues. Your unique experiences and goals guide our work together. Whether you prefer a cozy chat from the comfort of your home or a refreshing walk through nature, I am here for you.
![Photo of Sydney Adams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/492d27c3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sydney Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter, TX 77365
I work with those in their late teens through geriatrics in individual, marital or family therapy. I thoroughly assess each client and work with their own unique circumstances and strengths to address their issues, resolve presenting problems and accomplish goals. I specialize in the treatment of issues including: mental illness, phase of life, grief and loss, reconciliation, divorce, adjustment to medical or mental health diagnosis, occupational, spiritual, trauma, abuse and women’s issues. Beyond my education and professional experience, I draw from a myriad of personal life experiences that have made me a better therapist.
I work with those in their late teens through geriatrics in individual, marital or family therapy. I thoroughly assess each client and work with their own unique circumstances and strengths to address their issues, resolve presenting problems and accomplish goals. I specialize in the treatment of issues including: mental illness, phase of life, grief and loss, reconciliation, divorce, adjustment to medical or mental health diagnosis, occupational, spiritual, trauma, abuse and women’s issues. Beyond my education and professional experience, I draw from a myriad of personal life experiences that have made me a better therapist.
See more therapy options for Porter
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Porter
See More Depression TherapistsDepression 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.