Depression Therapists in North Salt Lake, UT

Photo of Leanna Dopp, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leanna Dopp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
North Salt Lake, UT 84054  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck? Like you want your life to move forward or look a certain way, but you just don’t know how to get there? It’s okay! The feeling of stagnation could be due to lack of motivation, anxiety, depression, grief, loss or low self-esteem. Feeling stuck could also be a result of not understanding your own needs and emotions, or relationship concerns between partners or parents and children. Whatever your concern may be, you will be okay- you just need some guidance! I love connecting with people and facilitating the discovery of healing and empowerment that will lead to living a meaningful life.
Are you feeling stuck? Like you want your life to move forward or look a certain way, but you just don’t know how to get there? It’s okay! The feeling of stagnation could be due to lack of motivation, anxiety, depression, grief, loss or low self-esteem. Feeling stuck could also be a result of not understanding your own needs and emotions, or relationship concerns between partners or parents and children. Whatever your concern may be, you will be okay- you just need some guidance! I love connecting with people and facilitating the discovery of healing and empowerment that will lead to living a meaningful life.
(801) 516-4416 View (801) 516-4416
Photo of Paul T. Callister, PhD, LCMHC, Counselor
Paul T. Callister
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
Do you want to join a therapy process group? Have you benefited from therapy but want to get more out of it? I conduct long-term therapy process groups for those who want to work on connecting with their emotions, with other people, and with themselves in meaningful and life changing ways. The process groups I run don’t focus on a particular topic, but people in these groups work on such things as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationship problems. I am currently not taking new individual or couples therapy clients, but do have openings for new group therapy clients. I have groups for adults and licensed therapists.
Do you want to join a therapy process group? Have you benefited from therapy but want to get more out of it? I conduct long-term therapy process groups for those who want to work on connecting with their emotions, with other people, and with themselves in meaningful and life changing ways. The process groups I run don’t focus on a particular topic, but people in these groups work on such things as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationship problems. I am currently not taking new individual or couples therapy clients, but do have openings for new group therapy clients. I have groups for adults and licensed therapists.
(801) 657-3730 View (801) 657-3730
Photo of Holly Willard, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Willard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
*Children *Adolescents * Family Therapy *Couples *Play Therapy * Abuse and Trauma* Adjusting to Life Transitions * Depression *Anxiety *Grief and Loss *Self-harm *Sexual Abuse * Emotionally Focused Family Therapy *ADHD *Adoption *Divorce *Body Image * Healthy Relationships * DBT * Attachment Issues *Academic Difficulties * Social Skills.
I completed my Masters in Social Work at the University of Utah in 2000 and my LCSW in 2002. Since that time, I have worked in various clinical settings from school counseling, residential care, foster-care, outpatient clinics and private practice. My therapeutic style evokes the strength and wisdom already inherent within each individual. My role as a therapist is to guide and inspire clients through an empathetic, straight forward approach to learn coping skills and secure a foundation for truly lasting changes.
*Children *Adolescents * Family Therapy *Couples *Play Therapy * Abuse and Trauma* Adjusting to Life Transitions * Depression *Anxiety *Grief and Loss *Self-harm *Sexual Abuse * Emotionally Focused Family Therapy *ADHD *Adoption *Divorce *Body Image * Healthy Relationships * DBT * Attachment Issues *Academic Difficulties * Social Skills.
I completed my Masters in Social Work at the University of Utah in 2000 and my LCSW in 2002. Since that time, I have worked in various clinical settings from school counseling, residential care, foster-care, outpatient clinics and private practice. My therapeutic style evokes the strength and wisdom already inherent within each individual. My role as a therapist is to guide and inspire clients through an empathetic, straight forward approach to learn coping skills and secure a foundation for truly lasting changes.
(801) 896-4954 View (801) 896-4954
Photo of Stephanie Voigt Yabko, PsyD, MC, Psychologist
Stephanie Voigt Yabko
Psychologist, PsyD, MC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
Other specialties: Anxiety - worry, health concerns, panic; Depression - low self-esteem, feeling "blah"; Sleep Problems; Stress - from school, work, relationships; Child/Adolescent Behavior Problems; Adjustment Problems - changes in your life that are difficult; Substance Abuse Recovery - recently sober/aftercare, accountability for your recovery.
I have been told that I am calming, levelheaded, caring, and flexible. I work with clients of all ages utilizing an integrative, strengths-based, individualized approach to therapy, often combining concepts of self-compassion, mindfulness, and acceptance to help you attain your goals. I believe in helping you to flourish in your life, not just eliminate symptoms. I do this by helping you use your inner creativity, wisdom, resilience, appreciation, and courage to change your life.
Other specialties: Anxiety - worry, health concerns, panic; Depression - low self-esteem, feeling "blah"; Sleep Problems; Stress - from school, work, relationships; Child/Adolescent Behavior Problems; Adjustment Problems - changes in your life that are difficult; Substance Abuse Recovery - recently sober/aftercare, accountability for your recovery.
I have been told that I am calming, levelheaded, caring, and flexible. I work with clients of all ages utilizing an integrative, strengths-based, individualized approach to therapy, often combining concepts of self-compassion, mindfulness, and acceptance to help you attain your goals. I believe in helping you to flourish in your life, not just eliminate symptoms. I do this by helping you use your inner creativity, wisdom, resilience, appreciation, and courage to change your life.
(801) 894-9158 View (801) 894-9158
Photo of Mike Kaare Klitgaard, MA, CMHC, NCC, Counselor
Mike Kaare Klitgaard
Counselor, MA, CMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), and I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, digital addiction, grief, and difficult family or partner situations.
We can so often feel trapped in the pit of our own circumstances or mind, with no way forward and nothing but hurt to show for it. My role is to be a brief companion and helper on your journey to peace, resolution, fulfillment, and the life you desire.
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), and I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, digital addiction, grief, and difficult family or partner situations.
We can so often feel trapped in the pit of our own circumstances or mind, with no way forward and nothing but hurt to show for it. My role is to be a brief companion and helper on your journey to peace, resolution, fulfillment, and the life you desire.
(385) 398-9842 View (385) 398-9842
Photo of Stephen Geis, LCMHC, Counselor
Stephen Geis
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
I have experience with individual, group, and family therapy while working with adolescents and adults to treat anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relational concerns.
I believe that in life we are happiest when we are experiencing growth, but so often the facts of life interfere with our ability to grow. The messages we receive from the world around us, the messages we tell ourselves, depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship difficulties, and countless other factors can impede our progress and keep us from happiness. In our work together we will build a relationship that can provide the support needed to get through these challenges. We will work together to explore what might be holding you back and identify the steps you can take to best get you where you want to go.
I have experience with individual, group, and family therapy while working with adolescents and adults to treat anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relational concerns.
I believe that in life we are happiest when we are experiencing growth, but so often the facts of life interfere with our ability to grow. The messages we receive from the world around us, the messages we tell ourselves, depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship difficulties, and countless other factors can impede our progress and keep us from happiness. In our work together we will build a relationship that can provide the support needed to get through these challenges. We will work together to explore what might be holding you back and identify the steps you can take to best get you where you want to go.
(385) 899-2936 View (385) 899-2936
Photo of Kendrick Turner, LCMHC, EdS, MS, Counselor
Kendrick Turner
Counselor, LCMHC, EdS, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
You are writing your life story and no matter the chapter you are in, it is not easy to write. Perhaps you are here due to a very difficult chapter and looking for help in writing it. Often, when one is struggling it is manifested and experienced in relationships. As a species, we interact with others constantly. Depression, anger, anxiety, trauma, family discord and other mental health challenges are likely stopping you from getting the life you would like to have. Through a therapeutic relationship, we can begin to edit and write this chapter of your life the way in which you desire. More specialties listed below.
You are writing your life story and no matter the chapter you are in, it is not easy to write. Perhaps you are here due to a very difficult chapter and looking for help in writing it. Often, when one is struggling it is manifested and experienced in relationships. As a species, we interact with others constantly. Depression, anger, anxiety, trauma, family discord and other mental health challenges are likely stopping you from getting the life you would like to have. Through a therapeutic relationship, we can begin to edit and write this chapter of your life the way in which you desire. More specialties listed below.
(801) 923-4188 View (801) 923-4188
Photo of Kristen Ontiveros, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Ontiveros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
I help clients with grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, and pre/post-partum disorders using a holistic approach.
My ideal client is someone facing challenges such as grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, or pre and post-partum disorders, and who feels stuck or overwhelmed by their circumstances. They need a holistic and empathetic therapeutic approach that integrates various techniques to address their emotional and psychological needs. Their goals include healing from past wounds, building resilience, and improving their overall quality of life. They seek a supportive space to collaborate on setting and achieving meaningful goals, gaining clarity and enhancing their confidence and well-being.
I help clients with grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, and pre/post-partum disorders using a holistic approach.
My ideal client is someone facing challenges such as grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, or pre and post-partum disorders, and who feels stuck or overwhelmed by their circumstances. They need a holistic and empathetic therapeutic approach that integrates various techniques to address their emotional and psychological needs. Their goals include healing from past wounds, building resilience, and improving their overall quality of life. They seek a supportive space to collaborate on setting and achieving meaningful goals, gaining clarity and enhancing their confidence and well-being.
(385) 406-3312 View (385) 406-3312
Photo of Lindsay Robinson, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
North Salt Lake, UT 84054  (Online Only)
Hello! I love working with teens and pre-teens in therapy, on issues including depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, family problems, social anxiety, low self-esteem, dissociation, and more. I'm here to listen and validate your experience, and to empower you to overcome challenges and live the life you want to live.
Hello! I love working with teens and pre-teens in therapy, on issues including depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, family problems, social anxiety, low self-esteem, dissociation, and more. I'm here to listen and validate your experience, and to empower you to overcome challenges and live the life you want to live.
(385) 786-8153 View (385) 786-8153
Photo of Jessica Allred - Treat Counseling, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Allred - Treat Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
Most of my experience is in women's issues and perinatal mental health. I also specialize in working with adults and adolescents suffering from substance abuse, depression, anxiety and relationship concerns. I use a client centered approach. I believe in empowering clients with tools to better manage mental health and stressful life situations.
Most of my experience is in women's issues and perinatal mental health. I also specialize in working with adults and adolescents suffering from substance abuse, depression, anxiety and relationship concerns. I use a client centered approach. I believe in empowering clients with tools to better manage mental health and stressful life situations.
(385) 398-9796 View (385) 398-9796
Photo of Lauren Hirschi, ACMHC
Lauren Hirschi
Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, ACMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
I specialize in working with trauma, depression, postpartum mental health, faith/life transitions, relationship concerns, substance use, and persistent/severe mental illness.
We all experience moments in life where we feel at a crossroads or overwhelmed by pain, grief, disconnection, and uncertainty. While we may feel terrified or stuck in a dark place, there also might be a part of us that recognizes these moments of suffering as an opportunity to deeply understand ourselves and, by leaning into our own unique strengths, create meaningful change in our lives. My approach is warm, compassionate, and rooted in the belief that each individual holds the power to create a fulfilling and authentic life.
I specialize in working with trauma, depression, postpartum mental health, faith/life transitions, relationship concerns, substance use, and persistent/severe mental illness.
We all experience moments in life where we feel at a crossroads or overwhelmed by pain, grief, disconnection, and uncertainty. While we may feel terrified or stuck in a dark place, there also might be a part of us that recognizes these moments of suffering as an opportunity to deeply understand ourselves and, by leaning into our own unique strengths, create meaningful change in our lives. My approach is warm, compassionate, and rooted in the belief that each individual holds the power to create a fulfilling and authentic life.
(385) 325-8819 View (385) 325-8819
Photo of Meredith Lawing, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Lawing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
I love helping kids with big feelings and anxiety. I love breaking down emotional walls and connecting with teens struggling with school, friends, concerns with self harm, or just life in general (its tough to be a teen these days!). I help adults navigate life's challenges (anxiety, depression, grief, general stress, workplace burnout, etc). I have a soft and compassionate approach in therapy and we like to say here that we bring the "Treat" back to Treatment. Of course our sessions wont always be rainbows and butterflies, but the results of our time together will have you or your child growing and finding the joy in life again.
I love helping kids with big feelings and anxiety. I love breaking down emotional walls and connecting with teens struggling with school, friends, concerns with self harm, or just life in general (its tough to be a teen these days!). I help adults navigate life's challenges (anxiety, depression, grief, general stress, workplace burnout, etc). I have a soft and compassionate approach in therapy and we like to say here that we bring the "Treat" back to Treatment. Of course our sessions wont always be rainbows and butterflies, but the results of our time together will have you or your child growing and finding the joy in life again.
(801) 876-7526 View (801) 876-7526
Photo of Amber Lingard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Lingard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
I work with those dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, infertility, adoption complexities, as well as loss associated with pregnancy and infants.
I have 15 years of experience helping clients find peace and live better lives. My passion lies in providing a safe and compassionate space where clients feel genuinely supported, especially during their most challenging moments. I’m here to guide you in discovering peace of mind, forging deep connections, and finding purpose in your journey.
I work with those dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, infertility, adoption complexities, as well as loss associated with pregnancy and infants.
I have 15 years of experience helping clients find peace and live better lives. My passion lies in providing a safe and compassionate space where clients feel genuinely supported, especially during their most challenging moments. I’m here to guide you in discovering peace of mind, forging deep connections, and finding purpose in your journey.
(801) 509-6852 View (801) 509-6852
Photo of Tenille Jensen - Healing Crossroads Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Healing Crossroads Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
At Healing Crossroads Therapy , we offer research-based, efficient approaches to processing and healing from trauma as well as overcoming anxiety, depression and other life struggles.
Tenille Jensen, LMFT & owner of Healing Crossroads therapy, loves to help individuals overcome a variety of challenges and struggles. She has specialized training in treating trauma. She has extensive experience working with individuals on issues such as anxiety, depression, self esteem, perfectionism and grief. Relationships are often affected by these challenges and she will direct you in how to heal your relationships with others as well. Joshua McBride, MFT-I, another member of our team at Healing Crossroads Therapy, loves to work with couples and families in their journeys to healing and growth.
At Healing Crossroads Therapy , we offer research-based, efficient approaches to processing and healing from trauma as well as overcoming anxiety, depression and other life struggles.
Tenille Jensen, LMFT & owner of Healing Crossroads therapy, loves to help individuals overcome a variety of challenges and struggles. She has specialized training in treating trauma. She has extensive experience working with individuals on issues such as anxiety, depression, self esteem, perfectionism and grief. Relationships are often affected by these challenges and she will direct you in how to heal your relationships with others as well. Joshua McBride, MFT-I, another member of our team at Healing Crossroads Therapy, loves to work with couples and families in their journeys to healing and growth.
(385) 243-7376 View (385) 243-7376
Photo of Aubrieanna Lynch, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aubrieanna Lynch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
I have many specialty areas including general anxiety/ depression, perinatal mental health (for men and women), supporting those dealing with infertility, OCD, trauma and big life changes/transitions.
I can help you reconnect with yourself! It is time to find the balance that allows you to thrive and be the best version of you! When I first meet with clients they often express the feeling that they have lost their identity while trying to keep up with demands placed upon them from kids, spouse, work, and society. They put pressure on themselves to be perfect to the point of anxiety/ depression. It's lonely and isolating. I am here to show you that there is hope and meaning in your future. The cycle can be reversed, and you may be surprised how capable and incredible you are with the support of a caring therapist like me.
I have many specialty areas including general anxiety/ depression, perinatal mental health (for men and women), supporting those dealing with infertility, OCD, trauma and big life changes/transitions.
I can help you reconnect with yourself! It is time to find the balance that allows you to thrive and be the best version of you! When I first meet with clients they often express the feeling that they have lost their identity while trying to keep up with demands placed upon them from kids, spouse, work, and society. They put pressure on themselves to be perfect to the point of anxiety/ depression. It's lonely and isolating. I am here to show you that there is hope and meaning in your future. The cycle can be reversed, and you may be surprised how capable and incredible you are with the support of a caring therapist like me.
(385) 376-3697 View (385) 376-3697
Photo of Arlene Barrett, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Arlene Barrett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
Specialties: Anxiety, Trauma, Adult Autism Spectrum, Adult ADHD, Women with Autism, Young Adult Transitions, Marriage Counseling, Crises of Faith, LBGTQ, Depression, and Mood Disorders.
I offer video or phone sessions in addition to in person office visits for individuals, couples and families. As a mother of five adult children with disorders such as ADHD, bipolar and autism spectrum disorder, I understand the difficulties that mental health challenges can bring to families. I like to keep up to date on the latest therapeutic models and also use the tried and proven models such as CBT and Mindfulness. I work with my clients to find the best approach to help them achieve healing and growth. The best way to contact me is to send a text message to (801) 738-8665.
Specialties: Anxiety, Trauma, Adult Autism Spectrum, Adult ADHD, Women with Autism, Young Adult Transitions, Marriage Counseling, Crises of Faith, LBGTQ, Depression, and Mood Disorders.
I offer video or phone sessions in addition to in person office visits for individuals, couples and families. As a mother of five adult children with disorders such as ADHD, bipolar and autism spectrum disorder, I understand the difficulties that mental health challenges can bring to families. I like to keep up to date on the latest therapeutic models and also use the tried and proven models such as CBT and Mindfulness. I work with my clients to find the best approach to help them achieve healing and growth. The best way to contact me is to send a text message to (801) 738-8665.
(801) 701-1356 View (801) 701-1356
Photo of Katrina M Appiah, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrina M Appiah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy*Certified Internal Family Systems Therapist*Certified EMDR Therapist *Certified Trauma Focused CBT Therapist * Adult Therapy * Trauma and Abuse * Women's Issues * Body Image * Anxiety * Depression *Toxic Sexual Behavior * Grief/Loss* Faith Transition/Transitioning LDS *Attachment Issues *Developmental and Complex Trauma/PTSD.
I believe that within each of us lies a powerful, resilient human spirit that has the capacity to thrive - regardless of one's life circumstances. Hope and healing occur as we learn to embrace our unique gifts, develop self-compassion, increase self awareness and implement coping skills into one's daily life. A person flourishes as they learn to approach life in authentic ways while being true to their identity. I am passionate about my work because I believe that we all have the capacity to excel and find joy in the journey of life.
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy*Certified Internal Family Systems Therapist*Certified EMDR Therapist *Certified Trauma Focused CBT Therapist * Adult Therapy * Trauma and Abuse * Women's Issues * Body Image * Anxiety * Depression *Toxic Sexual Behavior * Grief/Loss* Faith Transition/Transitioning LDS *Attachment Issues *Developmental and Complex Trauma/PTSD.
I believe that within each of us lies a powerful, resilient human spirit that has the capacity to thrive - regardless of one's life circumstances. Hope and healing occur as we learn to embrace our unique gifts, develop self-compassion, increase self awareness and implement coping skills into one's daily life. A person flourishes as they learn to approach life in authentic ways while being true to their identity. I am passionate about my work because I believe that we all have the capacity to excel and find joy in the journey of life.
(801) 829-9058 View (801) 829-9058
Photo of Bremen Acord, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bremen Acord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
I began working with mental health in 2015 gaining experience as a crisis worker, and individual/group counselor for adolescents and young adults in residential treatment, hospital, and education settings. I’ve worked more specifically with depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, racial healing, parenting issues, strengthening relationships, trauma, and spiritual exploration. My passion for social work stems from a place of empathetic curiosity for human diversity. I seek genuine understanding into individual’s unique position in life and seemingly endless factors contributing to their current state of wellbeing.
I began working with mental health in 2015 gaining experience as a crisis worker, and individual/group counselor for adolescents and young adults in residential treatment, hospital, and education settings. I’ve worked more specifically with depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, racial healing, parenting issues, strengthening relationships, trauma, and spiritual exploration. My passion for social work stems from a place of empathetic curiosity for human diversity. I seek genuine understanding into individual’s unique position in life and seemingly endless factors contributing to their current state of wellbeing.
(385) 332-3917 View (385) 332-3917
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Manley, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Elizabeth Manley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
As a licensed psychologist, I specialize in working with adults struggling with low self-esteem, perfectionism, identity issues, relationship problems, anxiety, and depression. I am particularly passionate about providing services to members of the LGBTQ+ community, and work hard to provide affirmative care.
As a licensed psychologist, I specialize in working with adults struggling with low self-esteem, perfectionism, identity issues, relationship problems, anxiety, and depression. I am particularly passionate about providing services to members of the LGBTQ+ community, and work hard to provide affirmative care.
View
Photo of Jenny Taylor Hallisey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Taylor Hallisey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
North Salt Lake, UT 84054
I enjoy working with men, woman and couples who are motivated to reduce suffering. I help clients who struggle with anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and those who are exploring a faith transition. I work with mixed-faith couples to navigate the changes in their relationship. During a faith transition clients may experience: grief, existential crisis, interpersonal problems, depression and disillusionment, loneliness and increased anxiety. I help clients understand and repair from the complex nature of this loss.
I enjoy working with men, woman and couples who are motivated to reduce suffering. I help clients who struggle with anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and those who are exploring a faith transition. I work with mixed-faith couples to navigate the changes in their relationship. During a faith transition clients may experience: grief, existential crisis, interpersonal problems, depression and disillusionment, loneliness and increased anxiety. I help clients understand and repair from the complex nature of this loss.
(801) 900-8130 View (801) 900-8130
1

See more therapy options for North Salt Lake

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.