Depression Therapists in Afton, VA

Photo of Andrea Dilley-Frame, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Dilley-Frame
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Afton, VA 22920
Andrea Dilley-Frame is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (SSAC-C) and a former Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (RC-C). She has over 17 years of experience working with adult clients who are dealing with the effects of grief, Life transitional issues, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, poor coping skills, family conflict, and more. Andrea obtained a Master’s of Science from Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia in Richmond, VA.
Andrea Dilley-Frame is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (SSAC-C) and a former Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (RC-C). She has over 17 years of experience working with adult clients who are dealing with the effects of grief, Life transitional issues, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, poor coping skills, family conflict, and more. Andrea obtained a Master’s of Science from Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia in Richmond, VA.
(434) 597-3757 View (434) 597-3757
Photo of Christine Bowers - Skyline Family Therapy, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Skyline Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Afton, VA 22920
Some of the many issues we have expertise in addressing are depression, anxiety, trauma, safety, maladaptive behaviors, parenting difficulties.
We are accepting new clients! Skyline Family Therapy serves children, teenagers, couples, and families in-person and via telehealth at our office conveniently located in Charlottesville, VA. Our team of providers use an integrative approach to meet each client where they're at in their therapeutic journey, and collaborate with each individual to create a healthy path forward.
Some of the many issues we have expertise in addressing are depression, anxiety, trauma, safety, maladaptive behaviors, parenting difficulties.
We are accepting new clients! Skyline Family Therapy serves children, teenagers, couples, and families in-person and via telehealth at our office conveniently located in Charlottesville, VA. Our team of providers use an integrative approach to meet each client where they're at in their therapeutic journey, and collaborate with each individual to create a healthy path forward.
(434) 226-5157 View (434) 226-5157
Photo of Amir Cotton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amir Cotton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Afton, VA 22920
Hello there,My name is Amir Cotton, and I’m one of the counselors at Breakthrough Counselling LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner in the state of Virginia. I am also a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Mental Counselor, and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I also have a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling and over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, addiction, bipolar, and adjustment disorders.
Hello there,My name is Amir Cotton, and I’m one of the counselors at Breakthrough Counselling LLC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner in the state of Virginia. I am also a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Mental Counselor, and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I also have a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling and over 12 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, addiction, bipolar, and adjustment disorders.
(804) 391-7124 View (804) 391-7124
Photo of Jasmine Ricks, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jasmine Ricks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Afton, VA 22920
My name is Jasmine Ricks, and I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist working with individuals in Virginia and Texas via telehealth. I work with adults specializing in relationships, self-worth, anxiety, stress, and transitions utlizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Family Systems to support clients. Some of the areas I help with include managing stress, coping with life transitions, communication, boundaries, acceptance, self worth, self love, self care, people pleasing, codependency, impostor syndrome, trauma, relationships challenges, work life stress, anxiety.
My name is Jasmine Ricks, and I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist working with individuals in Virginia and Texas via telehealth. I work with adults specializing in relationships, self-worth, anxiety, stress, and transitions utlizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Family Systems to support clients. Some of the areas I help with include managing stress, coping with life transitions, communication, boundaries, acceptance, self worth, self love, self care, people pleasing, codependency, impostor syndrome, trauma, relationships challenges, work life stress, anxiety.
(757) 586-4754 View (757) 586-4754
Photo of Stuart Gunter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stuart Gunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Afton, VA 22920
I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and older adults. While I use a variety of approaches (including AEDP, Existential Theory, Attachment Theory, and CBT), ultimately I like to let our work together inform which approach suits our time best. I am knowledgeable about trauma-informed practice and bring a lot of my own life experiences into the sessions, through my work as a teacher, professional firefighter, and professionaI musician.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and older adults. While I use a variety of approaches (including AEDP, Existential Theory, Attachment Theory, and CBT), ultimately I like to let our work together inform which approach suits our time best. I am knowledgeable about trauma-informed practice and bring a lot of my own life experiences into the sessions, through my work as a teacher, professional firefighter, and professionaI musician.
(434) 216-6343 View (434) 216-6343

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nephetia Tryman Whittaker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nephetia Tryman Whittaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Faber, VA 22938
My name is Nephetia and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience providing mental health care for individuals. I have experience assisting and supporting clients to overcome and cope with depression, anxiety, grief, issues specific to women, low self-esteem, and anger. My experience ranges from teens to adults and I have worked with the LGBTQIA+ population. I use an integrative therapeutic approach, including CBT, Person-Centered, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy - I believe that clients are in charge of their counseling experience so that treatment is individualized.
My name is Nephetia and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience providing mental health care for individuals. I have experience assisting and supporting clients to overcome and cope with depression, anxiety, grief, issues specific to women, low self-esteem, and anger. My experience ranges from teens to adults and I have worked with the LGBTQIA+ population. I use an integrative therapeutic approach, including CBT, Person-Centered, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy - I believe that clients are in charge of their counseling experience so that treatment is individualized.
(757) 767-7188 View (757) 767-7188
Photo of Danielle Crane, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Crane
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Faber, VA 22938
Greetings! I am Danielle Crane, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. My focus areas include Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, etc. I have been a practicing Clinician for over 10 years. I have experience working with various individuals (children, adolescents, adults) who have a wide range of needs, including anxiety, depression, anger management, boundary issues, conduct issues, and interpersonal communication skills.
Greetings! I am Danielle Crane, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. My focus areas include Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, etc. I have been a practicing Clinician for over 10 years. I have experience working with various individuals (children, adolescents, adults) who have a wide range of needs, including anxiety, depression, anger management, boundary issues, conduct issues, and interpersonal communication skills.
(571) 946-5216 View (571) 946-5216
Photo of Charlotte A. Schafer, BS, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte A. Schafer
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wintergreen, VA 22958  (Online Only)
Do you wish you knew better coping strategies for managing ADHD, anxiety, or depression? Are you feeling under the control of others and don’t know how to break free? Are you experiencing guilt, or sadness that doesn't go away? As a professional counselor I can help you find your way back to a more joyful, healthy life. As a caring professional I can teach you techniques that make these distresses lesson or even leave, and help you regain a more balanced perspective over your emotional issues. Are you looking for empowerment over emotional habiting? As a balanced Christian counselor I have answers, I would love to help you.
Do you wish you knew better coping strategies for managing ADHD, anxiety, or depression? Are you feeling under the control of others and don’t know how to break free? Are you experiencing guilt, or sadness that doesn't go away? As a professional counselor I can help you find your way back to a more joyful, healthy life. As a caring professional I can teach you techniques that make these distresses lesson or even leave, and help you regain a more balanced perspective over your emotional issues. Are you looking for empowerment over emotional habiting? As a balanced Christian counselor I have answers, I would love to help you.
(434) 595-3062 View (434) 595-3062
Photo of Heather Newcomb, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Newcomb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
I am most easily accessible via email, and would recommend that you send an email to reach me. I have over 10 years experience working with those struggling with addiction. This is almost always due to past trauma events that initially lead to substance use. Depression and anxiety are often co-occurring disorders that accompany substance use disorders and can lead to further life disruption. My clients want freedom from the mental heath and substance use disorders that are holding them back from their full potential and reaching their dreams.
I am most easily accessible via email, and would recommend that you send an email to reach me. I have over 10 years experience working with those struggling with addiction. This is almost always due to past trauma events that initially lead to substance use. Depression and anxiety are often co-occurring disorders that accompany substance use disorders and can lead to further life disruption. My clients want freedom from the mental heath and substance use disorders that are holding them back from their full potential and reaching their dreams.
(540) 792-4823 View (540) 792-4823
Photo of Laurie S Thomas - Shenandoah Creative Cnslng, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shenandoah Creative Cnslng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
Life can be overwhelming and emotional when children and adolescents are struggling with mental health concerns and challenges. Trauma leaves feelings of anxiety, depression, worthlessness that can make everyday interactions a struggle. Individuals need to feel safe, secure, feel valued and have a sense of belonging to fully participate in their lives. Treatment options should focus on their developmental stage, strengths and values. Building self-esteem, confidence and self image is the first step to healing.
Life can be overwhelming and emotional when children and adolescents are struggling with mental health concerns and challenges. Trauma leaves feelings of anxiety, depression, worthlessness that can make everyday interactions a struggle. Individuals need to feel safe, secure, feel valued and have a sense of belonging to fully participate in their lives. Treatment options should focus on their developmental stage, strengths and values. Building self-esteem, confidence and self image is the first step to healing.
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Photo of Beth Holt Wright Lcsw Emdr Certified, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Holt Wright Lcsw Emdr Certified
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR is an integrative psychotherapy that has a wealth of research supporting its efficacy in treating people with PTSD, abuse, depression and anxiety.
I am a licensed psychotherapist for 25 years in VA and West VA. I obtained my BA in Psychology from the University of Richmond in 1994 and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Georgia in 1997. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy and have been trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) for Complex Trauma (parts work), Brainspotting, Hakomi, Exposure, Core Energetics, dream work, mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic, and Psychodynamic. 2x winner of top Bedside Manner Award in Our Health Magazine for counselors in the Roanoke Valley.
EMDR is an integrative psychotherapy that has a wealth of research supporting its efficacy in treating people with PTSD, abuse, depression and anxiety.
I am a licensed psychotherapist for 25 years in VA and West VA. I obtained my BA in Psychology from the University of Richmond in 1994 and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Georgia in 1997. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy and have been trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) for Complex Trauma (parts work), Brainspotting, Hakomi, Exposure, Core Energetics, dream work, mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic, and Psychodynamic. 2x winner of top Bedside Manner Award in Our Health Magazine for counselors in the Roanoke Valley.
(540) 492-4057 View (540) 492-4057
Photo of Constance Sey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Constance Sey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
My passion for mental health is being able to help someone break generational trauma and help break the stigmatization of seeking help. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2002, and I have experience supporting children, adolescents/young adults, and adults with concerns such as bipolar disorder, personality disorder, and depression and anxiety disorder. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy personal devotion, praying, and meditation. I enjoy traveling to the beach and traveling outside the country to a tropical country.
My passion for mental health is being able to help someone break generational trauma and help break the stigmatization of seeking help. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2002, and I have experience supporting children, adolescents/young adults, and adults with concerns such as bipolar disorder, personality disorder, and depression and anxiety disorder. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy personal devotion, praying, and meditation. I enjoy traveling to the beach and traveling outside the country to a tropical country.
(804) 460-6695 View (804) 460-6695
Photo of Becca Wright Gillis, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becca Wright Gillis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
Becca has experience working with anxiety, depression, crisis, self-esteem, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, trauma, high-risk backgrounds, early adults’ difficulties, in or active Veterans, challenges relating to multicultural heritages, LGBTQ+ related issues, ethnicity related injustices, and pandemic.
Becca values being a warm and accepting licensed professional counselor serving in the state of Virginia and West Virginia. Rebecca has a passion for working with those who are feeling lost or unsure of themselves. She believes deeply in working together to develop a sacred and healing place that is needed for growth and transformation to happen. A place where all change begins through curiosity and taking a first step.
Becca has experience working with anxiety, depression, crisis, self-esteem, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, trauma, high-risk backgrounds, early adults’ difficulties, in or active Veterans, challenges relating to multicultural heritages, LGBTQ+ related issues, ethnicity related injustices, and pandemic.
Becca values being a warm and accepting licensed professional counselor serving in the state of Virginia and West Virginia. Rebecca has a passion for working with those who are feeling lost or unsure of themselves. She believes deeply in working together to develop a sacred and healing place that is needed for growth and transformation to happen. A place where all change begins through curiosity and taking a first step.
(540) 554-6748 View (540) 554-6748
Photo of Abigail Fernald, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Fernald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
Are you worried about the future? Maybe you are feeling powerless, anxious, overwhelmed, or sad by the things that keep happening in your life. Are you experiencing life changes that are causing you to feel stressed and helpless? Maybe you are noticing that these emotions of uncertainty are beginning to manifest in a number of ways that impact your daily life. Talk therapy can help! I work with clients ages 14 and up to provide individual therapy, couples counseling or family counseling for those who are coping with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, grief, trauma, chronic illness and other life changes.
Are you worried about the future? Maybe you are feeling powerless, anxious, overwhelmed, or sad by the things that keep happening in your life. Are you experiencing life changes that are causing you to feel stressed and helpless? Maybe you are noticing that these emotions of uncertainty are beginning to manifest in a number of ways that impact your daily life. Talk therapy can help! I work with clients ages 14 and up to provide individual therapy, couples counseling or family counseling for those who are coping with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, grief, trauma, chronic illness and other life changes.
(540) 269-4569 View (540) 269-4569
Photo of Megan Kiernan, MEd
Megan Kiernan
Resident in Counseling, MEd
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
I specialize in helping adults, couples and older teens (16+) who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem and trauma. I provide a nurturing, tender and understanding space in which our connection creates the safety for growth to occur. In our work together, we will discover and cultivate your wise, confident, and compassionate internal voice. A voice that each of us possess within ourselves. In my work with couples, I focus on cultivating loving intimacy, mindfulness, and a deeper understanding of the dynamics within your relationship that create challenges. I also enjoy premarital counseling.
I specialize in helping adults, couples and older teens (16+) who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem and trauma. I provide a nurturing, tender and understanding space in which our connection creates the safety for growth to occur. In our work together, we will discover and cultivate your wise, confident, and compassionate internal voice. A voice that each of us possess within ourselves. In my work with couples, I focus on cultivating loving intimacy, mindfulness, and a deeper understanding of the dynamics within your relationship that create challenges. I also enjoy premarital counseling.
(434) 202-4277 View (434) 202-4277
Photo of Alexis Rennie Wagner-Call, LCSW, MSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Rennie Wagner-Call
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980
Hello. I am Alexis and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Work practicing in Virginia. I have over twenty years of experience working with clients of all ages in a wide range of settings including: inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, outpatient care, in-home, school and residential. Most of my experience has been working with individuals who struggle with grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, Autism Spectrum, PTSD, developmental and intellectual disabilities, abuse, trauma and major life changes.
Hello. I am Alexis and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Work practicing in Virginia. I have over twenty years of experience working with clients of all ages in a wide range of settings including: inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, outpatient care, in-home, school and residential. Most of my experience has been working with individuals who struggle with grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, Autism Spectrum, PTSD, developmental and intellectual disabilities, abuse, trauma and major life changes.
(540) 609-2696 View (540) 609-2696
Photo of Lisa M Locke-Downer, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa M Locke-Downer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Crozet, VA 22932
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, behavioral problems, and social concerns. I use a cognitive-behavioral treatment approach, with family and school consultation as important components of the treatment. Consultation with physicians, psychiatrists, and other treatment providers is also welcomed. I believe in using a collaborative problem-solving approach in which we work as a team to develop an intervention plan.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, behavioral problems, and social concerns. I use a cognitive-behavioral treatment approach, with family and school consultation as important components of the treatment. Consultation with physicians, psychiatrists, and other treatment providers is also welcomed. I believe in using a collaborative problem-solving approach in which we work as a team to develop an intervention plan.
(434) 483-5210 View (434) 483-5210
Photo of Whitney Spears, PsyD, Psychologist
Whitney Spears
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a generalist and can help with anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, relationship concerns, and exploration of gender or sexual orientation.
I view the relationship between the client and therapist as the most important aspect of therapy. I value creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space in which clients feel comfortable being open about their experiences. I spend time getting to know my clients, listening to their needs, and meeting them where they are. I utilize an integrative approach to treatment, emphasizing emotion-focused and interpersonal process theories, along with evidence-based techniques.
I am a generalist and can help with anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, relationship concerns, and exploration of gender or sexual orientation.
I view the relationship between the client and therapist as the most important aspect of therapy. I value creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space in which clients feel comfortable being open about their experiences. I spend time getting to know my clients, listening to their needs, and meeting them where they are. I utilize an integrative approach to treatment, emphasizing emotion-focused and interpersonal process theories, along with evidence-based techniques.
(703) 936-2578 View (703) 936-2578
Photo of Connor Price, Licensed Professional Counselor
Connor Price
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Substance Use Counselor. I have a BS in Counseling and Human Services and a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have worked in the inpatient Adult Psychiatric Unit before transitioning into community-based mental health services and then into outpatient therapy. I have experience working with both adolescents and adults with autism, ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, as well as trauma-based diagnoses. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and have my certification in substance abuse counseling.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Substance Use Counselor. I have a BS in Counseling and Human Services and a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have worked in the inpatient Adult Psychiatric Unit before transitioning into community-based mental health services and then into outpatient therapy. I have experience working with both adolescents and adults with autism, ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, as well as trauma-based diagnoses. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and have my certification in substance abuse counseling.
(540) 787-2958 View (540) 787-2958
Photo of Ronald Brill, PhD, RMP, Psychologist
Ronald Brill
Psychologist, PhD, RMP
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
I like to work with folks who do not know exactly what they need, but are needing something that is not likely to be relieved with psychotropic medications. Those have been tried, and do not work as desired. There are many who feel this way. Certainly, they may have significant depression, anxiety, worry, or all of these, but cannot say what causes those feelings. I may be able to help with Neurofeedback. I have done it for 30 yrs. and it works extremely well. I like to do "talk therapy" to help them recognize what may be going on within themselves, now or long ago. I also do "Reiki", Energy Medicine adjustments.
I like to work with folks who do not know exactly what they need, but are needing something that is not likely to be relieved with psychotropic medications. Those have been tried, and do not work as desired. There are many who feel this way. Certainly, they may have significant depression, anxiety, worry, or all of these, but cannot say what causes those feelings. I may be able to help with Neurofeedback. I have done it for 30 yrs. and it works extremely well. I like to do "talk therapy" to help them recognize what may be going on within themselves, now or long ago. I also do "Reiki", Energy Medicine adjustments.
(540) 524-2716 View (540) 524-2716

See more therapy options for Afton

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.