Depression Therapists in Charlotte Court House, VA

Photo of Susan L. Sisler - Sisler Counseling Services LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sisler Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte Court House, VA 23923
I have been a Counselor for over 30 years. I started out as a Navy Drug and Alcohol Counselor at Roosevelt Roads Naval Hospital in 1989 when I was active-duty Navy. From there, I discovered the satisfaction and joy of working with people and families to help them identify and resolve their problems. I have experience with individuals and families, school-age children, adolescents, and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and family issues, including domestic violence. I have experience working with couples who are focusing on separation, divorce, and/or reconciliation situations.
I have been a Counselor for over 30 years. I started out as a Navy Drug and Alcohol Counselor at Roosevelt Roads Naval Hospital in 1989 when I was active-duty Navy. From there, I discovered the satisfaction and joy of working with people and families to help them identify and resolve their problems. I have experience with individuals and families, school-age children, adolescents, and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and family issues, including domestic violence. I have experience working with couples who are focusing on separation, divorce, and/or reconciliation situations.
(434) 480-3861 View (434) 480-3861
Photo of Margaret Geroe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Geroe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte Court House, VA 23923
I want to start by saying kudos to you for putting yourself out here and looking for a therapist. My name is Maggie, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. The main concerns I work with are depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief, stress, and life transitions. The primary modalities I use in my practice are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I believe that through our journey together, I can assist you with managing anxiety, depression, chronic illness, stress, and other challenges.
I want to start by saying kudos to you for putting yourself out here and looking for a therapist. My name is Maggie, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. The main concerns I work with are depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief, stress, and life transitions. The primary modalities I use in my practice are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I believe that through our journey together, I can assist you with managing anxiety, depression, chronic illness, stress, and other challenges.
(703) 596-1261 View (703) 596-1261
Photo of Crystal Eve Outlaw, MSW, LCSW, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Eve Outlaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
Charlotte Court House, VA 23923  (Online Only)
The Scene: Day after day, year after year, you hope that things will change. Unfortunately, the motivation never really sticks, and eventually, you give up only to restart the never-ending cycle of disappointment . You've convinced yourself that you are not strong enough or smart enough. You don't understand why you can't be happy like everyone else. The questions continues to linger: How do I hold space for these thoughts? What do I do?
The Scene: Day after day, year after year, you hope that things will change. Unfortunately, the motivation never really sticks, and eventually, you give up only to restart the never-ending cycle of disappointment . You've convinced yourself that you are not strong enough or smart enough. You don't understand why you can't be happy like everyone else. The questions continues to linger: How do I hold space for these thoughts? What do I do?
(984) 205-6469 View (984) 205-6469
Jeanne Face
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte Court House, VA 23923  (Online Only)
Dr. Face works with her clients to develop individualized treatment goals to facilitate positive changes in their lives. Dr. Face utilizes a developmental perspective to understand the client’s current concerns within the context of their life history and to address coping across the lifespan. In sessions, she tends to assume an interpersonal, relational, and collaborative approach with a focus on empathy, understanding from the client’s perspective, and the strength of the therapeutic relationship. She has received training in humanistic, psychodynamic, interpersonal, relational, cognitive-behavioral, and family systems therapies.
Dr. Face works with her clients to develop individualized treatment goals to facilitate positive changes in their lives. Dr. Face utilizes a developmental perspective to understand the client’s current concerns within the context of their life history and to address coping across the lifespan. In sessions, she tends to assume an interpersonal, relational, and collaborative approach with a focus on empathy, understanding from the client’s perspective, and the strength of the therapeutic relationship. She has received training in humanistic, psychodynamic, interpersonal, relational, cognitive-behavioral, and family systems therapies.
(434) 448-2673 View (434) 448-2673
Photo of Benjamin Maust, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Benjamin Maust
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte Court House, VA 23923
Hello, I'm Benjii Maust a Virginia-based Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a focus on children and adolescents and LGBT+ issues. I have been a Therapist for over 7 years and have had experiences working with all population types. I primarily approach therapy through a Narrative lens, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, motivational, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy exercises to create an individualized approach for each client.
Hello, I'm Benjii Maust a Virginia-based Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a focus on children and adolescents and LGBT+ issues. I have been a Therapist for over 7 years and have had experiences working with all population types. I primarily approach therapy through a Narrative lens, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, motivational, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy exercises to create an individualized approach for each client.
(434) 732-2389 View (434) 732-2389

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lauri Stoltzfus, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauri Stoltzfus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cullen, VA 23934
I love to come alongside and assist my clients seeking help with areas such as life transitions, stress management, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship or intimacy-related issues, LGBTQIA+ support, trauma, women's issues, grief support, disabilities, and family issues.
Hi. My name is Lauri Stoltzfus and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and I'm based in Virginia. I believe that anyone can benefit from therapy. Ultimately, the most important part of the therapy process is the relationship between the therapist and the client. I create and foster a collaborative, warm, and comfortable environment where my clients can relax and explore what brought them in for therapy. I see my role as a therapist is to give clients the space to navigate life's stressors, reprocess distressing experiences, and increase self-awareness.
I love to come alongside and assist my clients seeking help with areas such as life transitions, stress management, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship or intimacy-related issues, LGBTQIA+ support, trauma, women's issues, grief support, disabilities, and family issues.
Hi. My name is Lauri Stoltzfus and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and I'm based in Virginia. I believe that anyone can benefit from therapy. Ultimately, the most important part of the therapy process is the relationship between the therapist and the client. I create and foster a collaborative, warm, and comfortable environment where my clients can relax and explore what brought them in for therapy. I see my role as a therapist is to give clients the space to navigate life's stressors, reprocess distressing experiences, and increase self-awareness.
(757) 997-1906 View (757) 997-1906
Photo of Kimberly Mcgrady, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Mcgrady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Randolph, VA 23962
Some specific areas are: self-esteem, fertility challenges, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief/loss, relationships, parenting, menopause, aging, and stress.
Welcome! My name is Kimberly McGrady (VA license 0904015173). Right now it doesn't feel like it, but you can create change in your life! It is hard work to get your mind to stop doing all that unhealthy stuff like keeping you stuck, unmotivated, ruminating, anxious, fearful, insecure, depressed, being self-critical, and repeating negative patterns. Let's dive in, see where your head is, set some goals, create some new thought patterns, learn self-compassion, and get you back to living your best life. My ideal client wants to actively engage in therapy and learn effective mind skills to evolve and thrive.
Some specific areas are: self-esteem, fertility challenges, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief/loss, relationships, parenting, menopause, aging, and stress.
Welcome! My name is Kimberly McGrady (VA license 0904015173). Right now it doesn't feel like it, but you can create change in your life! It is hard work to get your mind to stop doing all that unhealthy stuff like keeping you stuck, unmotivated, ruminating, anxious, fearful, insecure, depressed, being self-critical, and repeating negative patterns. Let's dive in, see where your head is, set some goals, create some new thought patterns, learn self-compassion, and get you back to living your best life. My ideal client wants to actively engage in therapy and learn effective mind skills to evolve and thrive.
(804) 429-1344 View (804) 429-1344
Photo of Alison Outten, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Outten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Randolph, VA 23962
Hi, I'm Alison Outten, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of clinical experience working with individuals in areas including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and life coaching. I use a holistic approach that consists of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person-Centered, Supportive, Strength-Based, and Holistic therapies during treatment with clients. I believe in working in partnership with clients to utilize their strengths to help them sort out their challenges and achieve their goals.
Hi, I'm Alison Outten, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of clinical experience working with individuals in areas including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and life coaching. I use a holistic approach that consists of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person-Centered, Supportive, Strength-Based, and Holistic therapies during treatment with clients. I believe in working in partnership with clients to utilize their strengths to help them sort out their challenges and achieve their goals.
(804) 494-4453 View (804) 494-4453
Photo of Dawn Atkinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Atkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Drakes Branch, VA 23937
Hi there, I'm Dawn! I have been a Licensed Clinical Social worker for over 25 years and have been working as a Behavioral Health Clinician providing individual, couples, and family therapy since then. I focus in areas such as anxiety, coping skills, depression, stress, life transitions, and self esteem, amongst others. I have extensive knowledge and experience in providing trauma focused therapeutic work, and work towards my client's treatment goals while building on my client's strengths and abilities.
Hi there, I'm Dawn! I have been a Licensed Clinical Social worker for over 25 years and have been working as a Behavioral Health Clinician providing individual, couples, and family therapy since then. I focus in areas such as anxiety, coping skills, depression, stress, life transitions, and self esteem, amongst others. I have extensive knowledge and experience in providing trauma focused therapeutic work, and work towards my client's treatment goals while building on my client's strengths and abilities.
(757) 781-2263 View (757) 781-2263

Online Therapists

Photo of Maryann D McCoul, PhD, Psychologist
Maryann D McCoul
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23237  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients to resolve issues involving depression, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, chronic illness , relationship issues and sexual orientation .
I use an eclectic approach with an emphasis on interpersonal relations focusing on what works best for clients. I am actively involved in the process of inviting clients to explore curiosities, moving away from negative beliefs and self -judgements towards a place of understanding, integration and acceptance. I believe engaging clients on their terms is critical to creating a comfortable environment to discuss any issues of concern. I engage clients to explore and understand how their past influences the present , as well as patterns of behaviors and functioning that may both interfere and support their current life situations.
I specialize in working with clients to resolve issues involving depression, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, chronic illness , relationship issues and sexual orientation .
I use an eclectic approach with an emphasis on interpersonal relations focusing on what works best for clients. I am actively involved in the process of inviting clients to explore curiosities, moving away from negative beliefs and self -judgements towards a place of understanding, integration and acceptance. I believe engaging clients on their terms is critical to creating a comfortable environment to discuss any issues of concern. I engage clients to explore and understand how their past influences the present , as well as patterns of behaviors and functioning that may both interfere and support their current life situations.
(804) 286-4153 View (804) 286-4153
Photo of Christen Hansel, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christen Hansel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23294  (Online Only)
I would bet something has tipped the balance for you from managing your pain, coping with your stresses to "I can’t do this alone.” It’s a scary place to be in, and it says a lot about your character and courage that you’re willing to reach out. My clients have reached that point in a number of issues. Religious trauma and anxiety are two of the biggies. But also depression, LGBTQ issues, and dissociation factor big among my clients.
I would bet something has tipped the balance for you from managing your pain, coping with your stresses to "I can’t do this alone.” It’s a scary place to be in, and it says a lot about your character and courage that you’re willing to reach out. My clients have reached that point in a number of issues. Religious trauma and anxiety are two of the biggies. But also depression, LGBTQ issues, and dissociation factor big among my clients.
(757) 210-5455 View (757) 210-5455
Photo of Jennie Brogan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennie Brogan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Jennie Brogan (pronouns she/her/they) is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience working with individuals in various counseling arenas. Jennie specializes in topics related to sex and sexuality, sex therapy, couples/relationship therapy, LGBTQ+ issues, "alternative lifestyles," religion & faith, and the intersection of sex and faith. She has been successful in treating clients with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, and self-esteem issues. She has helped individuals develop healthy relationships, confidence, assertiveness, and communication skills.
Jennie Brogan (pronouns she/her/they) is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience working with individuals in various counseling arenas. Jennie specializes in topics related to sex and sexuality, sex therapy, couples/relationship therapy, LGBTQ+ issues, "alternative lifestyles," religion & faith, and the intersection of sex and faith. She has been successful in treating clients with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, and self-esteem issues. She has helped individuals develop healthy relationships, confidence, assertiveness, and communication skills.
(540) 210-1550 View (540) 210-1550
Photo of Ken Horne, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken Horne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22903
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome - I am a licensed psychotherapist with 18+ years of clinical experience. I specialize in client-centered, insight-oriented talk therapy that incorporates mindfulness, somatic awareness, wellness planning, and practical tools for self-care and stress reduction. My holistic, humanistic approach draws from multiple healing perspectives including Psychodynamic, Narrative, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Emotionally-Focused therapies. I often support clients experiencing life changes, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, stuckness, avoidance, reactivity, self-judgment, relational stress, loneliness, and the separation/divorce process.
Welcome - I am a licensed psychotherapist with 18+ years of clinical experience. I specialize in client-centered, insight-oriented talk therapy that incorporates mindfulness, somatic awareness, wellness planning, and practical tools for self-care and stress reduction. My holistic, humanistic approach draws from multiple healing perspectives including Psychodynamic, Narrative, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Emotionally-Focused therapies. I often support clients experiencing life changes, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, stuckness, avoidance, reactivity, self-judgment, relational stress, loneliness, and the separation/divorce process.
(434) 981-5331 View (434) 981-5331
Photo of Nathan S Cooke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nathan S Cooke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060  (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm Nathan, and I'm genuinely excited about the opportunity to meet with you. With a Masters of Social Work from West Virginia University and additional post-graduate work in Special Education from Radford University, I bring a solid educational foundation to my practice. Over the past 20 years, I have been dedicated to assisting individuals of all ages—children, families, and adults—through various challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship struggles, and trauma. My experience has honed my skills and deepened my understanding of the complexities people face in their lives. - I am Virginia only.
Greetings! I'm Nathan, and I'm genuinely excited about the opportunity to meet with you. With a Masters of Social Work from West Virginia University and additional post-graduate work in Special Education from Radford University, I bring a solid educational foundation to my practice. Over the past 20 years, I have been dedicated to assisting individuals of all ages—children, families, and adults—through various challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship struggles, and trauma. My experience has honed my skills and deepened my understanding of the complexities people face in their lives. - I am Virginia only.
(540) 315-4886 View (540) 315-4886
Photo of Sydney Villeneuve, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sydney Villeneuve
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23229  (Online Only)
I believe that healing is ongoing, met by exploring what feels vulnerable. I feel called to supportively hold space for adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, and relationship challenges. My clients and I work through issues that are impacting their relationships and life. I serve as a guide for my clients as they work on shifting how they view themselves and the world we share through improving self-esteem, self-worth, and relational dynamics. I find value in processing how life experiences have shaped who we are and who we are becoming. My approach is depth-based, with a focus on attachment theory.
I believe that healing is ongoing, met by exploring what feels vulnerable. I feel called to supportively hold space for adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, and relationship challenges. My clients and I work through issues that are impacting their relationships and life. I serve as a guide for my clients as they work on shifting how they view themselves and the world we share through improving self-esteem, self-worth, and relational dynamics. I find value in processing how life experiences have shaped who we are and who we are becoming. My approach is depth-based, with a focus on attachment theory.
(804) 322-9955 View (804) 322-9955
Photo of Liz Audritsh, MSW, SISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Audritsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, SISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23112
I have experience working with children over the age of 10, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and other mental health challenges.
Hello! My name is Liz Audritsh and I am a Supervisee in Social Work. I applaud you for taking the first step in your mental health and healing journey. Starting therapy can be scary and difficult, but I strive to create a space that is comfortable, safe, and affirming for everyone. I understand that therapy is not “one size fits all” and is a deeply unique experience for everyone. Because of this, I emphasize a collaborative approach that fosters an open line of communication between us. I use an integrative and holistic therapeutic approach, understanding all factors that may play a part in mental and emotional distress.
I have experience working with children over the age of 10, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and other mental health challenges.
Hello! My name is Liz Audritsh and I am a Supervisee in Social Work. I applaud you for taking the first step in your mental health and healing journey. Starting therapy can be scary and difficult, but I strive to create a space that is comfortable, safe, and affirming for everyone. I understand that therapy is not “one size fits all” and is a deeply unique experience for everyone. Because of this, I emphasize a collaborative approach that fosters an open line of communication between us. I use an integrative and holistic therapeutic approach, understanding all factors that may play a part in mental and emotional distress.
(804) 348-0623 View (804) 348-0623
Photo of Stephen Strunk, PhD, LPC, CSOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephen Strunk
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23112
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I will be seeing clients via video sessions as well as in-person sessions with COVID-19 precautions in place. These tele-therapy sessions are HIPPA compliant and totally secure. Dealing with anxiety and depression is difficult but you can have a happier life with better coping skills to handle life problems. I work with adults, children, parents, and I also specialize in couples work. If you/your partner are struggling, therapy may help you to learn how to resovle issues in a productive way. I am also a member of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I will be seeing clients via video sessions as well as in-person sessions with COVID-19 precautions in place. These tele-therapy sessions are HIPPA compliant and totally secure. Dealing with anxiety and depression is difficult but you can have a happier life with better coping skills to handle life problems. I work with adults, children, parents, and I also specialize in couples work. If you/your partner are struggling, therapy may help you to learn how to resovle issues in a productive way. I am also a member of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
(804) 409-8997 View (804) 409-8997
Photo of Eilish Conway, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eilish Conway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in Virginia and Florida. I received my Masters from Boston University and have been practicing for 3 years. My areas of focus in counseling include relationship difficulties, depression/anxiety, adjusting to life changes, parenting concerns, and difficult family dynamics. If you are looking for a compassionate and understanding counselor who is committed to helping you reach your goals, we may be a good fit!
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in Virginia and Florida. I received my Masters from Boston University and have been practicing for 3 years. My areas of focus in counseling include relationship difficulties, depression/anxiety, adjusting to life changes, parenting concerns, and difficult family dynamics. If you are looking for a compassionate and understanding counselor who is committed to helping you reach your goals, we may be a good fit!
(804) 293-2468 View (804) 293-2468
Photo of Kathryn Nevin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Nevin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Hello, I'm Kathryn Nevin, LCSW, CCTP. It's wonderful to see you seeking support and making strides to connect here! I'm here to assist with various challenges like anxiety, depression, anger, grief and loss, self-harm, and personality disorders. My focus lies particularly in trauma therapy. In our first session, I'll tailor our approach to suit your needs and optimize outcomes.
Hello, I'm Kathryn Nevin, LCSW, CCTP. It's wonderful to see you seeking support and making strides to connect here! I'm here to assist with various challenges like anxiety, depression, anger, grief and loss, self-harm, and personality disorders. My focus lies particularly in trauma therapy. In our first session, I'll tailor our approach to suit your needs and optimize outcomes.
(434) 256-1958 View (434) 256-1958
Photo of Francesca Hector-Jones, MS, LPC, Counselor
Francesca Hector-Jones
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
North Chesterfield, VA 23236
I will partner with you to establish goals that are specifically built for your needs, pulling together various theories, strategies, and techniques to assist individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulty in relationships, and other concerns.
Being a therapist means creating a safe space for individuals to reveal their true selves, leading to healing and growth. Life can be beautiful and it can be difficult. Therapy provides an opportunity to speak and share our deepest thoughts, saddest moments, and accomplishments so that we might be unburdened and successful in our goals. It is an honor to join with clients for the achievement of their goals, and I value my work as a clinician
I will partner with you to establish goals that are specifically built for your needs, pulling together various theories, strategies, and techniques to assist individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulty in relationships, and other concerns.
Being a therapist means creating a safe space for individuals to reveal their true selves, leading to healing and growth. Life can be beautiful and it can be difficult. Therapy provides an opportunity to speak and share our deepest thoughts, saddest moments, and accomplishments so that we might be unburdened and successful in our goals. It is an honor to join with clients for the achievement of their goals, and I value my work as a clinician
(804) 369-9003 View (804) 369-9003

See more therapy options for Charlotte Court House

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.