Therapists in Roanoke City County, VA

Photo of Jan Nicholson, EdD, Psychologist
Jan Nicholson
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm Dr. Jan, a compassionate Harvard-educated psychologist with many years of experience in the integration and healing of mind, body, and spirit. Whether we meet online or in person, my goal is to create a safe nurturing space for you to embark on a journey of discovery, self-awareness, and transformation. In my practice, I offer support to individuals of all ages navigating life's many challenges: to better manage anxiety, stress, and depression related to medical conditions, life transitions, loss, everyday struggles as well as trauma. Many people come to me specifically to pursue personal and spiritual growth.
Welcome! I'm Dr. Jan, a compassionate Harvard-educated psychologist with many years of experience in the integration and healing of mind, body, and spirit. Whether we meet online or in person, my goal is to create a safe nurturing space for you to embark on a journey of discovery, self-awareness, and transformation. In my practice, I offer support to individuals of all ages navigating life's many challenges: to better manage anxiety, stress, and depression related to medical conditions, life transitions, loss, everyday struggles as well as trauma. Many people come to me specifically to pursue personal and spiritual growth.
(540) 506-3713 View (540) 506-3713
Photo of Elizabeth Gillmore, PhD, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Gillmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24012
Having problems navigating the crossroads of life? Depression or anxiety getting you down? Add Covid-19 to the mix and maybe you are dealing with the stress of having the kids home or how to keep your marriage healthy. You wonder how you will survive financial and health changes or, like all of us, you're worried about what is coming next. Licensed as both a professional counselor and a marriage and family therapist I can address all of these concerns.
Having problems navigating the crossroads of life? Depression or anxiety getting you down? Add Covid-19 to the mix and maybe you are dealing with the stress of having the kids home or how to keep your marriage healthy. You wonder how you will survive financial and health changes or, like all of us, you're worried about what is coming next. Licensed as both a professional counselor and a marriage and family therapist I can address all of these concerns.
(540) 252-0076 View (540) 252-0076
Photo of Caitlin Dallas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caitlin Dallas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced working with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, substance use, chronic pain, and identity issues.
Life can be heartbreakingly difficult, and progress is often nonlinear – however, I am here to walk with you on your path to healing. I believe that everyone is capable of change and that change happens through the collaboration between client and counselor. I am honored to be a part of your journey. Often we experience a disconnect between our mind and our bodies. I use mindfulness and somatic techniques to help you reconnect and take steps to return to wholeness.
I am experienced working with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, substance use, chronic pain, and identity issues.
Life can be heartbreakingly difficult, and progress is often nonlinear – however, I am here to walk with you on your path to healing. I believe that everyone is capable of change and that change happens through the collaboration between client and counselor. I am honored to be a part of your journey. Often we experience a disconnect between our mind and our bodies. I use mindfulness and somatic techniques to help you reconnect and take steps to return to wholeness.
(540) 264-3837 View (540) 264-3837
Photo of Emily Webb Olsen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Webb Olsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24013
My specialties include: Increasing Self-Worth/Empowerment; Trauma; Attachment Wounds; Infertility; Generational Trauma; Grief and loss; Adverse life experiences and childhood trauma; Complex/Developmental PTSD; Anxiety and Depression; Adoption Related Themes; Relationships.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and deep level healing? I utilize somatic therapy and trauma therapy approaches that helps you recognize our deep connection between the body and mind, offering you a holistic path to emotional well-being. I am committed to creating a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your experiences, uncover your strengths, and build a foundation for lasting transformation. I enjoy working with other mental health professionals and teachers, and I offer sliding scale for those who are just starting their profession.
My specialties include: Increasing Self-Worth/Empowerment; Trauma; Attachment Wounds; Infertility; Generational Trauma; Grief and loss; Adverse life experiences and childhood trauma; Complex/Developmental PTSD; Anxiety and Depression; Adoption Related Themes; Relationships.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and deep level healing? I utilize somatic therapy and trauma therapy approaches that helps you recognize our deep connection between the body and mind, offering you a holistic path to emotional well-being. I am committed to creating a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your experiences, uncover your strengths, and build a foundation for lasting transformation. I enjoy working with other mental health professionals and teachers, and I offer sliding scale for those who are just starting their profession.
(540) 235-5664 View (540) 235-5664
Photo of Andrea S Reynolds, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea S Reynolds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014
I specialize in engaging trauma-informed treatment plans and psychotherapy methods rooted in my experience and education serving individuals with trauma histories; anxiety and depression; substance use disorders; and individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
Hi, my name is Andrea Reynolds (LCSW) and I practice from a Trauma-Informed perspective. I am licensed in the states of Virginia and North Carolina. I currently reside in southwest Virginia, I own and operate my private practice, Journey thru Counseling & Wellness, LLC, where I offer in-person and remote clinical services for individuals, couples, and groups in both states. In my free time, I love spending time with my family and on my yoga mat. I am a Registered Yoga Instructor (RYT-200) with Yoga Alliance and enjoy sharing the benefits of mindfulness in both my personal and professional communities.
I specialize in engaging trauma-informed treatment plans and psychotherapy methods rooted in my experience and education serving individuals with trauma histories; anxiety and depression; substance use disorders; and individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
Hi, my name is Andrea Reynolds (LCSW) and I practice from a Trauma-Informed perspective. I am licensed in the states of Virginia and North Carolina. I currently reside in southwest Virginia, I own and operate my private practice, Journey thru Counseling & Wellness, LLC, where I offer in-person and remote clinical services for individuals, couples, and groups in both states. In my free time, I love spending time with my family and on my yoga mat. I am a Registered Yoga Instructor (RYT-200) with Yoga Alliance and enjoy sharing the benefits of mindfulness in both my personal and professional communities.
(540) 701-5092 View (540) 701-5092
Photo of Jenny Yates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Yates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24001
specializes in trauma, suicidality, self-harm, depression, anxiety, and Nature Therapy.
Grab your comfiest clothes, maybe a cup of coffee. Join me in my cozy office with floor to ceiling plants, and 2 turtles, or outdoors, at your favorite spot. We'll laugh, talk and do a little therapy too. My name is Jenny and I have been a LCSW for 18 years, and practicing for 23. Your story is as individualized as your fingerprint, and I believe your therapy should be too. Take your time getting to know me and my approaches on 4RC's FB page, Instagram page (4riversjenny), or fourriverscounseling.org.
specializes in trauma, suicidality, self-harm, depression, anxiety, and Nature Therapy.
Grab your comfiest clothes, maybe a cup of coffee. Join me in my cozy office with floor to ceiling plants, and 2 turtles, or outdoors, at your favorite spot. We'll laugh, talk and do a little therapy too. My name is Jenny and I have been a LCSW for 18 years, and practicing for 23. Your story is as individualized as your fingerprint, and I believe your therapy should be too. Take your time getting to know me and my approaches on 4RC's FB page, Instagram page (4riversjenny), or fourriverscounseling.org.
(276) 800-0778 View (276) 800-0778
Photo of Nyomi Tarpley, LPC-S, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nyomi Tarpley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24001
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in a number of topics including: Trauma, Anxiety, Self-esteem and Self- criticism, Helping professionals experiencing compassion fatigue or burnout, Depression, Women’s issues, Relationship and couples counseling, Family or origin issues, boundary setting, Codependency, Body positivity, Gender and Sexuality exploration.
I work with clients who come to counseling because they are ready to reflect, challenge and better understand themselves. I work with individuals who are experiencing life changes, family of origin issues, trauma, anxiety, mood dysregulation, wish to work on self esteem, work-life balance or finding life purpose. I have experience working with Multicultural/ Minority Groups, LGBTQ populations, non-religious and religious clients, therapists and medical related service professionals, women's related issues, and a number of other populations. My goal is to help clients end sessions with a greater sense of self awareness and insight.
I specialize in a number of topics including: Trauma, Anxiety, Self-esteem and Self- criticism, Helping professionals experiencing compassion fatigue or burnout, Depression, Women’s issues, Relationship and couples counseling, Family or origin issues, boundary setting, Codependency, Body positivity, Gender and Sexuality exploration.
I work with clients who come to counseling because they are ready to reflect, challenge and better understand themselves. I work with individuals who are experiencing life changes, family of origin issues, trauma, anxiety, mood dysregulation, wish to work on self esteem, work-life balance or finding life purpose. I have experience working with Multicultural/ Minority Groups, LGBTQ populations, non-religious and religious clients, therapists and medical related service professionals, women's related issues, and a number of other populations. My goal is to help clients end sessions with a greater sense of self awareness and insight.
(434) 443-8435 View (434) 443-8435
Photo of Joanna Nichols, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanna Nichols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015  (Online Only)
Are you tired of feeling of not good enough? Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? Are you ready for therapy that will take you beyond just talking about your past? I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma and/or had painful experiences in childhood. I provide treatment backed by science to help you finally heal from trauma and live a more engaged and fulfilling life. Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) help you to heal from your past and move forward with greater self-acceptance and confidence.
Are you tired of feeling of not good enough? Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? Are you ready for therapy that will take you beyond just talking about your past? I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma and/or had painful experiences in childhood. I provide treatment backed by science to help you finally heal from trauma and live a more engaged and fulfilling life. Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) help you to heal from your past and move forward with greater self-acceptance and confidence.
(215) 709-3739 View (215) 709-3739
Photo of Christina Berben - Flourish, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Flourish
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24001  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated and compassionate counselor who specializes in working with women. I provide a safe and empowering space for women to explore their unique experiences, challenges, and strengths. With a deep understanding of the complex factors that shape women's lives, I am committed to helping them navigate through various life stages and foster personal growth.
I am a dedicated and compassionate counselor who specializes in working with women. I provide a safe and empowering space for women to explore their unique experiences, challenges, and strengths. With a deep understanding of the complex factors that shape women's lives, I am committed to helping them navigate through various life stages and foster personal growth.
(540) 572-7461 View (540) 572-7461
Photo of Megan Massett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Massett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
According to Charles Swindoll, “Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it.” This quotation implies that "responding" to life is easy, doesn't it? But the truth is, life can be messy, and navigating its ups and downs can be HARD. Having someone to act as a sounding board, teach us how to stay grounded, and support us in shifting our perspective, can be invaluable. Whether working with individuals or couples, I do my best work with adults who feel stuck in their lives, have decided that enough is enough, and are looking for relief, and fast.
According to Charles Swindoll, “Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it.” This quotation implies that "responding" to life is easy, doesn't it? But the truth is, life can be messy, and navigating its ups and downs can be HARD. Having someone to act as a sounding board, teach us how to stay grounded, and support us in shifting our perspective, can be invaluable. Whether working with individuals or couples, I do my best work with adults who feel stuck in their lives, have decided that enough is enough, and are looking for relief, and fast.
(540) 900-2849 View (540) 900-2849
Photo of Muriel Vinson, MA, AMFT, QMHP
Muriel Vinson
MA, AMFT, QMHP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24013
Waitlist for new clients
We are constantly bombarded with messages that tell us we are not good enough, we are the problem, or we're not doing enough. This leads many feeling anxious, defeated, worthless and burnt out. I'm here to remind and show you that you are worthy of care, you are worthy of feeling seen and heard, and you are worthy of feeling understood. During therapy, I facilitate a deeper understanding of self, allowing you to identify behavioral and decision-making patterns that contribute to dis-ease and dis-function in your life. You can't hit a target you don't have. Let's identify opportunities for positive change for wellbeing and freedom.
We are constantly bombarded with messages that tell us we are not good enough, we are the problem, or we're not doing enough. This leads many feeling anxious, defeated, worthless and burnt out. I'm here to remind and show you that you are worthy of care, you are worthy of feeling seen and heard, and you are worthy of feeling understood. During therapy, I facilitate a deeper understanding of self, allowing you to identify behavioral and decision-making patterns that contribute to dis-ease and dis-function in your life. You can't hit a target you don't have. Let's identify opportunities for positive change for wellbeing and freedom.
(540) 502-3950 View (540) 502-3950
Photo of Season Childress, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Season Childress
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24001
Taking new clients for neurofeedback only. If you are interested in pursuing EMDR in 2025, I am happy to put you on my waiting list. If you are wanting more immediate or long term therapy, I can refer you to another practitioner in my practice. Have you had a traumatic incident(s) and still experiencing the symptoms? Are loss of sleep, unexplainable emotions, low self esteem, poor concentration or panic keeping you from enjoying your life? You may be working with a therapist and feel that your brain will just not allow you to implement the strategies. Trauma wires the brain, neurofeedback and EMDR rewire it.
Taking new clients for neurofeedback only. If you are interested in pursuing EMDR in 2025, I am happy to put you on my waiting list. If you are wanting more immediate or long term therapy, I can refer you to another practitioner in my practice. Have you had a traumatic incident(s) and still experiencing the symptoms? Are loss of sleep, unexplainable emotions, low self esteem, poor concentration or panic keeping you from enjoying your life? You may be working with a therapist and feel that your brain will just not allow you to implement the strategies. Trauma wires the brain, neurofeedback and EMDR rewire it.
(540) 328-9526 View (540) 328-9526
Photo of Nijeria J. Jones, LPC, NCC, ABS, Coach
Nijeria J. Jones
LPC, NCC, ABS, Coach
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24001
Do you struggle with intimacy issues or feel disconnected in your relationships? Is it affecting your ability to form meaningful connections? Do you feel overwhelmed by the thought of discussing sex and intimacy? Do you wonder if your sex life could be more fulfilling? Now more than ever, people of all genders & sexual orientations are feeling uncertain about overcoming societal stigmas around sex & intimacy. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a fulfilling sexual life! At Sexhale Services LLC, I offer sex therapy and intimacy coaching for adults seeking to enhance their personal & sexual relationship.
Do you struggle with intimacy issues or feel disconnected in your relationships? Is it affecting your ability to form meaningful connections? Do you feel overwhelmed by the thought of discussing sex and intimacy? Do you wonder if your sex life could be more fulfilling? Now more than ever, people of all genders & sexual orientations are feeling uncertain about overcoming societal stigmas around sex & intimacy. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a fulfilling sexual life! At Sexhale Services LLC, I offer sex therapy and intimacy coaching for adults seeking to enhance their personal & sexual relationship.
View

Online Therapists

Photo of Carson Halufska, MEd, LPC, ITC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carson Halufska
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, ITC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest, VA 24551
Carson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia & is a Certified Integrative Trauma Coach. To date, her clinical experience includes work in an array of sectors including an in-patient psychiatric hospital, community mental health, schools, & private practice. Carson has over 9 years of experience working with a variety of topics including anxiety, depression, women's sexual addictions, anger management, trauma, parenting issues, attachment issues, ADHD & more. Upon request, Carson also offers faith-based counseling that places Biblical truths at the center of your counseling journey.
Carson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia & is a Certified Integrative Trauma Coach. To date, her clinical experience includes work in an array of sectors including an in-patient psychiatric hospital, community mental health, schools, & private practice. Carson has over 9 years of experience working with a variety of topics including anxiety, depression, women's sexual addictions, anger management, trauma, parenting issues, attachment issues, ADHD & more. Upon request, Carson also offers faith-based counseling that places Biblical truths at the center of your counseling journey.
(434) 602-5964 View (434) 602-5964
Photo of Lloyd Robrecht - A. Lloyd Robrecht LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A. Lloyd Robrecht LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
As a therapist, I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment of trust where we can discuss and explore your hardships, pains, difficulties and challenges in life. Together we will work from a place of empowerment, discovering your hidden resources and gifts, to bring you new insights, peace of mind, and improved quality of life. I am a licensed therapist (LCSW) and I have over 25 years experience in the field of mental health. I work with clients dealing with a host of life issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD and trauma recovery, marital and family, life goals achievement, and more.
As a therapist, I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment of trust where we can discuss and explore your hardships, pains, difficulties and challenges in life. Together we will work from a place of empowerment, discovering your hidden resources and gifts, to bring you new insights, peace of mind, and improved quality of life. I am a licensed therapist (LCSW) and I have over 25 years experience in the field of mental health. I work with clients dealing with a host of life issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD and trauma recovery, marital and family, life goals achievement, and more.
(540) 235-5554 View (540) 235-5554
Photo of Joseph Dillon Shelton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joseph Dillon Shelton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24541  (Online Only)
I am a counselor with 10 years of experience in the field of mental health. I have a lot of experience with basic mental health needs regarding depression; anxiety; substance use concerns; and symptoms of serious mental illness.
I am a counselor with 10 years of experience in the field of mental health. I have a lot of experience with basic mental health needs regarding depression; anxiety; substance use concerns; and symptoms of serious mental illness.
(434) 201-8331 View (434) 201-8331
Photo of Christopher Moutenot-Small, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher Moutenot-Small
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
In all of my work, I use an integrated mind-body-relationship approach to address challenges related to trauma, attachment, transitions and disruptions, stage of life issues, depression, anxiety, and issues involving sexuality, identity, purpose, and meaning.
In all of my work, I use an integrated mind-body-relationship approach to address challenges related to trauma, attachment, transitions and disruptions, stage of life issues, depression, anxiety, and issues involving sexuality, identity, purpose, and meaning.
(434) 473-6348 View (434) 473-6348
Photo of Kristin Schroeder, PhD, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kristin Schroeder
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MSW
Verified Verified
Are you seeking trauma-informed care that integrates mind and body? Does cognitive behavioral therapy feel limiting and impersonal to you? Are you curious about cultivating a deeper, more compassionate relationship with your inner emotional life? Is it important to you that your therapist is LGBTQ+ affirming and social justice oriented? If so, my approach may be a good fit for you. I enjoy working with individuals (16+) and couples who are coping with issues related to anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, academic challenges, identity, self-esteem, loss, and trauma.
Are you seeking trauma-informed care that integrates mind and body? Does cognitive behavioral therapy feel limiting and impersonal to you? Are you curious about cultivating a deeper, more compassionate relationship with your inner emotional life? Is it important to you that your therapist is LGBTQ+ affirming and social justice oriented? If so, my approach may be a good fit for you. I enjoy working with individuals (16+) and couples who are coping with issues related to anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, academic challenges, identity, self-esteem, loss, and trauma.
(434) 361-3825 View (434) 361-3825
Photo of Megan Kiernan, MEd
Megan Kiernan
Resident in Counseling, MEd
Verified Verified
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 Shannon McNett Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon McNett Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
We all experience times of feeling disconnected from family, friends, or coworkers. When this human experience is prolonged or frequent it may lead to unskillfull coping and greater suffering. I BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF CONNECTION WITH OTHERS AND I KNOW THIS PROCESS MUST START WITH CONNECTING TO OURSELVES. With over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health and wellness, I have supported countless people on their journey to a more full and authentic life. My clients range from teenagers to older adults who seek support with relationships, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
We all experience times of feeling disconnected from family, friends, or coworkers. When this human experience is prolonged or frequent it may lead to unskillfull coping and greater suffering. I BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF CONNECTION WITH OTHERS AND I KNOW THIS PROCESS MUST START WITH CONNECTING TO OURSELVES. With over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health and wellness, I have supported countless people on their journey to a more full and authentic life. My clients range from teenagers to older adults who seek support with relationships, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
(434) 201-7314 View (434) 201-7314

See more therapy options for Roanoke City County

Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.