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Online Therapists

Photo of Patricia Humphrey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Humphrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20120  (Online Only)
We offer an eclectic, client centered approach, through a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual's social/emotional needs to treat issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, a host of other emotional difficulties.
Greetings from Nucleus Counseling Services (NCS)!! Are you or a loved one experiencing feelings of loneliness, fatigue, low energy, lack of focus, anxiety or are you struggling with a traumatic experience? At Nucleus we believe that healing begins when our core issues are addressed. We are here, via teletherapy, to assist individuals with navigating social/emotional obstacles that may be interfering with day to day function and progress.
We offer an eclectic, client centered approach, through a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual's social/emotional needs to treat issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, a host of other emotional difficulties.
Greetings from Nucleus Counseling Services (NCS)!! Are you or a loved one experiencing feelings of loneliness, fatigue, low energy, lack of focus, anxiety or are you struggling with a traumatic experience? At Nucleus we believe that healing begins when our core issues are addressed. We are here, via teletherapy, to assist individuals with navigating social/emotional obstacles that may be interfering with day to day function and progress.
(571) 497-4697 View (571) 497-4697
Photo of Jordan Caruana, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordan Caruana
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23456  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, attachment concerns, boundary/ communication limitations, and issues involving gender and sexuality Identity. I also enjoy working with those navigating transitions such as young adulthood, career changes , pregnancy and motherhood/ Parenting.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, attachment concerns, boundary/ communication limitations, and issues involving gender and sexuality Identity. I also enjoy working with those navigating transitions such as young adulthood, career changes , pregnancy and motherhood/ Parenting.
(757) 854-9425 View (757) 854-9425
Photo of Bobby Salazar, LCSW, CTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bobby Salazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTS
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230
I am committed to helping individuals find the strength within themselves and to share that with those most important to them. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, relationship difficulties, or life transitions, I always seek to assist you in finding the most effective way to help you achieve your goals and live a happier life. My orientation is interpersonal, psychodynamic and emotionally focused. I am very active in the therapy.
I am committed to helping individuals find the strength within themselves and to share that with those most important to them. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, relationship difficulties, or life transitions, I always seek to assist you in finding the most effective way to help you achieve your goals and live a happier life. My orientation is interpersonal, psychodynamic and emotionally focused. I am very active in the therapy.
(804) 376-9909 View (804) 376-9909
Photo of Michelle Hallahan, EdD, LPC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Hallahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
But it's hard to feel that way when these distortions stimulate unwanted feelings of anxiety, stress, fear, anger, depression, shame, embarrassment, and/or guilt.
You’re allowed to feel enough just as you are. My passion lies with those who feel misunderstood, who mask to fit in, or who feel "normal" is a distant concept. It can feel exhausting navigating a world that feels unnatural, unsafe, uncontrollable, or judgmental, like others don't connect with who you are. It falsifies reality and reinforces irrational, intrusive, uncontrollable, and disruptive beliefs; you convince yourself you are the problem… but you aren’t. Whether an adolescent, neurodivergent, challenged by a life transition, socially awkward/isolated, or struggling to process a big or little trauma, you matter.
But it's hard to feel that way when these distortions stimulate unwanted feelings of anxiety, stress, fear, anger, depression, shame, embarrassment, and/or guilt.
You’re allowed to feel enough just as you are. My passion lies with those who feel misunderstood, who mask to fit in, or who feel "normal" is a distant concept. It can feel exhausting navigating a world that feels unnatural, unsafe, uncontrollable, or judgmental, like others don't connect with who you are. It falsifies reality and reinforces irrational, intrusive, uncontrollable, and disruptive beliefs; you convince yourself you are the problem… but you aren’t. Whether an adolescent, neurodivergent, challenged by a life transition, socially awkward/isolated, or struggling to process a big or little trauma, you matter.
(571) 384-2805 View (571) 384-2805
Photo of Mary Stewart, MA, ATR-P, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22207
I work with adolescents (age 14+) and adults, and I specialize in life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and PTSD.
Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and exhausting. It’s hard to find answers when you feel like everything around you is unraveling. My goal is to be a secure base while we work together to foster self-exploration, resilience, and restoration. As an art therapist, I believe that using art and metaphor can be a way to give voice to those experiences and emotions which remain unspoken. Together, we will work towards gaining comfort with uncomfortable feelings and situations, finding balance, and fostering resilience with life’s challenges.
I work with adolescents (age 14+) and adults, and I specialize in life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and PTSD.
Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and exhausting. It’s hard to find answers when you feel like everything around you is unraveling. My goal is to be a secure base while we work together to foster self-exploration, resilience, and restoration. As an art therapist, I believe that using art and metaphor can be a way to give voice to those experiences and emotions which remain unspoken. Together, we will work towards gaining comfort with uncomfortable feelings and situations, finding balance, and fostering resilience with life’s challenges.
(571) 410-2818 View (571) 410-2818
Photo of Ashley Patrican, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Patrican
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
I believe that therapy is about the journey towards self-discovery and joining that person on a quest to seek out the answers they already have within themselves. The ideal client is a person who is open to learning, determined to self-improve and committed to the therapeutic relationship. My experiences with mental health range from: autism, mood disorders, postpartum depression, lyme disease, suicide ideation, gender identity concerns,personality disorders, chronic pain, trauma, behavioral management, social skills training, parent training, psychosis to substance use.. My career background is in schools, crisis stabilization, home-based counseling and working with INOVA.
I believe that therapy is about the journey towards self-discovery and joining that person on a quest to seek out the answers they already have within themselves. The ideal client is a person who is open to learning, determined to self-improve and committed to the therapeutic relationship. My experiences with mental health range from: autism, mood disorders, postpartum depression, lyme disease, suicide ideation, gender identity concerns,personality disorders, chronic pain, trauma, behavioral management, social skills training, parent training, psychosis to substance use.. My career background is in schools, crisis stabilization, home-based counseling and working with INOVA.
(571) 474-3064 View (571) 474-3064
Photo of Jacob Rheaume - Chesterfield Counseling Group, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chesterfield Counseling Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Behavioral issues Bariatric weight loss Children/adolescents Depression Personality disorders.
CCG is group practice with locations in Chesterfield and Fredricksburg, Va. The primary mission of Chesterfield Counseling Group LLC is to help clients improve their lives through introspection, self examination, and heightened insight. We work with individuals of all walks of life. We pride ourselves on being down to earth, reasonable, sober, and sensible therapists. So many times we hear of people who have had negative experiences with past therapists, with that in mind we strive to be flexible and the focus is always on what is important to the individual client. The purpose of the first therapy session is to get to know you.
Behavioral issues Bariatric weight loss Children/adolescents Depression Personality disorders.
CCG is group practice with locations in Chesterfield and Fredricksburg, Va. The primary mission of Chesterfield Counseling Group LLC is to help clients improve their lives through introspection, self examination, and heightened insight. We work with individuals of all walks of life. We pride ourselves on being down to earth, reasonable, sober, and sensible therapists. So many times we hear of people who have had negative experiences with past therapists, with that in mind we strive to be flexible and the focus is always on what is important to the individual client. The purpose of the first therapy session is to get to know you.
(804) 259-0669 View (804) 259-0669
Photo of Ann Abell, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Abell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Chesterfield, VA 23234
Ann Abell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist with more than 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families to private practice from previous clinical settings that include residential treatment, community based services and educational settings. She specializes in working with clients seeking to address their experiences with Trauma, Attachment and Relationship Patterns, Depression, Anxiety, Neuro-diversity, and Self-Esteem. Ann also has experience work with families working with the foster care system and the adoption process. Ann is LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Ann Abell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist with more than 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families to private practice from previous clinical settings that include residential treatment, community based services and educational settings. She specializes in working with clients seeking to address their experiences with Trauma, Attachment and Relationship Patterns, Depression, Anxiety, Neuro-diversity, and Self-Esteem. Ann also has experience work with families working with the foster care system and the adoption process. Ann is LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(804) 656-5938 x427 View (804) 656-5938 x427
Photo of Grace Stichter, MA, ATR-P, Pre-Licensed Professional
Grace Stichter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22207
I have spent several years working in schools, residential facilities and recovery homes, specializing anxiety, depression, suicidal/self harming thoughts, trauma and life transitions.
Is your child or teen struggling and you are looking for way to support them? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unsure during a time of transition or change? Maybe you are a parent struggling to know what the best treatment options are. I am passionate about cultivating a safe and inclusive space for kids and teens to express themselves and to provide parents the opportunity to gain insight and feel empowered. Through art, play and sandtray therapy, as well as counseling, kids and teens engage in a creative and effective therapy process. In our work together, kids, teens and their families experience insight, growth and positive change.
I have spent several years working in schools, residential facilities and recovery homes, specializing anxiety, depression, suicidal/self harming thoughts, trauma and life transitions.
Is your child or teen struggling and you are looking for way to support them? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unsure during a time of transition or change? Maybe you are a parent struggling to know what the best treatment options are. I am passionate about cultivating a safe and inclusive space for kids and teens to express themselves and to provide parents the opportunity to gain insight and feel empowered. Through art, play and sandtray therapy, as well as counseling, kids and teens engage in a creative and effective therapy process. In our work together, kids, teens and their families experience insight, growth and positive change.
(703) 936-6472 View (703) 936-6472
Photo of Alexis C Davis, MSW, QMHP-AC, LMHP-e
Alexis C Davis
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW, QMHP-AC, LMHP-e
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22033  (Online Only)
I also have experience in other areas, including individuals struggling with substance use, eating disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, depression, and serious mental health disorders.
I am currently accepting new telehealth clients! My name is Alexis Davis, MSW, and I am a resident clinical social worker with Seek Serenity. I hold a Master of Social Work degree from George Mason University. I also have a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, with a minor in biology from the University of Maryland. With an additional background in neuroscience, I understand brain function as it relates to mental health. I've been working in mental health for 7 years and have experience across populations in various settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, and residential homes.
I also have experience in other areas, including individuals struggling with substance use, eating disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, depression, and serious mental health disorders.
I am currently accepting new telehealth clients! My name is Alexis Davis, MSW, and I am a resident clinical social worker with Seek Serenity. I hold a Master of Social Work degree from George Mason University. I also have a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, with a minor in biology from the University of Maryland. With an additional background in neuroscience, I understand brain function as it relates to mental health. I've been working in mental health for 7 years and have experience across populations in various settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, and residential homes.
(703) 783-4135 View (703) 783-4135
Photo of Will Datta, LCSW, C-SOTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Will Datta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-SOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23112
Through these approaches I aim to serve individuals and families of all ages working through a wide variety of issues including but not limited to trauma, attachment, anxiety, depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and support related to life changes.
If you find it hard to talk or even think about the past, if you find yourself in unhealthy cycles or often ask yourself “Why am I continuing to have this problem?”, if you find yourself becoming overwhelmed easier than you have in the past, if you are experiencing a difficult time through life changes, or if you just need someone to listen, then I am here.
Through these approaches I aim to serve individuals and families of all ages working through a wide variety of issues including but not limited to trauma, attachment, anxiety, depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and support related to life changes.
If you find it hard to talk or even think about the past, if you find yourself in unhealthy cycles or often ask yourself “Why am I continuing to have this problem?”, if you find yourself becoming overwhelmed easier than you have in the past, if you are experiencing a difficult time through life changes, or if you just need someone to listen, then I am here.
(804) 315-3627 x2 View (804) 315-3627 x2
Photo of Gabrielle Anderson - Family Therapy Center of Northern Virginia, LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Family Therapy Center of Northern Virginia, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansdowne, VA 20176
You try! You are doing the best that you can for yourself and your family and yet STILL someone is struggling. Sometimes love and researching helpful information isn’t enough to keep everyone afloat. We specialize in helping children, teens and adults calm the anxiety and stress and heal the trauma and depression from the ROOT.
You try! You are doing the best that you can for yourself and your family and yet STILL someone is struggling. Sometimes love and researching helpful information isn’t enough to keep everyone afloat. We specialize in helping children, teens and adults calm the anxiety and stress and heal the trauma and depression from the ROOT.
(703) 957-7641 View (703) 957-7641
Photo of Seth Yavit - Art Therapist - Dc And Va, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Seth Yavit - Art Therapist - Dc And Va
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Are you struggling to build or maintain relationships, manage emotions, or adjust to life's challenges? Depression, anxiety, anger, autism, schizophrenia, bipolar, and other disorders can be challenging to face alone. Therapy can help you build coping skills that you can use to overcome your challenges. While trauma can cause great pain in your life, learning the tools to become more positive and more focused can turn those defeats into the very things that build perseverance. I have helped clients of all ages overcome challenges to unlock more fulfilling lives. So reach out, I look forward to helping.
Are you struggling to build or maintain relationships, manage emotions, or adjust to life's challenges? Depression, anxiety, anger, autism, schizophrenia, bipolar, and other disorders can be challenging to face alone. Therapy can help you build coping skills that you can use to overcome your challenges. While trauma can cause great pain in your life, learning the tools to become more positive and more focused can turn those defeats into the very things that build perseverance. I have helped clients of all ages overcome challenges to unlock more fulfilling lives. So reach out, I look forward to helping.
(202) 217-1193 View (202) 217-1193
Photo of Carissa Newman, MA, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carissa Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Having two small children myself, I also acknowledge the struggles women face during the postpartum period and have decided to start providing services to women struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety and those struggling with pain and endometriosis.
Helping Little Hearts Counseling was founded to provide services to children, adolescents, their families and women in the community. Today, more than ever, our youth need extra help as they are struggling emotionally, behaviorally and socially. My specialty is working with the pediatric population; preschoolers, school age children, teens, young adults and their families.
Having two small children myself, I also acknowledge the struggles women face during the postpartum period and have decided to start providing services to women struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety and those struggling with pain and endometriosis.
Helping Little Hearts Counseling was founded to provide services to children, adolescents, their families and women in the community. Today, more than ever, our youth need extra help as they are struggling emotionally, behaviorally and socially. My specialty is working with the pediatric population; preschoolers, school age children, teens, young adults and their families.
(757) 854-9563 View (757) 854-9563
Photo of Tiffany Tait, MS, ASDI
Tiffany Tait
Resident in Counseling, MS, ASDI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
Currently accepting adult new clients using virtual/teletherapy for support with career counseling, personality disorders, schizophrenia, phobias, bipolar disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, couples/family counseling, relationship/intimacy dysfunction, establishing healthy boundaries, assertive communication skills, Autism Spectrum Disorder
Currently accepting adult new clients using virtual/teletherapy for support with career counseling, personality disorders, schizophrenia, phobias, bipolar disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, couples/family counseling, relationship/intimacy dysfunction, establishing healthy boundaries, assertive communication skills, Autism Spectrum Disorder
(571) 517-1794 View (571) 517-1794
Photo of Patricia Cisnero, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Cisnero
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
I specialize in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, and situational stress for a diverse population, children, adolescents and adults.
During difficult times, the word “unravel” resonates with most of us. As human beings, at some point, we are bound to experience life stressors, trauma events, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, parenting struggles etc. I am aware there is no single therapeutic approach, and a range of flexibility and modalities is key to guide and assist in finding resolution and balance. My great passion is bringing healing to the people who have been through traumatic/stressful experiences and struggling to anchor, reflect and or reset. I believe in meeting clients where they are and in creating a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
I specialize in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, and situational stress for a diverse population, children, adolescents and adults.
During difficult times, the word “unravel” resonates with most of us. As human beings, at some point, we are bound to experience life stressors, trauma events, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, parenting struggles etc. I am aware there is no single therapeutic approach, and a range of flexibility and modalities is key to guide and assist in finding resolution and balance. My great passion is bringing healing to the people who have been through traumatic/stressful experiences and struggling to anchor, reflect and or reset. I believe in meeting clients where they are and in creating a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
(540) 274-0244 View (540) 274-0244
Photo of Sheronda Farrow, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Sheronda Farrow
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23508  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for helping and a quest for healing; understanding that recovery to wellness is a journey that you must take, with myself as a willing guide. It's my pleasure to assist you in discovering the tools you already possess to be successful on this journey. I've provided counseling and psychological testing services to children, adults, and families for 13 years. I have experience in treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, behavior problems, ADHD, family/relationship issues, and anger management. Testing services include cognitive, achievement, and personality assessment. I also provide consultation, education, and training within the community.
I have a passion for helping and a quest for healing; understanding that recovery to wellness is a journey that you must take, with myself as a willing guide. It's my pleasure to assist you in discovering the tools you already possess to be successful on this journey. I've provided counseling and psychological testing services to children, adults, and families for 13 years. I have experience in treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, behavior problems, ADHD, family/relationship issues, and anger management. Testing services include cognitive, achievement, and personality assessment. I also provide consultation, education, and training within the community.
(757) 350-8807 View (757) 350-8807
Photo of C Rick Ellis - Spectrum Forensic Services and Neurotherapy Center, EdD, Psychologist
Spectrum Forensic Services and Neurotherapy Center
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Using evidence-based methods including Advanced Neurofeedback, we address symptoms of the following: ADHD, Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, Anxiety, Depression, Behavior/School Problems, Separation/Divorce Issues, Couples/Family Issues, Alcohol/Substance Abuse, ACOA, Abuse/Trauma, Military Issues, Executive Assessment, Stress and Anger Management.
We are a Neurofeedback/ Neurotherapy Center that serves children, adolescents and adults experiencing challenges. We provide innovative individualized, evidence-based interventions to address an array of life's diverse challenges, so that each individual can reach his or her full potential. All of us encounter problems in living at some point in our lives. Sometimes, those problems interfere with our ability to function at home, work, or school or in other important areas of life.
Using evidence-based methods including Advanced Neurofeedback, we address symptoms of the following: ADHD, Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, Anxiety, Depression, Behavior/School Problems, Separation/Divorce Issues, Couples/Family Issues, Alcohol/Substance Abuse, ACOA, Abuse/Trauma, Military Issues, Executive Assessment, Stress and Anger Management.
We are a Neurofeedback/ Neurotherapy Center that serves children, adolescents and adults experiencing challenges. We provide innovative individualized, evidence-based interventions to address an array of life's diverse challenges, so that each individual can reach his or her full potential. All of us encounter problems in living at some point in our lives. Sometimes, those problems interfere with our ability to function at home, work, or school or in other important areas of life.
(757) 239-2850 View (757) 239-2850
Photo of Cathi Cohen, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathi Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
I opened In Step, a private mental health practice, 25 years ago in the hope that children, teens, parents, and adults would see us as a safe place where they can learn and grow. I specialize in working with folks who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting struggles, and relationship problems. Using various approaches – Relational Psychotherapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy), and Parent Coaching, I see clients alone, as part of a couple, and as part of the family.
I opened In Step, a private mental health practice, 25 years ago in the hope that children, teens, parents, and adults would see us as a safe place where they can learn and grow. I specialize in working with folks who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting struggles, and relationship problems. Using various approaches – Relational Psychotherapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy), and Parent Coaching, I see clients alone, as part of a couple, and as part of the family.
(703) 291-6374 View (703) 291-6374
Photo of Mercedes Alonso, MSW, LMHP-S, RYT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mercedes Alonso
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMHP-S, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22180
I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist/registered yoga teacher. I am a clinician who works with children (ages 5 and up), adolescents and adults. I specialize in supporting individuals with all types of Anxiety, Self-Harm, Depression, Mood Disorders, Anger, Autism, ADHD, OCD, Disordered Eating and Trauma. I work with students on 504 plans and IEPs and collaborate with their families, school systems and community. My guiding principles is to practice cultural humility, and utilize a neurodiversity affirming lens because differences in all are strengths to be explored.
I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist/registered yoga teacher. I am a clinician who works with children (ages 5 and up), adolescents and adults. I specialize in supporting individuals with all types of Anxiety, Self-Harm, Depression, Mood Disorders, Anger, Autism, ADHD, OCD, Disordered Eating and Trauma. I work with students on 504 plans and IEPs and collaborate with their families, school systems and community. My guiding principles is to practice cultural humility, and utilize a neurodiversity affirming lens because differences in all are strengths to be explored.
(571) 548-3250 View (571) 548-3250

See more therapy options for Tappahannock

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.