Depression Therapists in Waynesboro, VA

Photo of Beth Holt Wright Lcsw Emdr Certified, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Holt Wright Lcsw Emdr Certified
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR is an integrative psychotherapy that has a wealth of research supporting its efficacy in treating people with PTSD, abuse, depression and anxiety.
I am a licensed psychotherapist for 25 years in VA and West VA. I obtained my BA in Psychology from the University of Richmond in 1994 and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Georgia in 1997. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy and have been trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) for Complex Trauma (parts work), Brainspotting, Hakomi, Exposure, Core Energetics, dream work, mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic, and Psychodynamic. 2x winner of top Bedside Manner Award in Our Health Magazine for counselors in the Roanoke Valley.
EMDR is an integrative psychotherapy that has a wealth of research supporting its efficacy in treating people with PTSD, abuse, depression and anxiety.
I am a licensed psychotherapist for 25 years in VA and West VA. I obtained my BA in Psychology from the University of Richmond in 1994 and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Georgia in 1997. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy and have been trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) for Complex Trauma (parts work), Brainspotting, Hakomi, Exposure, Core Energetics, dream work, mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic, and Psychodynamic. 2x winner of top Bedside Manner Award in Our Health Magazine for counselors in the Roanoke Valley.
(540) 492-4057 View (540) 492-4057
Photo of Heather Newcomb, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Newcomb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
I am most easily accessible via email, and would recommend that you send an email to reach me. I have over 10 years experience working with those struggling with addiction. This is almost always due to past trauma events that initially lead to substance use. Depression and anxiety are often co-occurring disorders that accompany substance use disorders and can lead to further life disruption. My clients want freedom from the mental heath and substance use disorders that are holding them back from their full potential and reaching their dreams.
I am most easily accessible via email, and would recommend that you send an email to reach me. I have over 10 years experience working with those struggling with addiction. This is almost always due to past trauma events that initially lead to substance use. Depression and anxiety are often co-occurring disorders that accompany substance use disorders and can lead to further life disruption. My clients want freedom from the mental heath and substance use disorders that are holding them back from their full potential and reaching their dreams.
(540) 792-4823 View (540) 792-4823
Photo of Alexis Rennie Wagner-Call, LCSW, MSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Rennie Wagner-Call
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980
Hello. I am Alexis and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Work practicing in Virginia. I have over twenty years of experience working with clients of all ages in a wide range of settings including: inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, outpatient care, in-home, school and residential. Most of my experience has been working with individuals who struggle with grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, Autism Spectrum, PTSD, developmental and intellectual disabilities, abuse, trauma and major life changes.
Hello. I am Alexis and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Work practicing in Virginia. I have over twenty years of experience working with clients of all ages in a wide range of settings including: inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, outpatient care, in-home, school and residential. Most of my experience has been working with individuals who struggle with grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, Autism Spectrum, PTSD, developmental and intellectual disabilities, abuse, trauma and major life changes.
(540) 609-2696 View (540) 609-2696
Photo of Ronald Brill, PhD, RMP, Psychologist
Ronald Brill
Psychologist, PhD, RMP
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
I like to work with folks who do not know exactly what they need, but are needing something that is not likely to be relieved with psychotropic medications. Those have been tried, and do not work as desired. There are many who feel this way. Certainly, they may have significant depression, anxiety, worry, or all of these, but cannot say what causes those feelings. I may be able to help with Neurofeedback. I have done it for 30 yrs. and it works extremely well. I like to do "talk therapy" to help them recognize what may be going on within themselves, now or long ago. I also do "Reiki", Energy Medicine adjustments.
I like to work with folks who do not know exactly what they need, but are needing something that is not likely to be relieved with psychotropic medications. Those have been tried, and do not work as desired. There are many who feel this way. Certainly, they may have significant depression, anxiety, worry, or all of these, but cannot say what causes those feelings. I may be able to help with Neurofeedback. I have done it for 30 yrs. and it works extremely well. I like to do "talk therapy" to help them recognize what may be going on within themselves, now or long ago. I also do "Reiki", Energy Medicine adjustments.
(540) 524-2716 View (540) 524-2716
Photo of Becca Wright Gillis, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becca Wright Gillis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
Becca has experience working with anxiety, depression, crisis, self-esteem, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, trauma, high-risk backgrounds, early adults’ difficulties, in or active Veterans, challenges relating to multicultural heritages, LGBTQ+ related issues, ethnicity related injustices, and pandemic.
Becca values being a warm and accepting licensed professional counselor serving in the state of Virginia and West Virginia. Rebecca has a passion for working with those who are feeling lost or unsure of themselves. She believes deeply in working together to develop a sacred and healing place that is needed for growth and transformation to happen. A place where all change begins through curiosity and taking a first step.
Becca has experience working with anxiety, depression, crisis, self-esteem, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders, trauma, high-risk backgrounds, early adults’ difficulties, in or active Veterans, challenges relating to multicultural heritages, LGBTQ+ related issues, ethnicity related injustices, and pandemic.
Becca values being a warm and accepting licensed professional counselor serving in the state of Virginia and West Virginia. Rebecca has a passion for working with those who are feeling lost or unsure of themselves. She believes deeply in working together to develop a sacred and healing place that is needed for growth and transformation to happen. A place where all change begins through curiosity and taking a first step.
(540) 554-6748 View (540) 554-6748
Photo of Whitney Spears, PsyD, Psychologist
Whitney Spears
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a generalist and can help with anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, relationship concerns, and exploration of gender or sexual orientation.
I view the relationship between the client and therapist as the most important aspect of therapy. I value creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space in which clients feel comfortable being open about their experiences. I spend time getting to know my clients, listening to their needs, and meeting them where they are. I utilize an integrative approach to treatment, emphasizing emotion-focused and interpersonal process theories, along with evidence-based techniques.
I am a generalist and can help with anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, relationship concerns, and exploration of gender or sexual orientation.
I view the relationship between the client and therapist as the most important aspect of therapy. I value creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space in which clients feel comfortable being open about their experiences. I spend time getting to know my clients, listening to their needs, and meeting them where they are. I utilize an integrative approach to treatment, emphasizing emotion-focused and interpersonal process theories, along with evidence-based techniques.
(703) 936-2578 View (703) 936-2578
Photo of Abigail Fernald, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Fernald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
Are you feeling stuck or unfulfilled in your life? Maybe you are feeling powerless, anxious, sad or overwhelmed by the things that keep happening to you. Are you experiencing life changes that are causing you to feel stressed and helpless? Maybe you are noticing that these feelings or experiences are beginning to manifest in a number of ways that impact your daily life. Talk therapy can help. I work with clients ages 14 and up to provide individual therapy, couples counseling or family counseling for those who are coping with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, grief, trauma, chronic illness and other life changes.
Are you feeling stuck or unfulfilled in your life? Maybe you are feeling powerless, anxious, sad or overwhelmed by the things that keep happening to you. Are you experiencing life changes that are causing you to feel stressed and helpless? Maybe you are noticing that these feelings or experiences are beginning to manifest in a number of ways that impact your daily life. Talk therapy can help. I work with clients ages 14 and up to provide individual therapy, couples counseling or family counseling for those who are coping with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, grief, trauma, chronic illness and other life changes.
(540) 269-4569 View (540) 269-4569
Photo of Laurie S Thomas - Shenandoah Creative Cnslng, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shenandoah Creative Cnslng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
Life can be overwhelming and emotional when children and adolescents are struggling with mental health concerns and challenges. Trauma leaves feelings of anxiety, depression, worthlessness that can make everyday interactions a struggle. Individuals need to feel safe, secure, feel valued and have a sense of belonging to fully participate in their lives. Treatment options should focus on their developmental stage, strengths and values. Building self-esteem, confidence and self image is the first step to healing.
Life can be overwhelming and emotional when children and adolescents are struggling with mental health concerns and challenges. Trauma leaves feelings of anxiety, depression, worthlessness that can make everyday interactions a struggle. Individuals need to feel safe, secure, feel valued and have a sense of belonging to fully participate in their lives. Treatment options should focus on their developmental stage, strengths and values. Building self-esteem, confidence and self image is the first step to healing.
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Photo of Brian J Ede, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian J Ede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
Life's journey is rough. Not every path is smooth or easy and many are difficult and even dangerous. There are times we need someone to walk with us; perhaps help us find a new direction. Having someone that understands because he's been there, makes all the difference in the world. In addition to working with couples and families, he enjoys bringing hope to men. He understands the struggles men face. He shares life and relational skills, including: developing problem solving skills, overcoming depression, reducing anxiety, having victory over addiction, growing through life development stages and recovering from the symptoms of trauma.
Life's journey is rough. Not every path is smooth or easy and many are difficult and even dangerous. There are times we need someone to walk with us; perhaps help us find a new direction. Having someone that understands because he's been there, makes all the difference in the world. In addition to working with couples and families, he enjoys bringing hope to men. He understands the struggles men face. He shares life and relational skills, including: developing problem solving skills, overcoming depression, reducing anxiety, having victory over addiction, growing through life development stages and recovering from the symptoms of trauma.
(540) 885-3481 View (540) 885-3481
Photo of Constance Sey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Constance Sey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
My passion for mental health is being able to help someone break generational trauma and help break the stigmatization of seeking help. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2002, and I have experience supporting children, adolescents/young adults, and adults with concerns such as bipolar disorder, personality disorder, and depression and anxiety disorder. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy personal devotion, praying, and meditation. I enjoy traveling to the beach and traveling outside the country to a tropical country.
My passion for mental health is being able to help someone break generational trauma and help break the stigmatization of seeking help. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2002, and I have experience supporting children, adolescents/young adults, and adults with concerns such as bipolar disorder, personality disorder, and depression and anxiety disorder. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy personal devotion, praying, and meditation. I enjoy traveling to the beach and traveling outside the country to a tropical country.
(804) 460-6695 View (804) 460-6695
Photo of Megan Kiernan, MEd
Megan Kiernan
Resident in Counseling, MEd
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
I specialize in helping adults, couples and older teens (16+) who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem and trauma. I provide a nurturing, tender and understanding space in which our connection creates the safety for growth to occur. In our work together, we will discover and cultivate your wise, confident, and compassionate internal voice. A voice that each of us possess within ourselves. In my work with couples, I focus on cultivating loving intimacy, mindfulness, and a deeper understanding of the dynamics within your relationship that create challenges. I also enjoy premarital counseling.
I specialize in helping adults, couples and older teens (16+) who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem and trauma. I provide a nurturing, tender and understanding space in which our connection creates the safety for growth to occur. In our work together, we will discover and cultivate your wise, confident, and compassionate internal voice. A voice that each of us possess within ourselves. In my work with couples, I focus on cultivating loving intimacy, mindfulness, and a deeper understanding of the dynamics within your relationship that create challenges. I also enjoy premarital counseling.
(434) 202-4277 View (434) 202-4277
Photo of Nichole Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nichole Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
I have specialized in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, military, sexual and emotional trauma, substance abuse, ADHD, grief/bereavement and traumatic brain injury.
Do you often struggle with feeling down, not loving/knowing yourself or have less enjoyment in doing things that you once loved? Have you experienced tragedy in the past/recently and just feel as if you have a dark cloud following you in life? Or, is life just a whirlwind and you are here to just better yourself and learn new ways to cope through life? If this sounds like you... Come sit with me and let's walk through YOUR journey together and find a way to clear the storm clouds together! My ideal client is someone who is passionate about overall self-improvement and defying the odds that life throws at them.
I have specialized in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, military, sexual and emotional trauma, substance abuse, ADHD, grief/bereavement and traumatic brain injury.
Do you often struggle with feeling down, not loving/knowing yourself or have less enjoyment in doing things that you once loved? Have you experienced tragedy in the past/recently and just feel as if you have a dark cloud following you in life? Or, is life just a whirlwind and you are here to just better yourself and learn new ways to cope through life? If this sounds like you... Come sit with me and let's walk through YOUR journey together and find a way to clear the storm clouds together! My ideal client is someone who is passionate about overall self-improvement and defying the odds that life throws at them.
(757) 500-5228 View (757) 500-5228
Photo of Connor Price, Licensed Professional Counselor
Connor Price
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Substance Use Counselor. I have a BS in Counseling and Human Services and a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have worked in the inpatient Adult Psychiatric Unit before transitioning into community-based mental health services and then into outpatient therapy. I have experience working with both adolescents and adults with autism, ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, as well as trauma-based diagnoses. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and have my certification in substance abuse counseling.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Substance Use Counselor. I have a BS in Counseling and Human Services and a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have worked in the inpatient Adult Psychiatric Unit before transitioning into community-based mental health services and then into outpatient therapy. I have experience working with both adolescents and adults with autism, ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, as well as trauma-based diagnoses. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and have my certification in substance abuse counseling.
(540) 787-2958 View (540) 787-2958
Photo of Erin Trzell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Trzell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ACE's, ADHD, as well as relationship and family issues.
Finding the right fit with a therapist is crucial to achieving your goals. As a licensed professional counselor, I create a positive atmosphere for you to explore feelings and experiences so that you can overcome obstacles to growth and well-being. With over 15 years of experience working with individuals, children and families, I can help provide direction and strategies for finding peace and empowerment. My therapeutic approach includes evidence-based practices from traditional modalities, as well as cutting-edge techniques to reduce emotional distress.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ACE's, ADHD, as well as relationship and family issues.
Finding the right fit with a therapist is crucial to achieving your goals. As a licensed professional counselor, I create a positive atmosphere for you to explore feelings and experiences so that you can overcome obstacles to growth and well-being. With over 15 years of experience working with individuals, children and families, I can help provide direction and strategies for finding peace and empowerment. My therapeutic approach includes evidence-based practices from traditional modalities, as well as cutting-edge techniques to reduce emotional distress.
(540) 258-4063 View (540) 258-4063
Photo of Jeffrey David Watros, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeffrey David Watros
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
Waitlist for new clients
Some issues I address: marital and relational conflicts, spirituality, sexual identity, various abuses, sexual addiction, unhealthy habits, anger, depression, forgiveness, accountability, anxiety and grief.
Hello. My name is Jeff Watros. Since 1995, I have been practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Perhaps you've noticed one reality that applies to everyone of us: interaction with other human beings. Whether in the context of family, marriage, friend, acquaintance or total stranger, we can find ourselves struggling to understand one another. Sometimes hurt results. However, relationships can be repaired with a willing heart and humble attitude.
Some issues I address: marital and relational conflicts, spirituality, sexual identity, various abuses, sexual addiction, unhealthy habits, anger, depression, forgiveness, accountability, anxiety and grief.
Hello. My name is Jeff Watros. Since 1995, I have been practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Perhaps you've noticed one reality that applies to everyone of us: interaction with other human beings. Whether in the context of family, marriage, friend, acquaintance or total stranger, we can find ourselves struggling to understand one another. Sometimes hurt results. However, relationships can be repaired with a willing heart and humble attitude.
(540) 602-5328 View (540) 602-5328
Photo of Terry L Miller, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terry L Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
He deals with a wide range of issues including bipolar disorder, OCD, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression and faith.
***CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**** Terry L. Miller is a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Community Counseling Center. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Bethel College in N. Newton KS, his Master’s in Community Counseling from Eastern Mennonite University.
He deals with a wide range of issues including bipolar disorder, OCD, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression and faith.
***CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS**** Terry L. Miller is a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Community Counseling Center. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Bethel College in N. Newton KS, his Master’s in Community Counseling from Eastern Mennonite University.
(540) 579-5445 View (540) 579-5445
Photo of Mary Rodman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Rodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
Mary has experience working with patients experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, intermittent explosive disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and various mental health disorders.
Mary Jouett Rodman, LCSW, graduated from Jane Addams College of Social Work at The University of Illinois at Chicago. Mary encompasses a holistic approach when identifying and treating the macro and micro needs of the community. Mary is focused on creating sustainable healing by incorporating strength-based systems of care. As a clinical social worker, her treatment approach includes motivational interviewing, integrating self-compassion principles, embodied practices, and a person-centered treatment approach.
Mary has experience working with patients experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, intermittent explosive disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and various mental health disorders.
Mary Jouett Rodman, LCSW, graduated from Jane Addams College of Social Work at The University of Illinois at Chicago. Mary encompasses a holistic approach when identifying and treating the macro and micro needs of the community. Mary is focused on creating sustainable healing by incorporating strength-based systems of care. As a clinical social worker, her treatment approach includes motivational interviewing, integrating self-compassion principles, embodied practices, and a person-centered treatment approach.
(757) 337-5443 View (757) 337-5443
Photo of Mandy Mays, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mandy Mays
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, relationship issues, depression, and more.
Are you looking for help so that things will finally feel easier? Are you dealing with anxiety, relationship or family issues, low self-esteem, or overwhelming emotions? Maybe past trauma seems to have a hold on you? Maybe the issue feels huge, or you think it’s minor. Whatever it is, you deserve to feel better. You deserve judgement-free understanding, healthy guidance, and support. I know that taking this step is vulnerable and scary. So, I would love to talk to you more and see if we feel like a good fit. Feeling connected with your therapist is crucial to success, and that’s my goal for everyone that I work with!
I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, relationship issues, depression, and more.
Are you looking for help so that things will finally feel easier? Are you dealing with anxiety, relationship or family issues, low self-esteem, or overwhelming emotions? Maybe past trauma seems to have a hold on you? Maybe the issue feels huge, or you think it’s minor. Whatever it is, you deserve to feel better. You deserve judgement-free understanding, healthy guidance, and support. I know that taking this step is vulnerable and scary. So, I would love to talk to you more and see if we feel like a good fit. Feeling connected with your therapist is crucial to success, and that’s my goal for everyone that I work with!
(540) 306-4665 View (540) 306-4665
Photo of Glen Bowman, PhD, Psychologist
Glen Bowman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
Dr. Glen Bowman is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) with more than 30 years of experience providing counseling services in a variety of settings, including college and university counseling centers, outpatient mental health clinics, and inpatient psychiatric centers. His work with adults, children, couples, and families has focused on issues related to stress and coping, transition and identity-related issues, communication skills, anger management, grief, loss, perfectionism, social anxiety, panic disorders, OCD, depression, and substance abuse.
Dr. Glen Bowman is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) with more than 30 years of experience providing counseling services in a variety of settings, including college and university counseling centers, outpatient mental health clinics, and inpatient psychiatric centers. His work with adults, children, couples, and families has focused on issues related to stress and coping, transition and identity-related issues, communication skills, anger management, grief, loss, perfectionism, social anxiety, panic disorders, OCD, depression, and substance abuse.
(434) 542-8180 View (434) 542-8180
Photo of Jordan Phillips, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordan Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesboro, VA 22980  (Online Only)
I am educated and trained as a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia. I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background including people with trauma, crisis, depression, anxiety, grief and loss and relationship problems. My counseling/consulting/spiritual philosophy entails a growth model for transforming one’s life. I like a person centered approach meaning you are in charge, we go at your speed and things should always be comfortable for you during therapy. It would be my privilege to walk alongside you in whatever your are currently carrying or navigating.
I am educated and trained as a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia. I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background including people with trauma, crisis, depression, anxiety, grief and loss and relationship problems. My counseling/consulting/spiritual philosophy entails a growth model for transforming one’s life. I like a person centered approach meaning you are in charge, we go at your speed and things should always be comfortable for you during therapy. It would be my privilege to walk alongside you in whatever your are currently carrying or navigating.
(540) 305-8590 View (540) 305-8590
1
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.