Depression Therapists in Brush Prairie, WA

Photo of Debbie Abrahamson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Debbie Abrahamson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brush Prairie, WA 98606
My focus is working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or post traumatic stress and have not found success with conventional counseling practices. I focus on holistic care providing neuromodulation to identify and treat imbalances in the brain that are caused from long term stress. When the body is able to move from a fight, flight, or freeze state is it easier to apply skills you have been trying so hard to achieve. I believe you do not have to learn coping strategies to manage symptoms but that symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma can be healed.
My focus is working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or post traumatic stress and have not found success with conventional counseling practices. I focus on holistic care providing neuromodulation to identify and treat imbalances in the brain that are caused from long term stress. When the body is able to move from a fight, flight, or freeze state is it easier to apply skills you have been trying so hard to achieve. I believe you do not have to learn coping strategies to manage symptoms but that symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma can be healed.
(360) 233-8238 View (360) 233-8238
Photo of Gina Gamage, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Gina Gamage
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brush Prairie, WA 98606
I enjoy working with individuals to create better, more satisfying relationships with themselves and all others. I typically help clients to see the big picture and to gain more compassion, confidence, understanding, and successful coping skills. Most clients experience a significant reduction in anxiety, depression, anger, and other distressing emotions. I am comfortable helping clients work through traumatic events past or present. If you want to feel better, I would love to help you.
I enjoy working with individuals to create better, more satisfying relationships with themselves and all others. I typically help clients to see the big picture and to gain more compassion, confidence, understanding, and successful coping skills. Most clients experience a significant reduction in anxiety, depression, anger, and other distressing emotions. I am comfortable helping clients work through traumatic events past or present. If you want to feel better, I would love to help you.
(360) 524-4043 View (360) 524-4043
Photo of Nannette Marie Myers - Heaven Sent Counseling, MS, CDP, LMHC, Counselor
Heaven Sent Counseling
Counselor, MS, CDP, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brush Prairie, WA 98606  (Online Only)
My specialties are working with couples, families, and individuals that are struggling with communication issues, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, anger, domestic violence, victim's of domestic violence, and co-dependency issues.
Immediate Openings in KS and WA. I have been a counselor for almost 20 years. I have worked in the addiction field and with couples and families helping them to resolve issues between couples and family members. I also have worked with people who have co-dependency issues, anxiety issues, post traumatic stress disorder, and depression. I am moved into my own private practice in June 2015. I am currently a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Chemical Dependency Professional, in Washington State and now am licensed in Kansas and have moved my practice to Kansas, but can continue to work with people in Washington State online.
My specialties are working with couples, families, and individuals that are struggling with communication issues, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, anger, domestic violence, victim's of domestic violence, and co-dependency issues.
Immediate Openings in KS and WA. I have been a counselor for almost 20 years. I have worked in the addiction field and with couples and families helping them to resolve issues between couples and family members. I also have worked with people who have co-dependency issues, anxiety issues, post traumatic stress disorder, and depression. I am moved into my own private practice in June 2015. I am currently a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Chemical Dependency Professional, in Washington State and now am licensed in Kansas and have moved my practice to Kansas, but can continue to work with people in Washington State online.
(785) 384-4896 View (785) 384-4896
Photo of Elizabeth Dammarell, LMHC, CDP, NCC, MA, Counselor
Elizabeth Dammarell
Counselor, LMHC, CDP, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brush Prairie, WA 98606
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience treating mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, and mood fluctuations.
Creating a safe space for individuals to thrive, grow, and find courage to tell their story, is what I believe my role to be as a counselor. Often times we run from our pain and avoid facing what has been hurting us all these years. It is my belief that counseling provides a neutral and compassionate environment to process through this pain, and finally discover the relief we have been looking for. My hope as your counselor is to help you develop a deeper awareness and personal insight so that you may live a more fulfilling and authentic life.
I have experience treating mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, and mood fluctuations.
Creating a safe space for individuals to thrive, grow, and find courage to tell their story, is what I believe my role to be as a counselor. Often times we run from our pain and avoid facing what has been hurting us all these years. It is my belief that counseling provides a neutral and compassionate environment to process through this pain, and finally discover the relief we have been looking for. My hope as your counselor is to help you develop a deeper awareness and personal insight so that you may live a more fulfilling and authentic life.
(360) 763-0549 View (360) 763-0549
Photo of Real Life Counseling Battle Ground, LICSW, LMHC, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Real Life Counseling Battle Ground
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brush Prairie, WA 98606
No matter where you’re at on your travels through life, we want to be your partner on your personal road to overcoming pain, finding hope, and discovering solutions. We believe that you matter, no matter what. At Real Life Counseling, We invest in the lives of our clients and our team to ignite change and spark achievement both personally and throughout our community.
No matter where you’re at on your travels through life, we want to be your partner on your personal road to overcoming pain, finding hope, and discovering solutions. We believe that you matter, no matter what. At Real Life Counseling, We invest in the lives of our clients and our team to ignite change and spark achievement both personally and throughout our community.
(360) 328-7841 View (360) 328-7841
Photo of William 'billy' Anderson, CIP
William 'billy' Anderson
CIP
Verified Verified
Brush Prairie, WA 98606
I work with families that are in need of assistance with an Intervention for substance abuse/ co-occurring issues. My interventions are done in a hybrid of an invitational model, helping to increase engagement during treatment and lower defenses during the intervention process. My goal is to engage with your family and create a place for the entire family to experience recovery, not just the loved one we are intervening on. I work with families from all walks of life and have been doing interventions and treatment placement since 2013.
I work with families that are in need of assistance with an Intervention for substance abuse/ co-occurring issues. My interventions are done in a hybrid of an invitational model, helping to increase engagement during treatment and lower defenses during the intervention process. My goal is to engage with your family and create a place for the entire family to experience recovery, not just the loved one we are intervening on. I work with families from all walks of life and have been doing interventions and treatment placement since 2013.
(971) 233-2024 View (971) 233-2024
Photo of David Peterson, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
David Peterson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brush Prairie, WA 98606
I have 37 years post graduate experience providing counseling and therapy to children, adults, couples and families. I have maintained my private practice in Battle Ground since 1997, but I have worked in a variety of other outpatient mental health settings also serving adults and children. I am a Child & Family Mental Health Specialist in the State of Washington. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy in addition to having a family systems perspective. Play therapy is utilized for children and conjoint marital therapy for couples. I can also provide supervision for Washington LMHC.
I have 37 years post graduate experience providing counseling and therapy to children, adults, couples and families. I have maintained my private practice in Battle Ground since 1997, but I have worked in a variety of other outpatient mental health settings also serving adults and children. I am a Child & Family Mental Health Specialist in the State of Washington. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy in addition to having a family systems perspective. Play therapy is utilized for children and conjoint marital therapy for couples. I can also provide supervision for Washington LMHC.
(360) 205-3570 View (360) 205-3570
Photo of Laurie Ellett - Helping Professionals Wellness Center, LICSW, LCSW, CADCII, SUDP, DVPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Helping Professionals Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, CADCII, SUDP, DVPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brush Prairie, WA 98606
Helping Professionals Wellness Center serve individuals and families who are experiencing difficulties due to substance use, mental health, and domestic violence . We offer individual, family, and group counseling, in addition to weekly Outpatient and Intensive Outpatient substance use group sessions. We are a certified as a Deferred Prosecution Treatment agency for DUI and offer Alcohol & Drug Education School (ADES) on Saturdays, in addition to drug screening. We are a certified Domestic Violence Intervention Treatment provider. We accept most insurance. We place a high value on individualized treatment and care.
Helping Professionals Wellness Center serve individuals and families who are experiencing difficulties due to substance use, mental health, and domestic violence . We offer individual, family, and group counseling, in addition to weekly Outpatient and Intensive Outpatient substance use group sessions. We are a certified as a Deferred Prosecution Treatment agency for DUI and offer Alcohol & Drug Education School (ADES) on Saturdays, in addition to drug screening. We are a certified Domestic Violence Intervention Treatment provider. We accept most insurance. We place a high value on individualized treatment and care.
(360) 529-3502 View (360) 529-3502
Photo of Mikaela Elaine Hines, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Mikaela Elaine Hines
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brush Prairie, WA 98606
Not accepting new clients
I primarily work with individual adults (ages 15+) who have sought help with anxiety, depression, women’s issues, relational problems, self-esteem, and recovery from abuse or trauma.
Hello, my name is Mikaela! I am a passionate and relational therapist who believes every individual has a unique and valuable story to tell. I aim to help individuals process their pain while also learning to celebrate their strengths and view themselves with greater acceptance, love, and compassion. In my work, I create space for you to share your story as you are ready, offering gentle direction and helpful coping skills as you learn to navigate life’s challenges.
I primarily work with individual adults (ages 15+) who have sought help with anxiety, depression, women’s issues, relational problems, self-esteem, and recovery from abuse or trauma.
Hello, my name is Mikaela! I am a passionate and relational therapist who believes every individual has a unique and valuable story to tell. I aim to help individuals process their pain while also learning to celebrate their strengths and view themselves with greater acceptance, love, and compassion. In my work, I create space for you to share your story as you are ready, offering gentle direction and helpful coping skills as you learn to navigate life’s challenges.
(360) 967-9946 View (360) 967-9946

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nancy K Warren - Nancy Warren, MA LMHC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Nancy Warren, MA LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Camas, WA 98607
For the past 25 years, I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sleep difficulties, troubled relationships, marital distress, chronic illness, and life transitions. My practice currently focuses on working with clients who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders. I also see patients with cancer across the cancer continuum, from diagnosis, treatment, to survivorship or recurrence and end of life. I am passionate about working with both of these patient groups.
For the past 25 years, I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sleep difficulties, troubled relationships, marital distress, chronic illness, and life transitions. My practice currently focuses on working with clients who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders. I also see patients with cancer across the cancer continuum, from diagnosis, treatment, to survivorship or recurrence and end of life. I am passionate about working with both of these patient groups.
(360) 680-1693 View (360) 680-1693
Photo of Hannah Grabhorn, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Hannah Grabhorn
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make a change, are willing to be curious, an are open to talking about hard things. I work with individuals, couples, teens, and children in a variety of settings. I enjoy working with recovering “people pleasers”, individuals with depression, anxiety, and people seeking ADHD management, and grief counseling. For couples, it is my goal to get you from a cycle of fighting to greater understanding and intimacy.
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make a change, are willing to be curious, an are open to talking about hard things. I work with individuals, couples, teens, and children in a variety of settings. I enjoy working with recovering “people pleasers”, individuals with depression, anxiety, and people seeking ADHD management, and grief counseling. For couples, it is my goal to get you from a cycle of fighting to greater understanding and intimacy.
(360) 634-0389 View (360) 634-0389
Photo of Terri Kaufman, LICSW, MSW, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terri Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MHP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98684
Are you dealing with mild to moderate depression or anxiety; experiencing a transitional crossroad such as divorce, empty nest, change in career; or struggling with self-worth; maybe experiencing a sense of loneliness and isolation? Or, are you an individual struggling with distorted body image; possibly living in a larger sized body; experiencing a profound sense of shame regarding weight and unable to access appropriate healthcare due to fear of being judged? Or possibly a girl dealing with stress, depression, anxiety, and body image? I provide years of personal and professional experience with a passion in these areas.
Are you dealing with mild to moderate depression or anxiety; experiencing a transitional crossroad such as divorce, empty nest, change in career; or struggling with self-worth; maybe experiencing a sense of loneliness and isolation? Or, are you an individual struggling with distorted body image; possibly living in a larger sized body; experiencing a profound sense of shame regarding weight and unable to access appropriate healthcare due to fear of being judged? Or possibly a girl dealing with stress, depression, anxiety, and body image? I provide years of personal and professional experience with a passion in these areas.
(360) 910-1662 View (360) 910-1662
Photo of David A Sangster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David A Sangster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98661
From struggling to THRIVING. Become more fully "yourself." Enjoy relationship satisfaction. Strengthen connection to something bigger that is meaningful. Get relief from depression and anxiety (really!). Improve effectiveness at work. Feel more at home in your body, content. Mindful and present. LAUGH. Choosing a therapist that is both really good AND a great fit is important. There is a difference here you will experience from the get go. The office is in a 1930's Cape Cod style house...inviting & comfortable. With warmth and character. David is unusually relational and "real." Sessions are 60, 75 or 90 minutes rather than 50.
From struggling to THRIVING. Become more fully "yourself." Enjoy relationship satisfaction. Strengthen connection to something bigger that is meaningful. Get relief from depression and anxiety (really!). Improve effectiveness at work. Feel more at home in your body, content. Mindful and present. LAUGH. Choosing a therapist that is both really good AND a great fit is important. There is a difference here you will experience from the get go. The office is in a 1930's Cape Cod style house...inviting & comfortable. With warmth and character. David is unusually relational and "real." Sessions are 60, 75 or 90 minutes rather than 50.
(503) 444-8649 View (503) 444-8649
Photo of Trish Carder, LMHCA, LICSWA, Counselor
Trish Carder
Counselor, LMHCA, LICSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662
My goal as a therapist is to support individuals who are struggling with overwhelming emotions, such as anxiety, depression, or grief, and to help them recognize and use their own inherent strengths to improve coping skills and move forward into healing.
Currently, I have a limited number of late afternoon/early evening openings for clients seeking either in-person or telehealth appointments. I work with adults, age 18 and over, who have histories of trauma, including physical, sexual, or verbal abuse, and abandonment or neglect, and those going through difficult life transitions, such as divorce or loss of a loved one. Symptoms we address include depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem, and feeling disconnected from yourself or others.
My goal as a therapist is to support individuals who are struggling with overwhelming emotions, such as anxiety, depression, or grief, and to help them recognize and use their own inherent strengths to improve coping skills and move forward into healing.
Currently, I have a limited number of late afternoon/early evening openings for clients seeking either in-person or telehealth appointments. I work with adults, age 18 and over, who have histories of trauma, including physical, sexual, or verbal abuse, and abandonment or neglect, and those going through difficult life transitions, such as divorce or loss of a loved one. Symptoms we address include depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem, and feeling disconnected from yourself or others.
(360) 523-1283 View (360) 523-1283
Photo of Emily Knott - Alive Holistic Counseling Washington, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alive Holistic Counseling Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98684
We specialize in treating anxiety and depression, mood disorders, eating disorders and addictions, relationship challenges and codependency, trauma, PTSD, postpartum depression, grief and loss.
Alive Holistic Counseling is an integrative counseling clinic that uses client-centered, strengths-based therapies to help people achieve their personal goals and cultivate authenticity in their relationships. Our therapists are specially trained in holistic therapies such as EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and Hakomi that enable clients to go deeper into their healing journey. Our focus on evidence-based approaches that integrate the body with the busy mind allow for work to go beyond what keeps us trapped in old patterns of being.
We specialize in treating anxiety and depression, mood disorders, eating disorders and addictions, relationship challenges and codependency, trauma, PTSD, postpartum depression, grief and loss.
Alive Holistic Counseling is an integrative counseling clinic that uses client-centered, strengths-based therapies to help people achieve their personal goals and cultivate authenticity in their relationships. Our therapists are specially trained in holistic therapies such as EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and Hakomi that enable clients to go deeper into their healing journey. Our focus on evidence-based approaches that integrate the body with the busy mind allow for work to go beyond what keeps us trapped in old patterns of being.
(360) 531-7537 View (360) 531-7537
Photo of Anthony Mucci, LMHC, Counselor
Anthony Mucci
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682
Hi, my name is Anthony Mucci. I am passionate about helping and serving others! I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, chronic pain, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment and utilize EMDR therapy along with CBT/DBT/Existential therapy.
Hi, my name is Anthony Mucci. I am passionate about helping and serving others! I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, chronic pain, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment and utilize EMDR therapy along with CBT/DBT/Existential therapy.
(509) 581-4282 View (509) 581-4282
Photo of Nikki Gorman, MA, LMHC, LPC-MH, LPCC, Counselor
Nikki Gorman
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC-MH, LPCC
Verified Verified
Camas, WA 98607  (Online Only)
Empathetic therapist offering compassion and healing; helping to build resilience through skill building, trauma work, and self-discovery. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to explore and process behaviors, thoughts, and feelings that can lead to isolation, anger, relationship strain, anxiety, panic, depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideations. With a strengths-based approach, empowering clients to reclaim a sense of control and restore self-confidence. Specializing in trauma, religious trauma, borderline personality, anxiety, depression, sexual health, postpartum, LGBTQIA+ support, EMDR, CBT, and DBT trained.
Empathetic therapist offering compassion and healing; helping to build resilience through skill building, trauma work, and self-discovery. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to explore and process behaviors, thoughts, and feelings that can lead to isolation, anger, relationship strain, anxiety, panic, depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideations. With a strengths-based approach, empowering clients to reclaim a sense of control and restore self-confidence. Specializing in trauma, religious trauma, borderline personality, anxiety, depression, sexual health, postpartum, LGBTQIA+ support, EMDR, CBT, and DBT trained.
(360) 227-0789 View (360) 227-0789
Photo of Mackenzie Gottfried, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Mackenzie Gottfried
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
Mackenzie has experience working with individuals and their family members when impacted by trauma and children with behavioral issues including those with anxiety/depression.
Mackenzie Gottfried is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Bachelor of Arts: Human Services and Psychology from Southern Oregon University and a Graduate Degree: Professional Mental Health Counseling from Lewis and Clark College. Mackenzie has a passion for mental health counseling and uses curiosity as a tool to gain insight into the inner world of her clients to better understand and support them. She is excited to show up and work with clients in their development and growth in self-discovery.
Mackenzie has experience working with individuals and their family members when impacted by trauma and children with behavioral issues including those with anxiety/depression.
Mackenzie Gottfried is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Bachelor of Arts: Human Services and Psychology from Southern Oregon University and a Graduate Degree: Professional Mental Health Counseling from Lewis and Clark College. Mackenzie has a passion for mental health counseling and uses curiosity as a tool to gain insight into the inner world of her clients to better understand and support them. She is excited to show up and work with clients in their development and growth in self-discovery.
(360) 472-4921 View (360) 472-4921
Photo of Allison Zoë Love, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Allison Zoë Love
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
Everyday struggles bringing you down? Ever wonder when your life will get better? Ready to learn how it can? My practice is dedicated to helping adults face challenges with new skills and strategies to live beyond the limitations of chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms, to become more in control of your life by creating the inner strength needed to face a challenging world with courage and confidence, changing your life from being directed by fear to one guided by self-love and courage.
Everyday struggles bringing you down? Ever wonder when your life will get better? Ready to learn how it can? My practice is dedicated to helping adults face challenges with new skills and strategies to live beyond the limitations of chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms, to become more in control of your life by creating the inner strength needed to face a challenging world with courage and confidence, changing your life from being directed by fear to one guided by self-love and courage.
(360) 800-3707 View (360) 800-3707
Photo of Nancy Kyrie Campbell, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Kyrie Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98664
I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My current focus is primarily on people dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, attachment, life transitions, trauma, family and other interpersonal issues. I use a highly respectful approach in helping my clients address their issues and build effective coping and communication skills. This can include identifying and shifting limiting patterns (based on experiences of the past) that have continued to influence their present-day emotions, attitudes, interactions, expectations, and decisions. I work with each individual in a way that empowers them to stay in charge of their own therapeutic process.
I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My current focus is primarily on people dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, attachment, life transitions, trauma, family and other interpersonal issues. I use a highly respectful approach in helping my clients address their issues and build effective coping and communication skills. This can include identifying and shifting limiting patterns (based on experiences of the past) that have continued to influence their present-day emotions, attitudes, interactions, expectations, and decisions. I work with each individual in a way that empowers them to stay in charge of their own therapeutic process.
(360) 207-2598 View (360) 207-2598

See more therapy options for Brush Prairie

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.