Depression Therapists in Graham, WA
![Photo of Virginia Kathleen Cailleteau, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/706a4a7d-364c-4433-a06d-010c55b7d639/2/320x400.jpeg)
Virginia Kathleen Cailleteau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Graham, WA 98338
I enjoy working with adults exploring relationships, family of origin concerns, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress (and growth), grief and loss, and transitions. Each client may seek therapy for different reasons, often because something in their lives has become uncomfortable, unhealthy, unsustainable, intolerable – but each client is so much more than their problem. I've worked with everyone from high school dropouts to combat veterans to long term care residents, and everyone in between ... In every one I see another facet of the best of what it means to be human, and I love to show up and see what we learn together.
I enjoy working with adults exploring relationships, family of origin concerns, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress (and growth), grief and loss, and transitions. Each client may seek therapy for different reasons, often because something in their lives has become uncomfortable, unhealthy, unsustainable, intolerable – but each client is so much more than their problem. I've worked with everyone from high school dropouts to combat veterans to long term care residents, and everyone in between ... In every one I see another facet of the best of what it means to be human, and I love to show up and see what we learn together.
![Photo of Nicole Grace DiBacco, MA, LMHC, R-DMT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e3a6300-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
I offer individual therapy for adolescents and adults- specializing in anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, depression and life transitions.
We all struggle in life at one point or another. However, reaching out for support can take a lot of strength and courage. For this reason, I strive to provide a safe, accepting, non-judgmental environment where you can openly explore your struggles and receive the support and guidance you need. Many times our past experiences have left us with wounds that become aggravated, causing difficulites in our relationships and daily lives. Together, we will reflect upon your emotional states, core beliefs and sources of distress to gain deeper awareness and skills for positive change and healing in these areas.
I offer individual therapy for adolescents and adults- specializing in anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, depression and life transitions.
We all struggle in life at one point or another. However, reaching out for support can take a lot of strength and courage. For this reason, I strive to provide a safe, accepting, non-judgmental environment where you can openly explore your struggles and receive the support and guidance you need. Many times our past experiences have left us with wounds that become aggravated, causing difficulites in our relationships and daily lives. Together, we will reflect upon your emotional states, core beliefs and sources of distress to gain deeper awareness and skills for positive change and healing in these areas.
![Photo of Karen A Burdick, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd6eb99-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with teens and adults, individuals and couples through issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, relationship and marriage issues.
Welcome to Thrive Counseling. I am here to offer a place for healing and restored hope: A place to Thrive! Because of some of my most challenging experiences as a child, an adult, wife and mother, in addition to my experience in ministry leadership, I pursued counseling as a career. My goal as a therapist is to give you the room to grow and find the courage for change. Together, we will work to find the skills needed for a new and exciting therapeutic transformation.
I work with teens and adults, individuals and couples through issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, relationship and marriage issues.
Welcome to Thrive Counseling. I am here to offer a place for healing and restored hope: A place to Thrive! Because of some of my most challenging experiences as a child, an adult, wife and mother, in addition to my experience in ministry leadership, I pursued counseling as a career. My goal as a therapist is to give you the room to grow and find the courage for change. Together, we will work to find the skills needed for a new and exciting therapeutic transformation.
![Photo of Rebecca Isom Panzer - Stone's Throw Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f0f66f8-d02b-4d53-8365-c586fd7750a9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stone's Throw Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Graham, WA 98338 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are experiencing worry, sadness, anxiety, depression, mood swings, or anger that is too big or too constant, you may need a quiet, compassionate person who can help you reduce your discomfort. I work from a place of wellness and growth, not illness. I will help you understand your challenges in ways that give you the ability to work with your (or your family's) concerns. You can change what needs changing, and keep what works well in your life.
If you are experiencing worry, sadness, anxiety, depression, mood swings, or anger that is too big or too constant, you may need a quiet, compassionate person who can help you reduce your discomfort. I work from a place of wellness and growth, not illness. I will help you understand your challenges in ways that give you the ability to work with your (or your family's) concerns. You can change what needs changing, and keep what works well in your life.
![Photo of Katie Kimball, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eecb7dcb-73cb-483b-8206-99a01e74db52/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker I specialize in providing individual therapy to adolescents and adults experiencing challenges in the various domains of their life. This may include concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, adjustment, parent/child dynamics and school. I believe that it is an honor and a privilege to be a part of your life. My hope is that through the collaborative therapeutic process we can identify and utilize your inner strengths and resources to gain deeper insight and awareness into self and others.
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker I specialize in providing individual therapy to adolescents and adults experiencing challenges in the various domains of their life. This may include concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, adjustment, parent/child dynamics and school. I believe that it is an honor and a privilege to be a part of your life. My hope is that through the collaborative therapeutic process we can identify and utilize your inner strengths and resources to gain deeper insight and awareness into self and others.
![Photo of Carianne Sellers, MSW, LICSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdbcf741-fe7e-4962-9911-24935ba1e2bc/3/320x400.jpeg)
We all have experiences that shape who we are and may bring emotional suffering to our lives and relationships. If you are ready to let go of shame, worry and self-doubt, we will work together to build a safe, trusting relationship that helps you to discover your unique strengths and build effective coping strategies. If you're ready to embrace hope for a better tomorrow and are looking for healing and freedom from past hurts, anxiety or depression, then I am hear to listen with compassion and provide guidance on your journey.
We all have experiences that shape who we are and may bring emotional suffering to our lives and relationships. If you are ready to let go of shame, worry and self-doubt, we will work together to build a safe, trusting relationship that helps you to discover your unique strengths and build effective coping strategies. If you're ready to embrace hope for a better tomorrow and are looking for healing and freedom from past hurts, anxiety or depression, then I am hear to listen with compassion and provide guidance on your journey.
![Photo of Linda Skinner - Pathway to Change Counseling Services, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c24b23a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pathway to Change Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Graham, WA 98338
We provide individual, couples, group, and family counseling specializing in treatment for: depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, ADHD/ADD, anger, mood disorder, behavioral problems, conflict resolution, OCD, grief counseling, parenting support, LGBTQ, gender identity, stress management and more.
We have immediate openings for new clients! Today is your first step on the pathway to change and together we will make the transformation you are seeking in your life. Pathway to Change is unique in that we offer several therapists to choose from who can work collaboratively with you to accomplish the change you want to see. With over 40 years of combined therapy experience each therapist offers a different approach within the therapeutic relationship. We are excited to now offer Life Coaching through our partnership with Simply You LLC. To schedule life coaching sessions please visit the following website: www.simply-you-llc.com.
We provide individual, couples, group, and family counseling specializing in treatment for: depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, ADHD/ADD, anger, mood disorder, behavioral problems, conflict resolution, OCD, grief counseling, parenting support, LGBTQ, gender identity, stress management and more.
We have immediate openings for new clients! Today is your first step on the pathway to change and together we will make the transformation you are seeking in your life. Pathway to Change is unique in that we offer several therapists to choose from who can work collaboratively with you to accomplish the change you want to see. With over 40 years of combined therapy experience each therapist offers a different approach within the therapeutic relationship. We are excited to now offer Life Coaching through our partnership with Simply You LLC. To schedule life coaching sessions please visit the following website: www.simply-you-llc.com.
![Photo of Mary Torres - Cornerstone OCD & Anxiety Group PLLC, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c59c3a7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cornerstone OCD & Anxiety Group PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Graham, WA 98338 (Online Only)
We treat ages 6+, dealing with chronic and/or acute anxiety/panic, OCD, phobias, trichotillomania (hair pulling), excoriation disorder (skin picking), hoarding, cutting, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), social anxiety/agoraphobia, and the depression and stress that accompany all these disorders.
Fastest way to our wait list is the request for service on our website. Anxiety is awful. Most people just do not understand how difficult it is to live with chronic worry, panic attacks, or obsessive thoughts and unwanted behavior. Gladly, most people will never have to know how horrible it is to have nagging obsessive thoughts, or fear panicking in public places. The variety of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies (CBT) like Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) are quite effective in increasing distress tolerance, reducing anxiety, and eliminating the dysfunctional behaviors that accompany it.
We treat ages 6+, dealing with chronic and/or acute anxiety/panic, OCD, phobias, trichotillomania (hair pulling), excoriation disorder (skin picking), hoarding, cutting, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), social anxiety/agoraphobia, and the depression and stress that accompany all these disorders.
Fastest way to our wait list is the request for service on our website. Anxiety is awful. Most people just do not understand how difficult it is to live with chronic worry, panic attacks, or obsessive thoughts and unwanted behavior. Gladly, most people will never have to know how horrible it is to have nagging obsessive thoughts, or fear panicking in public places. The variety of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies (CBT) like Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) are quite effective in increasing distress tolerance, reducing anxiety, and eliminating the dysfunctional behaviors that accompany it.
![Photo of Robert Teister - Professional Psychology, MFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1aae6433-7174-40c0-aa40-e175a2d8bfb4/2/320x400.jpeg)
30+ Years Private Practice. Direct Line Call: (206) 809 0226 Licensed Therapist: Offering Online Psychotherapy in all 50 states (USA), Archetypal Psychology, Depth Psychology, Gestalt and Family Systems. Life coaching, Mentoring. Treating: Midlife Crisis, Grief Work, Anxiety, Depression, Incest/Molest, PTSD, Masculine Psychology, Addictions, Identity, Sexual problems, Child/Teen, Separation/Divorce, Hospice Work. Student of Comparative Religion including the Eastern Philosophies of India: Meditation Teacher, Spiritual Development, Advanced levels of realization. 30+ years in private practice. Video Conferencing all 50 States.
30+ Years Private Practice. Direct Line Call: (206) 809 0226 Licensed Therapist: Offering Online Psychotherapy in all 50 states (USA), Archetypal Psychology, Depth Psychology, Gestalt and Family Systems. Life coaching, Mentoring. Treating: Midlife Crisis, Grief Work, Anxiety, Depression, Incest/Molest, PTSD, Masculine Psychology, Addictions, Identity, Sexual problems, Child/Teen, Separation/Divorce, Hospice Work. Student of Comparative Religion including the Eastern Philosophies of India: Meditation Teacher, Spiritual Development, Advanced levels of realization. 30+ years in private practice. Video Conferencing all 50 States.
![Photo of Brett Joseph Singleton, MDiv, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3c6dd56-3198-4dea-8be0-397e6c9b9ef1/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, and/or relationship issues and need the services of trained professional therapist who will gently guide you to healing and wholeness, you can contact me through the contact information provided.
Many people these days find themselves empty and alone. Is this you? Maybe you feel stuck in your relationship, or recently experienced a break-up. Perhaps you are overwhelmed with a difficult life transition, or you are suffering from past trauma. Our wounds can provide a doorway to becoming our best and most authentic selves. Our journey to mental health begins with a single, yet often difficult step. I specialize in assisting individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, negative self-image as well as other symptoms holding us back from being our best and living a fulfilling life.
If you are suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, and/or relationship issues and need the services of trained professional therapist who will gently guide you to healing and wholeness, you can contact me through the contact information provided.
Many people these days find themselves empty and alone. Is this you? Maybe you feel stuck in your relationship, or recently experienced a break-up. Perhaps you are overwhelmed with a difficult life transition, or you are suffering from past trauma. Our wounds can provide a doorway to becoming our best and most authentic selves. Our journey to mental health begins with a single, yet often difficult step. I specialize in assisting individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, negative self-image as well as other symptoms holding us back from being our best and living a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Lou Olson, LICSW, IMH-E, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77f9d677-10bf-449e-bd55-fda142f703a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
With over a decade of training and experience, I specialize in supporting infants, children, teens and adults who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety and life stress.
Not accepting new clients at this time - I believe that people make sense in the context of their story and that the key to healing is within each one of us. My approach to therapy has evolved over the years as I began understanding that what most people are looking for is someone who can help them with a deeper understanding of how they became exactly who they are today.
With over a decade of training and experience, I specialize in supporting infants, children, teens and adults who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety and life stress.
Not accepting new clients at this time - I believe that people make sense in the context of their story and that the key to healing is within each one of us. My approach to therapy has evolved over the years as I began understanding that what most people are looking for is someone who can help them with a deeper understanding of how they became exactly who they are today.
![Photo of Kathryn Zawislak - Kathryn Zawislak Therapy & Associates, LMHC, MEd, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cab67be6-0e35-4106-baac-f46e1cef64ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Zawislak Therapy & Associates
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Graham, WA 98338
Our group specializes in depression, anxiety, and trauma.
We currently have openings for 12 year old's and above both in person and virtual.
Our group specializes in depression, anxiety, and trauma.
We currently have openings for 12 year old's and above both in person and virtual.
![Photo of Robin L Pellerin, LMFTA, LMHCA, CGP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52b545fe-28ff-4d61-92ca-bcdb79288960/1/320x400.jpeg)
Robin L Pellerin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, LMHCA, CGP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Graham, WA 98338
If you're struggling with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, communication, parenting, trauma, or life transitions, I am here to help you process these challenging emotions and offer a path forward.
When life gets messy, we can feel lost and disconnected not only from others but from ourselves. Are you struggling with a loss in your life? A family member or friend? A divorce? A relationship? Or yourself? As a certified grief professional, mental health counselor associate, marriage and family therapist associate, and first responder therapist, I have spent 5 years supporting military members, their families, and veterans who are working through one of life's most challenging journey's and the complex emotions that accompany them. My hope is to provide a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental space to process these emotions.
If you're struggling with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, communication, parenting, trauma, or life transitions, I am here to help you process these challenging emotions and offer a path forward.
When life gets messy, we can feel lost and disconnected not only from others but from ourselves. Are you struggling with a loss in your life? A family member or friend? A divorce? A relationship? Or yourself? As a certified grief professional, mental health counselor associate, marriage and family therapist associate, and first responder therapist, I have spent 5 years supporting military members, their families, and veterans who are working through one of life's most challenging journey's and the complex emotions that accompany them. My hope is to provide a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental space to process these emotions.
![Photo of Paul Scarberry, MA, LMHC-A, SUDP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/565f584e-c936-4eb2-9083-c2149960ce79/3/320x400.jpeg)
Paul Scarberry
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMHC-A, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Graham, WA 98338 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself reaching for substances to help manage depression, anxiety, PTSD? Whether you have recently developed an unhealthy relationship with alcohol or have been coping with recovery issues for a while, I can help you explore new and effective coping tools. Together we can design the path to living your best life.
Do you find yourself reaching for substances to help manage depression, anxiety, PTSD? Whether you have recently developed an unhealthy relationship with alcohol or have been coping with recovery issues for a while, I can help you explore new and effective coping tools. Together we can design the path to living your best life.
![Photo of Leslie Chantel Quintero - Chantel Quintero, PLLC, LMFTA, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a977858-b3a0-4ac8-b29a-c0917be24983/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chantel Quintero, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFTA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Graham, WA 98338
I help individuals & families who are struggling with separation, divorce, trauma, depression, anxiety, or conflict by helping them to reconnect with themselves & others, so every individual can feel supported & loved.
Change does not happen overnight. It is a process that happens by taking small steps towards a goal everyday. My goal is to help individual's & families to become stronger & have a healthier outlook on the future/present, so they can develop accepting & loving relationship with themselves & others without judgement. This is done by improving communication, learning & understanding an individual’s past, beliefs or culture can affect one’s behavior, views & emotions, building up self worth, being validated when family members address issues from the past or present.
I help individuals & families who are struggling with separation, divorce, trauma, depression, anxiety, or conflict by helping them to reconnect with themselves & others, so every individual can feel supported & loved.
Change does not happen overnight. It is a process that happens by taking small steps towards a goal everyday. My goal is to help individual's & families to become stronger & have a healthier outlook on the future/present, so they can develop accepting & loving relationship with themselves & others without judgement. This is done by improving communication, learning & understanding an individual’s past, beliefs or culture can affect one’s behavior, views & emotions, building up self worth, being validated when family members address issues from the past or present.
![Photo of Edmond Ryan, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0719844-b149-4eb7-a54a-ae4783bc959f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with strong emotions? Overwhelmed with anxiety or negative thoughts? Do your thoughts and emotions keep you from achieving your goals and living an authentic life with those you love? Sometimes we avoid dealing with these difficult emotions and this keeps us from true connection with others and keeps us stuck in negative patterns of behavior.
Struggling with strong emotions? Overwhelmed with anxiety or negative thoughts? Do your thoughts and emotions keep you from achieving your goals and living an authentic life with those you love? Sometimes we avoid dealing with these difficult emotions and this keeps us from true connection with others and keeps us stuck in negative patterns of behavior.
![Photo of Cynthia Christine Ridgway - Cynthia C Ridgway, PLLC, MA, LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f2d20aa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cynthia C Ridgway, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Graham, WA 98338 (Online Only)
I believe that everyone will do well if they can. If someone is not doing well, there is a reason and it is not always someone's conscious choice. As a therapist, I will walk along side you in the journey of self-discovery and assist you in determining what might be getting in the way of a healthy, happy, peaceful life. Some of my methods include: Positive psychology, Client centered, relationship oriented, trauma-informed, trauma-focused, CBT, filial, play therapy, and the sand tray.
I believe that everyone will do well if they can. If someone is not doing well, there is a reason and it is not always someone's conscious choice. As a therapist, I will walk along side you in the journey of self-discovery and assist you in determining what might be getting in the way of a healthy, happy, peaceful life. Some of my methods include: Positive psychology, Client centered, relationship oriented, trauma-informed, trauma-focused, CBT, filial, play therapy, and the sand tray.
![Photo of Russell Alfaro, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/513c17df-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
First, I believe it is my duty to be able to actively listen to my client, obtain a good understanding of where they are and where they want to go. Together, we will move you and/or your team or organization in the desired direction to reach your goals. As a young man growing up in North Chicago, I quickly learned that life is full of rewards and upsets, if I allowed it to happen. At 3 months old, I was abandoned by my mother, left inside of a garbage can in an alley waiting to die. However, life had other plans for me. A passerby heard my faint cries and pulled me from the garbage can. Later, I was adopted but went on to experience years of physical and emotional abuse by my adopted mother. At the age of 12, I ran away from home and was placed in foster care. I was adopted again, but I experienced more mental and physical abuse. I dropped out of the 9th grade and began running away again. At the age of 16, the authorities declared me an emancipated teenager. With a story like mine, you would probably think there was no hope for finding happiness or for finding quality of life. However, I have learned to use my negative experiences as a testimony to reach out and help others.
First, I believe it is my duty to be able to actively listen to my client, obtain a good understanding of where they are and where they want to go. Together, we will move you and/or your team or organization in the desired direction to reach your goals. As a young man growing up in North Chicago, I quickly learned that life is full of rewards and upsets, if I allowed it to happen. At 3 months old, I was abandoned by my mother, left inside of a garbage can in an alley waiting to die. However, life had other plans for me. A passerby heard my faint cries and pulled me from the garbage can. Later, I was adopted but went on to experience years of physical and emotional abuse by my adopted mother. At the age of 12, I ran away from home and was placed in foster care. I was adopted again, but I experienced more mental and physical abuse. I dropped out of the 9th grade and began running away again. At the age of 16, the authorities declared me an emancipated teenager. With a story like mine, you would probably think there was no hope for finding happiness or for finding quality of life. However, I have learned to use my negative experiences as a testimony to reach out and help others.
![Photo of Jessica L Flores, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c254923e-07b4-4dcd-a702-87afeba8fddc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica L Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Graham, WA 98338
I'm a licensed marriage and family therapy associate specializing in providing mental health support to individuals and families. I cater my approach with each client I encounter to create an empathetic, non-judgmental, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I take a holistic approach to therapy with the understanding that therapy is not one-size-fits all; utilizing an array of therapeutic approaches and models, I work with my clients to find the personal growth and healing they are looking for with the belief that those who seek change, will find it.
I'm a licensed marriage and family therapy associate specializing in providing mental health support to individuals and families. I cater my approach with each client I encounter to create an empathetic, non-judgmental, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I take a holistic approach to therapy with the understanding that therapy is not one-size-fits all; utilizing an array of therapeutic approaches and models, I work with my clients to find the personal growth and healing they are looking for with the belief that those who seek change, will find it.
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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.