Photo of James Keyes, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
James Keyes
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Mill Creek, WA 98012
-Adult, including ADOS & ADI Gold Standard Approach) *ADHD *Anxiety/Depression/Mood Issues *Trauma / PTSD *Behavioral Problems *Family Treatment / Adjustment Problems *Cognitive Evaluation - Ranging From Academic; Post-Concussion Issues to Dementia *Chronic Pain; L& I / Worker's Compensation.
AUGUST 2021 - PRACTICE PRIMARILY FULL. (I have a few AM appointment openings - NO AFTER SCHOOL TIMES right now; I AM available for COGNITIVE (dementia or ADHD; learning) & Autism EVALUATIONS; no therapy). I am one of a dozen Board Certified Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologists in Washington. I specialize in working on the types of thoughts, feelings and actions that can help us ... or alternatively are creating problems in our lives. I would utilize evidence based approaches proven to work, & tailor those to the unique & individual situation going on in your life, working toward solutions that make things run more smoothly.
-Adult, including ADOS & ADI Gold Standard Approach) *ADHD *Anxiety/Depression/Mood Issues *Trauma / PTSD *Behavioral Problems *Family Treatment / Adjustment Problems *Cognitive Evaluation - Ranging From Academic; Post-Concussion Issues to Dementia *Chronic Pain; L& I / Worker's Compensation.
AUGUST 2021 - PRACTICE PRIMARILY FULL. (I have a few AM appointment openings - NO AFTER SCHOOL TIMES right now; I AM available for COGNITIVE (dementia or ADHD; learning) & Autism EVALUATIONS; no therapy). I am one of a dozen Board Certified Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologists in Washington. I specialize in working on the types of thoughts, feelings and actions that can help us ... or alternatively are creating problems in our lives. I would utilize evidence based approaches proven to work, & tailor those to the unique & individual situation going on in your life, working toward solutions that make things run more smoothly.
(425) 276-6752 x9 View (425) 276-6752 x9
Photo of Tammette L Chitwood, MS, CC, LMHCA, Counselor
Tammette L Chitwood
Counselor, MS, CC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Mill Creek, WA 98012
I specialize in working with neurodivergent populations, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, and families/couples therapy.
As your therapist, my goal is to provide you with a warm and welcoming environment where you are free to explore the areas of your life you wish to improve for holistic healing - physical, emotional, mental, relational, and spiritual. I offer a warm and empathetic environment as I use a person-centered approach that allows me to understand you through your own unique experiences and walk alongside you on this journey to achieve your personal goals. My primary focus is in child, individual, and couples/family counseling as well as working with neurodivergent populations using neurodiversity-affirming language and approach.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent populations, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, and families/couples therapy.
As your therapist, my goal is to provide you with a warm and welcoming environment where you are free to explore the areas of your life you wish to improve for holistic healing - physical, emotional, mental, relational, and spiritual. I offer a warm and empathetic environment as I use a person-centered approach that allows me to understand you through your own unique experiences and walk alongside you on this journey to achieve your personal goals. My primary focus is in child, individual, and couples/family counseling as well as working with neurodivergent populations using neurodiversity-affirming language and approach.
(360) 583-6961 View (360) 583-6961
Photo of Tanya Atkinson, MSW, LSWAIC, ILS, LMHCA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanya Atkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, ILS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Mill Creek, WA 98012  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with how you fit into the world we all share? Do you find that anxiety, depression, and the barriers you are facing are overwhelming? Finding acceptance and even love for our imperfections can be difficult in a world that is build for only displaying your best perfect self. I specialize in working with those that are physical and mental "disabilities", LGBTQI, Poly/Kink, ADHD, neurodiverse, Autistic, and DID.
Are you struggling with how you fit into the world we all share? Do you find that anxiety, depression, and the barriers you are facing are overwhelming? Finding acceptance and even love for our imperfections can be difficult in a world that is build for only displaying your best perfect self. I specialize in working with those that are physical and mental "disabilities", LGBTQI, Poly/Kink, ADHD, neurodiverse, Autistic, and DID.
(425) 686-9082 View (425) 686-9082

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Meier Clinics - Meier Clinics of Washington, Counselor
Meier Clinics of Washington
Counselor
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98021
Catalyst is designed for adults, 18 and older, struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, dependencies, stress, dysfunctional relationships, abuse, loss, divorce, and other mental health issues in a unique, healing environment.
Our 2-3 week Catalyst program is one of the most unique counseling programs available in our area. With our conscientious staff and individualized treatment plans, we find that our Day Treatment Program is the perfect opportunity for people to make great strides toward their goals in a short amount of time. Our program is a combination of group, individual, and family therapy as well as medication management as needed. Catalyst is a good fit for anyone who has been in outpatient counseling for a while and is not making the progress that they are hoping to be making.
Catalyst is designed for adults, 18 and older, struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, dependencies, stress, dysfunctional relationships, abuse, loss, divorce, and other mental health issues in a unique, healing environment.
Our 2-3 week Catalyst program is one of the most unique counseling programs available in our area. With our conscientious staff and individualized treatment plans, we find that our Day Treatment Program is the perfect opportunity for people to make great strides toward their goals in a short amount of time. Our program is a combination of group, individual, and family therapy as well as medication management as needed. Catalyst is a good fit for anyone who has been in outpatient counseling for a while and is not making the progress that they are hoping to be making.
(425) 487-1005 View (425) 487-1005
Photo of Paul Clark LaFond, MS, MEd, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Clark LaFond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MEd, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I am passionately committed to helping you with issues of loss, sadness, anger, anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, trauma, and relationship problems. I am comfortable working with preteens, teens, young and older adults, couples, and families. I offer you a warm, safe nonjudgmental space in which you and I can work together to discover tools which will enable you to build more authentic joyful connections and intimacy with yourself and within your interpersonal relationships. I draw from a wide variety of theories, techniques, and approaches that will enable you to move deliberately and comfortably towards your goals.
I am passionately committed to helping you with issues of loss, sadness, anger, anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, trauma, and relationship problems. I am comfortable working with preteens, teens, young and older adults, couples, and families. I offer you a warm, safe nonjudgmental space in which you and I can work together to discover tools which will enable you to build more authentic joyful connections and intimacy with yourself and within your interpersonal relationships. I draw from a wide variety of theories, techniques, and approaches that will enable you to move deliberately and comfortably towards your goals.
(360) 207-2554 View (360) 207-2554
Photo of Owen Bargreen, PsyD, Psychologist
Owen Bargreen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Common clients I see suffer from depression, anxiety, marital issues or issues related to the pandemic.
Psychology works because it is a way to help people understand their problems and correct or change so that they can live more healthy or satisfying lives. Many people come for therapy if they are experiencing problems with depression, anxiety or relationship issues. Some other common problems that I help treat are problems with work injuries, sleep, weight, stress, trauma, and sexual problems. These problems can be greatly helped through therapy. I employ an eclectic approach to therapy, meeting each individual’s needs rather than using one form of treatment.
Common clients I see suffer from depression, anxiety, marital issues or issues related to the pandemic.
Psychology works because it is a way to help people understand their problems and correct or change so that they can live more healthy or satisfying lives. Many people come for therapy if they are experiencing problems with depression, anxiety or relationship issues. Some other common problems that I help treat are problems with work injuries, sleep, weight, stress, trauma, and sexual problems. These problems can be greatly helped through therapy. I employ an eclectic approach to therapy, meeting each individual’s needs rather than using one form of treatment.
(425) 470-5190 View (425) 470-5190
Photo of Jeffery Goff - Pacific Mental Health, Counselor
Pacific Mental Health
Counselor
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
We treat a variety of mental health disorders from anxiety/depression to sexual addiction.
Pacific Mental Health is dedicated to serving the mental health needs of the Greater Seattle area. If you're looking for a new counselor or a fresh perspective in life, our team of psychotherapist can help you achieve the goals you're looking for.
We treat a variety of mental health disorders from anxiety/depression to sexual addiction.
Pacific Mental Health is dedicated to serving the mental health needs of the Greater Seattle area. If you're looking for a new counselor or a fresh perspective in life, our team of psychotherapist can help you achieve the goals you're looking for.
(206) 488-1706 View (206) 488-1706
Photo of Holley Kaskel - LightHeart Psychological Associates, PsyD, Psychologist
LightHeart Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Securely request an appointment on our website: tinyurl.com/LHA-AppointmentRequest . LightHeart provides therapy & medication management for children, adolescents & adults. We provide individual, family, and couples therapy. We work with all variety of concerns, including acute and chronic depression and anxiety, abuse & trauma, LGBTQ issues, conflicted relationships, & personality disorders. We also have experience working successfully with child behavioral problems.
Securely request an appointment on our website: tinyurl.com/LHA-AppointmentRequest . LightHeart provides therapy & medication management for children, adolescents & adults. We provide individual, family, and couples therapy. We work with all variety of concerns, including acute and chronic depression and anxiety, abuse & trauma, LGBTQ issues, conflicted relationships, & personality disorders. We also have experience working successfully with child behavioral problems.
(206) 752-5362 View (206) 752-5362
Photo of Amanda H Abou-Zaki, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Amanda H Abou-Zaki
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
Additionally, I often work with anxiety, grief, depression and eating disorders.
Life is unpredictable with many ups and downs. No matter how much we want life to move in a linear fashion it often goes unplanned causing us to feel off balance. I believe therapy is a safe place to begin your own personal journey and learning to be present in your life. It allows you to rediscover who you are. Therapy is different for every individual and/or couple. I have an EMDR, existential & integrative approach to helping clients create healthy, fulfilling and rewarding lives. I integrate therapeutic styles depending on the best fit for client and situation.
Additionally, I often work with anxiety, grief, depression and eating disorders.
Life is unpredictable with many ups and downs. No matter how much we want life to move in a linear fashion it often goes unplanned causing us to feel off balance. I believe therapy is a safe place to begin your own personal journey and learning to be present in your life. It allows you to rediscover who you are. Therapy is different for every individual and/or couple. I have an EMDR, existential & integrative approach to helping clients create healthy, fulfilling and rewarding lives. I integrate therapeutic styles depending on the best fit for client and situation.
(425) 217-1348 View (425) 217-1348
Photo of Ashley Haynes-Gibson, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ashley Haynes-Gibson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
As an experienced depression, anxiety and trauma therapist, I believe that every person can find freedom from the pressures that we so often place on ourselves.
Do you want to master your goals with confidence? Create meaningful and positive relationships? Discover your authentic self while establishing trust with those you know and love? Experience more insight, more productivity, and more balance in your life? These are all attainable with the right set of skills and a mental health professional to support you on your path. In therapy, we will address your goals collaboratively and with compassion.
As an experienced depression, anxiety and trauma therapist, I believe that every person can find freedom from the pressures that we so often place on ourselves.
Do you want to master your goals with confidence? Create meaningful and positive relationships? Discover your authentic self while establishing trust with those you know and love? Experience more insight, more productivity, and more balance in your life? These are all attainable with the right set of skills and a mental health professional to support you on your path. In therapy, we will address your goals collaboratively and with compassion.
(425) 409-5851 View (425) 409-5851
Photo of Vanessa Estes, LMHCA, MHP, Counselor
Vanessa Estes
Counselor, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034  (Online Only)
I provide counseling and therapy services to teens and adults living with a range of mental health issues from anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions as well as mood and personality disorders and interpersonal relationships.
The human existence is full of joy, pain, plot twists, climaxes and curve balls and I am here to be with you to reduce the impact of these events on your way of living; whether that means learning to make changes or weathering the storm. I am here to provide a space for my clients to feel supported and safe to explore their light and dark experiences, and am honored to witness my clients' journeys.
I provide counseling and therapy services to teens and adults living with a range of mental health issues from anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions as well as mood and personality disorders and interpersonal relationships.
The human existence is full of joy, pain, plot twists, climaxes and curve balls and I am here to be with you to reduce the impact of these events on your way of living; whether that means learning to make changes or weathering the storm. I am here to provide a space for my clients to feel supported and safe to explore their light and dark experiences, and am honored to witness my clients' journeys.
(425) 230-5152 View (425) 230-5152
Photo of Charlie Health - Charlie Health
Charlie Health
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ut
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ut
(206) 207-9605 View (206) 207-9605
Photo of Justine Joslyn, MA
Justine Joslyn
MA
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98133  (Online Only)
Hello! Since 2006, I have helped couples & families resolve stuck dynamics with communication & connection skills. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll also learn how to re-connect to your with your wise inner guidance, and replace negative ego chatter with empowering narratives that inspire smart, bold moves with your career, creativity & relationships.
Hello! Since 2006, I have helped couples & families resolve stuck dynamics with communication & connection skills. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll also learn how to re-connect to your with your wise inner guidance, and replace negative ego chatter with empowering narratives that inspire smart, bold moves with your career, creativity & relationships.
(360) 946-0941 View (360) 946-0941
Photo of Melanie - Eastside Counseling Center, LMFT, LMHC, LCSW
Eastside Counseling Center
LMFT, LMHC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
Are relationship issues, anxiety and/or depression keeping you up at night? The counselors at ECC will work with you to help you improve the quality of your your life and your relationships. Our dynamic team of counselors seek to understand and resolve the real-life, everyday challenges many of us face. We work with a wide range of issues and have a diverse team of therapists trained in a variety of specialties. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan to meet your individual needs.
Are relationship issues, anxiety and/or depression keeping you up at night? The counselors at ECC will work with you to help you improve the quality of your your life and your relationships. Our dynamic team of counselors seek to understand and resolve the real-life, everyday challenges many of us face. We work with a wide range of issues and have a diverse team of therapists trained in a variety of specialties. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan to meet your individual needs.
(425) 405-7857 View (425) 405-7857
Photo of Drew Konzelman - Novo Life Counseling, MACP, LMHC, Counselor
Novo Life Counseling
Counselor, MACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I help people who are stuck figure out what is going on, understand it, and then move boldly forward towards a more fulfilling life experience. I specialize in working with clients who experience anxiety, depression and ADHD issues across the lifespan. We have all struggled. It's learning how to move through these challenges WELL that is the focus of my work. I also have advanced training in LENS Neurofeedback which is available at both of our Novo Life locations.
I help people who are stuck figure out what is going on, understand it, and then move boldly forward towards a more fulfilling life experience. I specialize in working with clients who experience anxiety, depression and ADHD issues across the lifespan. We have all struggled. It's learning how to move through these challenges WELL that is the focus of my work. I also have advanced training in LENS Neurofeedback which is available at both of our Novo Life locations.
(425) 230-4257 View (425) 230-4257
Photo of Patrick A Gray, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Patrick A Gray
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I offer individual and group services to people with different kinds of life circumstances, disabilities and goals. I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor & Certified Rehabilitation Counselor providing evidenced based mental health care and vocational counseling for adolescents and adults. I specialize working with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorders & have since 1996. I enjoy working with individuals facing difficult life circumstances, challenging adjustments, and reconciling past issues. My specialties include working with people with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Learning Disabilities and ADD/ ADHD.
I offer individual and group services to people with different kinds of life circumstances, disabilities and goals. I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor & Certified Rehabilitation Counselor providing evidenced based mental health care and vocational counseling for adolescents and adults. I specialize working with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorders & have since 1996. I enjoy working with individuals facing difficult life circumstances, challenging adjustments, and reconciling past issues. My specialties include working with people with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Learning Disabilities and ADD/ ADHD.
(425) 728-7416 View (425) 728-7416
Photo of Rachael Pearson, MM, MACP, CTA, LMHCA, Counselor
Rachael Pearson
Counselor, MM, MACP, CTA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
I work with individual clients covering a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, religious trauma, and chronic illness.
Welcome to Hawthorn Trail Therapy; I'm so glad you're here. Human-ing is hard. As relational beings our hearts are broken by grief, loss, and harm, and we can become disconnected from ourselves, others, and the world. The hawthorn tree symbolizes courage and resilience, and is known for healing of the heart. It takes courage to seek therapy; it is a step on the path of compassionate awareness toward healing and home. For me, this path is one of developing safety and flexibility in the nervous system, moving out of bracing or collapse toward openness and connection, finding new ways of being that lead to freedom and flourishing.
I work with individual clients covering a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, religious trauma, and chronic illness.
Welcome to Hawthorn Trail Therapy; I'm so glad you're here. Human-ing is hard. As relational beings our hearts are broken by grief, loss, and harm, and we can become disconnected from ourselves, others, and the world. The hawthorn tree symbolizes courage and resilience, and is known for healing of the heart. It takes courage to seek therapy; it is a step on the path of compassionate awareness toward healing and home. For me, this path is one of developing safety and flexibility in the nervous system, moving out of bracing or collapse toward openness and connection, finding new ways of being that lead to freedom and flourishing.
(206) 759-7815 View (206) 759-7815
Photo of Angela D'Elia, MS, LMHCA, Counselor
Angela D'Elia
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
As a neurodiversity-affirming therapist, I use an integrative and holistic approach to therapy. Incorporating multiple trauma-informed modalities that work best for my clients yet focusing on and highlighting strengths-based, client-centered approaches. I work with clients identifying as neurodivergent, ADHD, Autism, as well as clients experiencing anxiety, and depression. I practice trauma-informed care, focusing on the individual, their goals, and their voice-leading treatment plans and incorporating a growth and solution-focused mindset. I believe in utilizing a collaborative approach to help clients achieve their goals.
As a neurodiversity-affirming therapist, I use an integrative and holistic approach to therapy. Incorporating multiple trauma-informed modalities that work best for my clients yet focusing on and highlighting strengths-based, client-centered approaches. I work with clients identifying as neurodivergent, ADHD, Autism, as well as clients experiencing anxiety, and depression. I practice trauma-informed care, focusing on the individual, their goals, and their voice-leading treatment plans and incorporating a growth and solution-focused mindset. I believe in utilizing a collaborative approach to help clients achieve their goals.
(425) 386-7526 View (425) 386-7526
Photo of Monica LaBrie - Piece by Peace Therapy, PLLC, PhD, MSW, BCBA, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Piece by Peace Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, BCBA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98208  (Online Only)
I am a licensed mental health professional with expertise in working with clients with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families. I also have experience providing therapy to those who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression or challenges facing life stressors.
I am a licensed mental health professional with expertise in working with clients with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families. I also have experience providing therapy to those who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression or challenges facing life stressors.
(509) 210-3700 View (509) 210-3700
Photo of Morgan Boling, MA, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Boling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, interpersonal relationship difficulties, and life transitions.
My name is Morgan, and my approach to therapy is grounded in an emphasis on our therapeutic relationship. My goal as your therapist is to foster an environment of safety using empathy, respect, authenticity, compassion, and acceptance. I hope to utilize gentle curiosity to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences to achieve your goals. I approach the therapeutic process from a person-centered and strengths-based perspective, focusing on your competencies while identifying your needs. My goal is to support you as we build your skills to provide you with additional resources that could be beneficial to your overall wellbeing.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, interpersonal relationship difficulties, and life transitions.
My name is Morgan, and my approach to therapy is grounded in an emphasis on our therapeutic relationship. My goal as your therapist is to foster an environment of safety using empathy, respect, authenticity, compassion, and acceptance. I hope to utilize gentle curiosity to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences to achieve your goals. I approach the therapeutic process from a person-centered and strengths-based perspective, focusing on your competencies while identifying your needs. My goal is to support you as we build your skills to provide you with additional resources that could be beneficial to your overall wellbeing.
(425) 437-2118 View (425) 437-2118
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.