Photo of Belen Martinez (Enlighten Psychology), PsyD, Psychologist
Belen Martinez (Enlighten Psychology)
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
Clinical areas of interests include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, maternal mental health, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, trauma and abuse, stress, life transitions, and grief/loss.
Belen Martinez, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist who has extensive experience providing English and Spanish individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults of all ages. She works with individuals from diverse populations and cultures, with a wide range of concerns. Dr. Martinez’ approach to therapy is collaborative, authentic, empathic, active and caring. She integrates empirically driven methods, including dynamic psychotherapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) , cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and relational frameworks, with a highly personalized approach.
Clinical areas of interests include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, maternal mental health, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, trauma and abuse, stress, life transitions, and grief/loss.
Belen Martinez, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist who has extensive experience providing English and Spanish individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults of all ages. She works with individuals from diverse populations and cultures, with a wide range of concerns. Dr. Martinez’ approach to therapy is collaborative, authentic, empathic, active and caring. She integrates empirically driven methods, including dynamic psychotherapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) , cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and relational frameworks, with a highly personalized approach.
(425) 357-7928 View (425) 357-7928
Photo of Lisa Dean, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Dean
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98055
Counseling with Individuals Often life experiences lead to feelings of anxiety or depression.
Lisa enjoys working with children, teens and adults. She will collaborate with you to identify the specific goals and unique strengths to plan the best treatment for you or your child while utilizing techniques of traditional therapies and combined with play therapy. Lisa brings a welcoming presence and unconditional positive attitude to each relationship. Counseling with Children and Teens For some youth, it is as easy as learning a few skills to identify their emotions or challenge their thoughts. For others, they need someone who cares and seeks to understand their unique experiences.
Counseling with Individuals Often life experiences lead to feelings of anxiety or depression.
Lisa enjoys working with children, teens and adults. She will collaborate with you to identify the specific goals and unique strengths to plan the best treatment for you or your child while utilizing techniques of traditional therapies and combined with play therapy. Lisa brings a welcoming presence and unconditional positive attitude to each relationship. Counseling with Children and Teens For some youth, it is as easy as learning a few skills to identify their emotions or challenge their thoughts. For others, they need someone who cares and seeks to understand their unique experiences.
(206) 895-7366 View (206) 895-7366
Photo of Daisy Vergara - Ohana Behavioral Health, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Ohana Behavioral Health
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055
At Ohana, we offer hope and healing for those who are challenged with depression, anxiety, perinatal challenges, and parenting issues.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self, parenting struggles, that affect your daily life, relationships, ability to function, work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls, the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you question, wonder, hope that life could be better? Now more than ever, people are anxious, overwhelmed, uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, finding their place in life.
At Ohana, we offer hope and healing for those who are challenged with depression, anxiety, perinatal challenges, and parenting issues.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self, parenting struggles, that affect your daily life, relationships, ability to function, work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls, the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you question, wonder, hope that life could be better? Now more than ever, people are anxious, overwhelmed, uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, finding their place in life.
(206) 752-6685 View (206) 752-6685
Photo of Amy Langdahl, MACP, LMHC, Counselor
Amy Langdahl
Counselor, MACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98058  (Online Only)
I have worked within the mental health field since 2013 in different positions, institutions, and with a variety of issues; including: anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, peer relationships, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, family conflict, and more.
I believe that everyone has their own unique story that is worthy of being told. Some stories hurt more than others and I aim to offer a non-judgmental, safe environment for all who seek my services.
I have worked within the mental health field since 2013 in different positions, institutions, and with a variety of issues; including: anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, peer relationships, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, family conflict, and more.
I believe that everyone has their own unique story that is worthy of being told. Some stories hurt more than others and I aim to offer a non-judgmental, safe environment for all who seek my services.
(425) 529-5374 View (425) 529-5374
Photo of Jamie Dawn Appleby-Dykes - Summit Serenity Counseling , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Summit Serenity Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98059  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, social anxiety, gender identity concerns, and self-esteem concerns.
Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful parts of ourselves. The greatest healing comes from telling our story and each of us have a unique way of relating to the world and a story that deserves to be heard. I believe every person possesses an intuition and the innate knowledge to heal, grow, move forward, and create change within themselves and the greater world. I use a compassionate, collaborative, and trauma focused approach to begin the healing process by creating a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and caring.
I specialize in treating, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, social anxiety, gender identity concerns, and self-esteem concerns.
Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful parts of ourselves. The greatest healing comes from telling our story and each of us have a unique way of relating to the world and a story that deserves to be heard. I believe every person possesses an intuition and the innate knowledge to heal, grow, move forward, and create change within themselves and the greater world. I use a compassionate, collaborative, and trauma focused approach to begin the healing process by creating a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and caring.
(425) 470-4315 View (425) 470-4315
Photo of Valerie Castillo, MS, LMHCA, Counselor
Valerie Castillo
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057
I enjoy working with the following: young adults, couples, Trauma (intergenerational, CPTSD, PTSD), BIPOC Issues, Depression/Anxiety, Communication Skills, Boundary Setting, Life Changes/Adjustments, Grief and Loss.
I believe that the client is the expert of their own lives. I find great importance in taking into consideration the historical and current social, political, economic, and cultural impacts on each client. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space for each of my clients where they feel received whilst working toward their definition of healing in the process. My goal is to support clients in stepping into their most authentic and empowered version of themselves using a strengths-based approach. Treatment includes a collaborative, individualized plan for therapy using a humanistic, person-centered approach.
I enjoy working with the following: young adults, couples, Trauma (intergenerational, CPTSD, PTSD), BIPOC Issues, Depression/Anxiety, Communication Skills, Boundary Setting, Life Changes/Adjustments, Grief and Loss.
I believe that the client is the expert of their own lives. I find great importance in taking into consideration the historical and current social, political, economic, and cultural impacts on each client. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space for each of my clients where they feel received whilst working toward their definition of healing in the process. My goal is to support clients in stepping into their most authentic and empowered version of themselves using a strengths-based approach. Treatment includes a collaborative, individualized plan for therapy using a humanistic, person-centered approach.
(206) 944-5069 View (206) 944-5069
Photo of Vanessa Estes, LMHCA, MHP, Counselor
Vanessa Estes
Counselor, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057  (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 Nicole D Rank, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole D Rank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
We all experience anxiety, fear, depression or suffering - especially when faced with life transitions. Teens transitioning to adulthood, families transitioning through marriage/parenthood/divorce, and individuals transitioning through career changes are all common, but often stressful experiences. These transitions also have the potential to bring joy, reflection and peace. However, we all need help sometimes to find the joy in our lives. I particularly enjoy helping adolescents and young adults find their path through the world.
We all experience anxiety, fear, depression or suffering - especially when faced with life transitions. Teens transitioning to adulthood, families transitioning through marriage/parenthood/divorce, and individuals transitioning through career changes are all common, but often stressful experiences. These transitions also have the potential to bring joy, reflection and peace. However, we all need help sometimes to find the joy in our lives. I particularly enjoy helping adolescents and young adults find their path through the world.
(253) 215-8285 View (253) 215-8285
Photo of Nhautrey Brown - Why’s Words Therapy, Nhautrey Brown, MSW, LSWAIC, MHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Why’s Words Therapy, Nhautrey Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSWAIC, MHP
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057
Why’s Words Therapy is dedicated to providing compassionate and professional therapeutic services to clients of all ages! With extensive experience in individual, family, and group therapy from diverse cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, we are confident we can help. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, battling depression, seeking to understand your traumas, or curious about the benefits of therapy, we are here to support you. If you have a child or teen in need of guidance, or if you want to explore how therapy can enhance your life, we are committed to helping you navigate your journey towards mental wellness!
Why’s Words Therapy is dedicated to providing compassionate and professional therapeutic services to clients of all ages! With extensive experience in individual, family, and group therapy from diverse cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, we are confident we can help. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, battling depression, seeking to understand your traumas, or curious about the benefits of therapy, we are here to support you. If you have a child or teen in need of guidance, or if you want to explore how therapy can enhance your life, we are committed to helping you navigate your journey towards mental wellness!
(206) 385-1411 View (206) 385-1411
Photo of Eddie Medina, MEd, LMHCA, SUDP, Counselor
Eddie Medina
Counselor, MEd, LMHCA, SUDP
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98055
Waitlist for new clients
My focus revolves around aiding clients who are navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, addiction, thoughts of suicide, post-traumatic stress, & relationship/attachment issues.
I’m a compassionate Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate and Substance Use Disorder Professional, holding a Master of Education degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Seattle University. I passionately support teens and adults, particularly those from underserved backgrounds, in navigating trauma treatment and recovery. My approach is rooted in cultural sensitivity, empathy, and a deep understanding of psychology and spirituality, fostering meaningful connections with my clients. My therapeutic toolbox includes modalities such as MI, CBT, DBT, EFT, & IFS.
My focus revolves around aiding clients who are navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, addiction, thoughts of suicide, post-traumatic stress, & relationship/attachment issues.
I’m a compassionate Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate and Substance Use Disorder Professional, holding a Master of Education degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Seattle University. I passionately support teens and adults, particularly those from underserved backgrounds, in navigating trauma treatment and recovery. My approach is rooted in cultural sensitivity, empathy, and a deep understanding of psychology and spirituality, fostering meaningful connections with my clients. My therapeutic toolbox includes modalities such as MI, CBT, DBT, EFT, & IFS.
(425) 686-9509 View (425) 686-9509
Arthur Levine
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98058  (Online Only)
Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or other emotional issues; or if you want to quit smoking, manage your weight, or change some other habit .
I am committed to helping people get the results they want quickly and effectively. Toward that end, I have studied a broad range of therapeutic approaches, and I endeavor to tailor my work with you to meet your specific needs and temperament. Through my studies and experience, I have learned that the Unconscious Mind is a great resource, full of all our life's learnings, experiences, and wisdom, and that it can be enlisted in the quest for emotional healing, personal growth, and creating lasting changes in one's life.
Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or other emotional issues; or if you want to quit smoking, manage your weight, or change some other habit .
I am committed to helping people get the results they want quickly and effectively. Toward that end, I have studied a broad range of therapeutic approaches, and I endeavor to tailor my work with you to meet your specific needs and temperament. Through my studies and experience, I have learned that the Unconscious Mind is a great resource, full of all our life's learnings, experiences, and wisdom, and that it can be enlisted in the quest for emotional healing, personal growth, and creating lasting changes in one's life.
(206) 504-2651 View (206) 504-2651
Photo of David Flack, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
David Flack
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98055
I have significant experience treating trauma, depression, substance use, behavioral addictions, and LGBTQ+ topics.
Welcome! My name's David Flack. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Substance Use Disorders Professional. For over two decades, I’ve provided counseling to teens and young adults with a wide variety of mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and histories of trauma. I can help you, too. Together, we'll make choices about what to change, identify behaviors to leave behind, and develop the insight and skills needed for the journey ahead.
I have significant experience treating trauma, depression, substance use, behavioral addictions, and LGBTQ+ topics.
Welcome! My name's David Flack. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Substance Use Disorders Professional. For over two decades, I’ve provided counseling to teens and young adults with a wide variety of mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and histories of trauma. I can help you, too. Together, we'll make choices about what to change, identify behaviors to leave behind, and develop the insight and skills needed for the journey ahead.
(206) 693-4784 View (206) 693-4784
Photo of Ed Aronwald, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Ed Aronwald
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98056
I work with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief and loss, family changes, challenging peer relationships and the behaviors that can result from these issues. I have training and experience using Play Therapy and Sandplay, which employ children's natural way of communicating and learning, as well as other therapeutic modalities as appropriate to each individual. My approach is client centered and often non-directive, believing that when children experience emotional safety in a non-judgmental relationship, their inner wisdom naturally emerges to guide their learning, healing and growth.
I work with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief and loss, family changes, challenging peer relationships and the behaviors that can result from these issues. I have training and experience using Play Therapy and Sandplay, which employ children's natural way of communicating and learning, as well as other therapeutic modalities as appropriate to each individual. My approach is client centered and often non-directive, believing that when children experience emotional safety in a non-judgmental relationship, their inner wisdom naturally emerges to guide their learning, healing and growth.
(206) 565-1437 View (206) 565-1437
Photo of Carly Palady Klee, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Palady Klee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
I specialize in working primarily with women and individuals experiencing trauma, depression & anxiety , military, Veterans and teens for over 10 years, utilizing CPT, CBT and ACT Therapy techniques from a Strengths perspective that help my clients heal from PTSD, trauma, anxiety and depression quickly!.
I have approximately 2-3 openings at this time due to Summer Vacations and Military Deployments of clients! Please message your name, best contact information, and insurance type and I will respond after leave. Thank you! I am professionally trained in trauma-focused EMDR, CBT, CPT, and ACT therapy protocols for PTSD, Anxiety, Depression and Chronic Health/Disabilities. As well, I privately coach high-performing women to go from burnout to breakthrough in their careers, with less stress while better juggling family and work-life balance!
I specialize in working primarily with women and individuals experiencing trauma, depression & anxiety , military, Veterans and teens for over 10 years, utilizing CPT, CBT and ACT Therapy techniques from a Strengths perspective that help my clients heal from PTSD, trauma, anxiety and depression quickly!.
I have approximately 2-3 openings at this time due to Summer Vacations and Military Deployments of clients! Please message your name, best contact information, and insurance type and I will respond after leave. Thank you! I am professionally trained in trauma-focused EMDR, CBT, CPT, and ACT therapy protocols for PTSD, Anxiety, Depression and Chronic Health/Disabilities. As well, I privately coach high-performing women to go from burnout to breakthrough in their careers, with less stress while better juggling family and work-life balance!
(360) 516-4489 View (360) 516-4489
Photo of Melissa Romero, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Romero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing via teletherapy. I work with clients ages 10+ struggling with everything from mild anxiety and depression, to life transitions, or a desire to change habits that are no longer serving them. My work relies on evidenced-based treatments rooted in cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness therapies. My goal is to create a safe space to explore how your journey has shaped you and offer opportunities for growth where you might feel stuck.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing via teletherapy. I work with clients ages 10+ struggling with everything from mild anxiety and depression, to life transitions, or a desire to change habits that are no longer serving them. My work relies on evidenced-based treatments rooted in cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness therapies. My goal is to create a safe space to explore how your journey has shaped you and offer opportunities for growth where you might feel stuck.
(253) 553-2757 View (253) 553-2757
Photo of Larkita Demps, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Larkita Demps
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
I am a trauma therapist who understands the stigmas surrounding mental health and how it often prevents individuals from seeking assistance. My goal is to provide a safe counseling space for you to filter through your journey while equipping you with support and resources to guide you on the path to overall wellness. I work with people facing challenges such as life transitions, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Therapy is not always easy, but healing is achievable through a non-judgmental and compassionate environment.
I am a trauma therapist who understands the stigmas surrounding mental health and how it often prevents individuals from seeking assistance. My goal is to provide a safe counseling space for you to filter through your journey while equipping you with support and resources to guide you on the path to overall wellness. I work with people facing challenges such as life transitions, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Therapy is not always easy, but healing is achievable through a non-judgmental and compassionate environment.
(206) 350-5301 View (206) 350-5301
Photo of Victor Campos - Sympatheia Counseling, MA, LMHC, CCTP-II, Counselor
Sympatheia Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98055  (Online Only)
I have clinical experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma and other stress-related disorders.
No one knows you better than yourself. I will never claim to be an expert on you, and so it is up to you to decide the path you want us to take. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief or loss, or other challenges, I am here to support you and provide a space for you to explore your reasons for seeking help, and the goals you would like to work on.
I have clinical experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma and other stress-related disorders.
No one knows you better than yourself. I will never claim to be an expert on you, and so it is up to you to decide the path you want us to take. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief or loss, or other challenges, I am here to support you and provide a space for you to explore your reasons for seeking help, and the goals you would like to work on.
(253) 559-1994 View (253) 559-1994
Photo of Jennifer L Noelke, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer L Noelke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98056  (Online Only)
Hi I’m Jen Noelke (she/her) and welcome to my profile! I consider it an honor to witness the stories and facilitate the growth of my counseling clients. I see clients from age 11 through adulthood with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, post-traumatic symptoms and more. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space for clients to feel seen, process and heal from past experiences and make changes that align with personal values and goals. I have been described by clients and colleagues as genuine, empathic, easy to talk to and down to earth.
Hi I’m Jen Noelke (she/her) and welcome to my profile! I consider it an honor to witness the stories and facilitate the growth of my counseling clients. I see clients from age 11 through adulthood with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, post-traumatic symptoms and more. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space for clients to feel seen, process and heal from past experiences and make changes that align with personal values and goals. I have been described by clients and colleagues as genuine, empathic, easy to talk to and down to earth.
(253) 423-4926 View (253) 423-4926
Photo of Lily E Ramirez, MEd, LMHCA, Counselor
Lily E Ramirez
Counselor, MEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98055  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed mental health counselor associate (LMHCA) working in Western Washington. I work with children and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues. Struggling in any one of these areas can leave you feeling stuck, hopeless, helpless, and frustrated. I am an empathetic therapist who focuses on the client's needs. I will help guide you through these difficult emotions while helping to identify the root cause. I do not want to only help you alleviate the symptoms you experience but help you to deal with the underlying issue(s) at hand.
Hello! I am a licensed mental health counselor associate (LMHCA) working in Western Washington. I work with children and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues. Struggling in any one of these areas can leave you feeling stuck, hopeless, helpless, and frustrated. I am an empathetic therapist who focuses on the client's needs. I will help guide you through these difficult emotions while helping to identify the root cause. I do not want to only help you alleviate the symptoms you experience but help you to deal with the underlying issue(s) at hand.
(253) 243-2389 View (253) 243-2389
Photo of Nikki Eby, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nikki Eby
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98055  (Online Only)
I can offer guidance to help you address challenges that come as a result of depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, grief, substance use or disordered eating.
If you are in a moment of trying to navigate emotional pain, you are in the right place. Reaching out for support takes courage and wisdom. With all the demand on your time, energy and attention, there is an unreasonable expectation for you to have to take care of everything, both in your external life (work, relationships, finances, etc) and internal life (your emotions, thoughts and patterns).
I can offer guidance to help you address challenges that come as a result of depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, grief, substance use or disordered eating.
If you are in a moment of trying to navigate emotional pain, you are in the right place. Reaching out for support takes courage and wisdom. With all the demand on your time, energy and attention, there is an unreasonable expectation for you to have to take care of everything, both in your external life (work, relationships, finances, etc) and internal life (your emotions, thoughts and patterns).
(206) 889-5358 View (206) 889-5358
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.