Depression Therapists in Glendale, WI

Photo of Thomas Galten, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas Galten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
He is accustomed to addressing all concerns which people typically bring to counseling, including depression, anxiety, drug/alcohol abuse, couples’ issues, parent/child concerns and bereavement.
Thomas Galten is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and clinical substance abuse counselor (CSAC) working with individual adults, couples and families with children. He has been practicing since 1994, when he graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a master’s degree in social work (MSW). Tom’s therapy style is relaxed and reflective and he seeks always to create and encourage an atmosphere of trust, good will and rapport with those who come to him for counseling. He is client-centered and strengths-based and believes in the client’s capacity to achieve higher levels of empowerment, freedom, happiness.
He is accustomed to addressing all concerns which people typically bring to counseling, including depression, anxiety, drug/alcohol abuse, couples’ issues, parent/child concerns and bereavement.
Thomas Galten is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and clinical substance abuse counselor (CSAC) working with individual adults, couples and families with children. He has been practicing since 1994, when he graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a master’s degree in social work (MSW). Tom’s therapy style is relaxed and reflective and he seeks always to create and encourage an atmosphere of trust, good will and rapport with those who come to him for counseling. He is client-centered and strengths-based and believes in the client’s capacity to achieve higher levels of empowerment, freedom, happiness.
(414) 420-0523 View (414) 420-0523
Photo of Dennis L Merritt, PhD, LCSW, SC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dennis L Merritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, SC
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Life is a journey and the secret to fulfillment is learning how to journey well. Everyone gets stuck at various points on the journey. Symptoms then emerge that vary with the individual, such as depression, anxiety, compulsions, sleep problems, etc. When we need help, we look for someone with experience and a good psychological base to help us discover why we are stuck and how we keep ourselves stuck. We want someone who will help us find our voice and not superimpose their beliefs and judgments on us. My Jungian ecopsychology framework also helps those who are worried about environmental issues .
Life is a journey and the secret to fulfillment is learning how to journey well. Everyone gets stuck at various points on the journey. Symptoms then emerge that vary with the individual, such as depression, anxiety, compulsions, sleep problems, etc. When we need help, we look for someone with experience and a good psychological base to help us discover why we are stuck and how we keep ourselves stuck. We want someone who will help us find our voice and not superimpose their beliefs and judgments on us. My Jungian ecopsychology framework also helps those who are worried about environmental issues .
(414) 369-2949 View (414) 369-2949
Photo of Amy Perkins, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Perkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Amy is a licensed therapist who provides individual therapy for children, adolescents, and adults, which may include psychoeducation and supportive work with families and guardians. Her experience includes working with ADHD, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, and autism spectrum disorders. Amy utilizes a person-centered and strength-based approach to empower clients to identify their strengths and help them utilize these strengths to succeed in life. She also helps clients learn the impact their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors have on their overall well-being.
Amy is a licensed therapist who provides individual therapy for children, adolescents, and adults, which may include psychoeducation and supportive work with families and guardians. Her experience includes working with ADHD, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, and autism spectrum disorders. Amy utilizes a person-centered and strength-based approach to empower clients to identify their strengths and help them utilize these strengths to succeed in life. She also helps clients learn the impact their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors have on their overall well-being.
(414) 800-9835 View (414) 800-9835
Photo of Nicholas Salazar, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicholas Salazar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, WI 53209
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed professional counselor with experience helping patients managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and borderline personality disorder.
Are you feeling unsure of what to do or where to go next? Stuck in habits that have kept you safe but are wishing there may be some other way to live? If you feel like you may want to find a little bit more to enjoy out of life and to have a space to find support in putting down the weight of your day-to-day, to help learn new skills to manage stress, regulate emotions, and to explore the possibilities of a life worth living then you’ve come to the right place. Whether it's a space to talk things through, or explore new ideas, I'd be more than happy to help where I can. Currently my most common availability is every other week.
I am a licensed professional counselor with experience helping patients managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and borderline personality disorder.
Are you feeling unsure of what to do or where to go next? Stuck in habits that have kept you safe but are wishing there may be some other way to live? If you feel like you may want to find a little bit more to enjoy out of life and to have a space to find support in putting down the weight of your day-to-day, to help learn new skills to manage stress, regulate emotions, and to explore the possibilities of a life worth living then you’ve come to the right place. Whether it's a space to talk things through, or explore new ideas, I'd be more than happy to help where I can. Currently my most common availability is every other week.
(414) 667-6101 View (414) 667-6101
Photo of Emma Low, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emma Low
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Emma is a Licensed professional Counselor with over 23 years of clinical experience working in residential and outpatient settings in England and the United States. Emma works with children, teenagers and adults experiencing distress that is negatively impacting their emotional well-being, close relationships, and social, school or work functioning. Her specialty areas include but are not limited to individuals with long standing difficulties associated with past traumatic events, depression, OCD and other anxiety related problems. Emma also works with couples and families to improve communication and manage conflict.
Emma is a Licensed professional Counselor with over 23 years of clinical experience working in residential and outpatient settings in England and the United States. Emma works with children, teenagers and adults experiencing distress that is negatively impacting their emotional well-being, close relationships, and social, school or work functioning. Her specialty areas include but are not limited to individuals with long standing difficulties associated with past traumatic events, depression, OCD and other anxiety related problems. Emma also works with couples and families to improve communication and manage conflict.
(414) 626-1617 View (414) 626-1617
Photo of Lisa Schneider, LPC, Counselor
Lisa Schneider
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Schneider has worked extensively with people of all ages with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression management and life skills.
Lisa Schneider is a 2012 graduate of Mount Mary University earning a Master's of Science degree in Art Therapy. She is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Wisconsin as well as a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Ms. Schneider specializes in working with children and adolescents having previous experience at a residential school for special needs children/adolescents and acute care.
Schneider has worked extensively with people of all ages with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression management and life skills.
Lisa Schneider is a 2012 graduate of Mount Mary University earning a Master's of Science degree in Art Therapy. She is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Wisconsin as well as a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Ms. Schneider specializes in working with children and adolescents having previous experience at a residential school for special needs children/adolescents and acute care.
(414) 441-3652 View (414) 441-3652
Photo of Gina Yauck, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Yauck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Gina Yauck is a Master's prepared Psychotherapist who received her degree from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy. She is a relationship therapist who works with adults, couples and families. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief and self esteem issues. Gina enjoys working with women's issues throughout the lifespan including career counseling, dating and marriage, parenting, menopause and retirement.
Gina Yauck is a Master's prepared Psychotherapist who received her degree from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy. She is a relationship therapist who works with adults, couples and families. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief and self esteem issues. Gina enjoys working with women's issues throughout the lifespan including career counseling, dating and marriage, parenting, menopause and retirement.
(414) 348-5626 View (414) 348-5626
Photo of Carin A Pittleman, LCSW, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carin A Pittleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Are you feeling stressed out and overwhelmed? Seeing a therapist can be scary and takes courage. I use a Strength Based approach to deal with issues including anxiety, depression, health related issues, grief and loss, relationships, life transitions and parenting. By listening to you, reflecting and sharing information we will explore your thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and behaviors in a gentle, safe and understanding environment. I am passionate about helping you think "outside the box" with regard to your personal development to regain confidence and hope.
Are you feeling stressed out and overwhelmed? Seeing a therapist can be scary and takes courage. I use a Strength Based approach to deal with issues including anxiety, depression, health related issues, grief and loss, relationships, life transitions and parenting. By listening to you, reflecting and sharing information we will explore your thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and behaviors in a gentle, safe and understanding environment. I am passionate about helping you think "outside the box" with regard to your personal development to regain confidence and hope.
(262) 429-9629 View (262) 429-9629
Photo of Emily Alexander, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Alexander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53209
With a passion for helping clients through significant life changes, Emily specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and gender identity issues. She is particularly committed to supporting individuals during midlife transitions, recognizing the unique challenges that come with this stage of life. Emily integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) into her practice, ensuring that her clients receive wellrounded and effective care.
With a passion for helping clients through significant life changes, Emily specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and gender identity issues. She is particularly committed to supporting individuals during midlife transitions, recognizing the unique challenges that come with this stage of life. Emily integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) into her practice, ensuring that her clients receive wellrounded and effective care.
(414) 261-6762 View (414) 261-6762
Photo of Kristi Sook, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristi Sook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53209
Kristi has extensive experience working with individuals seeking help for depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder PTSD , adjustment disorders, grief and loss, relationship/family issues, substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders.
Kristi Sook is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor. She earned her Master of Social Work degree at UW-Milwaukee where her training focused on the treatment of mental health and trauma counseling. Kristi completed her alcohol and drug counseling coursework at Moraine Park Technical College. Kristi works with clients age 16 and older. Kristi is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing EMDR and specializes in working with trauma.
Kristi has extensive experience working with individuals seeking help for depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder PTSD , adjustment disorders, grief and loss, relationship/family issues, substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders.
Kristi Sook is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor. She earned her Master of Social Work degree at UW-Milwaukee where her training focused on the treatment of mental health and trauma counseling. Kristi completed her alcohol and drug counseling coursework at Moraine Park Technical College. Kristi works with clients age 16 and older. Kristi is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing EMDR and specializes in working with trauma.
(414) 867-2415 View (414) 867-2415
Photo of Anne Repaci, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne Repaci
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
I am a Master's prepared psychotherapist with a Rehabilitation Psychology Degree from UW - Madison. I have widespread experience in providing therapy in the areas of adjustment disorders in individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities - with extensive experience in brain injury, as well as, depression, anxiety, stress management, pain management, addiction issues, relational issues, and health and wellbeing.
I am a Master's prepared psychotherapist with a Rehabilitation Psychology Degree from UW - Madison. I have widespread experience in providing therapy in the areas of adjustment disorders in individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities - with extensive experience in brain injury, as well as, depression, anxiety, stress management, pain management, addiction issues, relational issues, and health and wellbeing.
(414) 441-6477 View (414) 441-6477
Photo of Nicholas Salazar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicholas Salazar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53209
Nico Salazar (whose current availability is every other week) is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2021. He graduated from Marquette University. Nico aims to help clients by offering a validating and warm space to share their challenges and take the time to work together to develop a plan. He utilizes evidenced-based approaches and skills from CBT and DBT to find a path forward and allow clients to break out of old unhelpful habits. Nico has experience working with patients struggling with Eating Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Nico Salazar (whose current availability is every other week) is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2021. He graduated from Marquette University. Nico aims to help clients by offering a validating and warm space to share their challenges and take the time to work together to develop a plan. He utilizes evidenced-based approaches and skills from CBT and DBT to find a path forward and allow clients to break out of old unhelpful habits. Nico has experience working with patients struggling with Eating Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
(414) 441-6586 View (414) 441-6586
Photo of Bradley Dexter, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bradley Dexter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53209
Bradley Dexter (he, him, his) is a Licensed Professional Counselor. He specializes in depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, mood and trauma related disorders, and gender and sexual identity. Bradley has over 20-years’ experience with corporate learning and development with experience with career exploration and finding meaning centered around goal planning and treatment. Bradley treats individual 18 and above with a focus on psychotherapy for adults, seniors, and patients from clinical outpatient environments. He is a strong advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Bradley Dexter (he, him, his) is a Licensed Professional Counselor. He specializes in depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, mood and trauma related disorders, and gender and sexual identity. Bradley has over 20-years’ experience with corporate learning and development with experience with career exploration and finding meaning centered around goal planning and treatment. Bradley treats individual 18 and above with a focus on psychotherapy for adults, seniors, and patients from clinical outpatient environments. He is a strong advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.
(608) 413-4312 View (608) 413-4312
Photo of Joshua Dolan, PhD, Psychologist
Joshua Dolan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
It takes courage to open up about divorce, relationship issues, long-term depression, anxiety, retirement, anger, grief, or other personal issues.
Maybe you are dealing with a chronic issue like depression or anxiety and have tried other avenues before. Perhaps you are dealing with or contemplating a major life change. A safe environment and neutral party can help you get your life back on track and reach your goals. I believe that healing and growth is a personal change process that happens in the context of a caring, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship based upon research supported techniques. I will work collaboratively with you to figure out where you want to go and determine the best path to get there.
It takes courage to open up about divorce, relationship issues, long-term depression, anxiety, retirement, anger, grief, or other personal issues.
Maybe you are dealing with a chronic issue like depression or anxiety and have tried other avenues before. Perhaps you are dealing with or contemplating a major life change. A safe environment and neutral party can help you get your life back on track and reach your goals. I believe that healing and growth is a personal change process that happens in the context of a caring, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship based upon research supported techniques. I will work collaboratively with you to figure out where you want to go and determine the best path to get there.
(414) 614-6789 View (414) 614-6789
Photo of Zach Meyer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zach Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, WI 53209
Are you struggling in ways you don't feel equipped to handle? Anxiety, depression, academic issues, or changes in your eating or sleeping habits? It's okay! You aren't supposed to have all the answers. Getting professional support now can give you a lifetime of better mental health by teaching you the skills you need to succeed in an environment that feels safe and supportive.
Are you struggling in ways you don't feel equipped to handle? Anxiety, depression, academic issues, or changes in your eating or sleeping habits? It's okay! You aren't supposed to have all the answers. Getting professional support now can give you a lifetime of better mental health by teaching you the skills you need to succeed in an environment that feels safe and supportive.
(414) 501-7237 View (414) 501-7237
Photo of Melanie Wasserman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Wasserman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Melanie's areas of expertise include but are not limited to: Divorce and separation, parenting challenges, grief and loss issues, adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, women's issues, and relationship issues.
Melanie Wasserman provides psychotherapy to individuals 17 and older. She received her Master in Social Work degree from UW - Milwaukee, where her training focused on mental health, trauma counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Melanie has practiced psychotherapy since 1999 and her therapeutic approach to treatment includes Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Emotional Focused and Insight Oriented Therapy. Additionally, Melanie is skilled in group therapy and facilitating psycho-educational and bereavement groups.
Melanie's areas of expertise include but are not limited to: Divorce and separation, parenting challenges, grief and loss issues, adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, women's issues, and relationship issues.
Melanie Wasserman provides psychotherapy to individuals 17 and older. She received her Master in Social Work degree from UW - Milwaukee, where her training focused on mental health, trauma counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Melanie has practiced psychotherapy since 1999 and her therapeutic approach to treatment includes Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Emotional Focused and Insight Oriented Therapy. Additionally, Melanie is skilled in group therapy and facilitating psycho-educational and bereavement groups.
(414) 404-7967 View (414) 404-7967
Photo of Jennifer Reisel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Reisel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53209
Areas of specialty include: Trauma, adults with high functioning autism, depression, anxiety, grief, supporting those who care for individuals with special needs and individuals with medical issues.
Jennifer Reisel has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 20 years. Jennifer graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a Master's Degree in Social Work as well as a Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Before becoming a social worker, Jennifer earned degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign in teaching English (Bachelor's) and English as a second language (Master's). With hope and compassion, Jennifer helps clients identify unhelpful negative beliefs and behaviors and learn how to choose life-giving positive beliefs and behaviors instead.
Areas of specialty include: Trauma, adults with high functioning autism, depression, anxiety, grief, supporting those who care for individuals with special needs and individuals with medical issues.
Jennifer Reisel has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 20 years. Jennifer graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a Master's Degree in Social Work as well as a Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Before becoming a social worker, Jennifer earned degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign in teaching English (Bachelor's) and English as a second language (Master's). With hope and compassion, Jennifer helps clients identify unhelpful negative beliefs and behaviors and learn how to choose life-giving positive beliefs and behaviors instead.
(414) 441-5593 View (414) 441-5593
Photo of Catherine Wright, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
My experience has allowed me to work with people who cope with mood disorders, depression, substance use disorders and similar addictions such as gambling or spending, borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and OCD/anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety, hair pulling or skin picking.
I am a licensed mental health & substance abuse counselor working with people ages 18+. I appreciate the diversity of human beings and welcome all individuals; I do my best to be an ally. I have worked in the behavioral health/substance use field since 1990, obtaining my Masters in Social Work in 2017. I've worked in a variety of areas: direct care, admissions, completing insurance reviews and advocating for care, so I can offer a unique perspective on the continuum of care and the in's and out's of getting the treatment that is best for you.
My experience has allowed me to work with people who cope with mood disorders, depression, substance use disorders and similar addictions such as gambling or spending, borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and OCD/anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety, hair pulling or skin picking.
I am a licensed mental health & substance abuse counselor working with people ages 18+. I appreciate the diversity of human beings and welcome all individuals; I do my best to be an ally. I have worked in the behavioral health/substance use field since 1990, obtaining my Masters in Social Work in 2017. I've worked in a variety of areas: direct care, admissions, completing insurance reviews and advocating for care, so I can offer a unique perspective on the continuum of care and the in's and out's of getting the treatment that is best for you.
(414) 348-0656 View (414) 348-0656
Photo of Janice Bourke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice Bourke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Jan is a licensed psychotherapist who has been practicing in the Milwaukee area for over 25 years in both in-patient and outpatient settings. While working with some adolescents, she primarily sees adults experiencing such difficulties as depression, anxiety, addictions, co-dependency, verbal abuse, grief and workplace stresses. She deals with relationship issues both with individuals and couples. A specialty area of Jan's is integrating spirituality into treatment to promote well-being and help alleviate symptoms.
Jan is a licensed psychotherapist who has been practicing in the Milwaukee area for over 25 years in both in-patient and outpatient settings. While working with some adolescents, she primarily sees adults experiencing such difficulties as depression, anxiety, addictions, co-dependency, verbal abuse, grief and workplace stresses. She deals with relationship issues both with individuals and couples. A specialty area of Jan's is integrating spirituality into treatment to promote well-being and help alleviate symptoms.
(414) 441-6639 View (414) 441-6639
Photo of Alexander Yundt, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexander Yundt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Glendale, WI 53217
He specializes in trauma, anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, sexualized behaviors, and cognitive challenges.
As the owner of Psychological Health Sanctuary, Alexander views clients as the experts of themselves, and clinicians as the experts of theory and application. Together a positive change can be made to develop new ways of experiencing life.
He specializes in trauma, anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, sexualized behaviors, and cognitive challenges.
As the owner of Psychological Health Sanctuary, Alexander views clients as the experts of themselves, and clinicians as the experts of theory and application. Together a positive change can be made to develop new ways of experiencing life.
(414) 246-8713 View (414) 246-8713
1
Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.