Depression Counselling in 3089

Photo of Kristine Lutter, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Kristine Lutter
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
I specialise in anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, self esteem/self worth, guilt, shame, family of origin issues, bullying and people struggling with infertility. My approach is holistic looking at the physical, social, spiritual and emotional aspects. I attempt to ensure clients feel safe and comfortable before they are able to share what has happened to them. With my experience in this industry, I have trained and supervise counsellors. This has helped me to deepen my understanding of what clients need. Available for online throughout Australia.
I specialise in anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, self esteem/self worth, guilt, shame, family of origin issues, bullying and people struggling with infertility. My approach is holistic looking at the physical, social, spiritual and emotional aspects. I attempt to ensure clients feel safe and comfortable before they are able to share what has happened to them. With my experience in this industry, I have trained and supervise counsellors. This has helped me to deepen my understanding of what clients need. Available for online throughout Australia.
(03) 8104 9918 View (03) 8104 9918
Photo of Sara Cahill, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sara Cahill
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
Sara has a warm, compassionate and collaborative approach to therapy.
Sara is an experienced Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years experience working in both the private and public sector. Sara is fully registered with AHRPA, a member of the Australian Psychological Society and a Board-Approved Supervisor. Sara is also a credentialed Eating Disorder clinician.
Sara has a warm, compassionate and collaborative approach to therapy.
Sara is an experienced Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years experience working in both the private and public sector. Sara is fully registered with AHRPA, a member of the Australian Psychological Society and a Board-Approved Supervisor. Sara is also a credentialed Eating Disorder clinician.
(03) 8400 0771 View (03) 8400 0771
Photo of Rachel Drysdale, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Drysdale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
Starting therapy can be confronting but sharing your experiences is the first step in regaining a sense of control and fulfillment.
Rachel Drysdale is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with more than ten years' experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families across the child protection, education and mental health fields. Rachel works with people experiencing a wide range of challenges, including: depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, grief and loss, bullying, life transitions, family and relationship issues.
Starting therapy can be confronting but sharing your experiences is the first step in regaining a sense of control and fulfillment.
Rachel Drysdale is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with more than ten years' experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families across the child protection, education and mental health fields. Rachel works with people experiencing a wide range of challenges, including: depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, grief and loss, bullying, life transitions, family and relationship issues.
(03) 8400 0957 View (03) 8400 0957
Photo of Megan O'Connor - Living and Learning Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Living and Learning Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
Each client brings their own individual needs and preferences, and each psychologist has their own style and skill set.
I am currently accepting new clients. I am a warm and non judgemental psychologist who helps clients create meaningful change and action in their lives. I have particular interests in helping clients navigate difficulties with anxiety, stress, self-esteem, depression, transitions, and individual learning needs. I work with school-aged children (aged 8+) and adults.
Each client brings their own individual needs and preferences, and each psychologist has their own style and skill set.
I am currently accepting new clients. I am a warm and non judgemental psychologist who helps clients create meaningful change and action in their lives. I have particular interests in helping clients navigate difficulties with anxiety, stress, self-esteem, depression, transitions, and individual learning needs. I work with school-aged children (aged 8+) and adults.
(03) 8400 0948 View (03) 8400 0948
Photo of Arman Ouveysi, MBBS
Arman Ouveysi
MBBS
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
Dr Arman does hour long sessions for assessments and offer psychological/psychiatric support or refer to a professional who he feel may be best suited for you.
With a broad range of expertise as a senior mental health GP, Dr. Arman excels in diagnosing complex medical and mental health conditions. Dr. Arman is not only thorough but ensures that every patient feels heard and valued. As a specialist in mental health, he provides expert care for ADHD, Autism, OCD, anxiety, depression, as well as trauma and stress management. In addition to his mental health expertise, Dr. Arman is skilled in addressing complex physical ailments, including fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue, and chronic pain.
Dr Arman does hour long sessions for assessments and offer psychological/psychiatric support or refer to a professional who he feel may be best suited for you.
With a broad range of expertise as a senior mental health GP, Dr. Arman excels in diagnosing complex medical and mental health conditions. Dr. Arman is not only thorough but ensures that every patient feels heard and valued. As a specialist in mental health, he provides expert care for ADHD, Autism, OCD, anxiety, depression, as well as trauma and stress management. In addition to his mental health expertise, Dr. Arman is skilled in addressing complex physical ailments, including fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue, and chronic pain.
(03) 8400 0363 View (03) 8400 0363
Photo of Tim Nolan - Tim Nolan Counselling & Psychotherapy, ACA-L1, Psychotherapist
Tim Nolan Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
Tim offers long term, ongoing counselling and therapy in an environment that creates safety, empathy and non judgemental engagement, with a view to building strong rapport.
Tim has over 10 years counselling & psychotherapy experience in treating clients with trauma, complex mental health and substance abuse presentations. He has worked across various settings including residential rehabilitation, hospitals, psychiatric, 'not for profit' and general counselling. Tim is trained in Schema Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy and Gottman Method Counselling (for couples), and practice CBT, emotional regulation and psychodynamic therapies. Tim is also a qualified Mental Health & AOD (Alcohol and Other Drug) Clinician
Tim offers long term, ongoing counselling and therapy in an environment that creates safety, empathy and non judgemental engagement, with a view to building strong rapport.
Tim has over 10 years counselling & psychotherapy experience in treating clients with trauma, complex mental health and substance abuse presentations. He has worked across various settings including residential rehabilitation, hospitals, psychiatric, 'not for profit' and general counselling. Tim is trained in Schema Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy and Gottman Method Counselling (for couples), and practice CBT, emotional regulation and psychodynamic therapies. Tim is also a qualified Mental Health & AOD (Alcohol and Other Drug) Clinician
(03) 8400 0062 View (03) 8400 0062
Photo of Valerene Chin, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Valerene Chin
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
Life is full of ups and downs, and everyone comes in touch with something very difficult or painful to deal with on one's own from time to time.
I have worked as a psychologist in a variety of settings, including AOD rehab, refuges, women’s organisations (focused on family violence), NDIS realm, and private practice. I work with a broad range of presentations across the lifespan, including personality disorders, complex trauma, bipolar affective disorder, anxiety, depression, chronic illnesses, addictions, autism spectrum disorder, and schizophrenia. I mainly practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, so the way clients relate to themselves, others and the world is often central in the therapy room. Having said this, I also tailor my approach to suit an individual's needs.
Life is full of ups and downs, and everyone comes in touch with something very difficult or painful to deal with on one's own from time to time.
I have worked as a psychologist in a variety of settings, including AOD rehab, refuges, women’s organisations (focused on family violence), NDIS realm, and private practice. I work with a broad range of presentations across the lifespan, including personality disorders, complex trauma, bipolar affective disorder, anxiety, depression, chronic illnesses, addictions, autism spectrum disorder, and schizophrenia. I mainly practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, so the way clients relate to themselves, others and the world is often central in the therapy room. Having said this, I also tailor my approach to suit an individual's needs.
(03) 8400 0503 View (03) 8400 0503
Photo of Suzanne Patricia Pata - White Spaces Creative Arts Therapy (Suzanne Pata), AThR, Counsellor
White Spaces Creative Arts Therapy (Suzanne Pata)
Counsellor, AThR
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
In addition to my therapeutic work, I also have lived carer experience with family violence, PTSD, complex trauma, and alcohol & other drugs.
Hi, I'm Suzanne and my passion is helping to positively support people of all ages through the use of therapeutic creative arts. My approach is individualised, empathic, trauma informed, and supportive and affirming of all genders and neurodiversity. I aim to provide you a with safe, judgement free space, where I can be a companion on your journey to support you with making positive changes in your life. My main areas of interest include mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression, PTSD and Complex PTSD, grief support, coping with the effects of family violence, sexual abuse, and alcohol and other drugs.
In addition to my therapeutic work, I also have lived carer experience with family violence, PTSD, complex trauma, and alcohol & other drugs.
Hi, I'm Suzanne and my passion is helping to positively support people of all ages through the use of therapeutic creative arts. My approach is individualised, empathic, trauma informed, and supportive and affirming of all genders and neurodiversity. I aim to provide you a with safe, judgement free space, where I can be a companion on your journey to support you with making positive changes in your life. My main areas of interest include mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression, PTSD and Complex PTSD, grief support, coping with the effects of family violence, sexual abuse, and alcohol and other drugs.
(03) 8400 0534 View (03) 8400 0534
Photo of Kate Culy, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Kate Culy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
I'm a down-to-earth person with a wealth of life and work experiences, as well as a wide range of training.
Are you going through major change in relationships or work life? Do you doubt or shrink or question yourself regularly? Are you feeling low in mood and anxious more than usual? Do you have negative thoughts that trouble you? Do you notice that you are more reactive? Have you experienced bullying or misuse of power? I believe everyone possesses the inner resources to work through tough times given the right support. I am curious about how my clients experience the world, their unique strengths and skills, and what’s important to them. Different approaches suit different people, and I offer a variety of talk and creative therapies.
I'm a down-to-earth person with a wealth of life and work experiences, as well as a wide range of training.
Are you going through major change in relationships or work life? Do you doubt or shrink or question yourself regularly? Are you feeling low in mood and anxious more than usual? Do you have negative thoughts that trouble you? Do you notice that you are more reactive? Have you experienced bullying or misuse of power? I believe everyone possesses the inner resources to work through tough times given the right support. I am curious about how my clients experience the world, their unique strengths and skills, and what’s important to them. Different approaches suit different people, and I offer a variety of talk and creative therapies.
(03) 8400 0416 View (03) 8400 0416
Photo of Andrew Smith, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Andrew Smith
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
Waitlist for new clients
Andrew places great importance on developing an authentic relationship.
Andrew is a Clinical Psychologist who works with all genders aged 13+. He has a special interest in working with adolescent boys and young men. Andrew assists with a wide range of difficult life circumstances and mental health difficulties. His areas of interest include: anxiety, mood management and emotion regulation, processing trauma and understanding its root causes, developing a positive self image and confidence, healthy sleep habits, strengthening communication and navigating disagreements, academic and occupational success (such as time management, overcoming procrastination, motivation) and positive family dynamics.
Andrew places great importance on developing an authentic relationship.
Andrew is a Clinical Psychologist who works with all genders aged 13+. He has a special interest in working with adolescent boys and young men. Andrew assists with a wide range of difficult life circumstances and mental health difficulties. His areas of interest include: anxiety, mood management and emotion regulation, processing trauma and understanding its root causes, developing a positive self image and confidence, healthy sleep habits, strengthening communication and navigating disagreements, academic and occupational success (such as time management, overcoming procrastination, motivation) and positive family dynamics.
(03) 8400 0407 View (03) 8400 0407
Photo of Dr Cristina Cavezza, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Cristina Cavezza
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
I understand how unresolved trauma, low mood or motivation, and anxious thoughts and feelings can prevent you from moving forward.
I know as a woman, a mother and caring professional, how hard it can be to prioritise oneself when so much of your time is devoted to caring for others. But when we do not hold space for our own healing and recovery, we run the risk of burning ourselves out and hanging onto resentment and anger. We may think we aren't good enough or that we are failing others because we are trying to do it all and to a high standard. Our mood suffers. Our relationships suffer. And most importantly, we suffer. I know that deep down you want to feel good and measure your success based on your own goals and values, not others.
I understand how unresolved trauma, low mood or motivation, and anxious thoughts and feelings can prevent you from moving forward.
I know as a woman, a mother and caring professional, how hard it can be to prioritise oneself when so much of your time is devoted to caring for others. But when we do not hold space for our own healing and recovery, we run the risk of burning ourselves out and hanging onto resentment and anger. We may think we aren't good enough or that we are failing others because we are trying to do it all and to a high standard. Our mood suffers. Our relationships suffer. And most importantly, we suffer. I know that deep down you want to feel good and measure your success based on your own goals and values, not others.
(03) 8400 0482 View (03) 8400 0482
Photo of Natascha Newton, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Natascha Newton
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
Life events, changing circumstances, loss, and stress can sometimes feel overwhelming.
I am driven by a genuine passion to make a lasting impact in the lives of my clients. Rise wellbeing's mission is to offer personalised, high-quality supports that truly meet individual needs, while giving back to the community with affordable and accessible services. We believe in the power of evidence-based, person-centred care, creating a safe, supportive space where clients can thrive. As a registered NDIS provider, we’re also able to work with NDIS participants, offering counselling services that empower you to navigate challenges and achieve meaningful outcomes.
Life events, changing circumstances, loss, and stress can sometimes feel overwhelming.
I am driven by a genuine passion to make a lasting impact in the lives of my clients. Rise wellbeing's mission is to offer personalised, high-quality supports that truly meet individual needs, while giving back to the community with affordable and accessible services. We believe in the power of evidence-based, person-centred care, creating a safe, supportive space where clients can thrive. As a registered NDIS provider, we’re also able to work with NDIS participants, offering counselling services that empower you to navigate challenges and achieve meaningful outcomes.
(03) 8595 5028 View (03) 8595 5028
Photo of Jamie Goodison - Inner Quest Counselling Psychotherapy, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Jamie Goodison - Inner Quest Counselling Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
I provide a straightforward, supportive environment where you can explore your identity and experiences without any fluff.
I offer a supportive, inclusive approach to therapy that respects your unique identity. My services are diverse and client-centered, aimed at improving mental well-being, strengthening relationships, and finding purpose in life. Together, we can work on your self-discovery and growth. Let's start this empowering journey.
I provide a straightforward, supportive environment where you can explore your identity and experiences without any fluff.
I offer a supportive, inclusive approach to therapy that respects your unique identity. My services are diverse and client-centered, aimed at improving mental well-being, strengthening relationships, and finding purpose in life. Together, we can work on your self-discovery and growth. Let's start this empowering journey.
(03) 8400 0535 View (03) 8400 0535
Photo of Sharon Bard - Glasshouse reflections, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Glasshouse reflections
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
Find out If I am the right counsellor for you - visit my website or call for a 15 minute chat.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of your disability or new medical diagnosis? ​Disability and medical diagnosis can cause deep levels of distress, uncertainty, fear and overwhelm. It is a time when lots of new medical information is being presented bringing up both familiar and unfamiliar feelings. This makes it difficult to absorb and unpack information, manage daily tasks, get quality sleep and mobilise. If you have have lived with a disability for some time you might be struggling with a new challenging life moment that is impacting on your happiness and quality of life.
Find out If I am the right counsellor for you - visit my website or call for a 15 minute chat.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of your disability or new medical diagnosis? ​Disability and medical diagnosis can cause deep levels of distress, uncertainty, fear and overwhelm. It is a time when lots of new medical information is being presented bringing up both familiar and unfamiliar feelings. This makes it difficult to absorb and unpack information, manage daily tasks, get quality sleep and mobilise. If you have have lived with a disability for some time you might be struggling with a new challenging life moment that is impacting on your happiness and quality of life.
(03) 8400 0472 View (03) 8400 0472
Photo of Leanne Maree Winter - Mullum Road Clinic, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Mullum Road Clinic
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
Mullum Road Clinic offers a warm and supportive environment with a welcoming team of psychologists, receptionists and therapy dogs.
A Clinical Psychologist and Director of Mullum Rd Clinic (Ringwood, ELTHAM, Warrandyte and Croydon). Working with Neurodivergent individuals.. Unique approach with Therapy dogs and other animals being incorporated into therapy sessions (Animal Assisted Therapy). Also offering Equine Assisted Therapy. These approaches are often sought out by individuals who have found room base therapy to be ineffective. Clients who have an interest in nature, the outdoors and animals are usually drawn to this approach.
Mullum Road Clinic offers a warm and supportive environment with a welcoming team of psychologists, receptionists and therapy dogs.
A Clinical Psychologist and Director of Mullum Rd Clinic (Ringwood, ELTHAM, Warrandyte and Croydon). Working with Neurodivergent individuals.. Unique approach with Therapy dogs and other animals being incorporated into therapy sessions (Animal Assisted Therapy). Also offering Equine Assisted Therapy. These approaches are often sought out by individuals who have found room base therapy to be ineffective. Clients who have an interest in nature, the outdoors and animals are usually drawn to this approach.
(03) 8400 0207 View (03) 8400 0207
Photo of Erin Jones - Erin Jones Therapy (Art and Play Therapy), MA, AThR, Psychotherapist
Erin Jones Therapy (Art and Play Therapy)
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
Art Therapy is a therapeutic technique that can help you to find meaning in a less confronting way to some talk therapies, allowing you to express things that feel impossible with words.
I have a passion working with people to improve their wellbeing and achieve the goals that they set for themselves. I am experienced working with individuals with complex chronic and acute illness and understand the complexities of illness and the impacts this has on a persons mental and emotion state. I also have a large and invested interest in supporting women as they navigate the journey into motherhood (matrescence) and the emotional challenges this can bring along with the change in identity and self. As a mother of 2 young children I understand first hand the day to day challenges being a mother can be.
Art Therapy is a therapeutic technique that can help you to find meaning in a less confronting way to some talk therapies, allowing you to express things that feel impossible with words.
I have a passion working with people to improve their wellbeing and achieve the goals that they set for themselves. I am experienced working with individuals with complex chronic and acute illness and understand the complexities of illness and the impacts this has on a persons mental and emotion state. I also have a large and invested interest in supporting women as they navigate the journey into motherhood (matrescence) and the emotional challenges this can bring along with the change in identity and self. As a mother of 2 young children I understand first hand the day to day challenges being a mother can be.
(03) 8104 9750 View (03) 8104 9750
Photo of Kristin Rogers - Kristin Rogers- Tranquility Psychology , MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kristin Rogers- Tranquility Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
I look forward to speaking to you further about how I can support you.
Kristin enjoys supporting a range of individuals across the lifespan including children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Kristin has a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals (Autism and ADHD) and their supporters across the lifespan. Kristin’s varied experience in community settings (family violence, addiction, mental health, disability), private practice and school settings (primary and secondary) helps her further understand how an individual’s life experiences and envionment intersect and impact wellbeing. Kristin is also able to provide assessments (ADHD, Autism, Educational, Cognitive, FASD).
I look forward to speaking to you further about how I can support you.
Kristin enjoys supporting a range of individuals across the lifespan including children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Kristin has a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals (Autism and ADHD) and their supporters across the lifespan. Kristin’s varied experience in community settings (family violence, addiction, mental health, disability), private practice and school settings (primary and secondary) helps her further understand how an individual’s life experiences and envionment intersect and impact wellbeing. Kristin is also able to provide assessments (ADHD, Autism, Educational, Cognitive, FASD).
(03) 8400 0836 View (03) 8400 0836
Photo of Robyn Frances Tongue - PAWS Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
PAWS Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
I have an approachable, friendly, warm and caring style that supports people of all ages to feel comfortable and open to sharing challenges.
Children and young people needing support. Parenting guidance also offered. Assisting with developmental, behavioural or neurodivergence support or those who would benefit from coaching and mentoring support with life challenges that may result in issues including anxiety, low mood or motivational concerns. Adults with ADHD can be supported via telehealth and linked with workplace support with fully funded assistance so no gap fee. With young children, I incorporate play and therapy dogs as well as other modalities that are relevant which may include CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-education and a range of other therapies
I have an approachable, friendly, warm and caring style that supports people of all ages to feel comfortable and open to sharing challenges.
Children and young people needing support. Parenting guidance also offered. Assisting with developmental, behavioural or neurodivergence support or those who would benefit from coaching and mentoring support with life challenges that may result in issues including anxiety, low mood or motivational concerns. Adults with ADHD can be supported via telehealth and linked with workplace support with fully funded assistance so no gap fee. With young children, I incorporate play and therapy dogs as well as other modalities that are relevant which may include CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-education and a range of other therapies
(03) 8400 0752 View (03) 8400 0752

See more therapy options for 3089

Depression Counsellors

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 recognise 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 behavioural therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioural 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.