Depression Counselling in Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan), VIC

Photo of Geordy Sebastian, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Geordy Sebastian
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Clinical Psychologist currently working in both private practice and Victorian public mental health. I provide individual sessions with people who experience psychological distress to bring about positive change in how they feel and function, in a highly individualized and professional way. My areas of interests include anxieties and phobias, panic disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), self-esteem, adjustment to life changes, anger management, stress and trauma. My therapeutic approach is anchoring on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) incorporates other evidence-based approaches such as ACT, DBT and Mindfulness.
Clinical Psychologist currently working in both private practice and Victorian public mental health. I provide individual sessions with people who experience psychological distress to bring about positive change in how they feel and function, in a highly individualized and professional way. My areas of interests include anxieties and phobias, panic disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), self-esteem, adjustment to life changes, anger management, stress and trauma. My therapeutic approach is anchoring on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) incorporates other evidence-based approaches such as ACT, DBT and Mindfulness.
(03) 7500 5802 View (03) 7500 5802
Photo of Izumi Yamaguchi, MA, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Izumi Yamaguchi
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Elsternwick, VIC 3185
I offer a non-judgemental and empathetic space to clients.
I am passionate to help clients overcome their challenges and take meaningful steps toward a better future. By exploring clients' internal conflicts and working on underlying vulnerabilities, I assist clients in finding ways together to alleviate or solve them.
I offer a non-judgemental and empathetic space to clients.
I am passionate to help clients overcome their challenges and take meaningful steps toward a better future. By exploring clients' internal conflicts and working on underlying vulnerabilities, I assist clients in finding ways together to alleviate or solve them.
(03) 7003 2420 View (03) 7003 2420
Photo of Helen Tang, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Helen Tang
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My therapy style is laidback, warm and flexible.
Oh hey there! I'm Helen, I'm a Registered Psychologist who works with adults and young people aged 16 years and older. I support people who experience a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, grief, depression, self-harming, low self-esteem, social skill development, family conflict, relationship difficulties and trauma. I use elements of Cognitive Behavioural therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), Ego State therapy (Parts work) and solution-focused therapy in my treatment approach.
My therapy style is laidback, warm and flexible.
Oh hey there! I'm Helen, I'm a Registered Psychologist who works with adults and young people aged 16 years and older. I support people who experience a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, grief, depression, self-harming, low self-esteem, social skill development, family conflict, relationship difficulties and trauma. I use elements of Cognitive Behavioural therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), Ego State therapy (Parts work) and solution-focused therapy in my treatment approach.
(02) 4504 0296 View (02) 4504 0296
Photo of Brenda Taylor, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Brenda Taylor
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
I have worked adults and adolescents for many years.
I work with clients to help them feel empowered in a non-judgmental space. I use evidence-based treatment and a warm and caring approach to your mental wellbeing. I work with adults, am neuroaffirming and trauma informed. I also offer coaching for ADHD, more information is on my website focusforwardcourses.com.au. If you'd like to make an appointment feel free to email or leave a message. I work on Mondays and Wednesdays. Please note: I do not Bulk Bill
I have worked adults and adolescents for many years.
I work with clients to help them feel empowered in a non-judgmental space. I use evidence-based treatment and a warm and caring approach to your mental wellbeing. I work with adults, am neuroaffirming and trauma informed. I also offer coaching for ADHD, more information is on my website focusforwardcourses.com.au. If you'd like to make an appointment feel free to email or leave a message. I work on Mondays and Wednesdays. Please note: I do not Bulk Bill
(03) 5924 0088 View (03) 5924 0088
Photo of Tessa Spanneberg, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Tessa Spanneberg
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My purpose is to give you as much help as I can so that you don’t spiral into clinical anxiety, depression, or burnout.
Hello I'm Tessa. For 20 years I worked in the corporate environment where I experienced first-hand work-life-family imbalance which led to burnout and bouts of anxiety which I truly did not understand. After resigning, taking time off, and a career change, I now work in the recovery space as a counsellor and coach supporting people who need help, preferably ‘before’ things spiral out. Most of my work is focussed on prevention. This means, if you ever feel like you’re stressed, worried, or anxious, you now have a place to come and be supported so that we can nip things in the bud and get you back on track quickly and safely.
My purpose is to give you as much help as I can so that you don’t spiral into clinical anxiety, depression, or burnout.
Hello I'm Tessa. For 20 years I worked in the corporate environment where I experienced first-hand work-life-family imbalance which led to burnout and bouts of anxiety which I truly did not understand. After resigning, taking time off, and a career change, I now work in the recovery space as a counsellor and coach supporting people who need help, preferably ‘before’ things spiral out. Most of my work is focussed on prevention. This means, if you ever feel like you’re stressed, worried, or anxious, you now have a place to come and be supported so that we can nip things in the bud and get you back on track quickly and safely.
(03) 7500 5208 View (03) 7500 5208
Photo of Michelle Morris, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Michelle Morris
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
Having extensive experience and training in a range of therapeutic practices , it is likely that we can work together to find what you are needing.
At different times in our lives we may need support and guidance. This may be to overcome unhelpful patterns or resolve painful emotions. Through a collaborative approach I assist people to reconnect with their strengths and inner resources. In addition my Family Therapy training enables me to help people develop more fulfilling relationships.
Having extensive experience and training in a range of therapeutic practices , it is likely that we can work together to find what you are needing.
At different times in our lives we may need support and guidance. This may be to overcome unhelpful patterns or resolve painful emotions. Through a collaborative approach I assist people to reconnect with their strengths and inner resources. In addition my Family Therapy training enables me to help people develop more fulfilling relationships.
(03) 9034 8449 View (03) 9034 8449
Photo of Kyle Miller, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Kyle Miller
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
I work with a variety of presentations, ranging from anxiety, depression, developmental neglect and trauma, relationship challenges, attachment based issues, and emotional regulation.
In my work with clients, I prize the relationship we develop as the means through which support and change occurs. I endeavour for therapy to be a space where a collaborative understanding of what has brought you to this point in life may be developed and shared. I believe that it is from this place that we may then work to develop a pathway forward to treat what is present, foster and deepen insight into what has been, and muster compassion to hold the fullness and uniqueness of your life and story with reverence and care, building a pathway towards a new horizon.
I work with a variety of presentations, ranging from anxiety, depression, developmental neglect and trauma, relationship challenges, attachment based issues, and emotional regulation.
In my work with clients, I prize the relationship we develop as the means through which support and change occurs. I endeavour for therapy to be a space where a collaborative understanding of what has brought you to this point in life may be developed and shared. I believe that it is from this place that we may then work to develop a pathway forward to treat what is present, foster and deepen insight into what has been, and muster compassion to hold the fullness and uniqueness of your life and story with reverence and care, building a pathway towards a new horizon.
(03) 9118 9012 View (03) 9118 9012
Photo of Clarissa Wijaya, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Clarissa Wijaya
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maribyrnong, VIC 3032
I understand that sometimes life can be difficult, maybe things did not go the way you planned or expected them to go, you don't feel understood, you feel hurt, you lost someone, or you feel lost in life.
As someone who had a lived experience of anxiety and depression, I understand that little things can easily overwhelm you. Simple things can feel difficult to do and expend massive nervous energy and effort. Which in turn, makes you feel drained and exhausted. Sometimes to feel better and in control, or even to overcome, you need a listening ear, someone to guide and empower you to make decisions, or encouragement to push through. Other times, you might need interventions for your mental health issues, I can certainly help you with that.
I understand that sometimes life can be difficult, maybe things did not go the way you planned or expected them to go, you don't feel understood, you feel hurt, you lost someone, or you feel lost in life.
As someone who had a lived experience of anxiety and depression, I understand that little things can easily overwhelm you. Simple things can feel difficult to do and expend massive nervous energy and effort. Which in turn, makes you feel drained and exhausted. Sometimes to feel better and in control, or even to overcome, you need a listening ear, someone to guide and empower you to make decisions, or encouragement to push through. Other times, you might need interventions for your mental health issues, I can certainly help you with that.
(03) 8592 7055 View (03) 8592 7055
Photo of Paul Vanderputt, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Paul Vanderputt
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Bentleigh, VIC 3204
If you'd like to develop strategies to manage stress, learn about and change particular life patterns, get on top of your emotions, heal early or recent traumas, or just have the opportunity to talk about and process difficult life events, then contact me on the number above, or email info@adaptivecounselling.
Hi I'm Paul, I'm a registered Psychologist and the Director of Adaptive Counselling and Psychology in Bentleigh. I believe that good therapy means having a good therapeutic relationship, and I take the time to build this before getting stuck into treatment. I see anyone aged 15+ and have a particular focus on working with depression, anxiety (general and social), stress, and trauma.
If you'd like to develop strategies to manage stress, learn about and change particular life patterns, get on top of your emotions, heal early or recent traumas, or just have the opportunity to talk about and process difficult life events, then contact me on the number above, or email info@adaptivecounselling.
Hi I'm Paul, I'm a registered Psychologist and the Director of Adaptive Counselling and Psychology in Bentleigh. I believe that good therapy means having a good therapeutic relationship, and I take the time to build this before getting stuck into treatment. I see anyone aged 15+ and have a particular focus on working with depression, anxiety (general and social), stress, and trauma.
(03) 7003 2513 View (03) 7003 2513
Photo of Dr Zahra Noori, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Zahra Noori
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Maribyrnong, VIC 3032
She works with patients in an empathetic, compassionate and collaborative style to address their concerns, realise personal growth and move forward in a meaningful direction in life using a range of therapeutic modalities with an emphasis on individual tailoring to suit a client’s needs.
Dr Zahra is a psychologist working in both the private and public sector in Victoria. She works with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety in its many forms (e.g., generalised anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder), marriage and relationship issues, stress, anger, life transitions, loss and adjustment, just to name a few.
She works with patients in an empathetic, compassionate and collaborative style to address their concerns, realise personal growth and move forward in a meaningful direction in life using a range of therapeutic modalities with an emphasis on individual tailoring to suit a client’s needs.
Dr Zahra is a psychologist working in both the private and public sector in Victoria. She works with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety in its many forms (e.g., generalised anxiety, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder), marriage and relationship issues, stress, anger, life transitions, loss and adjustment, just to name a few.
(03) 9068 6205 View (03) 9068 6205
Christina Pitter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
Coburg, VIC 3058
In her counselling practice, Christina uses strength-based and self-empowerment frameworks including cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, experiential and somatic therapies and coaching.
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
In her counselling practice, Christina uses strength-based and self-empowerment frameworks including cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, experiential and somatic therapies and coaching.
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
(02) 4504 0245 View (02) 4504 0245
Photo of Michael Dods, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Michael Dods
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
I aim to work with people to help them develop sustainable and meaningful change in their lives.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and I like to help people know themselves more fully and in doing so; become more whole and live life more freely on their terms. I work with anyone no matter their group identity, but I have a special interest in working with men. I am trained/training in Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy and have introductory training in a number of other modalities including Internal Family Systems and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
I aim to work with people to help them develop sustainable and meaningful change in their lives.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and I like to help people know themselves more fully and in doing so; become more whole and live life more freely on their terms. I work with anyone no matter their group identity, but I have a special interest in working with men. I am trained/training in Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy and have introductory training in a number of other modalities including Internal Family Systems and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
(03) 7003 2393 View (03) 7003 2393
Photo of Craig Parker, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Craig Parker
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Beaumaris, VIC 3193
Taking the first step towards therapy can feel daunting, but it's also the beginning of positive change.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or life's challenges? Perhaps you're struggling with relationship issues, work stress, or finding direction in life. Many of my clients initially feel stuck, unsure how to move forward, and looking for real, lasting change. Whether you're dealing with persistent worries, low mood, or navigating difficult life transitions, you're seeking a space where you can feel heard and understood while developing practical skills to improve your wellbeing.
Taking the first step towards therapy can feel daunting, but it's also the beginning of positive change.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or life's challenges? Perhaps you're struggling with relationship issues, work stress, or finding direction in life. Many of my clients initially feel stuck, unsure how to move forward, and looking for real, lasting change. Whether you're dealing with persistent worries, low mood, or navigating difficult life transitions, you're seeking a space where you can feel heard and understood while developing practical skills to improve your wellbeing.
(03) 8771 5054 View (03) 8771 5054
Photo of Vivek Mohan - Let's Talk Mate, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Let's Talk Mate
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
If you need support, or someone to talk to, or are concerned about your (or someone close to you) mental health or substance use, please don't hesitate to contact me.
With years of experience in private practice, corrections, and community settings, I am a skilled Forensic Counsellor, Assessor, and Psychotherapist who has worked extensively with adolescents, adults, and families. As a member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), my focus is on helping people who are feeling overwhelmed and stressed, struggling with anxiety or depression, dealing with drug and alcohol use, or trying to support someone with substance use issues. I recognize that these challenges can be complex and multifaceted, and I customize therapy to meet your unique needs, drawing on a range of approaches.
If you need support, or someone to talk to, or are concerned about your (or someone close to you) mental health or substance use, please don't hesitate to contact me.
With years of experience in private practice, corrections, and community settings, I am a skilled Forensic Counsellor, Assessor, and Psychotherapist who has worked extensively with adolescents, adults, and families. As a member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), my focus is on helping people who are feeling overwhelmed and stressed, struggling with anxiety or depression, dealing with drug and alcohol use, or trying to support someone with substance use issues. I recognize that these challenges can be complex and multifaceted, and I customize therapy to meet your unique needs, drawing on a range of approaches.
(03) 7500 5670 View (03) 7500 5670
Photo of Daniela De Fazio - Launch Psychology, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Launch Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Essendon, VIC 3040
Whether you are adjusting to life as a new parent, making work or other life transitions, making sense of your thinking skills for study or work, dealing with the tough stuff of life, or wanting to perform at the top of your game, we'd love to be part of your launch.
Our philosophy is pretty simple. We believe in you. We want you to be the best version of yourself and we can join you on that journey. Our team at Launch Psychology, Dr. Daniela De Fazio, Dr. Brooke Davis, Dr. Kirrily Rogers and Dr. Ann Sloan, have a practical approach to understanding the psychology of where you are and where you'd like to go. Our focus is on using psychology and neuropsychology frameworks to help you develop the skills and habits to respond flexibly to whatever life deals you.
Whether you are adjusting to life as a new parent, making work or other life transitions, making sense of your thinking skills for study or work, dealing with the tough stuff of life, or wanting to perform at the top of your game, we'd love to be part of your launch.
Our philosophy is pretty simple. We believe in you. We want you to be the best version of yourself and we can join you on that journey. Our team at Launch Psychology, Dr. Daniela De Fazio, Dr. Brooke Davis, Dr. Kirrily Rogers and Dr. Ann Sloan, have a practical approach to understanding the psychology of where you are and where you'd like to go. Our focus is on using psychology and neuropsychology frameworks to help you develop the skills and habits to respond flexibly to whatever life deals you.
(03) 8595 5294 View (03) 8595 5294
Photo of Linnea Reddie - Vine Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Vine Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Mont Albert, VIC 3127
I am passionate about helping my clients build resilience and develop healthier coping strategies, allowing them to lead more fulfilling lives.
I provide a supportive and empathetic environment where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and life challenges. My approach combines evidence-based therapeutic techniques with respect for the unique experiences and perspectives of each individual. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and my goal is to empower clients to develop a better understanding of themselves and make meaningful changes in their lives.
I am passionate about helping my clients build resilience and develop healthier coping strategies, allowing them to lead more fulfilling lives.
I provide a supportive and empathetic environment where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and life challenges. My approach combines evidence-based therapeutic techniques with respect for the unique experiences and perspectives of each individual. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and my goal is to empower clients to develop a better understanding of themselves and make meaningful changes in their lives.
(03) 7500 5927 View (03) 7500 5927
Photo of Margaret Baker, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Margaret Baker
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
I understand that working on your mental health can be hard.
Creating a therapeutic space that feels warm, caring and compassionate is my primary focus. People come to therapy with a desire to feel better, typically at times of change and transition, when they may feel stuck, unmotivated or unfulfilled in their lives. This is a hard place to be, so finding a Psychologist who understands you is important. I help adults experiencing challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD and grief to find clarity. Together, we can process your distressing experiences while creating an internal sense of security and confidence, so you can lead the life you want to live.
I understand that working on your mental health can be hard.
Creating a therapeutic space that feels warm, caring and compassionate is my primary focus. People come to therapy with a desire to feel better, typically at times of change and transition, when they may feel stuck, unmotivated or unfulfilled in their lives. This is a hard place to be, so finding a Psychologist who understands you is important. I help adults experiencing challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD and grief to find clarity. Together, we can process your distressing experiences while creating an internal sense of security and confidence, so you can lead the life you want to live.
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Photo of Claire Raworth - Claire Raworth Counselling, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire Raworth Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coburg, VIC 3058
I am happy to discuss any questions you may have to help you decide if I am the right counsellor for you, without any obligation to proceed.
I am an empathetic, compassionate and experienced counsellor who utilises a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to assist you to make positive changes in your life. I have been a social worker for many years and in that time have provided counselling and support to a wide range of people. I can support you with various issues such as life transitions, work stress, relationship and parenting challenges, grief & loss, anxiety and depression. I am a fully Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and so you can claim a rebate from Medicare for my services of $85.00.
I am happy to discuss any questions you may have to help you decide if I am the right counsellor for you, without any obligation to proceed.
I am an empathetic, compassionate and experienced counsellor who utilises a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to assist you to make positive changes in your life. I have been a social worker for many years and in that time have provided counselling and support to a wide range of people. I can support you with various issues such as life transitions, work stress, relationship and parenting challenges, grief & loss, anxiety and depression. I am a fully Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and so you can claim a rebate from Medicare for my services of $85.00.
(03) 8338 4975 View (03) 8338 4975
Photo of Laura Smolcic - The Psychology and Therapy Clinic, Laura Smolcic, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
The Psychology and Therapy Clinic, Laura Smolcic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sydenham, VIC 3037
It is a difficult step to reach out and talk to a psychologist who you have never met.
I have worked in a range of settings for over 15 years as a Clinical Psychologist and I am passionate and dedicated to provide you with care, compassion and individually tailored- therapy. I feel fortunate to have been able to provide care to my clients over the years. I use a range of evidence-based psychological therapies for Depression and Anxiety disorders, Trauma , Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, Work issues and Adjustment Disorders , Perfectionism and Eating Disorders. I am particularly passionate about teaching & assisting clients in areas concerning body image issues, weight management, dysfunctional & disordered eating.
It is a difficult step to reach out and talk to a psychologist who you have never met.
I have worked in a range of settings for over 15 years as a Clinical Psychologist and I am passionate and dedicated to provide you with care, compassion and individually tailored- therapy. I feel fortunate to have been able to provide care to my clients over the years. I use a range of evidence-based psychological therapies for Depression and Anxiety disorders, Trauma , Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, Work issues and Adjustment Disorders , Perfectionism and Eating Disorders. I am particularly passionate about teaching & assisting clients in areas concerning body image issues, weight management, dysfunctional & disordered eating.
(03) 7302 2007 View (03) 7302 2007
Photo of Dr Samara Wilson (Clinical Psychologist), PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Samara Wilson (Clinical Psychologist)
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Online Only
Send me an email and we can make a time for a brief chat to see if we are a good fit.
Hi, I'm Samara, a clinical psychologist. I work with young adults and adults experiencing a range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, life transitions, chronic pain, health conditions, eating disorders, and first responder PTSD.
Send me an email and we can make a time for a brief chat to see if we are a good fit.
Hi, I'm Samara, a clinical psychologist. I work with young adults and adults experiencing a range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, life transitions, chronic pain, health conditions, eating disorders, and first responder PTSD.
(03) 8338 1470 View (03) 8338 1470
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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.