Photo of Dee Saini, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Dee Saini
Counsellor, BA, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6M
Hi, I’m Dee. I feel it would be an honour to walk beside you on your path to healing. To introduce myself briefly, I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I work with diverse populations and various concerns. I specialize in anxiety, depression and grief, working closely with trauma and relationship issues. My personal journey of self-exploration and deep inner work has led me to become passionate about supporting others. I offer counselling in English, Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu languages to adults, children, couples, and families. I am even certified in play therapy techniques to help children and teens with their healing and growth.
Hi, I’m Dee. I feel it would be an honour to walk beside you on your path to healing. To introduce myself briefly, I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I work with diverse populations and various concerns. I specialize in anxiety, depression and grief, working closely with trauma and relationship issues. My personal journey of self-exploration and deep inner work has led me to become passionate about supporting others. I offer counselling in English, Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu languages to adults, children, couples, and families. I am even certified in play therapy techniques to help children and teens with their healing and growth.
(548) 800-1376 View (548) 800-1376
Photo of Gabriel Patrich in Vancouver, BC
Gabriel Patrich
MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5R
Anxiety, depression, and addictions are symptoms that can be understood.
Before becoming a psychotherapist, I was a practicing physician for 15 years. My Clinical counselling services include Individual, Couples, Family, Addictions, and Immigration issues. I have counselled and motivated individuals to recognize and understand personal needs, problems, alternatives and goals, using a combination of practical problem solving skills and an empathic approach to counselling, successfully helping overcome severe depressions or anxieties. Your therapy sessions with me will be a journey to discover who you are, what you want and what has gotten in the way of achieving your goals. We will work towards improving your daily life. https://gabrielpatrichcounselling.com/
Anxiety, depression, and addictions are symptoms that can be understood.
Before becoming a psychotherapist, I was a practicing physician for 15 years. My Clinical counselling services include Individual, Couples, Family, Addictions, and Immigration issues. I have counselled and motivated individuals to recognize and understand personal needs, problems, alternatives and goals, using a combination of practical problem solving skills and an empathic approach to counselling, successfully helping overcome severe depressions or anxieties. Your therapy sessions with me will be a journey to discover who you are, what you want and what has gotten in the way of achieving your goals. We will work towards improving your daily life. https://gabrielpatrichcounselling.com/
(604) 670-5352 View (604) 670-5352
Photo of Becky Leung, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Becky Leung
Counsellor, RCC, MIOP, MSocSc
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6M  (Online Only)
I specialize in guiding individuals through various life challenges, helping adults, teenagers, children, and families find their way to psychological well-being. My expertise lies in treating a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety (such as panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc.), behavioral problems, relational issues, and parenting challenges. I am also skilled in crisis management, providing support and guidance during times of acute distress.
I specialize in guiding individuals through various life challenges, helping adults, teenagers, children, and families find their way to psychological well-being. My expertise lies in treating a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety (such as panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc.), behavioral problems, relational issues, and parenting challenges. I am also skilled in crisis management, providing support and guidance during times of acute distress.
(581) 880-0343 View (581) 880-0343
Photo of Lance Lindblom, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Lance Lindblom
Counsellor, RCC, MACP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5L
We all need support sometimes. Mental health counselling can be a therapeutic outlet to process difficult emotions, to reconnect with what brings fulfilment to our lives, and to shift our perspective towards self-compassion and kindness towards ourselves. I am excited to connect with individuals and couples seeking counselling services and aim to be adaptive to the needs of all those I work to support. My experience in providing mental health services focuses around managing anxiety and stress, supporting couples in building their connection together, exploring difficulties with depression and mood concerns, and supporting clients
We all need support sometimes. Mental health counselling can be a therapeutic outlet to process difficult emotions, to reconnect with what brings fulfilment to our lives, and to shift our perspective towards self-compassion and kindness towards ourselves. I am excited to connect with individuals and couples seeking counselling services and aim to be adaptive to the needs of all those I work to support. My experience in providing mental health services focuses around managing anxiety and stress, supporting couples in building their connection together, exploring difficulties with depression and mood concerns, and supporting clients
(819) 303-7595 View (819) 303-7595
Photo of Fernanda Selayzin Souza, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Fernanda Selayzin Souza
Counsellor, MEd, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
Challenging events? Life changes? Overwhelmed? Stressed? Needing balance? Struggling with anxiety, relationships, depression, grief, decisions, performance? Looking forward to getting to where you want to be, to achieving your dreams, to fulfilling your potential, or to simply getting back to "normal" again after an overwhelmingly difficult loss or event? Or maybe even for the first time...Being on top of your game or moving on after challenging events or hurtful experiences is not easy. But there are ways through and I can help.
Challenging events? Life changes? Overwhelmed? Stressed? Needing balance? Struggling with anxiety, relationships, depression, grief, decisions, performance? Looking forward to getting to where you want to be, to achieving your dreams, to fulfilling your potential, or to simply getting back to "normal" again after an overwhelmingly difficult loss or event? Or maybe even for the first time...Being on top of your game or moving on after challenging events or hurtful experiences is not easy. But there are ways through and I can help.
(778) 227-2818 View (778) 227-2818
Photo of Jocelyn Chang | Vancouver Counselling Clinic, Licensed Professional Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Jocelyn Chang | Vancouver Counselling Clinic
Licensed Professional Counsellor, MC, CPHR, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6P
Common issues I work with include anxiety, depression, hurtful conflicts, burnout, breakups, and ADHD.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or alone? Therapy can help when life feels challenging, but it can also help when you are seeking growth or change from where you are today. It's okay if you don't feel ready just yet. You're on here and reading this, so that's already a step forward, and every step counts. I've helped people from all walks of life overcome various mental health, work/career, life, family, and relationship challenges. I specialize in working with adult individuals and couples, helping them heal past wounds and trauma. I'm here as a safe harbour for you to feel welcomed, understood, valued, and accepted.
Common issues I work with include anxiety, depression, hurtful conflicts, burnout, breakups, and ADHD.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or alone? Therapy can help when life feels challenging, but it can also help when you are seeking growth or change from where you are today. It's okay if you don't feel ready just yet. You're on here and reading this, so that's already a step forward, and every step counts. I've helped people from all walks of life overcome various mental health, work/career, life, family, and relationship challenges. I specialize in working with adult individuals and couples, helping them heal past wounds and trauma. I'm here as a safe harbour for you to feel welcomed, understood, valued, and accepted.
(506) 406-2417 View (506) 406-2417
Photo of Flavia Braunstein Markman, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Flavia Braunstein Markman
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCPA, CRP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6Z
I provide individual, couple, family and group counselling services to adults, youth and children with personal issues such as anxiety, depression and stress, divorce/separation, family dynamics, eating disorders, relationships and other issues.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor of BCACC-BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (RCC), Member of CRP- Regional Council of Psychology (Brazilian Psychological Association) - Associate member of SPID- Iracy Doyle Psychoanalytic Society, Brazil (IFPS- International Federation of Psychoanalytic Societies, USA. In almost 3 decades of being a Psychologist/ Psychoanalyst in Brazil, I have provided a wide range of direct and coordinating services through mental health centers, hospitals, universities, and private practice. I also have a projects experience presenting and leading and I continue to participate in teachings and trainings
I provide individual, couple, family and group counselling services to adults, youth and children with personal issues such as anxiety, depression and stress, divorce/separation, family dynamics, eating disorders, relationships and other issues.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor of BCACC-BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (RCC), Member of CRP- Regional Council of Psychology (Brazilian Psychological Association) - Associate member of SPID- Iracy Doyle Psychoanalytic Society, Brazil (IFPS- International Federation of Psychoanalytic Societies, USA. In almost 3 decades of being a Psychologist/ Psychoanalyst in Brazil, I have provided a wide range of direct and coordinating services through mental health centers, hospitals, universities, and private practice. I also have a projects experience presenting and leading and I continue to participate in teachings and trainings
(289) 277-5732 View (289) 277-5732
Photo of Yael Heffer, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Yael Heffer
Counsellor, RCC, MA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B
Whether you are feeling anxious & overwhelmed, depressed, stuck or hopeless, grieving or feeling alone, therapy is a place where it is OK to talk about the hard & confusing things, where you get to tell the truth as you see and feel it – your truth. If you experience shame, guilt, disappointment, regret, anger or resentment in your life, counselling gives you an opportunity to understand yourself better without being rushed or judged. Listening to all the parts of you that want to be heard can lead to positive change: A sense of relief, better relationships & sleep, feeling more grounded & living a more meaningful & authentic life.
Whether you are feeling anxious & overwhelmed, depressed, stuck or hopeless, grieving or feeling alone, therapy is a place where it is OK to talk about the hard & confusing things, where you get to tell the truth as you see and feel it – your truth. If you experience shame, guilt, disappointment, regret, anger or resentment in your life, counselling gives you an opportunity to understand yourself better without being rushed or judged. Listening to all the parts of you that want to be heard can lead to positive change: A sense of relief, better relationships & sleep, feeling more grounded & living a more meaningful & authentic life.
(672) 906-1347 View (672) 906-1347
Photo of Virginia Chomley, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Virginia Chomley
Counsellor, MCP:AT, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5Z  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC 15070) in British Columbia with seven years experience in clinical settings and 14 years in health and well-being. I have a Bachelor of Communication (Bond University), a Master of Counselling Psychology (Adler University), and a background in yoga teaching and yoga therapy that informs my holistic approach to mental health and well-being. I see many clients seeking support for unresolved trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress and burnout, and those struggling to find meaning and purpose. I engage in regular clinical supervision and professional development.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC 15070) in British Columbia with seven years experience in clinical settings and 14 years in health and well-being. I have a Bachelor of Communication (Bond University), a Master of Counselling Psychology (Adler University), and a background in yoga teaching and yoga therapy that informs my holistic approach to mental health and well-being. I see many clients seeking support for unresolved trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress and burnout, and those struggling to find meaning and purpose. I engage in regular clinical supervision and professional development.
(581) 333-4026 View (581) 333-4026
Photo of Dr. Michael Dayan, Family Counsellor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Vancouver, BC
Dr. Michael Dayan, Family Counsellor
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6M
I have acquired over 20,000 hours direct clinical experience. I have run depression-treatment psycho-education groups in Outpatient Psychiatry at Vancouver General Hospital. As a university instructor I taught thousands of graduate and undergraduate students. I have mentored practicum and internship students at the beginning of their careers as well as professionals in development. I have been a consultant on Intergenerational and Intercultural communications. I have spoken at corporate events on burnout, corporate divorce, family succession, major life transitions, high-stakes decision-making, and existential crises.
I have acquired over 20,000 hours direct clinical experience. I have run depression-treatment psycho-education groups in Outpatient Psychiatry at Vancouver General Hospital. As a university instructor I taught thousands of graduate and undergraduate students. I have mentored practicum and internship students at the beginning of their careers as well as professionals in development. I have been a consultant on Intergenerational and Intercultural communications. I have spoken at corporate events on burnout, corporate divorce, family succession, major life transitions, high-stakes decision-making, and existential crises.
(778) 761-4400 View (778) 761-4400
Photo of Ellie Dobreva, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Ellie Dobreva
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, parenting, relationships and life transitions, infertility and pregnancy loss, relationship or marriage struggles. We, humans are born as WHOLE beings, we are worthy of love, we crave attachment, safety and connection. Sometimes we experience life events that may make us feel: stressed, angry, lonely, hurt, or unworthy of love. Having experienced trauma, loss and grief in my personal life, I know what it feels like to feel stuck, helpless, and worst of all, hopeless.
I specialize in helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, parenting, relationships and life transitions, infertility and pregnancy loss, relationship or marriage struggles. We, humans are born as WHOLE beings, we are worthy of love, we crave attachment, safety and connection. Sometimes we experience life events that may make us feel: stressed, angry, lonely, hurt, or unworthy of love. Having experienced trauma, loss and grief in my personal life, I know what it feels like to feel stuck, helpless, and worst of all, hopeless.
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Photo of Matty Devenish, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Matty Devenish
Counsellor, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5V
Throughout my work I have supported many people who are struggling with: depression, anxiety, negative thoughts about oneself, addiction, dis-ordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thinking, sexuality, gender identity, sexual orientation, issues related to racism, sexism, homophobia and transphobia, grief and loss, men's issues, anger and frustration. I encourage you to contact me if you are experiencing any of these struggles. Exploration with another person can help us to re-author our relationship to problems and begin to move towards our preferred ways of being in the world.
Throughout my work I have supported many people who are struggling with: depression, anxiety, negative thoughts about oneself, addiction, dis-ordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thinking, sexuality, gender identity, sexual orientation, issues related to racism, sexism, homophobia and transphobia, grief and loss, men's issues, anger and frustration. I encourage you to contact me if you are experiencing any of these struggles. Exploration with another person can help us to re-author our relationship to problems and begin to move towards our preferred ways of being in the world.
(855) 733-8099 View (855) 733-8099
Photo of Phare Counselling, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Phare Counselling
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6Z
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, frustrating and time-consuming. If you’re tired of browsing countless profiles and being added to yet another waitlist, let us help you find the right counsellor. We are Phare. Our mission is to provide accessible counselling without the high costs, long waitlists or confusing processes. We have 25+ therapists who help a wide variety of clients on issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues and trauma. We offer need-based sliding scale rates ($80-$170) so you can access quality counselling when you need it and help others do the same.
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, frustrating and time-consuming. If you’re tired of browsing countless profiles and being added to yet another waitlist, let us help you find the right counsellor. We are Phare. Our mission is to provide accessible counselling without the high costs, long waitlists or confusing processes. We have 25+ therapists who help a wide variety of clients on issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues and trauma. We offer need-based sliding scale rates ($80-$170) so you can access quality counselling when you need it and help others do the same.
(902) 905-6743 View (902) 905-6743
Photo of Natalie Lau, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Natalie Lau
Counsellor, BA, RTC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
I specialize in working with clients who have experienced trauma, family and relationship issues, anxiety and depression, identity and multicultural issues.
My ideal client is looking for mental health support on a journey of self discovery, they want to have a deeper, kinder understanding of themselves along with a willingness to learn some tools to help themselves to create internal stability and clearer connection with self and in relationships.
I specialize in working with clients who have experienced trauma, family and relationship issues, anxiety and depression, identity and multicultural issues.
My ideal client is looking for mental health support on a journey of self discovery, they want to have a deeper, kinder understanding of themselves along with a willingness to learn some tools to help themselves to create internal stability and clearer connection with self and in relationships.
(587) 507-8624 View (587) 507-8624
Photo of Dr. Valerie Caldeira, R.Psych & Associates, Psychologist in Vancouver, BC
Dr. Valerie Caldeira, R.Psych & Associates
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5Z
I am a Registered Psychologist who specializes in therapy for children, adolescents, and adults in Vancouver, BC. I provide evidence-based treatment for clients with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, stress, anger, managing life transitions, chronic pain, and relationship challenges. I am an energetic and friendly psychologist who believes in client-centered, collaborative treatment plans.
I am a Registered Psychologist who specializes in therapy for children, adolescents, and adults in Vancouver, BC. I provide evidence-based treatment for clients with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, stress, anger, managing life transitions, chronic pain, and relationship challenges. I am an energetic and friendly psychologist who believes in client-centered, collaborative treatment plans.
(604) 757-8824 View (604) 757-8824
Photo of Miriam Balen, Registered Social Worker in Vancouver, BC
Miriam Balen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5Z
My name is Miriam Balen and I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work degree. I provide counselling to people ages 13 through to adults of all ages. I have over 25 years experience helping individuals, couples, and families to cope with various concerns. I provide counselling to address: trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress, relationship issues, parenting issues, life transitions, and adolescent issues. As a Registered Clinical Social Worker, I am accountable for my practice through adherence to the British Columbia College of Social Workers Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
My name is Miriam Balen and I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work degree. I provide counselling to people ages 13 through to adults of all ages. I have over 25 years experience helping individuals, couples, and families to cope with various concerns. I provide counselling to address: trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, stress, relationship issues, parenting issues, life transitions, and adolescent issues. As a Registered Clinical Social Worker, I am accountable for my practice through adherence to the British Columbia College of Social Workers Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
(705) 243-3839 View (705) 243-3839
Photo of Clover Zeng, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Clover Zeng
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5R
Clover, with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology, is a Registered Clinical Counsellor in BC. She has experience working with adults, teens, and children. She works with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, anger management, and relationship and all kinds of life changing difficulties.
Clover, with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology, is a Registered Clinical Counsellor in BC. She has experience working with adults, teens, and children. She works with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, anger management, and relationship and all kinds of life changing difficulties.
(343) 342-0330 View (343) 342-0330
Photo of Vanessa Hercun, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Vanessa Hercun
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relational issues, grief, and more.
Hi! My name is Vanessa and I would be honoured to be apart of your journey. I am a therapist from Vancouver, BC that approaches life and its challenges from a holistic perspective. Understandably, there are many other counsellors available and so, it can be overwhelming to choose who you want to work with. A little bit about me: I have been practicing for 3 years now, and am recently registered. I am trauma informed and use a mix of approaches such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT), attachment theory, just to name a few, and am open to learning more.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relational issues, grief, and more.
Hi! My name is Vanessa and I would be honoured to be apart of your journey. I am a therapist from Vancouver, BC that approaches life and its challenges from a holistic perspective. Understandably, there are many other counsellors available and so, it can be overwhelming to choose who you want to work with. A little bit about me: I have been practicing for 3 years now, and am recently registered. I am trauma informed and use a mix of approaches such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT), attachment theory, just to name a few, and am open to learning more.
(236) 304-9240 View (236) 304-9240
Photo of Liz Hagerty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vancouver, BC
Liz Hagerty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck and not sure of where you're going or what's holding you back in life? Feeling lonely, anxious or depressed? Tired of the same and wanting to move forward with something new in life? We often find ourselves repeating patterns of behavior or taking on relationships that prevent us from taking the next step in our lives; however, with support and guidance, you are capable of making sustainable changes that will open you up to the fulfilling experiences and relationships you desire.
Are you feeling stuck and not sure of where you're going or what's holding you back in life? Feeling lonely, anxious or depressed? Tired of the same and wanting to move forward with something new in life? We often find ourselves repeating patterns of behavior or taking on relationships that prevent us from taking the next step in our lives; however, with support and guidance, you are capable of making sustainable changes that will open you up to the fulfilling experiences and relationships you desire.
(778) 763-1407 View (778) 763-1407
Photo of Judy R. Zhu, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Judy R. Zhu
Counsellor, MEd, Dr, TCM, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6J
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, chronic health issues and feeling stressed out? Are you experiencing life-transition and relationship issues, and feeling lost about which direction to go? I am a registered clinical counsellor and also a registered Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine. For over 10 years I have been helping people like you to heal, to handle life's challenges better. I use practical and effective approach to empower you to connect to your inner wisdom and strength. With authentic presence, compassion and perspective, I guide you to your valued path, to move toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, chronic health issues and feeling stressed out? Are you experiencing life-transition and relationship issues, and feeling lost about which direction to go? I am a registered clinical counsellor and also a registered Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine. For over 10 years I have been helping people like you to heal, to handle life's challenges better. I use practical and effective approach to empower you to connect to your inner wisdom and strength. With authentic presence, compassion and perspective, I guide you to your valued path, to move toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
(604) 706-1602 View (604) 706-1602

See more therapy options for Vancouver

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.