Photo of Kristina Coda, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Kristina Coda
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8M  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, and relationships, I also specialize in identity issues, and religious trauma.
I provide a non-judgmental, confidential, responsive space to process, gain insight, knowledge and strategies, and work towards resolution. Using an integrative, client-centered approach, with elements of Narrative Therapy, CBT, EFT, etc., I primarily work through the exploration of relationship dynamics and patterns, addressing attachment wounds, and using a focus on emotions and cognition. Perhaps you are dissatisfied with your relationships, or are not getting along with a family member or co-worker, are feeling alone or stressed? Compassion and empathy based, I encourage self-compassion, self-acceptance and authentic self-expression.
In addition to stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, and relationships, I also specialize in identity issues, and religious trauma.
I provide a non-judgmental, confidential, responsive space to process, gain insight, knowledge and strategies, and work towards resolution. Using an integrative, client-centered approach, with elements of Narrative Therapy, CBT, EFT, etc., I primarily work through the exploration of relationship dynamics and patterns, addressing attachment wounds, and using a focus on emotions and cognition. Perhaps you are dissatisfied with your relationships, or are not getting along with a family member or co-worker, are feeling alone or stressed? Compassion and empathy based, I encourage self-compassion, self-acceptance and authentic self-expression.
(365) 598-5830 View (365) 598-5830
Photo of Katie Ritchie, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Katie Ritchie
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8H
My name is Katie Ritchie and I support individuals with a wide variety of a personal challenges in a collaborative and strength-based manner. I welcome clients with diverse needs and backgrounds. I have extensive experience working with individuals suffering from anxiety (including intrusive thoughts, panic attacks, social phobia), depression, life transitions, addictions, and LGBT/non-binary issues.
My name is Katie Ritchie and I support individuals with a wide variety of a personal challenges in a collaborative and strength-based manner. I welcome clients with diverse needs and backgrounds. I have extensive experience working with individuals suffering from anxiety (including intrusive thoughts, panic attacks, social phobia), depression, life transitions, addictions, and LGBT/non-binary issues.
(289) 203-2072 View (289) 203-2072
Photo of Nathan J Cooper And Associates, Psychologist in Hamilton, ON
Nathan J Cooper And Associates
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8L
Dr. Cooper and his associates, Joel Schramm, Maryam Rahat and Carlin Palme, offer care for individuals and couples dealing with concerns that are getting in the way of fully functioning both personally and socially. Common concerns include: anxiety, depression, substance use, procrastination, trauma, self-esteem, relationship conflict, career indecision, and many others. Maryam Rahat is focused on providing support to individuals in managing ADHD including associated issues of organization and behavioural addiction. Maryam is also fluent in Farsi and Arabic.
Dr. Cooper and his associates, Joel Schramm, Maryam Rahat and Carlin Palme, offer care for individuals and couples dealing with concerns that are getting in the way of fully functioning both personally and socially. Common concerns include: anxiety, depression, substance use, procrastination, trauma, self-esteem, relationship conflict, career indecision, and many others. Maryam Rahat is focused on providing support to individuals in managing ADHD including associated issues of organization and behavioural addiction. Maryam is also fluent in Farsi and Arabic.
(289) 768-7727 View (289) 768-7727
Photo of Jahan Zeb, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Jahan Zeb
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9B
I am specialized in treating Anxiety, Depression, Trauma/PTSD, Substance Addiction, Parenting issues, Relationship difficulties and Grief.
Allow me to be fellow travellers in your life journey and to be your wellness and psychological flexibility coach. You CAN overcome life’s challenges and become more Open, Aware, and Engaged in Growth opportunities by putting wise effort and committed action.
I am specialized in treating Anxiety, Depression, Trauma/PTSD, Substance Addiction, Parenting issues, Relationship difficulties and Grief.
Allow me to be fellow travellers in your life journey and to be your wellness and psychological flexibility coach. You CAN overcome life’s challenges and become more Open, Aware, and Engaged in Growth opportunities by putting wise effort and committed action.
(365) 651-0231 View (365) 651-0231
Photo of Minomi Subapanditha, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Minomi Subapanditha
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MSc, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9H
I received training in trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) at the Anxiety Treatment and Research Clinic at St Joe’s Hamilton, where I worked largely with individuals presenting with difficulties associated with anxiety and depression.
I completed my Master of Science in Psychotherapy and Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a minor in Psychology from McMaster University. I followed a career in Biochemistry for a few years before finding my passion in psychotherapy. I value building rich connections with others by being open, nonjudgmental, and empathetic, and fostering trust that allows others to be vulnerable. I use an anti-oppressive approach to actively listen to the diverse life experiences of each individual.
I received training in trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) at the Anxiety Treatment and Research Clinic at St Joe’s Hamilton, where I worked largely with individuals presenting with difficulties associated with anxiety and depression.
I completed my Master of Science in Psychotherapy and Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a minor in Psychology from McMaster University. I followed a career in Biochemistry for a few years before finding my passion in psychotherapy. I value building rich connections with others by being open, nonjudgmental, and empathetic, and fostering trust that allows others to be vulnerable. I use an anti-oppressive approach to actively listen to the diverse life experiences of each individual.
(289) 204-1039 View (289) 204-1039
Photo of Rachel Hammerton, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Rachel Hammerton
Registered Psychotherapist, MA(Ed) , RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8R
Hi there, and welcome to my profile! You may be here because you feel stuck and lonely. Maybe you’d like to learn how to love yourself, but you’re not sure of where to start. You may feel anxious all the time but can’t seem to figure out why or what to do about it. You and your partner may be fighting a lot and you long to feel connected to each other again, but don’t know how. I hear you and your frustrations, and I’m here to help! I work with people who are ready for a change in their lives and who are looking to find the voice they need to face depression, anxiety, relationship issues, childhood abuse, and low self-esteem.
Hi there, and welcome to my profile! You may be here because you feel stuck and lonely. Maybe you’d like to learn how to love yourself, but you’re not sure of where to start. You may feel anxious all the time but can’t seem to figure out why or what to do about it. You and your partner may be fighting a lot and you long to feel connected to each other again, but don’t know how. I hear you and your frustrations, and I’m here to help! I work with people who are ready for a change in their lives and who are looking to find the voice they need to face depression, anxiety, relationship issues, childhood abuse, and low self-esteem.
(289) 272-7352 View (289) 272-7352
Photo of Stephanie Perrotta, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Stephanie Perrotta
Registered Psychotherapist, Hons BA, MA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9C
Hi, I’m Stephanie, and I am a Registered Psychotherapist. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Gerontology from McMaster University, a post-grad in Brain Injury Disorders and I have completed my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. My background in working with Traumatic Brain Injuries has given me the opportunity to work with individuals who have experienced loss, grief, anger, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, changes in personality, and social behaviours. Being in this field fueled my passion to help individuals achieve their mental health and well-being goals.
Hi, I’m Stephanie, and I am a Registered Psychotherapist. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Gerontology from McMaster University, a post-grad in Brain Injury Disorders and I have completed my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. My background in working with Traumatic Brain Injuries has given me the opportunity to work with individuals who have experienced loss, grief, anger, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, changes in personality, and social behaviours. Being in this field fueled my passion to help individuals achieve their mental health and well-being goals.
(289) 270-7135 View (289) 270-7135
Photo of RD Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
RD Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, MScF(c)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8H
We treat anxiety, depression, addiction, and PTSD/Trauma.
The practice of RD Psychotherapy is located in Hamilton, ON. Clients can utilize virtual sessions or in person sessions. We provide services for individuals, families, couples and group sessions. We provide services to the general population and specialize with Military and Veteran community, as well as the Indigenous population. Services available in English, Spanish, Italian and Polish.
We treat anxiety, depression, addiction, and PTSD/Trauma.
The practice of RD Psychotherapy is located in Hamilton, ON. Clients can utilize virtual sessions or in person sessions. We provide services for individuals, families, couples and group sessions. We provide services to the general population and specialize with Military and Veteran community, as well as the Indigenous population. Services available in English, Spanish, Italian and Polish.
(647) 496-0784 View (647) 496-0784
Photo of Barry Spinner, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Barry Spinner
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P
Are you or someone you love struggling with anxiety, panic, depression, or lack of motivation? Are you or your loved ones dealing with relationship difficulties and would like to develop tools and skills to both cope with the now and move forward? I connect with clients with the belief that everyone has both immense strengths that they've already used to solve past problems in their lives, and a capacity to learn new ways of understanding their own lives, their own mind and beliefs, and their own way of acting.
Are you or someone you love struggling with anxiety, panic, depression, or lack of motivation? Are you or your loved ones dealing with relationship difficulties and would like to develop tools and skills to both cope with the now and move forward? I connect with clients with the belief that everyone has both immense strengths that they've already used to solve past problems in their lives, and a capacity to learn new ways of understanding their own lives, their own mind and beliefs, and their own way of acting.
(289) 769-9849 View (289) 769-9849
Photo of Stephanie Davis, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Stephanie Davis
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
Are you feeling stuck? Anxious? Are you inclined towards mindful and body-centred practices like yoga? Perhaps you've tried cognitive behavioural groups but don't feel that you are getting to the underlying root? I work with adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, life transitions (e.g. separation and divorce), relationship issues, trauma, pregnancy and post-partum. I work collaboratively helping you to make sense of your experience, heal any pieces getting in the way, build new skills, so you ultimately can become more alive, aligned and peaceful.
Are you feeling stuck? Anxious? Are you inclined towards mindful and body-centred practices like yoga? Perhaps you've tried cognitive behavioural groups but don't feel that you are getting to the underlying root? I work with adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, life transitions (e.g. separation and divorce), relationship issues, trauma, pregnancy and post-partum. I work collaboratively helping you to make sense of your experience, heal any pieces getting in the way, build new skills, so you ultimately can become more alive, aligned and peaceful.
(365) 601-6964 View (365) 601-6964
Photo of Everwell Integrated Health Professionals, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Everwell Integrated Health Professionals
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P  (Online Only)
Our areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, parenting, coping with cancer, navigating life transitions, managing stress, addictions, trauma, family therapy, attachment issues - and more!.
Having trouble deciding which therapist is the best fit for you? At everwell Integrated Health Professionals we have a team of therapists who specialize in various areas and we take the time to consider your needs to match you with a therapist who will suit you best. We have Registered Psychotherapists and Social Workers on our team who are ready to put their skills and experience to work for you. We serve adults, couples, families and children. Give us a call or send us an email and we will help you find the therapist that's right for you!
Our areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, parenting, coping with cancer, navigating life transitions, managing stress, addictions, trauma, family therapy, attachment issues - and more!.
Having trouble deciding which therapist is the best fit for you? At everwell Integrated Health Professionals we have a team of therapists who specialize in various areas and we take the time to consider your needs to match you with a therapist who will suit you best. We have Registered Psychotherapists and Social Workers on our team who are ready to put their skills and experience to work for you. We serve adults, couples, families and children. Give us a call or send us an email and we will help you find the therapist that's right for you!
(289) 512-0787 View (289) 512-0787
Photo of Deborah Black, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Deborah Black
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8N
I strive to be the person that listens and supports you through exploring the many layers that make our circumstances unique. I offer a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment that supports clients in feeling secure when examining their thoughts and emotions. I have a strong background in working with diverse populations in addition to persons grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relational challenges, and developmental disabilities. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, which incorporates the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects to promote overall well-being. I offer individual and couples sessions to youth (13-17)
I strive to be the person that listens and supports you through exploring the many layers that make our circumstances unique. I offer a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment that supports clients in feeling secure when examining their thoughts and emotions. I have a strong background in working with diverse populations in addition to persons grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relational challenges, and developmental disabilities. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, which incorporates the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects to promote overall well-being. I offer individual and couples sessions to youth (13-17)
(289) 217-2344 View (289) 217-2344
Photo of Mary Vuksanovic, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Mary Vuksanovic
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P
Are you having difficulty coping with stress, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, traumatic experiences or challenging life transitions? Do you feel like you are constantly in fight-or-flight mode? These challenges can leave you feeling overwhelmed, dysregulated and unmotivated, affecting your daily life, work, school and relationships. But don't worry, you're not alone. I'm here to help you find lasting relief and make a positive change. Get your life back by developing effective skills and tools to overcome these challenging experiences!
Are you having difficulty coping with stress, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, traumatic experiences or challenging life transitions? Do you feel like you are constantly in fight-or-flight mode? These challenges can leave you feeling overwhelmed, dysregulated and unmotivated, affecting your daily life, work, school and relationships. But don't worry, you're not alone. I'm here to help you find lasting relief and make a positive change. Get your life back by developing effective skills and tools to overcome these challenging experiences!
(289) 277-6953 View (289) 277-6953
Photo of Cortney Pasternak Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Cortney Pasternak Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
My specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, life and career transitions, grief, marriage and relationship conflicts, dating, and parenting. I realize there is rarely one issue and it takes courage to ask for help. I offer a safe, sincere and supportive environment to share, reflect upon, and experience positive growth from the issues you bring to counselling. I work with individuals, couples and families and have over 20 years of experience helping people share their stories and struggles - to feel heard and understood. Please know I also offer professional supervision to other psychotherapists and now, EMDR to clients.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, life and career transitions, grief, marriage and relationship conflicts, dating, and parenting. I realize there is rarely one issue and it takes courage to ask for help. I offer a safe, sincere and supportive environment to share, reflect upon, and experience positive growth from the issues you bring to counselling. I work with individuals, couples and families and have over 20 years of experience helping people share their stories and struggles - to feel heard and understood. Please know I also offer professional supervision to other psychotherapists and now, EMDR to clients.
(647) 699-0493 View (647) 699-0493
Photo of The Therapy Centre, Psychologist in Hamilton, ON
The Therapy Centre
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9A
Some of the most commonly presenting problems include: depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, stress and anger management, parenting skills, and behavioural problems.
The Therapy Centre is a full service psychology practice. We offer services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment services for a wide variety of issues listed below. All of our clinicians are well trained in empirically validated treatment models, including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Each of our clinicians has an area of expertise, such as: eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, chronic pain, postpartum mood issues, and obsessive compulsive disorder. We tailor our treatment approach to suit the needs of each individual client.
Some of the most commonly presenting problems include: depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, stress and anger management, parenting skills, and behavioural problems.
The Therapy Centre is a full service psychology practice. We offer services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment services for a wide variety of issues listed below. All of our clinicians are well trained in empirically validated treatment models, including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Each of our clinicians has an area of expertise, such as: eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, chronic pain, postpartum mood issues, and obsessive compulsive disorder. We tailor our treatment approach to suit the needs of each individual client.
(289) 274-3157 View (289) 274-3157
Photo of Samantha Burns, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Samantha Burns
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8N
She specializes in treating anxiety disorders, depression, relationship issues, and trauma-related disorders.
I believe in tailoring treatment to everyone’s unique needs and goals and works to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to therapy, using evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic, and solution-focused approaches.
She specializes in treating anxiety disorders, depression, relationship issues, and trauma-related disorders.
I believe in tailoring treatment to everyone’s unique needs and goals and works to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to therapy, using evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic, and solution-focused approaches.
(289) 278-9865 View (289) 278-9865
Photo of Renewed Mindset Counselling and Psychotherapy, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Renewed Mindset Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, BA, MIDST, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9C
Challenges such as low self worth, anxiety, depression, anger, loneliness, trauma, addiction, & grief provide an opportunity to grow. If you are feeling stuck in the same pattern of thinking and struggling with your personal and interpersonal relationships, it's time to change the way you think about yourself, your circumstances, and those around you. My passion is to empower individuals, couples, and families to develop new pathways of thinking, establish deeper connections and overcome obstacles.
Challenges such as low self worth, anxiety, depression, anger, loneliness, trauma, addiction, & grief provide an opportunity to grow. If you are feeling stuck in the same pattern of thinking and struggling with your personal and interpersonal relationships, it's time to change the way you think about yourself, your circumstances, and those around you. My passion is to empower individuals, couples, and families to develop new pathways of thinking, establish deeper connections and overcome obstacles.
(289) 236-2379 View (289) 236-2379
Photo of Jennifer Barbera Psychology Professional Corp, Psychologist in Hamilton, ON
Jennifer Barbera Psychology Professional Corp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
Jennifer Barbera & her associates routinely assist adults, adolescents, and couples with anxiety (phobias, social anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, general anxiety, OCD), PTSD, stress, depression, self-harm, distress intolerance, relationship difficulties, anger, alcohol & substance issues, and low self-esteem.
Want a supportive, compassionate & knowledgeable psychologist to help you overcome stress, anxiety, low mood, difficult relationships, trauma or addiction? Want someone to help you finally get unstuck? Sometimes life leaves us feeling overwhelmed, discouraged & unhappy. We can all benefit from an understanding therapist who listens non-judgmentally, encourages, & guides us towards greater clarity, improved symptoms and a new-felt sense of inner calm. Every person & situation is unique, & deserving of individualized, specialized consideration & attention. Let us help you find yourself again!
Jennifer Barbera & her associates routinely assist adults, adolescents, and couples with anxiety (phobias, social anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, general anxiety, OCD), PTSD, stress, depression, self-harm, distress intolerance, relationship difficulties, anger, alcohol & substance issues, and low self-esteem.
Want a supportive, compassionate & knowledgeable psychologist to help you overcome stress, anxiety, low mood, difficult relationships, trauma or addiction? Want someone to help you finally get unstuck? Sometimes life leaves us feeling overwhelmed, discouraged & unhappy. We can all benefit from an understanding therapist who listens non-judgmentally, encourages, & guides us towards greater clarity, improved symptoms and a new-felt sense of inner calm. Every person & situation is unique, & deserving of individualized, specialized consideration & attention. Let us help you find yourself again!
(226) 908-0364 View (226) 908-0364
Photo of Angela Hevey, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Angela Hevey
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8W
I am a registered social worker and psychotherapist providing integrated and holistic individual therapy for trauma and stress-related disorders; relationships; grief and loss; depression; anxiety; anger; complex mental health; as well as couples therapy. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental and safe environment for sharing and growth based on your individual needs. Together we will work towards building an understanding of areas that have become problematic to you and examine how they have shaped your experiences.
I am a registered social worker and psychotherapist providing integrated and holistic individual therapy for trauma and stress-related disorders; relationships; grief and loss; depression; anxiety; anger; complex mental health; as well as couples therapy. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental and safe environment for sharing and growth based on your individual needs. Together we will work towards building an understanding of areas that have become problematic to you and examine how they have shaped your experiences.
(289) 206-0542 View (289) 206-0542
Photo of Ronit Kaufman, Counsellor in Hamilton, ON
Ronit Kaufman
Counsellor, LLB, HonMDiv, CCPA
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8R
I specialize in treating young adults and adults with depression, anxiety, relationship, and general life problems.
I'm so glad you are here and have taken the courageous step of seeking help. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome your challenges. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, due to a life transition, or a career change.it is important to know you don't have to be alone on this journey. I have the experience to help you achieve your goals, overcome these struggles, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Since no two individuals are the same, I tailor our sessions together to address the challenges unique to you.
I specialize in treating young adults and adults with depression, anxiety, relationship, and general life problems.
I'm so glad you are here and have taken the courageous step of seeking help. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome your challenges. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, due to a life transition, or a career change.it is important to know you don't have to be alone on this journey. I have the experience to help you achieve your goals, overcome these struggles, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Since no two individuals are the same, I tailor our sessions together to address the challenges unique to you.
(289) 212-6378 View (289) 212-6378

See more therapy options for Hamilton

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.