Photo of Sarah Downey, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Sarah Downey
Registered Social Worker, BAH, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P  (Online Only)
I work with people who are experiencing a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, grief & loss, and relationship challenges; and specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma or difficult childhoods.
My approach to counselling is strengths based, client centred and collaborative. That means working with you to figure out what’s working well, and how to do more of it. Feelings can often become overwhelming, I help people find balance and meaning. Through our work together, we will explore patterns of thoughts and behaviours which may be keeping you stuck, as well as ways of coping that aren’t helpful. I empower people to make connections between early life experiences and who they are today, moving towards change and building on their resilience.
I work with people who are experiencing a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, grief & loss, and relationship challenges; and specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma or difficult childhoods.
My approach to counselling is strengths based, client centred and collaborative. That means working with you to figure out what’s working well, and how to do more of it. Feelings can often become overwhelming, I help people find balance and meaning. Through our work together, we will explore patterns of thoughts and behaviours which may be keeping you stuck, as well as ways of coping that aren’t helpful. I empower people to make connections between early life experiences and who they are today, moving towards change and building on their resilience.
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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 Sevgim Kiper, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Sevgim Kiper
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8N
Whether you are struggling with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, and/ or shame, I am honored to be part of your journey. Regardless of the issue, I value compassion and understanding clients through their own experience, and walking alongside them through their journey while providing clarity and insight.
Whether you are struggling with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, and/ or shame, I am honored to be part of your journey. Regardless of the issue, I value compassion and understanding clients through their own experience, and walking alongside them through their journey while providing clarity and insight.
(289) 272-2557 View (289) 272-2557
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 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 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 ELM Medicine in Hamilton, ON
ELM Medicine
MD
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8W
Our Stress Reduction Clinic specializes in Trauma, Depression & Anxiety.
Are you an adult who is looking for professional support for happiness ? Are you someone who is looking for ways to help yourself cope better and maybe even thrive ; despite past difficulties ? Are you highly motivated ? While we cannot make you choose happiness , we can support you in making more skillful choices. Our Stress Reduction Clinic will support you in developing self awareness, self compassion & self confidence.
Our Stress Reduction Clinic specializes in Trauma, Depression & Anxiety.
Are you an adult who is looking for professional support for happiness ? Are you someone who is looking for ways to help yourself cope better and maybe even thrive ; despite past difficulties ? Are you highly motivated ? While we cannot make you choose happiness , we can support you in making more skillful choices. Our Stress Reduction Clinic will support you in developing self awareness, self compassion & self confidence.
(289) 768-8167 View (289) 768-8167
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 Ash Chalmers, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Ash Chalmers
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Clients. Hi! I’m Ash (they/them). I work with youth (17+) and adults who are living with anxiety, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, OSFED), substance use concerns, and depression. Are you someone who experiences strong emotions, but doesn’t always manage them in helpful ways? Perhaps you respond impulsively at times and engage in actions that are inconsistent with how you want to show up for yourself or others. At other times, you might become overwhelmed by feelings like anxiety, fear, or shame and then withdraw or avoid doing things that could bring you joy or move you closer to recovery.
Accepting NEW Clients. Hi! I’m Ash (they/them). I work with youth (17+) and adults who are living with anxiety, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, OSFED), substance use concerns, and depression. Are you someone who experiences strong emotions, but doesn’t always manage them in helpful ways? Perhaps you respond impulsively at times and engage in actions that are inconsistent with how you want to show up for yourself or others. At other times, you might become overwhelmed by feelings like anxiety, fear, or shame and then withdraw or avoid doing things that could bring you joy or move you closer to recovery.
(289) 210-7426 View (289) 210-7426
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 Nicole Presutti, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Nicole Presutti
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8J  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Facing life's challenges can be overwhelming, so I'm here to offer professional support to guide you toward positive change. I firmly believe that your challenges don't have to hold you back; instead, they can become a catalyst for the life you want to live. I am dedicated to assisting my clients with stress and anxiety management, addressing concerns such as anticipatory anxiety, excessive worry, rumination, panic attacks, perfectionism, health anxiety, burnout and social anxiety. My practice also extends to the treatment of depression, low mood, relationship issues and self-defeating behaviours.
Accepting new clients! Facing life's challenges can be overwhelming, so I'm here to offer professional support to guide you toward positive change. I firmly believe that your challenges don't have to hold you back; instead, they can become a catalyst for the life you want to live. I am dedicated to assisting my clients with stress and anxiety management, addressing concerns such as anticipatory anxiety, excessive worry, rumination, panic attacks, perfectionism, health anxiety, burnout and social anxiety. My practice also extends to the treatment of depression, low mood, relationship issues and self-defeating behaviours.
(289) 778-0692 View (289) 778-0692
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 Eric Windhorst, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Eric Windhorst
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8R
"What shape waits in the seed of you to grow and spread its branches against a future sky?" Are you struggling with anxiety and/or depression? Do you feel driven to grow, yet are perpetually stuck? Are you navigating a particularly difficult life transition? I can help. I will provide you with a safe place to explore your unique situation and equip you with tools to work through it. I can meet with you in my beautiful, private office located in West Hamilton.
"What shape waits in the seed of you to grow and spread its branches against a future sky?" Are you struggling with anxiety and/or depression? Do you feel driven to grow, yet are perpetually stuck? Are you navigating a particularly difficult life transition? I can help. I will provide you with a safe place to explore your unique situation and equip you with tools to work through it. I can meet with you in my beautiful, private office located in West Hamilton.
(289) 804-0170 View (289) 804-0170
Photo of Bina Di Livio, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Bina Di Livio
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9C
We all have within us a profound sense of knowing that helps us to live the life we ought to be living. When our lives are not aligning with this inner wisdom, we experience isolation, depression, and feel unfulfilled, stuck, and bored. We find ourselves in old repetitive patterns, jobs, and relationships that are no longer serving us. I can help you address these issues and guide you to explore the deepest parts of your self so that you can begin to live your authentic life.
We all have within us a profound sense of knowing that helps us to live the life we ought to be living. When our lives are not aligning with this inner wisdom, we experience isolation, depression, and feel unfulfilled, stuck, and bored. We find ourselves in old repetitive patterns, jobs, and relationships that are no longer serving us. I can help you address these issues and guide you to explore the deepest parts of your self so that you can begin to live your authentic life.
(647) 560-0215 View (647) 560-0215
Photo of Maria Antoniou, Psychologist in Hamilton, ON
Maria Antoniou
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9A
I am a registered Clinical and Counselling Psychologist who works in a private practice providing assessment and treatment to children, adolescents, adults and families with a wide variety of issues. I have over 10 years experience working with depression and anxiety, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, stress management, behavioural issues, body image and eating disorders. My clinical training took place at various hospital and community based settings, including the Hospital for Sick Children.
I am a registered Clinical and Counselling Psychologist who works in a private practice providing assessment and treatment to children, adolescents, adults and families with a wide variety of issues. I have over 10 years experience working with depression and anxiety, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, stress management, behavioural issues, body image and eating disorders. My clinical training took place at various hospital and community based settings, including the Hospital for Sick Children.
(855) 464-0596 View (855) 464-0596
Photo of Jamie Clahane | Christian Therapist (virtual), Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Jamie Clahane | Christian Therapist (virtual)
Registered Psychotherapist, MTS, RP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P  (Online Only)
Thanks for taking the time to learn more about me and the care I provide. I am a registered psychotherapist providing therapy for people living in Ontario, Canada. I am a clinical counsellor who also has specialized training in pastoral care, which means I treat people at a very holistic level. I work with people struggling with a range of issues including clinical Anxiety, Depression, Low Self esteem, Addiction, Grief & Loss, and more complex issues such as, OCD, Eating Disorders, Complicated Grief, PTSD, and more. Yes, recovery involves mental & emotional processing and integration. However, the deepest healing involves more.
Thanks for taking the time to learn more about me and the care I provide. I am a registered psychotherapist providing therapy for people living in Ontario, Canada. I am a clinical counsellor who also has specialized training in pastoral care, which means I treat people at a very holistic level. I work with people struggling with a range of issues including clinical Anxiety, Depression, Low Self esteem, Addiction, Grief & Loss, and more complex issues such as, OCD, Eating Disorders, Complicated Grief, PTSD, and more. Yes, recovery involves mental & emotional processing and integration. However, the deepest healing involves more.
(289) 276-8409 View (289) 276-8409
Photo of Dundas Valley Psychotherapy & Hypnosis, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Dundas Valley Psychotherapy & Hypnosis
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MA, RSW, CCHT, CHyp
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9H
Are you longing for a personalized and holistic approach? Are you feeling burdened by anxiety, stress, trauma, grief or depression? I would like to help you understand and unravel the patterns in your life. I believe that this process begins with healing the relationship with ourselves as a starting point. I would like to guide and inspire you to cherish your own life, and begin to transform the fear based patterns, which may be overwhelming your best efforts towards true healing and change. As a trauma informed therapist and hypnotherapist, I can help you find the keys to unlock your inner peace and potential. May you find the way
Are you longing for a personalized and holistic approach? Are you feeling burdened by anxiety, stress, trauma, grief or depression? I would like to help you understand and unravel the patterns in your life. I believe that this process begins with healing the relationship with ourselves as a starting point. I would like to guide and inspire you to cherish your own life, and begin to transform the fear based patterns, which may be overwhelming your best efforts towards true healing and change. As a trauma informed therapist and hypnotherapist, I can help you find the keys to unlock your inner peace and potential. May you find the way
(855) 622-8831 View (855) 622-8831
Photo of NMA Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
NMA Therapy
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8W
Areas of specialty: Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Low Self-Esteem, Coping Skills, Stress, Race/Identity Issues, Women's Reproductive Health i.
Hi! My name is Novlette. I understand that the decision to seek help can be a difficult one. I believe there is strength in knowing when to reach out for support. My goal is to provide a warm and gentle approach to help you feel safe and secure during the therapeutic process. I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have over 25 years experience working with mental health, families, children, adults, crisis intervention, mediation, cultural identity, oppression. I am client centered, utilize a systemic, strength based, trauma informed & culturally sensitive approach.
Areas of specialty: Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Low Self-Esteem, Coping Skills, Stress, Race/Identity Issues, Women's Reproductive Health i.
Hi! My name is Novlette. I understand that the decision to seek help can be a difficult one. I believe there is strength in knowing when to reach out for support. My goal is to provide a warm and gentle approach to help you feel safe and secure during the therapeutic process. I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have over 25 years experience working with mental health, families, children, adults, crisis intervention, mediation, cultural identity, oppression. I am client centered, utilize a systemic, strength based, trauma informed & culturally sensitive approach.
(289) 207-7859 View (289) 207-7859
Photo of Aisha Abdi, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Aisha Abdi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8S  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is holistic, which means that I consider every aspect of my clients' lives when creating a treatment plan. Whether it's anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, trauma, or you’re simply feeling lost, I will work with you to address the root cause of your struggles and develop effective coping strategies. However, therapy with me isn't just about addressing problems. I also believe that therapy is a positive and empowering experience where you can explore your strengths, discover new skills, and build a greater sense of self-awareness.
My approach to therapy is holistic, which means that I consider every aspect of my clients' lives when creating a treatment plan. Whether it's anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, trauma, or you’re simply feeling lost, I will work with you to address the root cause of your struggles and develop effective coping strategies. However, therapy with me isn't just about addressing problems. I also believe that therapy is a positive and empowering experience where you can explore your strengths, discover new skills, and build a greater sense of self-awareness.
(289) 512-2840 View (289) 512-2840
Photo of Farah Memon, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Farah Memon
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S
My interest and expertise lie in anxiety, trauma, depression, low self-esteem, stress management, anger management, life transitions, and interpersonal challenges.
I am fascinated by the beautiful interconnection between the mind and body. As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) my vision is to promote mental wellness and reduce the stigma around it. I am passionate about improving the mental wellness of individuals along with facilitating personal growth and effective change. As my client, I will meet you where you are. I see you as a unique individual with your own strengths. Respecting your perspective, culture, and individuality is a key aspect of how we will build a therapeutic relationship. I am also constantly working towards providing a safe and inclusive space for you.
My interest and expertise lie in anxiety, trauma, depression, low self-esteem, stress management, anger management, life transitions, and interpersonal challenges.
I am fascinated by the beautiful interconnection between the mind and body. As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) my vision is to promote mental wellness and reduce the stigma around it. I am passionate about improving the mental wellness of individuals along with facilitating personal growth and effective change. As my client, I will meet you where you are. I see you as a unique individual with your own strengths. Respecting your perspective, culture, and individuality is a key aspect of how we will build a therapeutic relationship. I am also constantly working towards providing a safe and inclusive space for you.
(289) 277-7328 View (289) 277-7328

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.