Depression Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Astrid Couples And Family Counsellor Machalitza, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Astrid Couples And Family Counsellor Machalitza
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1K
I feel so unloved, alone, not seen or even neglected by my partner/family. Do you say that? Or: Trust is broken, something feels off and I don't know how to fix it! Or: My child struggles and I don't know how to help! I specialize in couples and family counselling and offer immediate availability to help you to strengthen your relationship. If you're looking to rebuild your connections or navigate conflicts within your relationships with empathy, I am here to support you and your family members every step of the way. Also, if you are newly married or new parents. If you don't want to be alone on this journey, please reach out!
I feel so unloved, alone, not seen or even neglected by my partner/family. Do you say that? Or: Trust is broken, something feels off and I don't know how to fix it! Or: My child struggles and I don't know how to help! I specialize in couples and family counselling and offer immediate availability to help you to strengthen your relationship. If you're looking to rebuild your connections or navigate conflicts within your relationships with empathy, I am here to support you and your family members every step of the way. Also, if you are newly married or new parents. If you don't want to be alone on this journey, please reach out!
(226) 799-4950 View (226) 799-4950
Photo of Heather Anderson, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Heather Anderson
Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2J  (Online Only)
Heather Anderson is a clinical psychologist who works with individuals, couples, and families dealing with a range of mental health difficulties. In addition to treating mood (i.e., depression, dysthymia), anxiety (i.e., GAD, Panic, and phobias), behavioural difficulties (e.g., anger, impulsivity), and addiction. Heather also has extensive experience in helping clients with relationship issues, adjustment difficulties, and navigating life transitions. She will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your own individual needs, with the goal of increasing your quality of life and functioning.
Heather Anderson is a clinical psychologist who works with individuals, couples, and families dealing with a range of mental health difficulties. In addition to treating mood (i.e., depression, dysthymia), anxiety (i.e., GAD, Panic, and phobias), behavioural difficulties (e.g., anger, impulsivity), and addiction. Heather also has extensive experience in helping clients with relationship issues, adjustment difficulties, and navigating life transitions. She will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your own individual needs, with the goal of increasing your quality of life and functioning.
(343) 307-0670 View (343) 307-0670
Photo of Natalie Guenette, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Natalie Guenette
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Seeking professional help can be scary and intimidating. I aim to provide a safe and confidential space built on acceptance and openness. I provide therapy services in English and French to adults who wish to work on concerns including, but not limited to, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, emotional regulation, trauma/PTSD, and substance use and abuse. I work under the supervision of Dr. Karine Côté, Psy. D., C. Psych.
Seeking professional help can be scary and intimidating. I aim to provide a safe and confidential space built on acceptance and openness. I provide therapy services in English and French to adults who wish to work on concerns including, but not limited to, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, emotional regulation, trauma/PTSD, and substance use and abuse. I work under the supervision of Dr. Karine Côté, Psy. D., C. Psych.
(613) 604-0470 x704 View (613) 604-0470 x704
Photo of Caroline C. Scott, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Caroline C. Scott
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1V  (Online Only)
In my practice, I have spent years working with people who suffer with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, anger, loss, trauma and PTSD.
I enjoy working with individuals who are on a journey of self-discovery, which may include unresolved issues from the past, or difficulty finding the path forward. As someone who has had an eventful journey so far, I am happy to share my combined clinical knowledge, and life lessons learned, with those who are searching for answers to their own questions. I help clients understand how they move through the world, how the mind works, how to develop better coping and communication skills, and how to improve resiliency and functioning.
In my practice, I have spent years working with people who suffer with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, anger, loss, trauma and PTSD.
I enjoy working with individuals who are on a journey of self-discovery, which may include unresolved issues from the past, or difficulty finding the path forward. As someone who has had an eventful journey so far, I am happy to share my combined clinical knowledge, and life lessons learned, with those who are searching for answers to their own questions. I help clients understand how they move through the world, how the mind works, how to develop better coping and communication skills, and how to improve resiliency and functioning.
(613) 519-3314 View (613) 519-3314
Photo of Jeremy Mayer (Registered Sex Addiction Therapist), Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Jeremy Mayer (Registered Sex Addiction Therapist)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
I provide therpy virtualy serving all of the Ontario area to help you live happier, more satisfying lives. I work with people who are experiencing a variety of life circumstances including anxiety, depression, addiction, physical, sexual and emotional abuse, family issues, behaviour disorders, and trauma. Mens Therapist, Sex Addiction Therapist, Addictions Therapist, Couples and Relationship Therapy. After 26 years of working in the social services field, I have gained valuable experience and been very fortunate to participate in a large amount of specialized clinical training.
I provide therpy virtualy serving all of the Ontario area to help you live happier, more satisfying lives. I work with people who are experiencing a variety of life circumstances including anxiety, depression, addiction, physical, sexual and emotional abuse, family issues, behaviour disorders, and trauma. Mens Therapist, Sex Addiction Therapist, Addictions Therapist, Couples and Relationship Therapy. After 26 years of working in the social services field, I have gained valuable experience and been very fortunate to participate in a large amount of specialized clinical training.
(343) 312-6578 View (343) 312-6578
Photo of Triello Counselling Services, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Triello Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
Our therapists have experience working with individuals of all ages (12 +) supporting anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and other obstacles that present themselves at all stages of life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, sad or stressed? Perhaps, you are unsure about how you are feeling? Wherever you currently may find yourself, Triello Counselling Services offers counselling and psychotherapy to support your individual needs. We understand that it takes great courage to begin taking steps towards starting therapy, and we are here to walk alongside you on your therapeutic journey. Our initial goal is to create a safe and compassionate environment for you to begin your healing process. We believe all clients are unique, and our priority is to mould our therapeutic approach to suit your individual needs and goals.
Our therapists have experience working with individuals of all ages (12 +) supporting anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and other obstacles that present themselves at all stages of life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, sad or stressed? Perhaps, you are unsure about how you are feeling? Wherever you currently may find yourself, Triello Counselling Services offers counselling and psychotherapy to support your individual needs. We understand that it takes great courage to begin taking steps towards starting therapy, and we are here to walk alongside you on your therapeutic journey. Our initial goal is to create a safe and compassionate environment for you to begin your healing process. We believe all clients are unique, and our priority is to mould our therapeutic approach to suit your individual needs and goals.
(613) 209-4536 View (613) 209-4536
Photo of Karen Sutherland, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Karen Sutherland
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1H
Waitlist for new clients
People bring to therapy the fulI range of human problems: from feeling overwhelmed to more everyday concerns, from unsatisfactory or conflictual interpersonal relationships to troublesome habits, impulsivity, low sense of self-worth, self-doubt, or feelings of personal stagnation, and the two most common presenting issues: depression and distressing levels of anxiety. Therapy is effortful; its success is undergirded by a supportive relationship with a therapist, and is built on collaboration guided by evidence-based therapeutic conversations that work to help you make sense your experiences, process hard feelings and more.
People bring to therapy the fulI range of human problems: from feeling overwhelmed to more everyday concerns, from unsatisfactory or conflictual interpersonal relationships to troublesome habits, impulsivity, low sense of self-worth, self-doubt, or feelings of personal stagnation, and the two most common presenting issues: depression and distressing levels of anxiety. Therapy is effortful; its success is undergirded by a supportive relationship with a therapist, and is built on collaboration guided by evidence-based therapeutic conversations that work to help you make sense your experiences, process hard feelings and more.
(613) 702-1841 View (613) 702-1841
Photo of Marc Carriere, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Marc Carriere
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Clinical and Rehabilitation Psychologist with a practice in the downtown Ottawa area. I have particular interest in working with depression, anxiety, personality/identity issues, relationship difficulties, and with survivors of childhood abuse. I use an integrative approach, combining elements of emotion-focused therapy, cognitive-behaviour therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. The approach is tailored to best suit the client's needs. Psychotherapy sessions typically cost $225 per session. Email communication preferred: drmarccarriere@gmail.com
I am a Clinical and Rehabilitation Psychologist with a practice in the downtown Ottawa area. I have particular interest in working with depression, anxiety, personality/identity issues, relationship difficulties, and with survivors of childhood abuse. I use an integrative approach, combining elements of emotion-focused therapy, cognitive-behaviour therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. The approach is tailored to best suit the client's needs. Psychotherapy sessions typically cost $225 per session. Email communication preferred: drmarccarriere@gmail.com
(343) 304-6289 View (343) 304-6289
Photo of Dylan Myllymaki, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Dylan Myllymaki
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
I provide psychotherapy to youth, adults, and families on a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and relational issues. I offer a unique and personally tailored approach to therapy, focusing on depression, anxiety, life adjustments and transitions, post-traumatic stress and psychological trauma, childhood issues and trauma, grief, family problems, and relational difficulties. I hope to provide you with an open and professional atmosphere with the goal of working through emotional difficulties, facilitating personal growth, forming healthier relationships, and moving on in your life.
I provide psychotherapy to youth, adults, and families on a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and relational issues. I offer a unique and personally tailored approach to therapy, focusing on depression, anxiety, life adjustments and transitions, post-traumatic stress and psychological trauma, childhood issues and trauma, grief, family problems, and relational difficulties. I hope to provide you with an open and professional atmosphere with the goal of working through emotional difficulties, facilitating personal growth, forming healthier relationships, and moving on in your life.
(613) 701-9927 View (613) 701-9927
Photo of Westboro Psychology, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Westboro Psychology
Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
I supervise a skilled team of therapists who provide integrative and compassionate therapy services to adolescents and adults for stress, worry, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges, sadness, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, perfectionism, difficult life transitions and other emotional problems that interfere with day to day functioning. We offer comprehensive assessments to children and adults for attention and/or learning style differences like Gifted Abilities, ADHD, reading difficulties (Dyslexia), writing difficulties and mathematics difficulties and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I supervise a skilled team of therapists who provide integrative and compassionate therapy services to adolescents and adults for stress, worry, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges, sadness, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, perfectionism, difficult life transitions and other emotional problems that interfere with day to day functioning. We offer comprehensive assessments to children and adults for attention and/or learning style differences like Gifted Abilities, ADHD, reading difficulties (Dyslexia), writing difficulties and mathematics difficulties and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(343) 800-0088 View (343) 800-0088
Photo of Cecilia Taiana, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Cecilia Taiana
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1M
I am a Registered Psychotherapist located in Ottawa providing psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to individuals, couples, and families. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety to grief counseling, emotional and functional adjustments, PTSD, stress management, couples counseling and beyond. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients' individual needs to help them attain personal growth. Typically, you can expect to discuss with me the events currently happening in your life and your personal history relevant to your concerns.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist located in Ottawa providing psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to individuals, couples, and families. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety to grief counseling, emotional and functional adjustments, PTSD, stress management, couples counseling and beyond. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients' individual needs to help them attain personal growth. Typically, you can expect to discuss with me the events currently happening in your life and your personal history relevant to your concerns.
(855) 727-9659 View (855) 727-9659
Photo of Paul Mensah, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Paul Mensah
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J
At different points in our lives, we may be faced with trials and tribulations that can be difficult, leave us uneasy, unhappy, anxious, depressed, or unsatisfied. As a developing psychotherapist, I aim to use my growing knowledge to aid those in the community combat these trying times. So, congratulations on taking the first step towards change. I work with individuals, families, teens (12+), and athletes dealing with trauma, reduction of stress, anxiety and accomplishing various life goals. I help clients reach a state of happiness, balance, and better health through a healthy therapeutic relationship and an integrative approach.
At different points in our lives, we may be faced with trials and tribulations that can be difficult, leave us uneasy, unhappy, anxious, depressed, or unsatisfied. As a developing psychotherapist, I aim to use my growing knowledge to aid those in the community combat these trying times. So, congratulations on taking the first step towards change. I work with individuals, families, teens (12+), and athletes dealing with trauma, reduction of stress, anxiety and accomplishing various life goals. I help clients reach a state of happiness, balance, and better health through a healthy therapeutic relationship and an integrative approach.
(343) 339-5276 View (343) 339-5276
Photo of Martha Salguero - Florian, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Martha Salguero - Florian
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S
I provide individual and couples’ therapy to adolescents, adults, and families experiencing a wide range of difficulties including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, and work-related stress. My goal as a therapist is to work with you to help you discover strategies for overcoming your most challenging times through compassionate and evidence-based practice.
I provide individual and couples’ therapy to adolescents, adults, and families experiencing a wide range of difficulties including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, and work-related stress. My goal as a therapist is to work with you to help you discover strategies for overcoming your most challenging times through compassionate and evidence-based practice.
(343) 307-0536 View (343) 307-0536
Photo of Dayna Adriaansen, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Dayna Adriaansen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Dayna and I am an Ottawa based social worker. I work with clients who are 16 years and older who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. I have a special interest in supporting women through various life transitions. Women often have unrealistic expectations placed on them by society. This can lead to "not feeling good enough", increased stress and burnout. Change can be a difficult aspect of life to navigate. Grief, a career shift or managing relationships can be taxing on our mental wellbeing. I am here to support you and help you find balance in your life.
Hello my name is Dayna and I am an Ottawa based social worker. I work with clients who are 16 years and older who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. I have a special interest in supporting women through various life transitions. Women often have unrealistic expectations placed on them by society. This can lead to "not feeling good enough", increased stress and burnout. Change can be a difficult aspect of life to navigate. Grief, a career shift or managing relationships can be taxing on our mental wellbeing. I am here to support you and help you find balance in your life.
(343) 655-3474 View (343) 655-3474
Photo of Cameron Schallenberg, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Cameron Schallenberg
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
Is there an aspect of your life that overwhelms you and leaves you feeling like you need help? Living life authentically often leads us to encounter these types of challenges. Sometimes we can trace the origin of our distress back to a particular event or experience such as a relationship or job dissatisfaction. Other times, the origins are more hidden and leave us scared and confused. This distress can take many forms, typically depression and anxiety. Talking openly in the safety and confidentiality of a therapeutic relationship can bring some relief.
Is there an aspect of your life that overwhelms you and leaves you feeling like you need help? Living life authentically often leads us to encounter these types of challenges. Sometimes we can trace the origin of our distress back to a particular event or experience such as a relationship or job dissatisfaction. Other times, the origins are more hidden and leave us scared and confused. This distress can take many forms, typically depression and anxiety. Talking openly in the safety and confidentiality of a therapeutic relationship can bring some relief.
(613) 702-2756 View (613) 702-2756
Photo of Alexander Dyck, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Alexander Dyck
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J  (Online Only)
Sometimes life can take unexpected turns and we can find ourselves feeling lost, wanting something to be different. We may be feeling anxious, irritable, depressed, and we may be having some difficulty coping effectively. Sometimes we may need an objective perspective to help recalibrate our inner compass to better navigate our way to a more meaningful, purposeful, and fulfilling life.
Sometimes life can take unexpected turns and we can find ourselves feeling lost, wanting something to be different. We may be feeling anxious, irritable, depressed, and we may be having some difficulty coping effectively. Sometimes we may need an objective perspective to help recalibrate our inner compass to better navigate our way to a more meaningful, purposeful, and fulfilling life.
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Photo of Jessica Raven, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Jessica Raven
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked extensively with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexuality and gender, and trauma.
Hello and welcome. I am a Registered Psychotherapist who practices psychotherapy with an integrative, trauma-informed approach. I draw on attachment theory, emotion focused therapy, psychodynamic principles, neuroscience, and others to work with each client individually. My intention as a therapist is to address more than just symptom reduction; through the exploration of deep issues and concerns we can work together to encourage long-term change. Using somatic (body-based) approaches and the therapeutic technique of Brainspotting, I work with clients to reset the nervous system and tap into the brain's inherent ability to heal.
I have worked extensively with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexuality and gender, and trauma.
Hello and welcome. I am a Registered Psychotherapist who practices psychotherapy with an integrative, trauma-informed approach. I draw on attachment theory, emotion focused therapy, psychodynamic principles, neuroscience, and others to work with each client individually. My intention as a therapist is to address more than just symptom reduction; through the exploration of deep issues and concerns we can work together to encourage long-term change. Using somatic (body-based) approaches and the therapeutic technique of Brainspotting, I work with clients to reset the nervous system and tap into the brain's inherent ability to heal.
(343) 309-5897 View (343) 309-5897
Photo of Anna Evans, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Anna Evans
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
My clients often describe feeling disconnected, dropping hobbies, having a hard time imagining the future, and isolating from others. They focus on what is going wrong in life, struggle to see the point in life, and notice being pretty tough on themselves. I largely focus on working with men who are struggling with depression and men who have never tried therapy before, however, I am open to working with all genders if my profile resonates with you.
My clients often describe feeling disconnected, dropping hobbies, having a hard time imagining the future, and isolating from others. They focus on what is going wrong in life, struggle to see the point in life, and notice being pretty tough on themselves. I largely focus on working with men who are struggling with depression and men who have never tried therapy before, however, I am open to working with all genders if my profile resonates with you.
(343) 307-4916 View (343) 307-4916
Photo of Tatyana Cattan, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Tatyana Cattan
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K4A
Currently accepting new clients. You might be here because you’re struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, low self-worth, and/or relationship issues. You want access to a safe space where you can express yourself openly and reconnect with yourself in a deeper and healthier way. Within the context of a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship, you can find some relief from what has been weighing on you. As a therapist, I trust in your capacity for healing and growth and I am committed to helping you gain greater self-understanding, self-compassion, and inner peace.
Currently accepting new clients. You might be here because you’re struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, low self-worth, and/or relationship issues. You want access to a safe space where you can express yourself openly and reconnect with yourself in a deeper and healthier way. Within the context of a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship, you can find some relief from what has been weighing on you. As a therapist, I trust in your capacity for healing and growth and I am committed to helping you gain greater self-understanding, self-compassion, and inner peace.
(343) 342-0313 View (343) 342-0313
Photo of Natasha Onyeaju, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Natasha Onyeaju
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1L  (Online Only)
I have experience with those who have addictive behaviours, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, negative self-talk, individuals in cancer treatment, anxiety, depression, and general life stress.
Accepting new clients! I believe in supporting individuals on their journey to learn to regulate and separate their illnesses from their self-concept. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process. I like to provide my clients with strength and values-based therapy that will lead my clients to self-acceptance. Shame is rampant and stops our ability to feel worthy. I want to help my clients reduce shame and guilt leading to being able to meet the eyes of a loved one and see the positive reflection when that someone looks at them.
I have experience with those who have addictive behaviours, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, negative self-talk, individuals in cancer treatment, anxiety, depression, and general life stress.
Accepting new clients! I believe in supporting individuals on their journey to learn to regulate and separate their illnesses from their self-concept. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process. I like to provide my clients with strength and values-based therapy that will lead my clients to self-acceptance. Shame is rampant and stops our ability to feel worthy. I want to help my clients reduce shame and guilt leading to being able to meet the eyes of a loved one and see the positive reflection when that someone looks at them.
(343) 314-0128 View (343) 314-0128

See more therapy options for Ottawa

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.